Lot 253
Burr, Aaron (1756-1836) American statesman; Vice President under Thomas Jefferson; mortally wounded Alexander Hamilton in a duel in 1804. Autograph letter signed ("A. Burr"), 1½ pages, Albany, Feb. 23, 1817. To Samuel C. Reid, advising him on the best way to secure an appointment in the incoming Monroe administration through political patronage. In part: "…It is said that there are to be some changes in the custom house department--vacancies are also perpetually occurring in other offices, some of which might be worthy of your notice. Gov. Tompkins is very well disposed toward you, but as he undertakes to serve everybody, the result will be that he will serve nobody - either apply, yourself, directly to Monroe or get some friend to do it, or both. You must improve the moment, now that your services are fresh in every one's recollection and your eulogies in every one's mouth….When you once get into a good fat office, you may be as modest as you please."
As commander of the privateer "General Armstrong" in the War of 1812, Reid successfully engaged a British expeditionary force in the port of Fayal in the Azores in September 1814. Ensuing delays postponed the British attack on New Orleans and aided Jackson's defense stragegies. Reid's efforts to capitalize on his fame were successful; he was appointed Sailing Master in the Navy. Four ships have been subsequently named USS Reid in his honor. Moderate toning; small marginal tears. Separate address leaf has manuscript postage and red cancellation.
Estimated Value $1,000 - 1,500.
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| Realized $2,640 |
