Copy of correspondence of William Pitt and Michel-Ange Du Quesne de Menneville, Marquis Du Quesne

Scope and Content

In these two copy letters Pitt writes confirming he has passed on the Marquis' messages and memorandum to the King and that he is bound by regulations to keep him prisoner for the moment but that he will be treated with the respect his status deserves.

The reply from the Marquis challenges Pitt's assertion and he protests that there is no precedent for a general officer of the French Navy being kept in England for more than three months and he requests that if he must be kept prisoner he is at least moved to Bury in Suffolk which would be more agreeable to him.

Unsigned. Originals written from Whitehall and Northampton.

Acquisition Information

A transcription of these letters is available.

Conditions Governing Use

Copyright held by Chatsworth House Trust.