November 2023 Auction Ends Thursday, November 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/30/2023
Important letter regarding Napoleon Bonaparte's second exile to Saint Helena Island after he escaped his first exile on Elba. In 1814, Napoleon famously escaped from Elba Island with a contingent of 700 men and successfully seized control of France. The Allies were forced to form the Seventh Coalition to defeat him again, finally doing so at the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815. Determined to put him away for good, this letter documents the extra security precautions taken by the United Kingdom during his transport. Dated 25 July 1815, the secretary to Lord Henry Bathurst, Secretary of State for War and the Colonies, hand writes to Lt. Colonel Chapman, Secretary to the Ordnance. Marked ''Private'', letter reads,
''Private / My dear Chapman, / Lord Bathurst is desirous that a good company of artillery should accompany Bonaparte to his destination. Will you mention this as soon as possible to Lord Mulgrave as he shall be ready embark them in a very few days...'' The letter continues, ''An able officer of Engineers (or two) is also desired for this Service - ''. Single page letter measures 4.375'' x 7''. Minor wear and toning, overall in very good plus condition.
Important 1815 Letter Regarding Napoleon Bonaparte's Escape from Exile & His Recapture
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