CAPELL, William (1697-1743)

Essex succeeded to the title while probably just short of his thirteenth birthday. Soon after achieving his majority he was appointed to the household of the prince of Wales and in later life he served as a diplomat in Italy. He probably died on 8 or 9 Jan. 1743, though one contemporary newspaper dated 10 Jan. gave his death as having occurred the previous Saturday (5 January). London Daily Post and General Advertiser, 10 Jan. 1743. He was succeeded in the title by his second son by his second marriage. His career will be considered in detail in the second part of this work.