an historically interesting Lifeboat compass from the Hospital ship Dover Castle, torpedoed 1917
of standard form, with liquid-filled compass signed John Lilley & Sons, London mounted in gimbal, brass housing with glazed port and lamp window (lamp missing) -- 11½in. (29cm.) high; with letter of provenance

Provenance: Robert Sweetlove (salvaged from lifeboat no.7), to his stepson Ulric von Nesselrode, gifted to Mr & Mrs Arthur, vendor.

Built for Union Castle in 1905, Dover Castle was first employed as a troopship in WWI, but was later converted to a hospital ship. At 7pm on 26th May 1917 whilst steaming 50 miles north of Bona in company the hospital ship Karapara, she was struck by a single torpedo fired by UC-67. Escorting destroyers put out a smoke screen and took wounded off. The captain hoped to save his ship when, an hour later, the submarine fired a second torpedo sending Dover Castle to the bottom within three minutes. Seven stokers were killed by the explosion, but everyone else survived in lifeboats.

Condition Report
old wear commensurate with age; compass working, liquid a little low.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.