STUART, CHARLES, EDWARD, CALLED "BONNIE PRINCE CHARLIE", THE YOUNG PRETENDER (1720-1788)
AUTOGRAPH LETTER, IN CRYPTIC CODE, UNSIGNED
£1,063
Rare Books, Manuscripts, Maps & Photography
Auction: 9 October 2019 at 12:00 BST
Description
apparently to a MacDonald, beginning with the statement "ye two houses by se or Land". Stuart enjoins his correspondent to secrecy, mentions the needs for funds and the names Gros, Douns and Ryans, and suggests that Ryans who will write "immediately [if it is?] on or off" should come in his person with it and give it to Mr Gordon, one page headed "Munday Morning at 10:1/2", no place or date, 1 page, 8vo
Footnote
Note: On the run after the battle of Culloden, the Prince resorted to sending his letters in cryptic code. Naturally these are difficult to interpret. Scholars believe this relates to negotiations for the marriage to Louise of Stolberg-Gedern. Ryans was Col. Ryan who was involved in them. Funds for her pension were required - the need for funds is mentioned. Gordon is possibly John of the Scots College in Rome.