Manuscript DS, signed “Nelson & Bronte,” one page, 8 x 13, December 21, 1803. From the Victory, Nelson appoints David Moore to be a surgeon on board the Renard. In part: “Having ordered the late French National Schooner the Renard, to be taken into His majesty’s Service, and fitted immediately for Sea at Malta. You are hereby required and directed to repair to that place without loss of time and take upon you the Employment of Surgeon in His Majesty’s said Schooner the Renard accordingly; being obedient to all such orders and directions as you may from time to time receive from the Commander of the said Schooner, or any other Superior Officer for His Majesty’s Service, and for doing this shall be your order.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by Nelson. Double-matted and framed with a portrait of Nelson to an overall size of 21.25 x 18.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature.
Captured by the HMS Cameleon off Corsica, the 12-gun French schooner Renard was recommissioned into the Royal Navy under the command of Lieutenant Richard Spencer in 1803. With a crew of 60, including the newly appointed surgeon David Moore, it was assigned to protect Maltese commerce interest. Four years later (renamed the Crafty), the ship was captured by Spanish pirates, resulting in the deaths of three crew members, 14 serious injuries, and the court-martialing of Lieutenant Spencer for his failure to keep the vessel secure. At the time of signing this appointment, Nelson was serving as commander-in-chief of the Mediterranean Fleet on board his famous HMS Victory, enforcing the blockade of Toulon. An exceptional document signed less than two years before his fateful Battle of Trafalgar. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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