Admiral Sir Hyde Parker ~ Autograph Letter Signed
Autograph Letter Signed (“H. Parker”), 2 pp. on a single leaf, 29th June 1802. A few tears and loss along left margin, wear at folds, former adhesive from mounting; good. Protected in an archival sleeve.
Admiral Sir Hyde Parker, Commander-in-Chief in the Baltic during the 1801 Copenhagen campaign (with Nelson as his second), here writes a detailed and apologetic letter concerning naval patronage and the inability to place a protégé aboard his ship. Parker explains that he has no vacancy available and expresses sincere regret; had the situation been otherwise, he would have “had much pleasure in taking charge of him.” He notes that the Admiralty has assumed to themselves the appointment of all the additional Midshipmen allowed to ships on the Peace Establishment, and that he has strictly forbidden the former practice of officers appointing their own gentlemen volunteers.
Parker further explains that the only vacancy remaining in the first-class list had been offered to Captain Ogle’s relation, and that although the ship is currently undergoing slight repair, he has no knowledge of future movements. He closes with warm wishes for the correspondent’s health and happiness.
A strong content letter touching on patronage restrictions, midshipman appointments, and the post-Peace Establishment reorganization—excellent material for collectors of late-Napoleonic naval administration.
