BUCKINGHAM, George Villiers, Second Duke of (1628-1687). Politician and wit.
Document Signed ('Buckingham'), 1 page 4to on vellum, 215 x 22 mm. (c. 8½ x 8½ inches), 17 January 1661 (seal tag, contemporary and later dockets to the verso). Appointing Edward Freeman as his deputy steward for holding the courts baron of ?Leominster and other (named) places, and to enjoy the 'usual fees' of the office

'Know All Men By these presents That I George Lord Duke Marquess and Earl of Buckingham, Earle of Coventry, Viscount Villers, Baron Whaddon of Whaddon, Knight of y^e most Noble Order of y^e Garter ... For & in respect of y^e trust and confidence I have in Edward Freeman of [?] in the county of Middlesex Esq doe hereby constitute, nominate, make, ordeine him y^e said Edward Freeman to be my deputie Steward ...'

Charles II had reached London at the end of his exile on 29 May 1660. He had been met by Buckingham on landing at Dover, but received coldly, perhaps not surprisingly in view of his vascillating loyaties during the Commonwealth, and his alliance with Fairfax, whose daughter he had married. The duke was however soon restored to favour and showered with lucrative offices, soon becoming perhaps the richest man in England. The present document therefore represents him as he began to establish full control over his restored estates.
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