[ William Griffin, Secretary to the Board of Ordnance. ] 'Copy' circular letter, in secretarial hand, signed by him ('W: Griffin.'), to the 'Officer Commanding the Oldham Regiment of Local Militia', calling in their 'Arms and Accoutrements'.

1p., folio. In fair condition, on aged and worn paper, with some chipping and a few closed tears to edges. Addressed 'To | The Officer Commanding | the Oldham Regiment of Local Militia. | Oldham Lancashire' (i.e. John Crossley of Scaitcliffe near Rochdale, who built up a notable collection of military memorabilia, dispersed after his death). Attached to a leaf of paper with a note by the recipient concerning the permission he has been granted to retain a 'Musquet and Set of Accoutrements'. The letter begins: 'The Master General and board of Ordnance having received from the Secretary of State for the Home Department a Notification of the Prince Regent's Pleasure that the Arms and Accoutrements of the Local Militia and such other Articles in their Possession (being the property of Government) as have been issued by this Department, should be immediately called in'. Crossley is instructed to collect up 'the Musquets, Carbines, Sergeants' Spears, Sergeants' and Drummers' Swords, Drums, Accoutrements and Ammunition, furnished to the Regiment under your Command, by the Ordnance, to be collected and sent by the cheapest Conveyance to the Depot at Chester Castle consigned to the Ordnance Storekeeper'. Instructions are given on how to pack up the items, and Crossley is enjoined to comply without delay. Presumably part of a winding down after the defeat of Napoleon.