Description:

King George III (1738-1820) Document signed by George III, authorizing the payment of troops to Cornwallis for the 33rd Reg for a year and a day

Two page manuscript document, 8" x 12.75", signed with integral leaf. Scripted on watermarked laid paper. Boldly signed by "George III", and "George Yonge". Expected folds with partial separations expertly repaired by a paper conservator. Overall slight toning with handling marks and an intact tear to the verso of integral leaf.

A warrant by King George III, to authorize a large payment to Lieutenant General Charles Earl Cornwallis (who was knighted in 1786) to distribute to his troops. Cornwallis was in the American War of Independence and in 1780 inflicted an embarrassing defeat on the American army, ultimately surrendering in Yorktown in1781. Having successfully defeated the American army around New York City, then driving them across New Jersey, Cornwallis was of the opinion that the defeated American army was finished. However, on Christmas Day General Washington's defeated army had just stormed and taken the entire garrison at Trenton, New Jersey.

General Howe ordered Cornwallis to lead the British forces in New Jersey and march on Trenton. It was at this time that Cornwallis realized that this war was far from over and that the American generals were not bumbling amateurs. Having assumed that he had out maneuvered Washington and had him trapped against the Delaware River, he was utterly surprised that the Americans had not only slipped away, but attacked the garrison at Princeton, all but destroying three more British Regiments. Not only had the Americans not retreated but they were still on the offensive! He had been 'out-foxed' by Washington.

A beautiful example of a George III autograph manuscript with bold signatures authorizing payment for British troops under General Cornwallis from the American War of Independence.

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