Rooke, William (fl. 1777-1778) to Dorothy Rooke
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03881.03 Author/Creator: Rooke, William (fl. 1777-1778) Place Written: Rome, Italy Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 21 January 1778 Pagination: 7 p. : address ; 23.5 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Writes to his sister, stating that he hopes an unspecified person (possibly Henry Rooke) has returned from America to England. Refers to battle between Generals William Howe and George Washington. Mentions confusing reports he has received concerning the battle. Discusses the possibility of Washington having been taken as a prisoner, and America's loss of troops during the battle. Discusses his travels through Italy viewing artistic masterpieces, including those of Correggio. States "tho' there are numbers of very capital performances there is at the same time a great deal of trash to wade through in order to come at them ..." Gossips about the behavior of Gabrielli (possibly Catterina Gabrielli), an opera singer who had performed in Russia, Italy, and London. Discusses the activities of Italian socialites, Florentine art, mutual acquaintances, his European travels, and their sister Eliza. Provides instructions as to where senders should direct his mail.
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