English Roman Catholic theologian, academic, philosopher, historian, writer and poet. A key figure in the Oxford Movement. He previously was an Anglican priest. Newman was an important figure in the religious history of England in the 19th century, and was known nationally by the mid-1830s. He was a member of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri and founded the first house of that congregation in England. Elevated to the cardinalate in 1879 by Leo XIII. Proclaimed a saint by Pope Francis I in 2019.
 
ALS - Autograph Letter Signed, three panels, 25 July 1876, The Oratory, Birmingham. Addressed to Sir William Henry Cope (1811-92) with whom he corresponded on many topics over several years. Professionally matted with a black and white litho-print image of Newman, encased in museum glass and a handsome dark wooden frame. Letter reads: My dear Sir William, Dr. Russell has been telling me of your kind wish that I should pay you a visit - and I do not like you not to hear under my own hand some…of the real gratitude I feel to you for the friendship of which it is the token, which I am obliged to decline availing myself of it. I am sure you will believe without my troubling you with them, that I have many real reasons for remaining here, and, as a rule, not going from home. I went from home lately to see a dear young friend, who I had known from a child, on her death bed. Four years ago I went to see Mr. Hope Scott before his death. Once or twice 10 and 13 years ago I was sent by medical advice abroad - and sometimes I am obliged to go for a night to London — but as a rule I am never from home - and I have not been to my sister, who lives only 50 miles off, for two years. All this I say to show you that these are standing reasons to hinder me taking advantage of your kindness, and not any insensibility to the pleasure which is offered me in your proposal. But I have talked too much of myself, and will come to an end by signing myself, with feeling of affectionate good will, Yours most sincerely, John H. Newman. Sir W.H. Cope, Bar(ister).