GEORGE III (1738-1820). Autograph letter signed (''G.R.'') to an unnamed correspondent, Windsor, 2 September 1783.

GEORGE III (1738-1820). Autograph letter signed ("G.R.") to an unnamed correspondent, Windsor, 2 September 1783.

One page, 238 x 190mm, tipped to an additional sheet of paper along left margin.

The day before he would sign the Definitive articles of Peace with the United States, George III demands answers over the escape of several convicts bound for Nova Scotia. "The Account Mr. Nepean has very property transmitted of the strange escape 4 convicts have made from on board the Vessel that was conveying them to Nova Scotia is so flagrant a breach of the favour shewn them that as soon as taken very strict justice must be inflicted on them." At the close of the Revolutionary War, Nova Scotia became a refuge for dispossessed Loyalists, and the announcement that the crown was to transport convicts from London to Nova Scotia met with great disapproval among the refugees already settled there. A London correspondent echoed their sentiments: "This measure has certainly given high offence to some of the most respectable loyalists, and, it is feared, will prevent many from attempting a settlement on that inhospitable shore. How will the industrious mechanic relish being obliged to herd with the overflowings of Newgate? … It surely appears to be inconsistent with every rule of sound policy, to brand with this mark of infamy the last sad refuge for the King's friends" (Connecticut Courant, Hartford, 27 Jan. 1784, p. 4).

Pre-Lot Text
PROPERTY FROM THE ROGER D. JUDD COLLECTION OF HISTORICAL LETTERS, DOCUMENTS & MANUSCRIPTS