English soldier and statesman (1599–1658) who led Parliamentary forces in the English Civil War, waged war against Scotland and Ireland and, in 1653, following the execution of Charles I, became Lord Protector of Great Britain, a position he held until his death in 1658. After a yearlong reign by his son, Richard, the British throne was restored to Charles II and Cromwell’s body was exhumed and posthumously ‘executed.’ LS in Old English, signed “Oliver P,” one page both sides, 8.25 x 12.5, April 3, 1658. Cromwell, as Lord Protector, gives instructions to send over 1200 men to Worth France (Mardyke) with the frigates required for the transport coming from English ports, including Plymouth. Repaired paper loss to right edge, affecting a few words of text, two horizontal folds, tape reinforcement along hinge, scattered toning and foxing, and slight show-through from writing on reverse, otherwise very good condition.
When Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell renewed his alliance with France, the exiled Charles II joined forces with Spain in hopes of invading the English Commonwealth and regaining his seat on the throne. Sending troops to reinforce Turenne’s army at Dunkirk, Cromwell helped ensure the defeat of the Spanish Army at the Battle of the Dunes on June 3rd, 1658, consequently delaying the return of the English monarchy. While any material from Cromwell is rare, this remarkable letter, signed exactly five months before his death and detailing important military plans for the Commonwealth, is of the greatest scarcity. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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