Jacques Grignon, A French PriestMareMagnum
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Twenty-four (24) letters, 29 December 1934 - 11 April 1940, written by French priest Jacques Grignon while in South China working to establish a seminary for the Catholic Church, feature firsthand accounts of Communist movements and attacks, of the Japanese threat, and the general state of affairs during the first part of the Chinese Civil War. All text is in French. Twenty letters are typescript, signed "Jacques" in manuscript and feature occasional manuscript annotations by the author; four letters are in manuscript and signed in the same manner as the latter. Together with one envelope addressed in typescript to the writer's brother Jean Grignon in Paris, to whom all of the letters are addressed. 8vo. 23 pages altogether, on single leaf delicate tissue writing paper, ranging in size slightly, the smallest leafs measuring approximately 13,5 x 21 cm, the largest measuring approximately 19 x 25 cm. Envelope measures approximately 13 x 8 cm. Tear to upper margin of one letter, unobtrusive to text, otherwise the lot in very good condition, excellent primary source content. Letters written by a Parisian civilian sent to China in a time of global economic turmoil contemplates Communism, economy, and morality, showing notable concern towards the plight of France during the ongoing Great Depression, while describing the equally unsettling state of affairs in China during the Chinese Civil War. The writer, Jacques Grignon was a French priest, who arrived in China in 1934, evidently not long before the first letter, to join three others in establishing a seminary in Yunnanfu (present-day Kunming) in southern China. Little else is known about him, although he had family in Paris. His letter of 6 February 1936 also reveals that he had just celebrated his 42nd birthday, as such being born circa 1894. A learned and intellectual man, with a rather liberal perspective at times, considering his chosen vocation as he mentions political events and severe social problems, he also considers certain injustices that had brought about the crisis to substantiate his unique approach. Specific events discussed while in China include the movements of Communist insurgents, the revolt of Zhang Xueliang [The Xi'an Incident of 1936] and the subsequent release of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek who had been captured, and Japanese troops positioned in Peking for what would become the Battle of Beiping-Tianjin [25-31 July 1937]. Interesting anecdotes describe the lackadaisical manner of progress made by the Chinese in construction, the beginnings of official systemization for street names and house numbering in Yunnan [Kunming,] as well as general challenges with ammenities and travel in China. Manuscript
A personal and exquisite New Years' greeting, dated 1 January 1932, for Governor of Bengal Sir Francis Stanley Jackson, from the Maharajah Bahadur of Hathwa, signed in the original by the latter "Guru Mahadev Ashram Prasad Sahi". Single leaf one-off printed document on parchment, with illustrated border, recto framed with exquisite gilt ribbons sequined, embroidered, with tassels, verso backed with pink silk textile, measuring approximately 26,5 x 42 cm. Signature faint, document creased, otherwise in very good condition, nicely preserved, clean and bright, a singular and personal document from royalty of India. A singular document, elegantly crafted and signed by a Maharajah, commemorates the end of term for Sir Francis Stanley Jackson as British Governor of Bengal. Sir Francis Stanley Jackson GCSI GCIE KStJ (1870-1947) was a captain in the British Army and served in the Boer War, a Conservative Party MP, Governor of Bengal from 1927 to 1932, and an avid English cricketer. During Stanley's time at Harrow School his fag [personal servant] was fellow parliamentarian and future Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Only five weeks after this document was made, on 6 February 1932, Jackson narrowly escaped an attempted assassination by a female student named Bina Das as he was making a speech in the Convocation Hall of the University of Calcutta. Later in the same year (1932), Jackson he was awarded the KStJ (Order of Saint John) and was appointed GCSI (Most Exalted Order of the Star of India). As such, on this document his honour of chivalry is only Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire. He is also recognized with the title P.C., then being a Member of the Privy Council.
Primary source account of the Belenzada Affair, by a British marine serving on HMS Cornwallis (1813) and participating in the event at Lisbon, describing daily and hourly actions taking place during the counter-revolution begun by Queen Maria II. Annotated by a contemporary transcriber who seems to be a friend of the diarist and presumably the recipient of the original letter, to front upper margin: "Extract Private letter" and to the end leaf: "Novr. 3d 1836 Revolution at Lisbon Copy of Wms Report of it". 8vo. 7 pages in manuscript. Two double leafs measuring approximately 21 x 26,5 cm. Occasional creasing, very minor loss to first leaf, not affecting legibility of context, otherwise in very good condition. The Belenzada, also known as the Belém Affair, was an attempted coup in November 1836 by Queen Maria II of Portugal and her husband Prince Ferdinand II, to remove the liberal government which had been established by the September Revolution, and to reinstate the Constitutional Charter of 1826. Despite enjoying diplomatic support from the United Kingdom and Belgium, the attempt was frustrated by the determination of the National Guard, the regular army and the general population of Lisbon. This primary source document provides a superbly detailed chronical of events of one counter-revolution in Imperial Portugal, initiated by Queen Maria II herself, as a response to the uprising of the Setembrismo and Cartismo movement to end the political "devorismo" ('devourism') as it was termed at the time. The event is all-but-forgotten by Western historians, albeit said to be one of the three most important of conspiracies or plots executed during this period of unrelenting political conflict. Manuscript
One Original Signed Letter, written Springfield Newnham, Cambridge, Nov 24 [1879]. 2 pages, 8vo. Bi-folium on headed paper with mourning border, "Down, Beckenham, Kent, Railway Station, Orpington S.E.R." Leaf measures approximately 11,5cm x 18cm (4.5 inches x 7 inches), when folded. Very Good Condition, nicely preserved. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The Letter reads: My dear Frances, I see in the papers that you have lost your dear mother. I remember when you kindly wrote to me by her wish, that she felt herself that her end could not be very distant. I should be very grateful for a line, and I trust you will be able to tell me that she did not suffer very much; but rather that her placid & happy nature remained with her to the last. Believe me , Very sincerely yours, Emma Darwin" Frances Julia "Snow" Wedgwood (9 July 1833 – 26 November 1913) was an English feminist novelist, biographer, historian and literary critic. She was described as "a young woman of extreme passions and fastidious principles" and "at once a powerful reasoner and an inexorable critic of reason” Manuscript
One Original Signed Letter, written ca.1889, 2 pages 8vo. Bi-folium on headed paper, "Down, Farnborough R.S.O, Kent". Leaf measures approximately 11,5cm x 18cm (4.5 inches x 7 inches), when folded. Very Good Condition, nicely preserved. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The letter reads: My dear Frances, I am anxious to know how your cousin is today, & whether you have hopes of being able to move tomorrow. If you had leisure to come & see me this afternoon for a short time, I should be glad; but only send me a verbal answer at all events. yours very sincerely, E. Darwin, (Mrs. Charles Darwin)" Frances Julia "Snow" Wedgwood (9 July 1833 – 26 November 1913) was an English feminist novelist, biographer, historian and literary critic. She was described as "a young woman of extreme passions and fastidious principles" and "at once a powerful reasoner and an inexorable critic of reason. Manuscript
