Lot 259
John Adams (1735-1826), Second President of the U.S. (1797-1801). Autograph Letter Signed, one page, 7½ x 10, Grosvenor Square [London], September 5, 1787. Written, while Minister to the Netherlands and to Great Britain, to "Mr. Dumas", Adams apologizes for the delay in procuring payment for Dumas’ services, in full:
"Dear Sir I am very much concerned that an absence in the Country should have so long delayed my answer to your Letter of the tenth of July. There is no Act of Congress which authorises me expressly, to order the Payment of your Salary: But the Representation in your Letter supported by the extract from that of Mr [Thomas] Jefferson to you of the 14. of June last, show such an absolute necessity of it that I have inclosed to you a Letter to Messrs Willniks and Van. Haphorst, authorising them to pay your Salary once in Six Months, till further orders from Congress, the Board of Treasury or Sir, your most obedient, and most humble Servant. John Adams"
Fine condition with very minor edge flaws, in a custom quarter-leather portfolio with historical background and an engraved portrait.
Estimate 7,500 - 10,000
Charles W.F. Dumas was the Agent for the United States in the Hague. He assisted in the completion of a commercial treaty between Prussia and the U.S. in the Fall of 1785. These are the services for which Adams is trying to procure payment. The letter mentions Thomas Jefferson, who at the time was Minister to France and was also involved in the treaty negotiations.
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| Realized $7,500 |
