Bidspirit auction | JOHN BURGOYNE

JOHN BURGOYNE - (1722 - 1792) British major general who commanded the British expedition from Canada in 1777 in an attempt to divide the colonies in two. Burgoyne advanced from Canada but his slow movement allowed the Americans to concentrate their forces. Instead of coming to his aid according to the overall plan, the British Army in New York City moved south to capture Philadelphia. Burgoyne was surrounded by American forces at Saratoga and surrendered his entire army of 6,200 men on 17 October 1777. Fine content A.L.S. 'J. Burgoyne', 2pp. small 4to., Lisbon, Dec. 14, 1762, likely to his father-in-law and chief sponsor, the Earl of Derby. Shortly after his daring capture of Valencia d'Alcantara in Spain, which firmly established his reputation, he writes on his pending promotion. In part: '...I had the honour of your Lordship's letter & I beg leave to return your Lordship my most sincere & grateful acknowledgements for the part you have taken in my promotion -- the only circumstance which should add to the satisfaction I receive from so distinguished a mark of his Majesty's favour. Having received permission from the Count La Lippe & Lord Loudon to return to England upon my private affairs I propose to set out immediately by the route of Madrid & Paris, & hope to reach the latter by the first week of January. I know not any circumstance in which I can presume to offer my service to your Lordship in France but should any occur, it would give me the greatest happiness to be honoured with your Lordship's command. I cannot conclude my letter without entreating your Lordship to accept my congratulations upon the Peace Though a Soldier, & presented in many favorite views, I should be as worth your Lordship's good opinion if I was not sensible of a most sincere joy upon an event which must lend so much to the advantage of my Country, & reflect so much honour upon his Majesty's Councils. I have the honour..' For his efforts, Burgoyne was promoted to temporary brigadier general and the King of Portugal presented him the captured flags as well as a diamond ring. A few lightly soiled areas, otherwise fine condition.