PELHAM (Henry, 1696-1754, Prime Minister)

Fine Autograph Letter Signed to Lord PALMERSTON (Henry Temple, c. 1673-1757, 1st Viscount and Politician) saying that "Your Lordship's letter ... gave me the greatest pleasure as it was a proof, of what I always knew, your zeal for the King and his true friends, it made that impression on me, that I could not help showing it to our master [probably Walpole] who was excessively pleased at it and commanded me to thank your Lordship, in his name for the kind expressions you use in it ... I take the liberty of assuring you that there is great reason to apprehend opposition the very first day, the enemy are making use of all their wits and wickedness, our friends, I hope, will in return exert their zeal and firmness. I will trouble you no further but hope to see you on Monday evening at the Cockpit or ... in the House ...". 1 side 4to., no place, 6th November

Robert Walpole had resigned as de facto Prime Minister in January of 1742 in the aftermath of Britain's disastrous naval expedition to the Caribbean during the War of Jenkin's Ear, a war which Walpole had embarked upon with great reluctance. Walpole had amassed a number of 'enemies' during his long tenure, both in Parliament and outside, where he was scorned by many of the writers and intelligentsia of the day. The new administration, headed by Lords Wilmington and Carteret, was distinctly inimical to Walpole but through his influence Carteret was soon forced out of office and replaced by Walpole's protegé, Henry Pelham.

Item Date:  1872

Stock No:  39983