Fascinating manuscript by Chevalier Desroches, Governor General of Mauritius from 1769 to 1772, to Baron d'Arros d'Argelos (1730 -1791), Marine Commandant at Isle de France (Mauritius).

Chevalier Desroches provides concise intelligence of a missive sent by the King and the Minister, via the ship liner Le Berryer.  The missive, among others, concern the strategic vision for Isle de France, and plans for the immediate development of Port Louis village and harbour.  After summarising the Minister's goals, the governor assigns duties and instructs on procedures to put in motion the royal orders. 

The last paragraph of this historical document concerns M. de Kerguelen [ Lieutenant Yves-Joseph de Kerguelen Trémarec] and his expedition [which aim was a secret attempt to discover the postulated Terra Australis Incognita and to explore Australia]. 

Other personages mentioned include M. de Tromelin (Captain Boudin de Tromelin), M. de Poivre (Intendent and Marine Commissioner), Duc de Praslin (César Gabriel de Choiseul, Minister of the Navy), and King Louis XV.  

 

Physical:

Autograph letter signed; written in Port Louis, dated 30 August 1771, signed by the Governor; 6 pages (22.5x 17.5 cm); manuscript on laid paper, watermarked “O S || DANGOUMOIS || 1770”, in black ink, neat and legible handwriting, soiled, creased, two sheets darkened at the upper corner, old fold marks.