Original letter penned and signed by Layard after the Bulgarian uprising in the Balkans. The letter measures 7 x 9 inches dated February 23, 1878 while he was HBM Ambassador in Constantinople. The letter provides a reference for a James Long, MA who was a humanitarian. Long was about to go to Bazandjik on the Danube in Bulgaria which had recently been occupied by the Russians during the Russo-Turkish War. Together with the letter is an original portrait photograph of Layard measuring 8 x 10 inches as well as a contemporary bigraphical sketch from the 1880's. Letters from Layard while abroad are rare. Manuscript
London, 26 February 1900. Signed Manuscript Letter by Admiral Sir Albert Hastings Markham, naval officer and pioneering arctic explorer, addressed to S. C. J. Freeman-Mathews in Cape Town, South Africa. Small 8vo. Double-leaf measuring approximately 15 x 15cm. Together with original cover, opened on three sides, bearing three postal marks and one stamp, and measuring 11 x 8 cm. Both in very good condition, from the autograph collection of Seymour C.J. Freeman-Matthews. The addressee, Seymour C.J. Freeman-Matthews was a collector of autographs and amassed a sizeable treasure of signatures with solicitations such as which led to this letter and autograph being penned by a great Arctic navigator. The letter reads as follows: "Dear Sir, I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 5th inst. and, in reply, have much pleasure in complying with your request, Believe me. Yrs. faithfully, A. Markham [signature] Vice Admiral." Manuscript
Manuscript Signed Letter, dated 21 January 1897, discussing matters pertaining to the settlement era of Perth, Western Australia. 8vo. Two double-leafs, 5 pages. Very good condition. Fascinating content such as a poverty, drought, general health issues in Perth from the conditions, problems of the homeless, and in contrast the increase in land values, and prospects for youngsters, The writer also talks of the Music Society and of singing the Messiah at Christmas. Written by M. Barigh of Havelock Street, her home located on a hill above the central town, who may have been a relative of Richard Henry Barigh, an immigrant to Australia, possibly originally as a convict. Excerpts from the letter: "Lately we have had a water famine and all day long the water is cut off but we fill a tank and so it does not cause us much inconvenience... We do not like W.A. half so much as N.Z. it is too hot and dry and this town is not healthy." "The place must have grown half since we came and building is going on all the time and the values of property increasing - our land cost about four pounds a foot and a lady has just bought this piece adjoining ours and given over eleven pounds for it and thinks she has got it cheap." "There are scores of people here with nothing who a little while since in Melbourne were living in luxury." End Excerpts. Perth had only been established since 1829. In 1850, Western Australia was opened to convicts at the request of farming and business people looking for cheap labour. Queen Victoria announced the city status of Perth in 1856.
London, 20 September 1947. Manuscript Signed Letter by the Right Honourable Montgomery of Alamein, to well known fiction writer Lady Anderson, mentioning an unpublished book by Anderson which precedes her formal writing career. 8vo. Single-leaf measuring approximately 14 x 18cm (5.5 x 7 inches). Very good condition, and accompanied by the original postally used envelope. Graciously confirming receipt of what appears to be an unpublished book by a well known female author, and perhaps the first she had written, this letter is penned and signed by Bernard Law Montgomery (1887-1976), 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, and British Army Field Marshal nicknamed "Monty" and the "Spartan General" whose illustrious military career spanned both World Wars, during which time he earned numerous honours and awards. The recipient is Barbara Anderson, Lady Anderson (1926-2013) née Barbara Lillian Romaine, an internationally recognized fiction writer from New Zealand, and later, the wife of Sir Neil Dudley Anderson, Chief of New Zealand Defence Staff. Only a few months to this letter being written, Barbara had graduated with a BSc from Otago University. She subsequently worked as a medical technologist and teacher, though her passion had always been in writing. She finally pursued her formal writing career in her sixties, publishing a volume of short stories, for the first time, in 1989. The book mentioned in this letter does not appear on common lists of her published works, and pre-dates her writing career by approximately thirty years. The letter reads as follows: "Dear Lady Anderson, I have just got back from Germany and found your book 'Lend Me Your Ears'. Thank you so very much. Yrs. ever Montgomery of Alamein" [signed] Manuscript
One Original Signed Letter from Sir John Barrow to Davies Gilbert. 8vo. 1 page on a single-leaf, dated 22 August, (content reveals the year is 1831). Leaf measures approximately 18cm x 11,5cm (7 inches x 4.5 inches). Very good condition. In 1831, the Royal Astronomical Society deemed it imperative for advancement in navigation, to form "New Requisite Tables" which would be introduced in the impending publication of the New Nautical Almanack. At the behest of Captain Beaufort, Hydrographer to the Admiralty, RN Lieutenant Henry Raper, a revered authority on navigation, was in charge of constructing the charts. Here Sir John Barrow, Secretary of the Admiralty, is evidently responding to an enquiry by Davies Gilbert, mathematician and President of the Royal Society. Barrow assures Gilbert that he has directed the question to Captain Francis Beaufort, who is an integral member of the committee charged with making the nautical charts. Signed in the original by Sir John Barrow, the letter states: "The subject of the New Requisite Tables is in the hands of the Astronomical Society and has been for some time, but as yet they have not made any report. I have shown your note to Capt Beaufort who is one of the Committee." A report published in the Nautical Magazine, March 1831, corroborates the significance of this work, and the involvement of such leading authorities in navigation. Manuscript
New York City, Frankfurt, Stockholm, etc., 1961-1966. Substantial archive of documents concerning the publication and production of several notable literary works and theatrical plays by Peter Ulrich Weiss, including correspondence, draft agreements, contracts signed with leading publishers and producers, as well as some programmes and peer reviews, being the working files of his New York agent, Joan Daves. Together with 3 LP record box sets of the first and complete Broadway original cast music recording for the Marat/Sade play. Octavo and Folio documents and letters, ranging in size and number of pages, some signed in the original. Most are in English; some are in German; the lot neatly contained in four ring binders. The vast majority of the documents date to the 1960s, with a scant few being later including a letter regarding a special television production in 1979 with NBC. Occasional wear to extremities, otherwise in very good condition, beautifully preserved, clean and bright. A generous and comprehensive archive chronicling the work and partnership of a leading literary agent in the rise of German-American publishing, and one of her notable German writers. Provenance: From the desk of