Great Britain Postal History 1665 (14/15 October) entire letter from

(x) Great Britain Postal History 1665 (14/15 October) entire letter from George Monck, 1st Duke of Albemarle in the "Cockpitt" with integral address panel reading "For Sr. James Altham, Knt. of Bath, to be communicated to the rest of the Deputy Lieutenants of the County of Essex at Harlowe in Essex", endorsed "For his Majesties Service" and "To be sent by the postmaster of the next stage to Harlow in Essex" signed "Albemarle"; the reverse flap, now opened out and well flattened, bearing "oc/14" Bishop mark. Interesting contents read "The inclosed papers [no longer present] being delivered unto mee by Mr. Speaker and understanding that you desired my opinion concerning them I have thought fit to acquaint you that I doe not knowe any persons therein named except Major Audley, and that I conceive, for him aswell as the rest of them, that if they take the oathes of allegiance and supremacy respectively and give good security for their peaceable livein and appearance upon ten daies notice you may thereupon give order for their release". Signed "Your very affectioat friend and servant Albemarle". It is thought that this pertains to a number of prisoners held in Essex. An unusual combination of endorsement, indicating official correspondence, the signature of a high ranking official on face, and postal endorsement which illustrates the confusion around the use of express delivery and free franking privilege. Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Estimate:$1,599.36

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