Ernest Shackleton Handwritten Personal Letter

For Sale: £3,500.00

Ernest Shackleton, CVO, OBE (1874-1922) was an Antarctic explorer who came within 97.5 nautical miles of reaching the South Pole on his 1907-1909 expedition.

In 1920, Shackleton acquired funds from his former school-friend, John Quiller Rowett, to travel to the Antarctic on his final "oceanographic and sub-Antarctic expedition".

This letter, which features some expected folding, is a handwritten note from Shackleton to his wife Emily Shackleton nee Dorman, dated 26 March 1921. The letter reads:

"Darling Sweeteyes, I was sorry the line was bad this morning and I was anxious about the lectures. I could not hear a word from Rowetts house and they told me afterwards that the exchange is the worst in the kingdom. I had a bad night continually on the run all due to the cider, but am all right now. If there is any news will let you know at once. I have a comfortable cabin but I am afraid that the Aquitania spoils one for any other ship. It was a wee peaceful time at home yesterday and I enjoyed it so. There is really no news darling. I hope to be back soon, indeed I must be if I am to get ready in time. I hope all goes well with you and the children. I enclose the passenger list. No one interesting. I want a rest. Your loving, Micky".

It is thought that the signature "Micky" is a reference to Shackelton's Irish origin.

Nine months later, upon arriving in Rio de Janeiro, Shackleton suffered a suspected heart attack but declined a proper medical examination. That night, Shackleton summoned the on-board doctor to his cabin, complaining of back pains. A few moments later, at 2:50am on 5 January 1922, he suffered a fatal heart attack.

A rare and fine historical item.

This item qualifies for our layaway plan