Weiss' literary agent for the US, Joan Daves. Joan Daves (1919-1997) was a leading literary agent with her own agency in New York, whose client list boasts six Nobel Prize winners including Martin Luther King, Jr. Daves had a profound effect on the very existence of German literature in America. Born Liselotte Davidson in Berlin, she escaped Nazi Germany by fleeing to Paris and England before emigrating to the United States in 1940. Her agency, established in 1948, handled the original works of several American authors. She handled Martin Luther King, Jr.'s literary property from 1957 until her death. Of great emphasis with her firm was the representation of several major German publishers, such as Suhrkamp, Piper, S. Fischer Verlag and others. It was the prime time of German writers such as Peter Weiss, Uwe Johnson, Max Frisch, Heinar Kipphardt, Hans Magnus Enzensberger, and Hermann Hesse. In the mid-1960s, communication with German publishers was quite different from today. A shipment of galleys was prepared with a 'by sea mail' label. When the New York Times printed the date and time the next ship would leave the harbor, delivery of the parcels of documents to that specific ship was requested. Peter Ulrich Weiss (1916-1982) was a German author, playwright, and experimental filmmaker, who gained celebrity fame on Broadway in the 1960s. He is particularly known for his plays "Marat/Sade" of 1963/65 which is largely represented in the present archive and which was enormously successful, for "The Investigation" of 1965, and for his later novel "The Aesthetics of Resistance" (1971-81). In the 1960s Weiss also embraced and promoted politically controversial groups, standing for revolutionary Cuba, standing against US intervention in Vietnam, and joining Sweden's eurocommunist party. Manuscript
SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR. Includes black and white plates. 17x24 cm. 191 pages. Paperback. Cover slightly chafed in edges. Inner covers are stained. Else in good condition.
SIGNED BY AUTHOR. 24x17 cm. 432 pages. Gilt hardcover with dust jacket. In good condition.
Beirut, Damascus, Hama, Bhamdoun: 28 February 1900 - June 1901. Lot of 5 manuscript letters written and signed by Harvard anthropologist Henry Minor Huxley, concerning anthropological work performed for the Howard Crosby Butler Archaeological Expedition to the Middle East, as well as a noteworthy archaeological discovery of an ancient and curious stone inscription, its location guarded with secrecy by the few expedition members having this knowledge. 8vo. double-leafs varying in size. 24 pages combined, each letter signed in the original. Two letters are on hotel stationery. Occasional light creasing, otherwise in very good condition, clean and bright, a fascinating and candid primary source account. Writing to a trusted source, his mother, Huxley's reveals the discovery of an ancient inscription carved into an overturned stone, in a language possibly not yet identified, stating that he took the first photograph of it, and that only a select few expedition members are privy to knowing its location. His commentary on experiences with the local civilians and officials are straightforward and occasionally blunt. Henry Minor Huxley, A.M. accepted the offer to join the American Archaeological Expedition led by American archaeologist Howard Crosby Butler. The first part of the archaeological work took place from mid-October to mid-December 1899, and a second trip was made for continued work from March to June, 1900. In the summer of 1900, he was devoted to acquiring a working knowledge of the vernacular Arabic. Huxley's work, however, involved a broader scope. During this second trip, he was also tasked with the study of physical anthropology, as is apparent in the present correspondence. This work proved so valuable that Huxley, owing to the patronage of New York businessman and archeological enthusiast B.T. Babbitt Hyde, remained for another year to further these anthropological observations, independently. What does not appear to be officially documented in publications, but is highly fascinating, is what Huxley writes in his last letter of the present lot. That is, in June 1901, just prior to returning to America, he alone returned to the site of a stone inscription discovered during the earlier part of the expedition (presumably in 1899), to copy it, photograph it, and turn it back face down so that no others would see it. This would increase the likelihood that he and one other would have a better chance of being the first to decipher it.
8vo. 32 page German manuscript, a poetic or theatrical composition dealing with California and dedicated to Queen Marie, Consort of King George V of Hanover, during the California Gold Rush. Dedication page, written in French, signed and dated by 'Gontard' who was an affluent art collector and chairman of an elite German art museum, and whom had evidently just met the Queen in person at the Exposition Universelle in Paris. Exquisite red morocco binding by Hof-buchbinders Wilhelm Ermold (binder to the Royal Hanover Court), beautifully finished in gilt with a crowned monogram 'M' for Marie, royal blue cloth endpapers, satin bow dividers. Evidence of an imbedded gift-wrapping ribbon to boards, slight foxing to first few leafs, otherwise very good condition, internally clean and bright, a pleasing work in an elegant binding fit for royalty. Title: Die Reise nach Californien. Nach dem französischen bearbeitet von Eduard Suhren. [A Voyage to California. From the French, edited by Edward Suhren.] The ambiguously titled manuscript may be a German rendition of the French theatrical opera by Dondey Dupré titled "Le voyage en Californie ou notice explicative du panorama" which concerned travels across the United States and explorations in the West - by John Charles Fremont, first explorer to cross the Sierra Nevada in winter, foremost US Senator, abolitionist, who prospered during the California Gold Rush. Content includes the explorer's sighting of pines in the Sierra Nevada oak forest at 3500 feet, melting gold, and so forth. Frémont's father was a native of France, who died only eight years after the French Revolution. As such, his gallant endeavours and accomplishments in the New World would certainly garner much attention in France, as with other European nations with colonies abroad. The French opera was first publicly performed 8 August 1850 in Paris, at the Théâtre des Variétés. Gontard, who met the queen, and dedicates this manuscript to her, may have been involved in a German production, performed for the House of Hanover. A full page dedication inscription, in French, is addressed to the Queen of Hanover, by Huguenot descendant Jakob Friedrich Moritz Gontard (1826-1886), chairman and administrator of the Städel art museum in Frankfurt, officially the Städelsches Kunstinstitut und Städtische Galerie. Queen consort of Hanover from 1851 to 1878, née Princess Marie of Saxe-Altenburg, recipient of this dedicated manuscript, was the wife of King George V of Hanover, the last monarch of the short-lived Kingdom of Hanover. In his dedication, dated Hanover, 12 July 1855, Gontard thanks the monarch for having come to see his panorama at the International Exhibition held on the Champs-Elysées, stating that her visit inspired the work which forms the volume, and which he humbly offers to her. He references materials which were given to her onsite, which would elucidate the obscure details of the creative piece. The date indicates that King George V and Queen Marie of the short-lived Kingdom of Hanover attended the event in its first eight weeks. Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom paid a visit to the Parisian Exhibition in August. Unique manuscript volume, bound in the Royal Court of Hanover, written at the height of the California Gold Rush and featuring historic Americana content. Manuscript
