The inscription inside the bowl reads: “Success to General Burgoyne in Canada.” This bowl was presented to General John Burgoyne (1722-1792) in 1777, upon his departure for Canada to assume command of the British army there. He had orders to take his army south and engage the American rebels. He underestimated the prowess of the American militia with the result that his army was defeated at the Battle of Saratoga. Gentleman Johnny, as he was known, finished his life as a playwright.