Identity area
Reference code
Ashby/Folder 1-5/3/1
Unique identifier
Title
Date(s)
- April 1787 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
7p paper
Context area
Name of creator
Repository
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Asks for advice on a book of prayers supposedly owned by Queen Elizabeth which has recently come into his possession with the death of his mother. Says it is a beautiful book and quotes the inscription with it which says it was given to Queen Elizabeth while she was in the Tower by Lady Tirwitts. Describes how it has been passed down through the Ashby family since 1603. Mentions the likelihood of falsity for notes or books which have no date and also points out that the lack of a will made by Queen Elizabeth is not helpful in proving the provenance of the book. Describes the possible ways in which the Queen could have received the book, the damage which it has suffered and why it was bound in such condition. Discusses a book of prayers mentioned in 'Typ. Antiq.' which Herbert believes belonged to Catherine Parr and suggests it could be Queen Elizabeth's prayer book.