British naval hero, known for his flag signal “England expects that every man will do his duty.” Promoted rapidly after entering the navy at age 12, Nelson was given his first command in the French Revolutionary Wars. His destruction of the French fleet off of Aboukir in 1798 brought him fame and honors, and he was created Duke of Bronte by Ferdinand I of Naples. His scandalous affair with Lady Emma Hamilton met with official disapproval, but did not interfere with his defeat of the French and Spanish fleets at the decisive Battle of Trafalgar. This victory cost Nelson his life, but ensured British naval supremacy for one hundred years. ALS signed “Nelson & Bronte,” one page, 7.25 x 9, May 7, 1803. Letter to a Lord. In part, “Before I was honored with your Lordship’s letter relative to the Edin, Road Bill I had received an application from the opponents to it but not considering myself to be the least able to judge of the merits of the case I can on this occasion only hope to serve your Lordship by keeping away from the committee.” Accompanied by a portion of an LS, signed by Nelson’s second in command at Trafalgar Sir Richard Bickerton, signed “R. Bickerton,” dated December 29, 1801, regarding boatswain’s stores. In very good condition, with scattered light brown staining, a couple slight smudges to “Bronte,” due to excessive ink flow and expected folds. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
