Lot 267
James Monroe (1758-1831), Fifth President of the U.S. (1817-1825), Secretary of State (1811-1817) and of War (1814-1815) under Madison. Autograph Letter Signed as Governor of Virginia, one full page, 8 x 9½ Washington, February 7, 1803. To his former personal secretary, John H. Purviance, in Baltimore, in part:
"I regret much that so much delay has taken place in answering yr favors to Richmond & this place. I knew nothing of my appointment to the office lately conferr'd on me & return'd home immediately to adjust my private affairs. You may be assured that such is my friendship for you that I should in all cases be happy to forward yr views where it was in my power. In the present it is not so; no sec'y is allowed to the mission, and if one was the appointment would be made by the government not me. So many applications have been made to me that it would be painful to me to decide, had I the power, between my friends. I hope to see you as I pass thro’ Bal. on thursday or friday next. Sincerely I am yr. friend, Jas. Monroe"
With integral address leaf in his own hand, red "Washn. City, Feb 7" postmark, forwarded to Hagers Town Md. with red "Balte. Md. Feb 9". Remarkably fine condition, accompanied by an engraved portrait.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000
This letter was written shortly after Monroe had been appointed by Jefferson to negotiate the Louisiana Purchase from France and before he had departed for Paris.
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| Realized $4,250 |
