Autograph Letter Signed

This most renowned of British naval heroes is almost as famous for his scandalous open affair with one of the most famous and beautiful women in England, the married Emma Hamilton, despite having lost most of his teeth, the use of his right eye and his right arm in various military successes; his nautical victories against the French made him Napoleon's nemesis; killed aboard his ship "Victory" in the battle of Trafalgar. ALS, 1p, 7" X 8¼", Burnham, 1793 February 2. Addressed to "Gentlemen." Near fine. A boldly penned and handsome example of Nelson's scarce right-handed penmanship, four years prior to losing his right arm in a July 1797 battle and having to learn to write left handed. Rather cryptic financial content, reading in full: "I am glad to hear You did not bring our trust money into the Lands as they had risen so very much. I shall be in Town on tuesday Evening & shall probably see Mr. Creed on Wednesday, therefore please to let the money Remain in your hands 'till you hear farther from my Brother or myself. I am Your Very Humble Servant...." Page & Creed were Nelson's bankers, so the reference to Mr. Creed almost certainly refers to that firm. This choice and scarce letter has been handsomely displayed under a pale green matte with gold filigree alongside a stunning 6½" X 8¼" hand-colored steel engraved portrait of "Horatio, Viscount Nelson" engraved by W. Finden and "From the original of Hoppner in / His Majesty's Collection." This early 19th century portrait is in fine condition and bears a large incredibly ornate hand-colored decorative border; it depicts Nelson almost full-length, in full military regalia, with his empty right sleeve pinned to his chest. This pair is framed under glass in a 1" contemporary walnut frame (overall dimensions 21" X 15"). A superb presentation -- Nelson in his most desirable (that is, right-handed) form.