Spenser, Boyle (fl. 1756-1778) to His Excelency, Sir Guy Carleton
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04764.84 Author/Creator: Spenser, Boyle (fl. 1756-1778) Place Written: s.l. Type: Document signed Date: 1778 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 37.3 x 23 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Boyle as a Lieutenant in the 24th Regiment of Foot seeking a promotion to Carleton as commander of British forces in Canada. Boyle's regiment was part of the advanced corps of General John Burgoyne's army during the Saratoga Campaign, but it appears he did not fight at Saratoga because he says he applied to join Burgoyne's detachment but that the "request could not be complied with." Date of creation inferred from content of the document. Boyle says he joined the British Army in 1756 and that he has served for 22 years. Joined the army as an ensign in the 37th Regiment of Foot and fought in the Seven Years War in Europe. Says in 1770 he had to seek retirement at half pay because of a "Paraleitick disorder," but that he returned to service as soon as his health was restored. Claims he has been a lieutenant for the last 20 years and that no other officer has served Carleton or Burgoyne at that rank for so long without a promotion.
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