King of Great Britain and Ireland (1765–1837) who served from 1830 to 1837, he earned the sobriquet ‘Sailor King’ for his youthful service in the Royal Navy. His reign, though short, was marked by much social progress, including laws restricting child labor, the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire, and the reformation of the British electoral system. Leaving no direct heir upon his death in 1837, he was succeeded by his niece, Victoria, who reigned for the remainder of the century. LS in French, signed “Frederick Guillaume R,” one page, 8.5 x 13, black-bordered mourning stationery, April 24, 1846. Letter to King of Two Sicilies, Ferdinand II, sadly informing him of the death of “the Princess Marie Anne Amelie, nee Princess of Hesse-Hombourg, wife of my dear, His Royal Highness, Prince William of Prussia.” In fine condition, with central horizontal and vertical fold and a bit of trivial toning. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope with remnants of a black wax seal. RR Auction COA.
