Lot 139
[Siege of Boston] General Sullivan Plans to Use A Loyalist's Home, Original retained copy signed by Simon Tufts, agent in care of the estates of Colonel Isaac Royal, a Loyalist who fled the country at the outbreak of the Revolution, one page, 7½ x 6¼ inches (Medford), January 10, 1775. To General James Sullivan regarding the use of Isaac Royall's house. In part, "I have no Objection to your living in Coll; Royales House as you proposed; But it is beyond my Power to oblige you with the whole of the Furniture as you desired. For Mrs. Tufts tells me that there was no Linnen in the Trunk…it being mostly sent to Boston last Winter; but 3 or 4 Sheets & them poor ones left & little or no Table Linnen. If you can supply the Place of them, the other Articles you may have…." A brief postscript refers to payment for any damage to the furniture and house. Iron gall ink has eroded two crossed out words, else in overall fine shape.
After Royall fled to England, the General Court confiscated his estate. His mansion was used during the early months of the Revolution by Generals Lee, Stark, and Sullivan, and was visited by George Washington who, according to legend, interrogated two British soldiers in the Marble Chamber. After the Revolution, Washington's secretary, Colonel Cary, lived in the house for two years.
Estimated Value $400 - 600
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| Realized $540 |
