Manuscript DS, signed “Nelson & Bronte,” one page both sides, 8 x 11.5, June 18, 1804. Military order drafted aboard Nelson’s famed “Victory,” directing the captain of HMS “Excellent,” Frank Sotheron, to accompany a water transport to Porto Conde in Sardinia. In part: "Having ordered the transport named in the margin to be loaded with Empty Cask from the Fleet, you are hereby required and directed to take the said transport under your protection, and proceed with Her in His Majesty's ship Excellent to Porto Conte in the Island of Sardinia; on your arrival there you will cause the utmost expedition to be used in filling the said Empty Water Cask and in completing the Excellent's Water and Wood. During your stay at Porto Conte you will cause your Ship's Company to be supplied with the necessary quantity of fresh Beef, and you will also order the agent Victualler's Clerk, who will accompany you, to purchase sixty head of live oxen for the Fleet, or more if they can be stowed, together with a sufficient quantity of Fodder to last them during the passage." Boldly signed at the conclusion by Horatio Nelson, and countersigned by John Scott, a friend and confidant of Nelson’s who would die at his side at Trafalgar. Nicely matted and framed with a photocopy of the front and an engraving of the 'Death of Nelson' to an overall size of 30 x 18.75. In fine condition.
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