Description
Autograph Letter Signed ‘Thos: Shirley’, addressed “My Dear Lord” [probably Lord Townshend], hoping to be on the list for promotion to Colonel of Marines, citing his long service, dwelling on his family connections, and shamelessly offering “to strengthen your Lordships intrest in Derbyshire and Staffordshire very considerably”. 4 pp. 9 x 7 inches, central fold split, in good clean condition. London, 15 March 1769. A good example for the ruthless search for patronage in the Navy. Thomas Shirley (1733-1814) R.N., Lieutenant 1755, Commander 1759, Captain 1759. His brother was Rear-Admiral Lord Washington Shirley (5th Earl Ferrers).