Manuscript leaf introducing an early work of translation by a Franciscan Friar of the Third Order, hand painted in full colour and featuring fascinating symbolism. Text is in Latin. Leaf measures approximately 34 x 49 cm. One soft fold, minor age-toning, otherwise in very good condition, a beautifully preserved hand painted document made at the turn of the 18th century. The present document suggests that as membership of the Franciscan Third Order grew rapidly, and no formal papal education was being received by those preaching in the streets, there was a need for some form of instruction or guidance. As such, some of the key and simple canonical documents began being written for the laymen/women to understand the principles. The symbolism features intimation of anti-slavery. Purposed with works of teaching the gospel, providing charity, and social well-being for the public, early members of the Franciscan Third Order were a community focused on truth and humility, striving to emulate Christ and model a pure life. The symbolism in the manuscript illustration of the present document is fascinating and enlightening, in particular the focal image top and center. This is an armorial motif depicting slavery, rather the Catholic church's purported desire to slavery. Unlike the standard Moor's head seen in the papal coat of arms seen since early days, the imagery here features an African tribal warrior chief, all seen but his legs, with a confident stance and holding a spear up high in declaration; this is drawn inside of a gold shield topped with the pope's mitre simplex headdress. As a whole, this could be interpreted as the Franciscan Third Order's support to abolish slavery. Some of the more common instances of symbolism are the red ribbons to signify the Blood which Christ, and the laurel leafs in a circular placement as in the ancient Greek custom of symbolising victory, honor, and peace, in this case being victory over sin, honor to the Holy one, and peace on earth. There are also two large gilt fleur-de-lis, which is often said to from 1244 in the arms of the Kings of France, although clearly used earlier as this document precedes the latter event by 40 years. In early Catholic-based examples such as the present leaf, the fleur-de-lis is believed to represent either the Trinity, or the lancehead of a spear such as which would have pierced the side of Jesus on the Cross. Manuscript
Manuscript notes made by a nineteenth century student of medicine, possibly intent on becoming an apothecary, who examines and records the earlier works of German physician and professor Andreas Elias Buechner (1701-1769), including numerous medicinal recipes and commentary on physiological effects. 8vo. 56 pages in manuscript. Text is in German. Marbled paper boards with blank label to front. Volume measures approximately 17 x 21 cm. Very slight wear to boards, otherwise in very good condition, internally crisp and bright. The 18th century was the 'Golden Age' of scientific academies and learned societies. This work provides valuable information on the historic application of natural ingredients with medicinal qualities, as well as a somewhat early history of the experimentation and progress in the field of medicine, by drawing from the methodology and recipes of a notable eighteenth century German physician and educator in the field - Andreas Elias Büchner. Following a five-point outline, the writer compiles a lengthy and well organized list of medical ailments or discomforts and the simple remedies for them, over 24 pages, a very small sampling of these being parageusia (a distortion of the sense of taste), digestive issues for which are listed various laxatives, skin sensitivities and emollients, "alterantia" or hormonal alterants, and diaphoretics. A section headed "Special Formulas," comprising 23 pages of more complex medicinal recipes, provides ingredients and measurements for various emulsions, syrups, pills and much more. Andreas Elias Büchner (1701-1769) was a German physician, naturalist, Professor of Medicine at some of Germany's leading institutions, president of the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina from 1735 to 1769, and one of Friedrich Hoffmann's most zealous followers. Manuscript
The light vessels being the predecessors of the two permanent lighthouses of Ceylon fame, situated some fourteen kilometers apart off the coast of Yala National Park. Two folio documents: April 1869 double leaf true copy of a memorandum on winds and currents at Little Basses; April 1870 single leaf notice to sea captains announcing the temporary lighthouse near the Great Basses, issued by Colonial Secretary Henry Turner Irving (later Governor) and penned in a secretarial hand; both on blindstamped stationery of the United States Commercial Agency of Ceylon measuring approximately 20 x 32 cm. Slight age-toning, otherwise in very good condition, rare documents connected to two offshore lighthouses which are among the most famous in Asia. This fascinating and detailed manuscript lighthouse report, was made prior to the actual lighthouses having been constructed, by a sea captain who lived on the light ship anchored off the Ceylon southern shore for at least seven years, making important observations and providing light for navigators. The first document is an annual report by John Buchanan, master of the light vessel at Little Basses, describing seasonal wind and weather conditions, sea currents, tides, monsoons and storms, over the period of one year. The captain also describes steamships having difficulties making the passage to shore. This document being a true copy of the original made in April 1869 by Thomas Steele, Assistant Government Agent at Hambantota, who took a noteworthy interest in local antiquities and Sinhalese literature. [An admiralty notice based on Buchanan's memorandum, though slightly edited, was published in the London and China Telegraph, Vol. 12, May 16, 1870, and also in The Nautical Magazine and Naval Chronicle for 1870]. Excerpts from Buchanan's lightship memorandum: ".... at Little Basses Rocks, Ceylon, during 13 months as observed from the Light Ship." "January [1869]... It would not be inaccurate to say that a strong current continues throughout January coming from the NNE from the Bay of Bengal setting S.S.W. Sea crossing very rough all the month.... both wind and tide against them...difficult for ships to get to the Northeast. It would be well not to attempt to do so." "February... towards the end of the month the wind becomes much lighter. The northerly current also slacken. Occasionally in the month the Light Vessel swings. In 1868, however, she did not swing until April, while in the current year (1869) she swings in February. During the seven years I have been here, the SW monsoon has not hitherto set in regularly until from the 4th to the 10th of May. This year it has been steady at SW since April 6th. The present year is accordingly an exception to the rule..." "I consider March one of our finest months at the Little Basses... 