Admiral Phillips Cosby Autograph Letter Signed
Autograph Letter Signed (“Phillips Cosby”), 1 p. on a bifolium, “Alcide Gibb Bay, Aug. 16, 1794” (receipt noted “Recd 16th 2 P.M.”). Address panel on verso marked “On His Majesty’s Service,” with routing to the Storekeeper of the His Majesty's Ordnance, Gibraltar, and red wax seal remnant.
Phillips Cosby, Royal Navy officer and later Commissioner of the Navy at Gibraltar, writes an official administrative letter during the French Revolutionary Wars concerning the valuation of stores following the purchase of a vessel into government service. Cosby reports that a ______? frigate has been purchased into Government service and formally requests that proper persons be sent on Monday next to value the ordnance stores and books “for the benefit of the Captors.” The letter reflects standard Admiralty and ordnance procedure following the acquisition of vessels and the settlement of prize-related claims.
Old folds, scattered spotting, ink smudge at upper left; very good. Measures approx. 7.5" x 12" folded. A clean and appealing naval administrative letter involving government purchase of a vessel, ordnance valuation, and prize entitlement, signed by Cosby in his official capacity at Gibraltar.
