Sotheby’s English Literature, History, Children’s Books and Illustrations sale from July 1-July 9 features this letter from Elizabeth I (1533-1603), signed Elizabeth R and By the Quene in her distinctive italic. In the letter, dated January 21, 1559, two months after her accession, the queen addresses Lord Paget telling him of her decision to summon Parliament. Paget had fallen ill and the queen excuses him, but orders him to send an appropriate proxy instead.