87º in the shade... Shipmasters going to any part of Burmah need have no cause for hesitation... " "May... the monsoon sets in strong and steady... much rain falls, and thunder and lightning... until about the 20th October..." "June, July, August and September... the S.W. monsoon blows strong and steady... Notwithstanding the extreme difficulty I have been enabled (occasionally at much risk of life and property) to keep up a monthly communication with Pottana Bay [Pothana Bay], and thence by land with Galle." "November... much thunder and lightning... Floating bodies invariably I have observed, set right out to sea, S.S.W. ..." "Summary... There are no regular tides... the N.E. monsoon... during five months without variation. Thus a steamer steering N.N.E., has not only to oppose a three-knot tide opposed to her, but the wind dead against her... some steamers barely make two miles an hour going to the north... When the sun goes to the northward of the Light Ship, there is no more N.E. monsoon... in the event of a vessel making Dondra Head when bound to Galle, which is not uncommon the Master should never attempt to beat to Galle, but recross the line." End Excerpts. "Notice to Mariners, Bay of Bengal. Temporary Lighthouse near the Great Basses" heads the second document, which was issued by Colonial Secretary Henry T. Irving at Colombo in April 1870. Irving became a colonial governor not long after. Here too, prior to construction of a permanent structure, the admiralty anchored a temporary light-vessel upon which was mounted a revolving signal. This announcement came approximately one year before placement of the first stone for the lighthouse, and four years before it would begin operation. Excerpt from Irving's notice to mariners: "... it is hereby notified... that a light-vessel, exhibiting at an elevation of 38 feet above the sea, a red revolving light at intervals of 45 seconds, has been placed... at a distance of 3/4 of a mile from the N.E. rock of the Great Basses Reef... The vessel carries two balls vertical at the Mast Head." End Excerpt. Sir Henry Turner Irving, GCMG (1833-1923) was a British Civil Servant and Colonial Administrator. He first served as acting Governor of British Ceylon. In 1873-1874, he served as Governor of the Leeward Islands. In 1874-1880, he served as Governor of Trinidad and Tobago. In 1882-1887, he served as Governor of British Guiana. He was the first Governor of Trinidad to occupy the Government House, now known as the President's House. Notes on the lighthouses that subsequently replaced the "light-ships" described above: Great Basses Reef Lighthouse is an offshore lighthouse in the south of Sri Lanka. Accessible only by boat, it is located on a reef 13 km off the coast of Yala National Park, near Little Basses Reef Lighthouse. The necessity of a lighthouse at this location was acknowledged in 1856, a design of an iron tower on a granite base was suggested and costs began to be incurred without fruition. A new design by Alexander Gordon and Sir James Nicholas Douglass was approved in 1867. The executive engineer in charge was James' brother William Douglass. Two steam vessels were used, each capable of carrying 120 tonnes of stone, and each equipped with the appropriate lifting gear. Each support block weighed 2 to 3 tons. The first stone was laid in December 1870, the last in late 1872 and the light was lit in March 1873. The cost had been £63,000, of which £40,000 had been expended to no effect before Trinity House and William Douglass were involved. Little Basses Reef Lighthouse is an active offshore lighthouse at the southern end of Sri Lanka. It is located on a reef called Kuda Ravana Kotuwa (Fort of Little Ravana), formerly called Little Basses by the British when they invaded Ceylon. It is fourteen km off the coast of Yala National Park and north east of the Great Basses Reef Lighthouse. It was completed in 1878, built by William Douglass using the same steam ships, crew and workers as the Great Basses Reef Lighthouse. Designed by Sir James Nicholas Douglass, Little Basses lighthouse was one of a limited number of lighthouses that were designed to house the large Hyperradiant Fresnel lenses that became available at the end of the 19th century. Four of these lenses were used in Sri Lankan lights, all made by Chance Brothers in England. The lighthouse is close to Daedalus Rock, site of the sinking of HMS Daedalus (1811). The two Basses lighthouses are among the most famous offshore lighthouses of Asia. Manuscript
8vo, 483 pages, not illustrated. Signed by Deidre Purcell on the title page. eng
Manuscript diary with several drawings, kept by an Englishman who travelled with his family to Germany, Belgium, Switzerland from 29 May 1867 - 15 June 1867, then to France from 1 June 1873 - 12 December 1874, relocating them for these 15 months to Normandy. Contains approximately 36 drawings, one which is a double-leaf scene pasted within, and a few botanical specimens mounted within. Accompanied by a travel itinerary with colour map detailing part of the first journey to the continent in 1867. 8vo. 2, 136, 156 pages. Brown leather boards, tooled front and back. Volume measures approximately 10 x 15 x 2 cm. Map/itinerary leaf measures 18 x 12,5 cm. Wear to boards especially at spine, front hinge delicate, otherwise in very good condition, an interesting Victorian diary. The writer is John Davis Britton, born on 28 December 1832 as revealed within the diary when he celebrates his 41st birthday at home in Vire. He is travelling with his wife Kitty, and children, at least five of whom are named - Lizzie, Aline, Ethel, Diddy, Dick. The delightful two-week travel to the continent features accounts of Lucerne at the dawn of tourism before most of today's historic hotels were even built, and highly favourable descriptions of Freiburg im Breisgau which has nothing short of enamoured the visitors. Manuscript
Spain, 1512. Manuscript will and testament, in Latin, of Anthonio Colonier from the Catalan village of Arenys de Munt, dated Calella, 8 May 1512. Folio, 27 x 34 cm, written in a neat scribal hand on vellum. Some age-toning, otherwise in very good condition, a rare manuscript document surviving over 500 years. Latin Manuscript Will and Testament of Catalan Farmer from Arenys de Munt, 1512. The will and testament of Anthonio Colonier, a farmer from the Catalan village of Arenys de Munt in the outskirts of Calella (where the will was signed) and north of Barcelona. In it, Colonier names his daughter, Eulalie, as his legitimate heir. Arenys de Munt is a municipality in the comarca of the Maresme in Catalonia, Spain. It is situated inland from the coast, in the el Corredor range. It retains a textile industry and is also known for the production of strawberries, cherries and liqueurs. (Arenys is Catalan for "sands (of a seasonal creek)" and de Munt for "up hill"). Manuscript
Scotland, circa 1850s. Manuscript signed note by Scottish novelist Margaret Oliphant (1828-1897), penned on her own stationery which bears a curious dragon and cross insignia incorporating her first name. The recipient may be the wife of Robert A. Purdie, publisher for The Scottish Minstrel issued in Edinburgh. Single leaf measuring approximately 8,5 x 13 cm, written recto only. Very good condition with original signature. The letter reads as follows: "Dear Mrs. Purdie Pardon me for not replying at once. I only returned yesterday afternoon from a short absence. Tired. It will give me great pleasure to dine with you on Monday. Very truly yours, [signed] M.O.W. Oliphant Thursday morning" Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant (1828-1897), was a Scottish novelist and historical writer. In 1849 she had her first novel published: "Passages in the Life of Mrs. Margaret Maitland". In 1851 she met publisher William Blackwood in Edinburgh and was invited to contribute to the famous Blackwood's Magazine. The connection was to last for her whole lifetime, during which she contributed well over 100 articles, including a critique of the character of Arthur Dimmesdale in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter". In 1852 she married, and by 1859 she had become a popular writer, working tirelessly to sustain her position. Unfortunately, her home life was full of sorrow, having been widowed and having lost three of her six children. In January 1864 her only remaining daughter Maggie died in Rome, leaving her with two sons. In 1866 she settled at Windsor to be near her sons who were being educated at Eton. From Windsor, she continued a varied literary career including works of supernatural fiction, and in the 1880s she became the mentor of the Irish novelist Emily Lawless.
