Lot 38
Washington, George -- 1793 ALS as President. (1732-1799) First President of the United States (1789-97); Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army (1775-83). Autograph letter signed "Go: Washington" as President, 1 1/3 pages, recto/verso, 8¾ x 7¼", Mount Vernon, April 13, 1793. The President writes to James Keith, a lawyer in Alexandria, Va., attempting to settle the complicated estate of the brothers John Colville (who died in 1755) and Col. Thomas Colville (who died in 1766), of which Washington was an executor. John Colville had been a land speculator from 1739, securing land by grant or by buying up the grants of others.With over 350 words in Washington's hand, just over a month after his second inauguration. In full:
"Dr Sir, Your letter of the 8th has been duly received. You, better than I, can acct. for the smaller judgment being for two hundred and odd pounds more than is due. Justice to all parties, & a speedy settlement of the whole, is all I am at. The latter, as I have often repeated, I am extremely desirous to have accomplished.
Was I to see Colo. Hooe, which is not likely now to happen, as I am in the very act of Setting off for Philadelphia; I should be at a loss to know what to say to him respecting the charge on Acct of Giles. By the papers alone I could be governed in any conversati[o]n held with him and these you have. If my memory does not deceive me, however (but on it I never rely)--there is a particular statement of this matter in the Will of Thomas Colvill. If it is justly due to the Tankervilles, it ought undoubtedly to be paid, -- if it is not, I, as certainly ought not to allow it. I rely therefore on you to have the matter thoroughly investigated, either by yourself, or some other eminent in Law that I may act safely. for I have had too much trouble in this business already, to lay the foundation for more, by allowing a claim if it requires authentication.
Messrs. Wilson & Dunlap on Tuesday the 2d inst.t required only 10 Days to consider whether they would pay the judgment on the Bond with--or without interest. This time is elapsed; & delay only can be their object if they have not announced to you --to me they have no--) their determination thereupon. Of course no time should be lost in issuing the Execution. But who is it to be served upon? Cumberland Wilson they say, who has no interest at all in the business! As you are so much better acquainted with this business than I am--& know my objects & wish, I shall, in one word as I shall be out of the State in a few hour--leave the accomplishment of them to you--being Sir Your Most Obedt Humble Servant Go: Washington."
Minor infill, affecting a few words. Right margin uneven, affecting a few letters, with a small edge tear and a couple of small closed tears. Overall boldly penned and signed with a superb signature. Estimate Value $7,500 - UP
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| Realized $14,375 |
