MANUSCRIPT. RUMBOLD, George Berriman. Account of Losses & Expenses Incurred in Consequence of My Seizure by the French at my House in Hamburg, in October 1804. 1804
23 lines ms. on single side of a folio sheet; sl. dusted & creased, old folds.
¶George Berriman Rumbold, 1764-1807, was ambassador to the Hanse Towns, minister-resident of Great Britain at Hamburg. On the night of 25 October 1804, a detachment of French troops landed in boats on the Hamburg Berg, proceeded to the Grindel, Rumbold's country residence, forced the door, and compelled him to deliver up his papers. He was taken to Hanover in a guarded coach, and thence to Paris where he was detained at the Square de Temple. After protests from the King of Prussia, Napoleon gave orders for his release whereupon he was conveyed to Cherbourg and from there on to Portsmouth on board a British Frigate. This document, signed by Rumbold, lists the losses and expenses he incurred during his brief detention. From the items listed, it appears that the French troops combined Rumbold's arrest with a spot of looting. Items include: loss of three horses (£120.0.0), wine (£120.0.0), furniture (£340.0.0), damage to house (£47.0.0), glass china (£170.0.0), Books & Maps (£190.0.0). Other expenses listed are house rent (£125.0.0), servants wages during absence (£57.0.0), travel expenses (£220.0.0), and house expenses during absence (£100.0.0). The total, is the rather hefty figure of £1,949.0.0. PLEASE NOTE: For customers within the UK this item is subject to VAT.