[ENGLISH & CONTINENTAL MANUSCRIPTS]. EDWARD VIII, Duke of Windsor (1894-1972). Autograph letter letter signed ("Edward P") to "Babs." HMS Renown, 28 October 1921.

1 page, 8vo, center crease, tape residue along edge. Provenance: Sold at Swann Galleries 9 March 1989, sale 1492 lot 64.

"SOME SPORT IN INDIA IS THE ONLY ITEM ON THE PROGRAMME..."

When Edward, Prince of Wales set off on a tour of East Asia in October 1921, he did so with only the faintest understanding of just how badly the situation in India had degenerated. With the Crown facing its most fierce resistance to British rule since the 1857 Indian Rebellion, Edward's visit was an elaborate affair whose chief aim was to counter the influence of the non-cooperation movement led by Mahatma Gandhi.

Though Gandhi, who had managed to unite the Hindu Indian National Congress and the Muslim Khaliafat Movement, called for a boycott of Edward's address, the event was well-attended by loyalists. Following Edward's speech, which has been described as "textbook," loyalists making their way home were attacked by pro-independence mobs. Cars, shops, and trams were set ablaze and at least 58 people were killed. Gandhi, horrified by the violence, drove through the city begging his supporters to lay down their weapons. His efforts were for naught; the riots would continue for three days. In response Gandhi began his sixth hunger strike.

This letter, written aboard the HMS Renown en route to Bombay, reflects the Crown's lack of appreciation for how volatile the situation in India had become by this time.