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Chichester, Jan. 31. — A circumstance has occurred this morning which should be known. Two of the French imperial eagles which were taken in the battle of Corunna, were sold yesterday at Barker's, the silversmith's, in this town : they are of silver, and weigh, about 15 ounces. The man, who said he bayoneted the Frenchmen, was a Highlander of the 92d, or Gordon's; and I cannot account for his selling such a noble trophy of British courage and discipline, unless from absolute necessity. Some of our regiments have before taken the pole that supported the standard, but never the thing itself, and Bonapartè has particularly exulted that they never were taken.
Source: The Lady's Magazine - February 1809
Robert Barker was appointed 'silversmith and watchmaker extraordinary to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales'*. He was noted as working until at least 1839**.
* Source: Colonial Dynasty: The Chambers Family of South Australia - Margaret Goyder Kerr - 1980
** Source: British Countermarks on Copper and Bronze Coins - James Gavin Scott - 1975
The business of John Purser & Sons was acquired in the 1920's by another local jeweller, Thomas Pickett (established in 1850), and later restyled to 'Picketts and Pursers'. They are still in business today.
ROBBERY. Dec. 21st, Mr. John Pym Smith, watchmaker and silversmith, &c., had his shop robbed to a considerable amount; the robbers were heard and disturbed, which prevented their taking more than eight watches, &c.
Source: Mockett's Journal. A collection of interesting matters, relating to remarkable personages, ancient buildings, manners and customs, etc. - 1836