Scarce ALS signed “Nelson,” one page, 7.25 x 9.25, January 9, 1801. Letter to a "Dear Friend," in part: "Lt. Young I know to be a very good officer but I am under an engagement for the only vacancy I have, if that should be got rid of I hold Lt. Yg. in my mind, but it is very probable I shall not be long in the South…and in that case either Lt. Yg. would be left in…or turned out." Elegantly triple-matted and framed with an engraved portrait behind UV-protective acrylic to an overall size of 21 x 16. Affixed to a larger sheet and in very good condition, with light soiling, and repairs on the reverse to splitting of intersecting folds. After famously losing his right hand during the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1797, Nelson was forced to learn to write left-handed—his autograph letters are therefore scarce, and he typically kept them short and to the point. Nelson was in England in January 1801, having been appointed as Vice Admiral of the Blue on January 1st; his mistress, Emma Hamilton, gave birth to their daughter Horatia at the end of the month. As the most famous naval commander in England, Nelson would have undoubtedly been beset by those seeking positions and advancement.
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