Lucien Bonaparte's Historic Letter Reveals Intriguing Connections to England

A rare and historically significant letter written by Lucien Bonaparte, the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, is set to be auctioned off at Shrewsbury Halls Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers. The letter, described by stamps specialist Andy Neal as possessing "postal, historical, and literary importance," sheds light on the intriguing life of Lucien Bonaparte and his connections to England during the early 19th century. Lucien Bonaparte, a notable French politician and diplomat of the French Revolution, played a pivotal role in the coup that led his brother Napoleon to power. In 1810, amidst political turmoil, Lucien embarked on a journey to the United States from Italy in an attempt to start afresh. However, his plans were thwarted when he was captured and detained in Britain, where he was designated as a paroled prisoner. During his time in England, Lucien resided in various locations, including Dinham near Ludlow, before eventually acquiring Thorngrove house near Worcester. Under the constraints of his parole, Lucien and his family were restricted to a 10-mile radius, and all his correspondence was subject to scrutiny by Lieutenant Colonel Francis Leighton of Shrewsbury before being dispatched. The meticulous inspection of Lucien's mail extended to the Worcester postmaster, who would only accept letters marked with a designated seal indicating that they had undergone official examination. Notably, the letter that will be up for auction was dated 25 November 1813 and dispatched from Shrewsbury to Cambridge, raising questions about its clandestine route to avoid censorship, as it lacked the required secret mark. The recipient of this intriguing letter was Francis Hodgson, a Fellow at King's College, Cambridge, renowned for his translation of Juvenal's poetry into English. Lucien reached out to Hodgson seeking assistance in translating his own epic poem, Charlemagne, showcasing the intricate literary connections that transcended national boundaries during this era. As the upcoming auction unveils this rare piece of historical correspondence, it offers a glimpse into the clandestine interactions and intellectual pursuits of Lucien Bonaparte, adding a new layer to the understanding of the intricate relationships and cultural exchanges that characterized the early 19th century. The letter serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bonaparte family and their far-reaching influence on the political and literary landscapes of the time.