[England], September 1848. Manuscript notes on the treatment of cholera by R. Baikie, former surgeon in the Madras Medical Service, made during the second cholera pandemic, and transcribed by an unknown nineteenth century hand. 8vo. Double leaf measuring 11 x 18 cm, watermarked with the year 1848. Very good condition. Written during the second cholera pandemic,which erupted in 1839 and persisted until 1856, and at the onset of the outbreak in London, British physician Dr. Baikie's notes examine early hydrotherapy treatments by Vincenz Priessnitz and Heinrich Friedrich Francke, leaders in the study and cure of the disease in the mid-1800s. Most interestingly, the cures prescribed here are partly accurate and partly opposite to what science have since discovered to be effective. For example,while continued eating aids in the speed of recovery of normal intestinal function, herein the experts suggest eating as little as possible. However, continuous hydration with fluid intake was also prescribed, and remains a paramount part of treatment today. [Robert Baikie, MD, was a military surgeon with the Thirty-sixth Native Infantry in Madras, retiring from service in 1844.] Indeed, as Baikie predicts, in 1849, a second major outbreak spread across Europe. In London, it was the worst outbreak in the city's history, claiming 14,137 lives, over twice as many as the 1832 outbreak, and also claiming 5,308 lives in the major port city of Liverpool. Excerpts from the letter: "It will doubtless at this time, when cholera appears to be rapidly approaching, be both interesting & useful to know how the disease was treated by the celebrated Priessnitz of Graefenberg, during the last epidemic of 1832-33, when, as stated from good authority he had from 30-40 cases brought to him , & did not lose one. The subjoined was taken down from his own lips by a German friend who communicated it to me..." "[from Priessnitz]... In light cases it was found sufficient to use sitting baths at 59 degrees continued in some cases so long as two hours, with uninterrupted friction of the abdomen & extremities, plentiful drinking of cold water, & thereafter 1 or 2 clysters... In several cases where cramps... paralysis had already come on, the patient was put into a half bath... rubbed while every part of the body attained natural warmth... several hours... then packed in a wet sheet till gentle perspiration came on... frequent enemata of cold water, & sitting baths... according as severe pain in the belly or cramps in the bowels occurred... The after cure consisted of repeated wet packing, 2 long side baths daily, 2 enemata daily, & compress round the body. The patient to eat as little as possible... light white bread & cold water being the best diet." [end] "... The mode of treatment recommended by his celebrated scholar Francke (Rausse)... used the sitting baths & shallow baths at a temperature of 65 degrees to 68 degrees & not more than 20 minutes... Instead of the wet packing, he put the patient to bed, & covered him up warm... washed in a half bath, or if very weak, gently washed down in bed..." "The case above described, which occurred just after M. Franke's melancholy death, was treated on his principles by his pupil & assistant M. Halin." End Excerpts. Vincenz Priessnitz, also written Prießnitz (1799-1851) was a peasant farmer in Gräfenberg, Austrian Silesia, who is generally considered the founder of modern hydrotherapy, which is used in alternative and orthodox medicine. Priessnitz stressed remedies such as suitable food, air, exercise, rest and water, over conventional medicine. Priessnitz gave water treatments to patients of the Great Cholera Pandemic of 1832. Heinrich Friedrich Francke (1805-1848) (Pseudonym: J. H. Rausse) was an expert in hydrotherapy, and wrote several papers on the subject beginning in 1839. His enthusiasm for the treatment method came after a water cure with Priessnitz in Gräfenberg, 1838. Francke subsequently opened his own cold water treatment facilities. Manuscript
Edinburgh, 1893. Letter Book Archive of draft documents made by the law firm Campbell, Martin & Boswell, for private estates and business agreements, neatly preserved in a custom binding, featuring little known details relating to the Dalquharran Castle and Kennedy estate, Scottish investments and links to Australia, and a fascinating connection to the renowned poet Robert Burns by way of a lease made with his descendent for a mansion estate which he, too, had personally visited. 8vo. Approximately 170 documents, most in manuscript and some in typescript, 1166 pages combined, with a scant few integral blanks, plus unpaginated manuscript index listed alphabetically by document type. Very large volume measuring 23 x 35 x 9 cm (WxHxD) and weighing 10 pounds. Quarter calf over brown cloth boards labelled in gilt to spine, original marbled endpapers. Bookbinder's label to front pastedown (Caldwell Brothers of Edinburgh). Very good condition, an excellent depository volume of legal and historical interest. The firm Campbell, Martin & Boswell, consisted of three solicitors, each with the title and privileges of "Writers to the Signet", John Douglas Boswell, W.S.; Patrick William Campbell, W.S.; and Francis John Martin, W.S., the latter of whom became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1892. Their office was at 1 North Charlotte Street in Edinburgh, which was the same address as the Royal Bank of Scotland, and situated very near to Charlotte Square. Scots law and legal proceedings of the late nineteenth century, much of which differ today, are well illustrated in this archive of original working documents executed by accomplished patrician lawyers representing some discriminating and aristocratic clients. Many of the documents deal with property conveyance and estate matters, and represent traditions no longer observed, including the obsolete " Trust Disposition and Settlement" procedure for claiming an inheritance. Other documents include assignations, land conveyances, bond and disposition in security, deeds of assumption and discharges, estate inventories, a search for deeds with the Register of Sasines, leases, loan proposals for purchasing commercial space in Edinburgh, records of monetary investments in Highland Railway (HR), Jamaican plantations, property to let in Scotland, Australian banks, and so forth. So exclusive and intertwined were the upper class and wealthy, perhaps not large in number, but surely powerful in society, some interesting genealogical and business connections can be made from examining these papers. Many clients are also relations to the solicitors who often acted as trustees. In one case, we find a multi-generational connection between the Campbell and Burns families, beginning with the Jamaica sugar plantation owner Patrick Douglas and Scotland's celebrated national poet Robert Burns (1759-1796). In addition, these documents shed light on the leasing history of the Dalquharran Castle in South Ayrshire, which included hunting rights for at least one resident, as well as the Kennedy family's monetary investments