Nightingale, Florence. Autograph letter signed, to Mrs Norris, offering thanks and apologising for her busy diary: ‘Dearest Mrs Norris Thank you for your kind note. I am so sorry, but I have not a minute, let alone an hour for the next few weeks, but hope to see you when you return to London for October. Ever Yours, F. Nightingale’, 1 page, 175 x 114mm, on headed stationary for 10, South Street, Park Lane. W., 20 July 1897, with envelope, addressed by the correspondent in ink to ‘Mrs Norris, 1a Dennington Park, West Hampstead, N. W.’, postmarked ‘London, W. 3PM. JY20 97’. Note: Mrs Rachel Norris, neé Williams (1839–1908) was a nurse and long-time correspondent with Florence Nightingale (1820–1910), English social reformer, statistician and the founder of modern nursing. Norris trained under Nightingale at St. Thomas’ Hospital and 1876 became Matron at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, armed with Nightingale’s strong recommendation. Nightingale held her in high regard, giving her the nickname of ‘Goddess’. In 1877, Norris co-authored Hints to Hospital Nurses with her friend, Alice Fisher. For related correspondence between Mrs Norris and Florence, please see the next two lots. Condition: Letter small foxing spots verso. Envelope - foxing spots. Category: Books, Maps & Manuscripts/Autographs & Manuscripts Estimate: 500-800 GBP