Alfred Mitford was a British author and diplomat, known for his literary contributions in the 19th century. He was born in 1820 and served as a diplomat in various countries, which influenced his writing. His works often reflected his experiences abroad and included themes of travel and culture. Mitford is perhaps best known for his book, Tales of Old Japan, published in 1871. This collection of stories provided insights into Japanese culture and traditions during a time when Japan was opening up to the West. His writings helped to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding between different societies.