in Australia. Interesting to note, one of the lawyers from this firm, Mr. Campbell, is related through marriage to the castle's then most recent owner, Mr. Francis Thomas Romilly Kennedy (died in 1892). Some items of special interest: • A twenty page lease agreement was issued to a Glasgow coalmaster named Robert Burns (1844-1896), who was the great-great-grandson and namesake of the famous poet and lyricist Robert Burns (1759-1796) - who had visited the very same Mansion House of Garrallan in his day, being a friend of its proprietor at the time, Dr. Patrick Douglas. A fascinating and detailed document, the lessors were concerned with mining royalties, minerals specifically deemed as belonging to the Marquis of Bute, and minerals raised at the mansion house. [Garrallan was owned by the Campbell family until 1676. The Douglas family followed but it became extinct in the male line. Dr. Patrick Douglas, who died 1819, also owned property in Jamaica and in 1786 he offered Robert Burns a position as a bookkeeper in Port Antonio, but the poet declined. Burns was a visitor at Garrallan. Jane Douglas married Hamilton Boswell and this family retained it until 1914 when it was sold to the Stevenson family of Changue, who still own the property.] • Another fascinating document is headed "Notes on Titles of Charlotte Square," now a World Heritage Site situated in Edinburgh. In this we find reference to feudal tenancy and particulars of construction. Excerpts from the document: "Charter by the Magistrates & Town Council of Edinburgh in favour of Alexander Stevens dated 1st June 1803... no buildings are to be erected... on the foresaid back ground... that the area of the square within the line of the street ways was to become a common property for the accommodation pleasure health or other convenience of the several feuars round said square... For the lot of ground in Charlotte Square X the sum of £6. 18/4 3/12 and further paying the sum of £14. 18/4 3/12 upon the entry of each heir and singular successor or disponee to said Lot Houses or Tenements built thereon... For the foresaid piece of ground on Young Street the sum... Disposition of Sir George Hope to Margaret Kyle of Binghill dated 2nd April 1818. Disposition & assignation of the said Rev'd Dr. James Kyle in favour of Alexander Russell dated 8th January 1868. Disposition Settlement by the said George Bruce [Factor and Law Agent, W.S.] dated 10th July 1891 & recorded in the Books of Council Session 27th July 1892." • At least 8-10 documents pertain to Francis Thomas Romilly Kennedy (1842-1892) and the Dalquharran Castle which he inherited in 1879 and immediately expanded. The castle, which was built for his grandfather and featured a round bastion tower with a drawing room, piano nobile, and a library above, and an exquisite top-lit spiral central staircase, was extended from 1880-81 by Francis Thomas Romilly Kennedy, to accommodate his wife and bedrooms for their nine children. The work was completed at great expense, leaving the Kennedy family almost bankrupt. The family is known to have left Dalquharran for alternative lodgings, and by 1890 they had leased the castle and its lands as a hunting and fishing estate, as seen in this volume. Examples of the papers found herein include: An Agreement of Lease of the Dalquharran Castle as a furnished residence, "excepting the Strong Room retained by the proprietor", to James Paterson of Milton Lockhart, and includes surrounding lands with permission for shooting small game in accordance with the Ground Game Act of 1880. On 24 July 1893, the Scottish Union & National Insurance Company confirming notice of an "assignation" which transfers the estate of Francis Thomas Romilly Kennedy, to his second son "John Campbell Kennedy of the Royal Navy." A two page document which itemizes and places monetary value on the "Additional Inventory of the Personal Estate... of the late Mr. Kennedy", including the surrender value of a life insurance of sorts, from which are deducted debts and funeral expenses. A list of debentures, borrowed from institutions in Australia, Canada, and Oregon, also documents relating to his investments with the British and Australasian Trust and Loan Company. Matters concerning his executrix and widow Eliza Barbara Colina (née Campbell) Kennedy. • An agreement permitting a John Ernest Orr to manufacture and sell a certain steam trap which was patented in 1892 by a millwright named John Mackie. As members of the elite society of Scottish solicitors, the Writers to the Signet, and thus holding special signing authorities and privileges, the firm of three attracted some notable clients, some of which were long-standing clients from generations past. A cursory gander through the volume finds these examples: • William Jardine Herries Maxwell (1852-1933), a Liberal Unionist politician in Scotland. Maxwell was elected at the 1892 general election as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Dumfriesshire in 1895, but lost it very narrowly when his Liberal Party opponent had a majority of only 13 votes. He regained his seat in 1900, but stood down at the 1906 general election. • William Caven Lockhart-Mure of Livingston in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, Lieutenant in the 4th Bombay Cavalry (Poona Horse), Indian Army, who later rose to the rank of Major, and died in died in 1913. [With a lease herein the lieutenant agreed to a term of five years, letting and maintaining the Livingstone House, gamekeeper's house, garden and orchard in Kirkcudbright. It was owned by Colonel John Stewart (died 1726), a Scottish professional soldier who served in the Scottish Army and, after the Union with England, in the British Army, who also held a seat in the House of Commons of Great Britain from 1708 to 1715, and who had inherited the property from his father. • James Oswald (1779-1853), an influential merchant and Member of Parliament (MP) for Glasgow from 1832 to 1837 , who inherited the estate of his cousin Richard Alexander Oswald (1771-1841), a Scottish Liberal Party politician who sat in the House of Commons from 1832 to 1835. [Again a family connection, his son, also named Richard, married Lady Mary Kennedy.] • Alexander Oswald (1811-1868), a Conservative Party politician and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayrshire from 1843 to 1852, as well as his father Richard Alexander Oswald, a Glasgow merchant. • Robert Haldane Scott, a Scottish attorney in Jamaica who filed returns for slaves by plantation owners in Trelawny, and his daughter Eliza Scott who married Reverend Edward Holland of New South Wales and died intestate June 1890. [A detailed document assigns a woman named Margaret Jane Wakeford, resident of Falmouth, Jamaica, as Power of Attorney for the estate of the late Eliza Scott.] • William Hume, technical chemist and innovative instrument maker, who was very active in the 1880s and 1890s designing and manufacturing magic lanterns, glass lantern slides, oxy-hydrogen lime-light apparatuses, a cantilever enlarging apparatus, a half-plate camera, rapid rectilinear