Penn, William

Autograph letter signed ("Wm Penn"), 1 page plus integral address leaf (7 3/4 x 6 1/8 in.; 196 x 155 mm), no place [England], "28 Current" [28 June 1690], to Henry Boyle, Principal Secretary of State at Windsor, docketed on verso "abt Mr. Clement to be sent to Ld Prv, per D Sunderland."; formerly folded, seal tear and a few mends in integral address leaf. With an engraved oval portrait by W. Grainger; chipped in upper right corner, marginal spotting.

formerly folded, seal tear and a few mends in integral address leaf. The portrait chipped in upper right corner, marginal spotting.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Letter of recommendation for a position in government.

At this point Penn had returned from the colonies to England, having successfully founded his colony, and was now campaigning in support of the King's Declaration of Indulgence granting toleration to Quakers.

In the present letter Penn introduces Mr. Clement [perhaps Simon Clement, (1654-1730?), whose niece he married] : "The inclosed is an humble request of a long dependant upon the court, for leave & ability to s[h]ewe it. He has travild through all the Branches & affairs of the governt that could have any relation to the affaire, & seems only to want being layd before the Queen for her fiat. I do with all respect beseech the favour of laying it before her, and with the common countenance that services to the publick use to meet with in her royall presence, which will very much oblige a deserving person ..."