Superb ALS signed “E. H. Shackleton,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 7, Marlborough Club, Pall Mall letterhead, July 22, 1921. Shackleton writes to Colonel Wigram [First Baron Wigram, 1873–1960, court official who later served as Private Secretary to the Sovereign]. In full: “I said today the Union Jacks were silk. I remember now they wore out, just ordinary bunting. It would mean much to the Expedition and to all the Empire if we carried the King’s own flag to the unknown side of the Antarctic. The officers come from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, England, Ireland, Scotland. Yours sincerely….” After signing, Shackleton adds a postscript, which he signs “E. H. S.”: “I confirm your telephone message that I am to be at Buckingham Palace at 11:15 a.m. tomorrow, Saturday 23 July.” The Antarctic expedition Shackleton alludes to, known as the Shackleton-Rowett Expedition, would prove to be his last. The rather rickety ship Shackleton purchased for the expedition, renamed the Quest, set sail on September 17, 1921. Shackleton had two heart attacks en route, the second of which killed him on January 5, 1922, causing the expedition to be abandoned. A very subtle hint of soiling and handling wear, otherwise very fine condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