lenses, and other photographic equipment, from his shop at 1 Lothian Street in Edinburgh. [A loan proposal herein indicates that he also purchased the property of 31 Lothian Street.] • Annabella Alexandrina Campbell Boswell (1826-1914), gentlewoman, born at Yarrows, Bathurst Plains, New South Wales, having a maternal lineage linked to the Campbells. She was a prolific diarist, horsewoman, skilled watercolourist and pianist. In 1849 Annabella met Patrick Charles Douglas Boswell, a free settler from Ayrshire, Scotland, accountant for the Bank of New South Wales (later becoming manager), who was related to James Boswell the biographer, and presumably also Mr. Boswell of this firm. Together Annabella and Patrick returned to Scotland in 1865, where Patrick had inherited the family estate in Ayrshire. • The only actual "will" recorded here is that of Bengal Army Major General Robert Farquhar Webster's widow, Janetta Annan Webster (née Dewar), which bequeaths the estate to her son, and permits the trustee to invest funds and heritable securities into in stocks of Great Britain, any British Colony or Dependency, until such time as he reaches the age of maturity. [Her husband was educated at the Edinburgh Academy before joining the British Army in India in 1843. He retired in 1878 as a Major General in the Bengal Staff Corps.] • Major Archibald Hume of Auchendolly and Spitalside, born 27 Dec 1843, and recognized by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland for having presented the museum with a bronze enamelled harness ornament of British Celtic origin. • William Fullarton of Fullarton (1754-1808), a Scottish soldier in the Bengal Staff Corps who participated in the Second Anglo-Mysore War, a statesman, agriculturalist, author, and son of a wealthy Ayrshire gentleman for whom he was named - William Fullarton of Fullarton. • Reverend Samuel Smith, attached to the church and parish of Borgue in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright. • Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Maitland (176-1824), a British soldier who served in St. Domingue, and colonial Governor of British Ceylon. Historical Scottish minutiae through and through, with over 170 documents to explore, the opportunity of finding little-known information or unravelling early questions of lineage and heritable rights is indeed great! Dalquharran Castle: In the spring of 1819 Thomas Francis Kennedy (1788-1879) of Dalquharran Castle and Dunure, Ayr, (Whig aristocrat and commissioner of woods, forests, land revenues, works and buildings), succeeded his estranged father to the encumbered Ayrshire estates. The principal properties were the Dalquharran Castle near Dailly, and the coastal estate of Dunure, situated between Dalquharran and Ayr. He died at Dalquharran in 1879 and was succeeded by his only child, Francis Thomas Romilly Kennedy (1842-1892). At great expense Francis Thomas Romilly Kennedy made expansions to the mansion, leaving the Kennedy family almost bankrupt. Recent studies suggest that external construction work was finally finished in the summer of 1890, relating this to a note made by Kennedy on documents bearing this date, and existing records regarding the exterior paving and roofing work being completed. The family is known to have left Dalquharran for alternative lodgings, and by 1890 they had leased the castle and its lands as a hunting and fishing estate. The castle had several tenants over the next 45 years, whilst staying in the hands of the Kennedy family. Eventually, the castle and the estate were put up for auction. It was bought by a Timber Merchant from Troon, who set about stripping the timber from the estate and who leased the castle to the Scottish Youth Hostel Association. Dalquharran remained a youth hostel until the Second World War, when the Langside School for the Deaf, evacuated from Glasgow, moved in. During the war, the Castle and lands were sold to one John Stewart, a produce merchant from Girvan, who later moved into Dalquharran with his family, and farmed the estate. The Stewart family co-habited the house with friends, but still the house proved too large and expensive to maintain, and was abandoned. The castle was inhabited as recently as 1967, but was unroofed to allow the then owners to avoid payment of high tax rates. It is now a ruin, with only the masonry shell remaining intact. The Society of Writers to Her Majesty’s Signet is a private society of Scottish solicitors, dating back to 1594 and part of the College of Justice. Writers to the Signet originally had special privileges in relation to the drawing up of documents which required to be signeted, but these have since disappeared and the Society is now an independent, non-regulatory association of solicitors. The Society maintains the Category A listed Signet Library, part of the Parliament House complex in Edinburgh, and members of the Society are entitled to the postnominal letters, WS. Wills/Testaments and Inheritance (Scotland): Heritable property, also known as immoveable or 'heritage' property and real estate, included land and buildings. Up to 1868 real estate was automatically inherited by the eldest son (the law of primogeniture) or daughter if there was no son unless there had been a specific disposition or bequest. The law of primogeniture applied to heritage until 1964. This meant that an eldest son might not appear named in the will. Likewise, a wife, who would automatically get the widow's part, may not be mentioned. The right to inherit was established by Retours of Services of Heirs or by a Trust Disposition and Settlement ('deed of settlement'). The actual register of the transfer or other change in ownership was recorded in Sasines. Manuscript
Burnham Market [in the district of King's Lynn, Norfolk], 1589. Manuscript indenture on vellum, outlining a conveyance of land in the environs of Burnham Market, from Edward Clarke of Stanhoe to John Barrett of Barwick, with a monogram magenta red wax seal. Text is in Latin. Document measures approximately 47 x 9 cm, with wax seal affixed to vellum pendant. Some age-toning, otherwise in very good condition. Latin indenture made in the thirty-first year of the reign of Queen Elizabeth I [1589] concerning land in the area of Burnham Market, very near to Stanhoe, with which John Barrett of Barwicke acquires land from Edward Clarke of Stanhowe. A William Baxter is also mentioned in this document. The wax seal features imagery of a sword or staff within monogram letters, suggesting a notable status of service to the king. This is an exceptionally scarce and consequently significant concerning property rights in the sixteenth century feudal era of England, dated only thirty years from the earliest parish record held in Norfolk registry archives, and featuring a most interesting wax seal. Stanhoe is a village and civil parish in the district of King's Lynn and West Norfolk, only 19 miles from the seaside village of King's Lynn which would later be the birthplace of Captain George Vancouver the great navigator of Pacific Northwest America fame. Manuscript