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Highly esteemed British admiral (1758–1805) best known for his participation in the Napoleonic Wars, during which, in the Battle of Trafalgar, he lost his life. Left-handed ALS signed “Nelson & Bronte,” one page, 7.25 x 8.5, August 7, 1801. Letter written from Medusa Margate to well known British Naval Figure William Robert Broughton. In full: “I remember perfectly having had the pleasure of meeting you at Cadiz in the beginning of the War and shall be very happy in renewing our acquaintance. I hope you have a tender with you and that you want for no convenience, at least you shall not if it is in my power to prevent it. I believe you must not expect many Sea fencibles till the Enemy are actually on the move which we must have several days notice. I am Dear Sir your most obedient servant.” Nicely matted and framed with a great color etching of Nelson from 1910 by Mess. Hare to Whitby Scarborough and engraved by J. Ross and Sons to an overall size of 30 x 22. Accompanied by the original address panel addressed in another hand. Intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, scattered toning and soiling, last portion of signature light, but legible, as well as a few words of text, and a few small creases and edge tears, otherwise very good condition.
Shortly after defeating a Danish-Norwegian fleet at the Battle of Copenhagen, dissolving the French-allied League of Armed Neutrality, Nelson hoisted his flag aboard the Medusa at Deal and headed to the French coast. There he spent the summer of 1801 observing the French invasion fleet, occasionally engaging them in small battles while waiting to make the next major move. It was there that the admiral penned this letter to the well-known naval officer William Robert Broughton. Having returned from the Vancouver Expedition, a voyage of exploration through the Pacific Ocean, Broughton found that the navy’s focus had shifted from discovery to war. Joining the effort, he participated in several battles, most notably the Battle of the Basque Roads. “I remember perfectly having had the pleasure of meeting you at Cadiz in the beginning of the War and shall be very happy in renewing our acquaintance,” Nelson kindly writes, as the two men lie in wait for action. An affable letter, crisply penned and signed four years before meeting his greatest victory and final demise at Trafalgar. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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