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Rare 1790 Handwritten Letter – 11th Lord Elphinstone – British Military History
Description:
Up for sale is a rare and historically significant handwritten letter dated August 13, 1790, signed by John Elphinstone, 11th Lord Elphinstone (1739–1794). The letter, written from Cumberland House, reports the death of Lieutenant Alex Macpherson of the Company of Invalids at Fort George and includes a recommendation for Mr. William Stuart, a 19-year-old officer, to replace him.
Transcription (First Page):
Cumberland House, August 13th, 1790
Sir,
I am sorry to inform you of the death of Lieut. Alex Macpherson of my invalid company at Fort George. I am but very little with the company. I hope you may appoint such an officer as may take the same good care of the company as poor Mr. Macpherson did.
I cannot omit mentioning to you of Mr. William Stuart, of whom I formerly took the liberty to recommend to you for an ensigncy. From the very favorable reception you were pleased to give his name as the son of a very old officer, he entirely relies upon your goodness. He is now nineteen years of age, a tall, good-looking young man, and I am fully persuaded he would not disgrace your nomination, which I hope and trust may be as soon as the nature of the service will admit of his appointment.
I have the honor to be with great respect,
Your most humble and obedient servant,
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Biography of John Elphinstone, 11th Lord Elphinstone (1739–1794):
John Elphinstone, the 11th Lord Elphinstone, was a Scottish nobleman and representative peer in the House of Lords from 1778 until his death in 1794. He served as the Lieutenant Governor of Edinburgh Castle, where he played a role in British military and administrative matters. His connections with the Hudson’s Bay Company and his role in overseeing the Company of Invalids reflect his influence in both military and colonial affairs.
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Biography of Lieutenant Alex Macpherson (D. 1790):
Lieutenant Alex Macpherson was an officer in the British Army, specifically in the Company of Invalids, a unit made up of veterans who were no longer fit for active combat but still performed important duties. He was stationed at Fort George, and his death is noted with regret in this letter, showing his importance to Lord Elphinstone and the Company.
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Condition:
Original handwritten letter, well-preserved with clear ink and legible script.
Some expected wear due to age but no major damage.
Authentic 18th-century paper with original folds and docketing on the back summarizing the letter’s contents.
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Ships securely with tracked and insured shipping.
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