Description

Description: William Cadogan, first Earl of Cadogan (1675-1726), was a British military man and diplomat, best known as Marlborough’s invaluable quartermaster general during the War of Spanish Succession. In 1717, when he dictated this letter due to illness, he was serving as Master of the Robes, Governor of the Isle of Wight, and British Ambassador to the Netherlands.

In the letter, he apologizes that his illness has delayed his reply, and states that he has spoken “in the name of the King” to a monsignor who has then promised to “write to the court with urgency” regarding the case of a second monsignor. He also wishes the recipient “happiness and prosperity” in the new year.

Written in French on a 9 ¼” x 14 ¾” full sheet, folded in half. The second half of the letter and Cadogan’s signature are on the first interior page. English transcript included. Item #A00229

Condition: Some light soil; fly specks and a few very small tears on the margins, none affecting the text, generally very good.