[MANUSCRIPT BRITISH NAVY LOG BOOK]. “Distribution of Ordina...

[MANUSCRIPT BRITISH NAVY LOG BOOK]. “Distribution of Ordinance Stores Under Charge of Mr. Commissary John Pickering.” [Ca. 1809]. Manuscript log book of distribution of artillery stores, supplies to six British transports during the expedition to Walcheren, including the Nelson, Friends, Mary, George, Amity and the Governor Milne. 4to. 61 pages of neat manuscript on hand-made rules, plus 29 blank pages. All pages are laid-paper with Britannia watermarks. In original marbled paper wrappers with manuscript label affixed to front wrapper (as above). Approximately 12 ½ x 8”. Some mild wear, toning to wrappers, minor occasional foxing, rubbing to manuscript pages. Fine. From the Hogg-Jackson collection. This log book is an interesting record for the unsuccessful Walcheren campaign in the Netherlands in 1809. The objective of this campaign was to add pressure to the French in assisting the Austrian Empire in the Netherlands. Although there was very little combat, disease ran rampant among the British forces, killing nearly 4,000 soldiers (only 106 died from actual combat). This campaign was ultimately abandoned in December, 1809.