Jane Austen’s House in Chawton is displaying a newly-acquired Austen letter after its discovery in Cambridge.

It was written by Jane from Steventon, on October 27 and 28, 1798, to her sister Cassandra, who was staying with their elder brother Edward Austen Knight at Godmersham Park in Kent.

It offers an insight into Jane’s social circle, domestic life and the realities of travel in the late 18th century, all written with her lively and frequently biting wit.

The letter came via Cheffins Auctioneers from the estate of a Cambridge resident who acquired it in 2000. It is one of only around 160 to survive and one of the earliest. 

It is on display as part of a new exhibition, My dear Cassandra…, until October 29.