Gibraltar

12 pages, 4to, two with envelopes, two others with integral address leaves with seals and silks, Naples, Marseilles and Madrid, 17 April 1702 to 17 April 1709, modern fitted case, one letter slightly browned at outer margins

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

These important letters reveal the support, both military and financial, given to the young king of Spain by his grandfather, Louis XIV of France, during the War of the Spanish Succession. After England captured Gibraltar with the help of Dutch forces in 1704 Philip V seeks supplies for the reconquering of Gibraltar

 …ayant écrit au Roy mon grandpére dans le manque de munitions ou je me trouve pour la continuation du siége de Gibraltar, qu’il est cependant absolument nécessaire de poussér jusques au bout par l’importance dont il est reprendre cette place, pour le prier de m’envoyer au plustot par mér des ports de provence 500 millers de poudre et 40000 boulets de 24…vous me ferez un sensible plaisir d’executer avec toute la diligence possible les ordres qu’il vous donnera la dessus…

 and later for the defence of Cadiz

…il m’est absolument necessaire d’avoir deux cents millers de poudre a Cadis pour la deffendre des enterprises que les ennemys projettent, et que je n’en puis tirer d’Espagne toute celle qui y estoit ayant esté consume au siége de Gibraltar...