First Earl of Orford (1676–1745). British statesman regarded as being the first Prime Minister of Great Britain, who served during the reigns of George I and II. Endorsement, signed “Walpole,” on the reverse of a one page manuscript document, written in an unknown hand and directed to Walpole, 7.5 x 6, dated March 30, 1737. Document reads, in full: “Order is taken this 14 day of March 1737 by virtue of His Majesties General Letters of Patent Dormant bearing date the 22nd day of June 1727. That you deliver and pay of such His Majesties Treasure as remains in your charge unto Sir Robert Walpole Knight of the most noble Order of the Garter, Chancellor and Under Treasurer of His Majesties Exchequer or to his assigns the sum of four hundred pounds without account for one quarter of a year due at Lady day 1737 on his allowance of one thousand six hundred pounds per annum in consideration of his having relinquisht certain perquisites and profit is formerly enjoyed by the Chancellors and under Treasurers of the said Exchequer and these together with his or his assigns acquittance shall be your discharge herein.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, uniform shade of toning, mild paper loss to the bottom corners, scattered soiling, a small tear to the left edges, small areas of separation along the folds, and a heavy line of ink running diagonally though the letter. RRAuction COA.
