** NORMAN CROSS PRISON - TRANSPORT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF P.O...

Hammer

£170

** NORMAN CROSS PRISON - TRANSPORT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF P.O.W.'s PAROLE RELEASE TO FRANCE; 2 July 1801 foolscap partly printed certificate (edge wear and usual creases) headed "By the Commissioners for conducting H.M. Transport Service, and for the Care and Custody of Prisoners of War" (embossed oval "TRANSPORT OFFICE/PRISONERS OF WAR/[cannon + anchor]" device at top) confirming that Lieut. Conssil "of French Infantry, taken prisoner in the Vengeance French Frigate" was now allowed "to return to France on Parole (also another Prisoner of War at Norman Cross Prison) are now released and exchanged for Mr. John Betts, Master, and Mr. William Betts, Mate, of the Lurcher hired Tender, late Prisoners of War in France and permitted to return on Parole to this Kingdom" and signed "John Schank (&) Joh Forest" (?) and countersigned in French "Otto" (?) with v. fine oval "ECHANGE DES/PRISONNIERS" cachet at foot. Very rare complete POW exchange certificate.Cross Reference: EPHEMERA, HUNTINGDONSHIRE, LONDON POSTAL HISTORY, MILITARY - P.O.W. MAIL