1 1/2 pp. Quarto, on a folded folio sheet. Text in French. 8vo
1769 · London
by Knyphausen, WIlhelm von
London, 1769. 1 1/2 pp. Quarto, on a folded folio sheet. Text in French. 8vo. Old fold lines. Slight separation at some folds; some repaired. Very good. In an orange half morocco and cloth clamshell case, spine gilt. 1 1/2 pp. Quarto, on a folded folio sheet. Text in French. 8vo. A German Mercenary of the Revolution. Retained manuscript copy of a letter sent by Baron Wilhelm von Knyphausen to an unidentified recipient, possibly a British official, asking for a favor. Knyphausen was a commander of hired German mercenaries in the American Revolution. He writes:
"The Count de Holdernesse of whose opinion in favor of our Court you are aware...pressed me to give the bearer of this, who has been in the employ of his sister the Countess...a protection which would make him safe from being forcibly enlisted. I take the liberty...to request you to use your good offices hoping that you will take such measures as you think proper. I fear to impose upon your kindness asking your interference in cases of this kind, but as I dare not address myself direct to His Majesty in such a small matter...I find myself compelled to apply to your kindness towards me the continuation of which I ardently wish to deserve ... (Inventory #: 248889)
"The Count de Holdernesse of whose opinion in favor of our Court you are aware...pressed me to give the bearer of this, who has been in the employ of his sister the Countess...a protection which would make him safe from being forcibly enlisted. I take the liberty...to request you to use your good offices hoping that you will take such measures as you think proper. I fear to impose upon your kindness asking your interference in cases of this kind, but as I dare not address myself direct to His Majesty in such a small matter...I find myself compelled to apply to your kindness towards me the continuation of which I ardently wish to deserve ... (Inventory #: 248889)