A short time ago I accidentally became possessed of a small packet of
autograph letters, by this distinguished man, to a very intimate friend
and brother officer. These letters were found in an old military chest,
which had belonged to the latter. They are twelve in number; the first
is dated Glasgow, 2d April, 1749, and the last, Salisbury, 1st December,
1758, on the eve of his embarkation with the memorable expedition
against Quebec. The letters are written in a small and remarkably neat
hand, and Wolfe's seal is still adhering to some of them. They contain
much honourable sentiment, and proofs of a warm generous heart.
The perusal of these curious letters, and their allusions to passing
incidents, have excited a desire to become better acquainted with the
details of Wolfe's personal history; but in this I experience
considerable difficulty, from the meagreness with which his biographers
appear to have treated the subject. I shall accordingly feel much
obliged by any of your military, or other correspondents, favouring me
with references to the fullest and best account of this distinguished
officer. I am anxious to obtain information, in particular, on the
following points.
1. Wolfe's family connexions? I am aware who his father was, but should
like to know if the former had any brothers or sisters, and who is the
present representative? What was his mother's name and family?
2. Where was Wolfe educated? In one of the letters he mentions that he
was taken from his studies at fifteen, and entered the army at that
early age.
3. The different regiments in which he held a commission, with his rank
in each, the steps and date of promotion?