Elizabeth Eastlake was first published by John Murray in 1841, when 'Residence on the shores of the Baltic' was produced. Her relationship with the publishing house and family of Murray continued until her death. Before her marriage, Eastlake had stayed at the Murray family home in Albemarle Street and she was particularly close to John Murray [III].

The correspondence here covers the entire time period of the relationship between Eastlake and the Murrays, from the early days of their acquaintance in the 1840s, until a few months before her death in October 1893. The letters discuss her works, writing for the 'Quarterly Review', and other news about family and mutual acquaintances. There are also some letters of Elizabeth Eastlake to other members of the Murray family, including John Murray [IV].