James Thomas Brudenell, seventh Earl of Cardigan (1797-1868) led the charge of the Light Brigade at the battle of Balaklava in 1854, and afterwards spent a good deal of time defending his conduct on that occasion, including bringing a libel action in 1863 against Lt Col. J.G. Calthorpe. The following letters show his anxiety to persuade Kinglake of his version of events. Note: the statements, maps etc. sent with these letters are no longer with them, having perhaps been returned to Lord Cardigan. Three letters, noted in brackets below, are represented by photocopies and transcripts (which are filed as no.48).