|
F. BEESLEY
A PAIR OF 12-BORE SIDELOCK EJECTOR GUNS, NOS. 2071/2
29 3/4-inch barrels with 2 1/2-inch chambers, about improved cylinder and 1/4 choke borings, the frames, locks and gold numbered top levers with bouquet and scroll engraving and retaining some original hardening colour, 14-inch figured stocks with slightly swept combs, 6lb. 4oz., nitro re-proof, in their maker's case with presentation inscription, "These guns were presented to Richard W. G. Welby, Esquire by his father's rural tenantry on his coming of age 1909"
S2
Lieutenant R W G Welby, Greandier Guards, was killed in action on the Aisne, 16th September 1914, aged 25. He was the son of Sir Richard Welby, 5th Baronet, and Lady Maria Welby, sister of Rear Admiral Frederick, 4th Marquis of Bristol.
The lot is sold with a copy of the classic work "Fifteen Rounds a Minute", which details the actions of the Grenadier Guards in the opening months of World War One. Welby is mentioned and a letter from Sgt Baker to Lady Welby is reproduced.
"Madam, I am so very sorry I have been so slow in writing. I have lately found out about your son and he was very brave. If anyone was entitled to the Victoria Cross, Lt Welby was. He was wounded first and the commanding officers orders Welby to go back, but he stuck with his company and cheered his men on, besides bringing back a wounded officer when he was wounded his self. All the men that knew Welby honoured him. He was a fine officer and took care of his men." |
Sold for £5500
|
 |
| Fine Modern and Vintage Sporting Guns |
| Pulborough, West Sussex |
| 22 April 2020 |
| Commission is 25% ex. VAT. Artist's Resale Right may apply |
|
|
