Description:

Crime and Punishment in the Late 17th Century - Punishing Deserters

2pp of bifolium, measuring 6.5" x 9", Hampstead, dated July 27, 1678. Signed "Geo: Compton" and addressed to the Earl of Craven. Responding to a recent letter, Compton discusses punishment for two deserters. He writes in part:

"…instructions about the two deserters now in hold, and weighed what yr honr: had proposed in reference to a retribution of the charge of their cloathes [sic], being the favorablest [sic] composition that they could expect. We concluded that yr honr: only meant to have them punished for some time in the house of correction; to tirrifi [sic] others: and then upon their paying the charge of their cloathes [sic] to dismiss them…committed them to the close prison of the towne [sic]: untill [sic] tomorrow morning: when the Mayr: will find them under a good guard to the House of Correction at Reading: there to undergoe [sic] the Discipline of that House for as long time as yr Lordp: shall think fitt [sic]…" The letter has flattened mail folds and additional creasing throughout. Small tears and holes at the spine and address page. Dampstaining, toning, and soiling throughout. Chipped upper edge. Boldly signed.

George Compton, 4th Earl of Northampton (1664-1727) was a British peer and politician, styled Lord Compton from 1664-1681. William Craven, 1st Earl of Craven (1608–1697) was a Privy Councillor and fought in the Thirty Years' War. During the Glorious Revolution, Craven loyally protected King James II at Whitehall Palace against forces loyal to the William of Orange. He also famously fell in love with Queen Elizabeth of Bohemia and wished to build a grand palace for her, but she tragically died before construction began.

Punishments for crimes changed slightly during the 1600s, compares to those seen before 1450. While physical punishments, such as whipping or branding, were still widely used, as well as hanging, drawing and quartering for treason, the government passed a new set of laws in an attempt to quell less crimes. Houses of Correction were built in many areas in the late 16th century, and inmates were put to work, usually spinning or weaving. Those in power believed such institutions would impress upon the virtues of hard work.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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