Lot 247
La Fayette, Marquis de (1757-1834), French nobleman, soldier and adventurer, joined the Continental forces as a Major General at the age of 20, in 1779 returned to France to solicit French aid for his new nation, after the War worked with U.S. Ambassadors to France, Franklin and then Jefferson, on behalf of America's interests. Autograph Letter Signed, "L.F.", 1¼ pages, 6½ x 8¼ La Grange [La Fayette’s estate] near Roy, 7th Ventose [February 25] [1800]. To William Vans Murray, U.S. Minister plenepotentiary, then in Paris to negotiate the France-Convention of 1800, in part:
"My Dear Sir. I expected to have had before this day the consolation to see you — I want it the more as you was a worthy friend of my Paternal General, as you know how to value, how to lament the unexpected Loss we have sustained. It is he who advised against my intended voyage. Had the delay been occasioned by other motives than my filial deference for this Great and Good friend, I would be miserable indeed. Had any decline of his health warned me of the mournfull event, nothing in the world, not even his injunctions, would have prevented my seeing him once more. Such a place he has for so many years had in my life, my actions, my sentiments and my thoughts, that I hardly can believe that while I am living his earthly existence is only to be remembered — That it shall be with tears, love, and respect by every one who knew him, and who knew him better than I did."
"…The friendship which united you to him whom we have lost shall, I hope, to the last moment of our lives, be a bond of our mutual and intimate affection. With the highest respect I am dear Sir Yours. L.F."
He also mentions the ongoing negotiations: "You will…be satisfied with the intentions of this Government. I have no share in the public affairs, nor will I have any - But I am persuaded the dispositions towards America are such as cannot fail to forward your negotiations."
With integral address leaf in La Fayette’s hand, docketed "M. La Fayette, Recd. 2 Mar. 1800 Paris". Minor splitting and small piece missing on blank edge of address leaf, mounting remnant where previously tipped to another sheet, Fine condition, enclosed in a custom quarter-leather portfolio with historical background and an engraved portrait.
Estimate 3,000 - 4,000
A HIGHLY DESIRABLE ASSOCIATION SHOWING THE CLOSE BOND LA FAYETTE FELT WITH WASHINGTON, WHOM HE NEVER SAW AGAIN AFTER THEIR FINAL PARTING IN 1784.
William Vans Murray (1760-1803) was frequently consulted by President Washington and advised him on the appointments of James McHenry as Secretary of War and Samuel Chase to the U.S. Supreme Court.
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| Realized $32,500 |
