Lot 1116
Pitt, William, 1st Earl of Chatham, "William Pitt the Elder" and "The Great Commoner" (1708-1778), British Prime Minister (1766-1768). Letter Signed "W. Pitt", one page, 8½ x 10¼ Hayes, February 22, 1765. Pitt writes that he has not sufficiently recovered to be able to write in his own hand, while declining an offer to purchase property in Shropshire:
"…but to speak, Sir; without reserve, I own that the state of my circumstances must have been totally misunderstood by whoever may have informed you that I could entertain any thought of purchasing an Estate."
Very Fine signature, reinforced splitting along central horizontal fold and minor edge faults.
Estimate 500 - 750
Pitt played an important role in North American history, both as Secretary of State during the Seven Years' War, and an outspoken critic of the severe British policy toward the American Colonies.
The misconception of his financial situation probably relates to a legacy he received around that time. Sir William Pynsent, a Somerset baronet, left him his entire estate, representing £3000 per year, as a testimonial to Pitt's political achievements, even though the two had never met. It was the second such financial reward Pitt had received in recognition of his political career, the first having been the Marlborough legacy in 1844.
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