1757 three page EL JAMAICA - EDINBURGH. Maitland To Earl Lauderdale. 7 Year War. Super Content.

Bishop Mark

Seven Years’ War Jamaica Letter to the Earl of Lauderdale (1757), from Hon. Frederick Lewis Maitland, Royal Navy commander of HMS Port Royal

A rare and historically engaging three-page manuscript letter written from Jamaica, during the height of the Seven Years’ War. Addressed to sender’s brother James Maitland, 7th Earl of Lauderdale

The letter opens with the writer’s recent arrival (“I arrived at this place about a fortnight ago…”) and proceeds to discuss the realities of naval service overseas: delayed correspondence, uncertainty of promotion, and the impact of political change in London. Of particular interest are references to Richard Grenville-Temple and John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich, highlighting the importance of patronage networks in naval advancement.

The writer reflects candidly on his limited prospects (“there are at least three before me”) and the shifting balance of influence following Temple’s removal from power. The letter also includes domestic and commercial details typical of Caribbean correspondence, including shipments of Madeira wine, oranges, limes, and sweetmeats.

A fine example of mid-18th-century naval and political correspondence, combining family connection, wartime context, and insight into patronage during a critical period of British imperial expansion.

Condition: folded as sent, some wear and light staining; ink generally strong; legibility good.