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?
4. His first and subsequent military services?
5. How long was he stationed in Scotland, on what duty, and in what places?
6. In particular, was he engaged in the formation of any of the military roads in that country, when and where?
7. Did he serve in Scotland during the rebellion of 1745-46, and was he present at the battle of Culloden? If so, in what regiment, and with what rank?
8. Are there any good portraits of Wolfe extant, and where are they to be seen?