Prince Edward, Duke of Kent — Eight-Page Letter Signed, 1806 — Gibraltar, Army Patronage & Naval Affairs

Kensington Palace, September 3, 1806. Signed “Edward.” 

A substantial eight-page manuscript letter signed by Prince Edward Augustus, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, fourth son of King George III and father of Queen Victoria, addressed to Lieutenant-Colonel Ross.

Writing during the Napoleonic Wars, Edward combines warm personal acknowledgment with extensive discussion of military appointments, regimental affairs, Gibraltar’s administration, and naval service.

Particularly notable are his candid remarks concerning the lieutenant-governor of Gibraltar, prohibited fees, and the financial attractions of military office. He discusses annual income figures of approximately £13,000 and £3,500, offering revealing evidence of the relationship between command, patronage, and personal finances.

Other passages concern the purchase of army commissions, Major Mullins’s appointment in the Royals, the 54th Regiment’s departure for Jamaica, recruitment from the Irish militia, and HMS Unicorn. Madame de Saint-Laurent joins Edward in expressing gratitude for Ross’s attentions.

The letter concludes with an assurance of his “unalterable friendship and esteem,” followed by the clear signature “Edward.”

Condition: Age toning, scattered staining, intersecting folds, and small tears or separations. Several paper tabs and repair or mounting remnants are visible along the margins and folds. The writing remains substantially legible, with a clear concluding signature and recipient’s docket.

A lengthy royal letter with substantive military and administrative content, particularly appealing for its frank discussion of Gibraltar and army patronage.