Masonic help for Nelson's widow

This wonderful George III silver presentation two-handled cup and cover is to be sold by Sotheby's on November 2 with an estimate of £6,000.

The inscription reads: "From Emma Lady Hamilton to Thomas Field Savory Esqr. As a small token of gratitude. For his unremitted attentions to her Dear lamented mother and to herself and family 1810."

The masonic connection is with recipient, Thomas Savory. The catalogue notes stated that chemist Savory's house guests included "HRH Duke of Sussex (1773-1843)Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, of whose household Thomas Savory was apponited a Gentleman. Savory, like the Duke, was an enthusiastic Freemason being a member of Antiquity, Prince of Wales's and Jerusalem Lodges as well as The Prince of Wales's Chapter and the Masonic Templars Chapter of Observance...According to The Freemasons' Quarterly Review (1847) Savory "was somewhat proud in his bearing, yet gentlemanly at all times."

It seems that Lord Nelson's widow benefited from the kindness of this Freemason.

3rd Degree tracing boards for sale

These two framed third degree tracing boards are being sold by Adam Partridge in Macclesfield on November 27. They are expected to sell for £40.

They were made by Toye and Co and measure 37.5cmX24cm.

Masonic roulette

This early Victorian circular gold pendant, engraved with masonic emblems and containing and working miniature roulette wheel with sliding pin activation, is expected to sell for about £100 at Wolley and Wallis saleroom in Salisbury, Wilts.

Shell snuff

This rather pleasing snuff box made from a cowrie shell dates from the 18th century and has masonic symbols on the lid. It is expected to sell for about £100 when it goes under the hammer at Lockdales in Suffolk.