A rare letter that shows Admiral Lord Nelson 'completely in the dark' will sell at Hansons Auctioneers on September 27 in the UK.
 The letter highlights how Nelson wasn't always in control, but also his military ambition |
The letter dates to 1795, with the great British naval officer telling Francis Drake (British minister in Genoa), "I should like to know from you, the exact plans which the army is to follow, at present I am completely in the dark".
It is expected to sell for between £8,000 and £10,000 ($13,406-16,757).
Charles Hanson remarked, "The letter highlights that even our greatest maritime war hero was often 'in the dark' as to the movements the army were to follow. We always perceive Nelson to be at the helm of every battle and conflict and clearly in this letter he was somewhat concerned."
The letter was written while Nelson was stationed in Vado Bay, Italy, aged 37.
Nelson writes, "I went off a great distance and wrote to the Admiral but his resolution to go first to Leghorn was so fixed that nothing could turn him. His despatches from the Admiralty are of such a nature as require him to head his fleet together for constant readiness for service".
"Perhaps you will still come here with what I can do with my present squadron, which may never be so large again, you can rest assured will be done. Ever your most faithful Horatio Nelson".
The letter's provenance is shown on the reverse, which states that it was given by a descendant of Admiral Drake in September 1868.
Hansons Auctioneers currently holds the record for a Nelson letter, with one selling in 2013 at £54,500 ($82,885).
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a superb selection of Nelson memorabilia for sale, including a complete lock of his hair and parts of the HMS Victory.
