Experts lost for words as historic library is found
A “LOST library” of British literary greats has been found decades after it was feared lost.
Among its treasures are Emily Brontë works and manuscripts by Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott.
More than 500 historic works are set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s.
The Honresfield Library was collected by Victorian industrialists Alfred and William Law. It vanished from public view after their deaths.
Cared for by relatives, it includes a handwritten copy of Emily’s poems, revised by sister Charlotte, worth up to £1.2million. The Brontës’ copy of Bewick’s History of British Birds – made famous in Jane Eyre – could make £50,000.
It also boasts first editions of Jane Austen novels, including Pride and Prejudice.
Dr Gabriel Heaton of Sotheby’s said: “When the library went missing from public view in the 1930s, many assumed it had disappeared, and to now play a role in bringing it to a wider audience is a true career highlight.”
The first of three auctions is set for July. Exhibitions are planned in London, Edinburgh and New York.