Lot 1288
Washington, George (1732-1799) 1st President of the United States, 1789-1797.
Autograph Letter Signed "Go: Washington" as President, 1-1/3 pages, recto and verso, small quarto, Mount Vernon, April 13, 1793. Addressed to James Keith, with over 350 words in Washington's hand, just over a month after his second inauguration. The President demonstrates his loyalty toward his troops as he seeks to collect French and Indian War claims for a deceased comrade more than three decades later. In full:
"Dr Sir, Your letter of the 8th has been duly received. You, better than I, can acct. for the small judgment being for two hundred and odd pounds more than is due. Justice to all parties, & a speedy settlement of the whole, is all I aim at. The letter, as I have often repeated, I am extremely desirous to have accomplished.
Was I to see Colo Hooe, which is not likely now to happen, as I am in the very act of setting off for Philadelphia, I should be at a loss to know what to say to him respecting the charge on acct. of Giles. By the papers alone I could be governed in any conversation held with him, and these you have. If my memory does not deceive me, however (but on it I never rely) there is a particular statement of this matter in the Will of Thomas Colvill. If it is justly due to the Tankervilles, it ought undoubtedly to be paid, if it is not, I as certainly ought not to allow it. I rely therefore on you to have the matter thoroughly investigated, either by yourself, or some other eminent in Law, that I may act safely; for I have had too much trouble in this business already, to lay the foundation for more, by allowing a claim if it requires authentication.
Messrs. Wilson and Dunlap, on Tuesday the 2d inst. required only ten days to consider whether they would pay the Judgment on the Bond with, or without interest. This time is elapsed; & delay only can be their object if they have not announced to you (- to me they have not -) their determination thereupon. Of course no time should be lost in issuing the Execution. But who is it to be served upon? Cumberland Wilson they say, who has no interest at all in the business! -- As you are so much better acquainted with this business than I am & know my objects & wish, I shall, in one word as I shall be out of the State in a few hours - leave the accomplishment of them to you - being Sir Your most Obed. Humble Servant Go: Washington."
Minor infill, affecting a few words, and three closed tears at right edge; otherwise Fine. Boldly written in dark brown ink. Accompanying this letter is an ornate 30" x 26" gilt frame containing a superb color photocopy of the letter, with a biographical plaque. A fantastic, lengthy Washington letter.
Estimated Value $17,000-UP.
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