BIB_ID
103264
Accession number
MA 489.101
Creator
Hastings, Francis Rawdon-Hastings, Marquess of, 1754-1826.
Display Date
1781 Aug. 13.
Credit line
Purchased by Pierpont Morgan, 1907.
Description
1 item (2 p.) ; 24.9 cm
Notes
This item is part of a collection of letters and documents concerning the siege of Yorktown and the surrender of Cornwallis; see main record for MA 488-489 for more information.
Provenance
Purchased by Pierpont Morgan from New York dealer Joseph F. Sabin, 1907.
Summary
Expressing his wish that Major Doyle see Lord Cornwallis to deliver information to him "which it is impossible to enter upon by Letter. Doyle has not such of the impudence of his native Country about him; therefore he possibly may not speak freely to L'd Cornwallis. In that account I wish you would draw him into conversation. I need not tell you that his heart is as honest & worthy as a heart can be. This vile climate has demolished my constitution for the present; but I hope a short Holiday will enable me to join L'd Cornwallis very soon in perfect vigor. I have desired Doyle to give him a Cypher; in which I shall transmit to his Lordship the fin fin de la politique : That is to say, if I hear any opinions &c beyond what appear in the Gazette. Just at this time, I do not go to England in spirits : But I know it is necessary."
Catalog link
Department