BARODA [VADODARA] (Sayajirao Gaekwad III, 1863-1939, G.C.I.E., 1919, from 1875 reforming Maharajah of)

Autograph Letter Signed 'Syaji Rao' to Major (later Colonel Sir Howard) MELLISS, (1847-1921, K.C.S.I., 1897), Inspector General of Imperial Service troops in India, saying "I shall have the pleasure of going out driving tomorrow evening if you dont mind instead of to-dsy as you possibly know that I have to go to the Public Park this evening", 1 side 8vo, no place, 29th November light remnant of old transparent tab in blank top edge

When his predecessor was deposed for cruelty and extravagance, a family conference was called to choose a new Maharajah. Sayajirao, then known as Gopairao, walked with his father and brothers 400 miles to Baroda. Aged 12, and asked in his turn why he had come, he replied, 'I have come here to rule'.

Item Date:  1886

Stock No:  56372