Frederick Temple Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood, 1st Marquess of Dufferin and Ava, was a senior diplomat who enjoyed a long and varied career. He was governor-general of Canada between 1872 and 1878, and Viceroy of India from 1884-1888. Blackwood also published various works throughout his adult life, including a book about his travels, collected speeches and political works.

In this series there are over 150 letters of Blackwood to John Murray III and John Murray IV. They principally relate to the publication of his works through the house of John Murray, although other details are also included. In addition, there is also a typescript copy of an extract from a letter of Blackwood; a letter of Helen Hay (the mother of Blackwood) to John Murray III, and an advertisement for "Chappell and Cos New and Popular Songs".