Lot 201
Adams, Samuel (1722-1803), Massachusetts signer of the Declaration of Independence, politician, Governor of Massachusetts (1792-1797), principal organizer of Boston Tea Party. Letter Signed, one page, 7¼ x 9, Boston, December 17, 1785. To "Hond Mr Gerry", friend and fellow signer Elbridge Gerry (1744-1814) re Gerry’s upcoming marriage [Gerry was married on January 12, 1786], in full:
"My dear Sir Doctor Holten told me a fortnight ago that he supposed you was then on the road homeward. How difficult it is for us to enter into the fav'rite Designs of each other. The Doctor little thought you fast bound by the Silken Cord. I am glad you have at length open'd your Eyes and are hastening to that State which is design'd to promote the greatest Happiness in Life. If you can possibly find Leisure at this engaging Period, will you be so kind as to advise my Friend Captn Landais who is going to New York to Sollicit after further allowance on his account. I inform'd you of the Particulars in a Letter some Time ago. If you will permit him, he will refresh your memory. I will not trespass on your Time at present any further than to express the Sincerest Wish for your Happiness. you Friend Saml Adams"
Excellent condition with small sealed split of fold in blank left margin; accompanied by an engraved portrait.
Estimate 1,500 - 2,000
The "friend Captn Landais" to whom Adams refers, is Captain Pierre Landais (1731-1820), a Frenchman who was awarded a commission in the Continental Navy and given command of the 32-gun frigate Alliance attached to the fleet of John Paul Jones. In a great sea battle off Flamborough Head on the north coast of England, in which Jones was to utter the immortal "I have not yet begun to fight," Landais, apparently driven by jealousy or pride, did not hold up his end of the battle. The few shots fired by the Alliance, in fact, were broadsides on Jones’ already stricken Bon Homme Richard. Jones accused Landais of gross insubordination and of intentionally firing on his ship. The matter was referred to the Continental Congress and ultimately Landais was court-martialed, stripped of his rank and drummed out of the Navy. He settled in New York where he regularly submitted claims for money supposedly owed him by the federal government, a fact also referred to by Adams in this letter.
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| Realized $3,750 |
