A British Act Assuring Napoleon Will Remain on Saint Helena Without Trial

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2015

Broadside "...Act for the More Effectually Detaining in Custody Napoleon Buonaparte...", April 11, 1816, 9-1/2” x 23-1/2”, np (London?)., original owners inscription in U/R margin, VG. An official Act of Parliament suspending Habeas Corpus, so that Napoleon Bonaparte could be held in Exile Without Trial. In part, “Whereas it is necessary for the Preservation of the Tranquillity of Europe, and for the general Safety, that Napoleon Buonaparte should be detained and kept in Custody ... That the said Napoleon Buonaparte ... be treated and dealt with as a Prisoner of War ...to use all Ways and Means for the detaining and keeping the said Napoleon Buonaparte in such Custody, and for the Prevention of the Rescue or Escape....And be st further enacted, That if any Person or Persons, being Subjects of or owing Allegiance to His Majesty, his Heirs or Successors, shall knowingly and wilfully aid, assist or further the said Napoleon Buonaparte m quitting any Part of any Island ...Civilian letter, January 28, 1863, Sandusky, Ohio, ipp., VG. In small part, "One thing I know, I have done as much, in proportion to my means, to sustain this war, as anyone who has not gone himself. But for Abe Lincoln, forced as he was upon the country by Shoddy ... Traitors and office holders, I would not vote to save my life, and that is all I have to say." Napoleon was captured in June 1815, and was taken to the island of Saint Helena in October 1815, staying at the Briars pavilion on the grounds of the Balcombe family's home until his permanent home, Longwood House, was completed; he died there on May 5, 1821. During this period, Saint Helena remained in the East India Company’s possession, but the British government met additional costs arising from guarding Napoleon. The island was strongly garrisoned with British troops, and naval ships circled the island.This Broadside is very pleasing in its quality, boldly printed in black upon clean, period laid paper, having significant original press text embossing to the sharp black printed text, attesting to its sharp quality and total originality. There are a few trivial edge selvage nicks, overall bright, clean and very impressive for display.

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