English, c.1760, engraved to the read of the backplate 'JAMES SHORTLONDON 115/851 = 7', the telescope of typical form with a 2" body, primary mirror to far end with secondary focusing mirror on a fine screw at the side, body tube with cover, all mounted on a column with compass type jointon top of the pillar with steel screw into brass boss on case lid, case constructed of solid mahogany with sliding lid, case 36cm long. James Short FRS (June 10, 1710 – June 14, 1768) was a Scottish maker of telescopes & optical instruments. Born in Edinburgh in 1710 to Margaret Grierson and William Short, a skilled carpenter, James faced early adversity with the loss of his parents. At the tender age of 10, he found refuge in Heriot's Hospital, an orphanage, and later transitioned to the Royal High School at 12, where his prowess in the classics began to shine. However, it was the lectures of Colin Maclaurin, a distinguished mathematics professor, that ignited his passion for astronomy and mathematics, leading him to redirect his academic pursuits. Under Maclaurin's guidance, Short gained access to the university's facilities, delving into experiments focused on perfecting the construction of telescopes. His craftsmanship and innovation were so exceptional that he earned the prestigious title of Fellow of the Royal Society in 1737, a testament to his ingenuity and dedication. Short's early telescopes, influenced by James Gregory's concepts, initially utilized glass specula but evolved to exclusively incorporate metallic specula, allowing for the precise formation of parabolic and elliptical shapes. Embracing telescope-making as his vocation, Short initially worked in Edinburgh until 1738, before relocating to the bustling city of London. The majority of Short's telescopes adhered to the Gregorian design. Short's reputation transcended national boundaries, drawing the attention of royalty and academia alike. In 1736, Queen Caroline sought his expertise to tutor her second son, William, in mathematics, highlighting his esteemed position in society. His contributions were further acknowledged with his election as a Fellow of the Royal Society in March 1737 and his appointment as a foreign member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in 1758. Additionally, he played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures, and Commerce in 1754, advocating for innovation and progress in various fields. James Short's legacy endured long after his passing in 1768, leaving behind not only a wealth of scientific achievements but also a substantial fortune amassed from his profession.