A fine collection of manuscripts, corrected proof sheets, and first editions of Alfred Lord Tennyson is now on exhibition in the Memorial Room of Widener Library.

"Poems, by Two Brothers," a book of poetry written by Tennyson and his brother in their youth is considered the finest copy in existence. The Memorial Room is fortunate in owning a copy of a first edition of Tennyson's masterpiece, "The Holy Grail." An autographed manuscript of the immortal lines about the passing of Arthur is also contained in this volume.

An example of one of the few attempts of Tennyson at drama is also to be found. His play "Becket" was originally intended to be acted out only by one of his great actor friends. It became so popular, however, that it was soon published in book form for the public.

The gem of the collection, however, is the autographed manuscript of "The Charge of the Light Brigade," probably his best known poem. This was first published in the newspapers. The soldiers in Crimea, seeing the poem, sent a request to the government that copies of "The Charge of the Light Brigade" be sent to all of them in Crimea. The worn, crumpled copy in the exhibition belonged to a soldier.

Tennyson was a great admirer of Keats, who affected his style quite considerably: He carried a small leather bound volume of Keats' works around with him all his life. This time worn copy is also on exhibition.