Lot 575: King George III 1785 Document Signed -- Interesting Document Itemizes Expenses Incurred for 5 of His 15 Royal Children -- ''Prince William / Robe, Stables, Extras...''

King George III document signed, dated 4 January 1785 detailing the expenses incurred by four of George III's children for the quarter ending 10 October 1784. George III married the German princess Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, and the royal pair had 15 children in total, nine sons and six daughters. Document notates salaries for the employees of Prince William (William IV), Prince Edward (Duke of Kent), Princes Ernest (Ernest Augustus I of Hanover), Augustus (Duke of Sussex), and Adolphus (Duke of Cambridge). Salaries are detailed for each of the children's servants, as well as for sundries and extras, including robes and clothing, perfume, books, glasses and jewelry. Presumably totals are in the British currency, guineas. For nineteen year-old Prince William's expenses: ''Governor, Preceptor, Page of the back stairs, two maid servants, porter and assistant...'' With a 267,179 total. For Prince Edward: ''Governor, Preceptor, page of the back house, housekeeper & necessary [?] woman, three maid servants, porter, pages man, watchman...'' Totaling 260,163. Edward was the father of Queen Victoria, who ascended the throne upon the death of William. For Princes Ernest, Augustus & Adolphus: ''Governor, Preceptors, pages of the back stairs, Table decker, butler, assistant, butler...'' Totaling 271,157. George III has approved payment of these accounts at the conclusion. Signed ''George R.'' 3pp. document is on two separate leaves, measuring 9.5'' x 14.75'' with three horizontal folds throughout and minor .5''-1'' separation along a few of the folds. Separation to one fold measures 5'', though has been reinforced with tape. Additional discreet tape remnants to verso of second leaf. Overall very good.

Starting bid 500