Victorian-era author (1810–1865) whose works detailed the lives of people in all classes of society, best known for her novel North and South. ALS signed "E. C. Gaskell," four pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, August 28, 1855. Written from Lindeth Tower in Silverdale, near Lancaster, England, a letter to banker Russell Sturgis, in full: "I hope you remember enough to make you not feel surprized at my writing to you to ask you a question which I believe you can answer better than any one else to whom I have ready access, except perhaps Mr. Story whose present address I don't know. My question is best asked in the words of a friend of mine who has asked me to make the enquiry; so I enclose a piece of her note which will explain what we want to know, I need not say that we shall consider your answer as given in confidence, and entrusted to your honour: and I should be very much obliged to you if you would ascertain Mr. Story's opinion on the subject, if you have no knowledge yourself. I would not have trouble you if I could have written to Mr. Story. I hope you have good accounts from Mrs. Shaw, and Anna-We have heard nothing of them since we saw them in Plymouth Grove; and I don't like this snipping short of a happy pleasant little bit of friendship-if you are so kind as to write will you tell me something about them! We remain here till the 7th of Sept'r when we go to Glasgow for the British Association. After that date the safest address because the most permanent is Plymouth Grove Massachusetts." In fine condition, with intersecting folds. Accompanied by an ALS by W. W. Story, who Gaskell mentions here.Format: ALS