George Downing 1624-1684 English politician for whom Downing Street was named, a colorful, roguish character, the second graduate of Harvard University who repatriated to England and was appointed Ambassador to Holland. In collaboration with James, Duke of York, he conspired to seize New Netherlands (New York) from the Dutch, leading them to believe that no plans for invasion existed. Shortly after, James' vessels arrived in New York and took the region for England. One may speculate that if the Dutch had retained New York, the American Revolution would have proven logistically impossible. Rare D S. 13in x 2.5in on vellum, [England], 1665, apparently a financial document or receipt, signed G. Downing at conclusion. E3000-400