British Prime Minister Robert Peel Receives Memorial of Captain Betts -- Two Peel Signatures

SIR ROBERT PEEL (1788-1850) was Britain’s Prime Minister (1834-35 and 1841-46) and was the principal founder of the British Conservative Party.  He was a member of Parliament and served as chief secretary of Ireland and Home Secretary.

He also reorganized England’s criminal code and established London’s first disciplined police force whose members were nicknamed after him and to this day are often referred to as “Bobbies” or “Peelers.”

Peel imposed an income tax, reorganized the Bank of England and initiated reforms in Ireland.  He favored reduced tariffs on imports.

One page, ALS, while Home Secretary answering a letter, included on the same sheet, from Henry Calvert of Chelsea College with a recommendation for Captain Betts, dated April 15, 1824. Interestingly, Peel’s response is dated September 23, 1825.

“Whitehall

“Sept. 23, 1825

“My dear Sir,

“I avail myself of, I believe, the first occasion that has occurred since I received your letter, to offer you the appointment of a Poor Knight’s Place at Windsor for Capt. Betts.

“Thinking that you would wish to be the first to communicate to him the selection I have made, I have not yet announced to him his extended appointment.

“Believe me, etc.

“Robt. Peel”

Verso includes docketing about the Memorial of Capt. Betts, a candidate for the Situation of Poor Knight of Windsor accompanied by the following endorsement:

“To be done

“Robt. Peel”

Folds, expected toning and small archival tape reinforcement. Small piece missing at the top left, affecting nothing. Comes with a nice engraving of Peel.

Everything we sell is guaranteed authentic forever to the original buyer. We also offer a 30-day return policy. If you discover a problem or are dissatisfied with an item, please contact us immediately (617-236-4893). Our goal is to please every customer. We are pleased to be members of The Manuscript Society, Universal Autograph Collectors Club and The Ephemera Society.