This was originally published in November 2013 as part of our Item of the Month series.
To celebrate St Andrews Day, this month we are showcasing a letter from one of Scotland’s greatest literary figures, Sir Walter Scott.
Walter Scott (1771–1832) was a poet, playwright, critic and advocate, but above all, he is famed for having created the historical novel. Scott successfully blended fictional characters with genuine historical figures and events to create a series of atmospheric stories which still remain popular today, the most famous being Rob Roy, Ivanhoe and Waverley. These innovative works are steeped in the themes of romance, gallantry and chivalry, with their heroes and heroines drawn both from the aristocracy and the humbler classes.
This letter (archive reference T-MIN 33) dated November 12th 1816 is from Walter Scott to Daniel Terry, an English actor and playwright. The two men’s correspondence highlights the close friendship between them; Terry’s son was named after Scott. Scott often consulted Terry on literary matters, and this letter discusses the possibility of adapting Doom of Devorgoil into a stage production. Terry was well qualified to offer advice on the matter, having appeared in such theatre productions as King Lear, Richard III and Rob Roy. During the early years of his acting career, he also gained a reputation for his stage knowledge, energetic and appropriate action, good judgment and active mind.
The letter further mentions work carried out at Scott’s home, Abbotsford, specifically an extension to his cottage there. The author was keen to install a stained glass window in the cottage, featuring armorial bearings to reflect his interest in Scottish history and heritage. Although not on the same scale as Scott’s small project in 1816, his more substantial property, Abbotsford House, has recently undergone some restoration work. After a multi-million-pound restoration project lasting five years, Abbotsford House was re-opened to the public in the summer of 2013.
This letter forms part of the Agnew collection, gifted to the University of Strathclyde by Dr J. Percival Agnew. Dr Agnew was Chair of the Board of Governors of the Scottish College of Commerce at the time of its 1964 merger with the Royal College of Science and Technology. He later became a member of the University Court, and founded the History Department's Agnew Prize. Although it is not known how the letter originally came into Agnew’s possession, this glimpse into Walter Scott’s life is a unique treasure, and a fitting way to mark Scotland’s national day.
