Manuscripts Collection
Allyn Kellogg Ford, a native of Allegheny, Pennsylvania, was born March 8, 1878, and came to Minneapolis at the age of five. He was a partner with Luther Ford and Company, Minneapolis, a manufacturer of laundry products. Ford was Minnesota president of the Sons of the American Revolution, a founder of the Minneapolis Better Business Bureau, and a charter member and secretary of the Minneapolis Rotary Club. He was an avid collector of stamps and historical documents. Ford died April 5, 1964, and was buried at Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis.
The Ford manuscripts are more than an autograph collection. Nearly every item also has historical importance. The materials span five centuries and several continents. Most are from United States personalities and the majority are of historical as well as autograph value. The earliest is a document signed by the Duke of Burgundy in 1472; the latest is a letter written by President Richard M. Nixon in 1970. Ford purposefully sought out documents that would reflect their writers' personalities, lives, and times, and he spent many hours researching their background and significance. Ford gathered the manuscripts over a period of thirty-five years and they were presented to the Minnesota Historical Society by his wife Emily Brazer Ford in 1965.
The genesis of Ford's collection was his acquisition in 1927 of 122 letters received by General George Weedon, aide-de-camp to George Washington during the 1781 Yorktown campaign and later commander of Virginia militia at Fredericksburg and Gloucester. Among the Weedon items are letters from some of the most famous Revolutionary War officers and Founding Fathers, including Washington, the Marquis de Lafayette and his aide James McHenry, Thomas Jefferson, Baron von Steuben, Richard Henry Lee, and Thomas Nelson. Most were written in 1781, reflecting the progress of the Virginia campaign that culminated in the surrender on October 19 of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown. They are an especially valuable source of information on supply and manpower logistics involved in sustaining military operations and defenses in the Virginia countryside.
In addition to the Weedon materials, about eighty other items in the collection also date between 1766 and 1783, and nearly all pertain directly to the Revolution. A number of letters touch on other landmark events of the period: the Battle of Bunker Hill, Benedict Arnold's treason, the sieges of Boston and New York, and the campaigns on the frontier, in Canada, and in South Carolina. Authors include Arnold, Patrick Henry, Samuel Adams, and Anthony Wayne, as well as several soldiers and civilians in New England, Pennsylvania, and Quebec. The collection includes letters from thirty-one of the fifty-six signers of the Declaration of Independence, many written during the war. A letter by British philosopher and government official David Hume in 1766 occupies six closely written pages in describing discussions in Parliament over the repeal of the Stamp Act.
There are 165 Presidential letters and documents, signed by every president through 1970 except John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson and by some of the First Ladies. Among them are printed or engraved invitations to inaugural events or social affairs, letters written by Zachary Taylor from Fort Snelling and during the Mexican War, two letters written by George Washington at Valley Forge, five personal letters from Andrew Jackson, and a variety of letters to Rose Elizabeth Cleveland, sister of President Grover Cleveland. Theodore Roosevelt in 1900 is philosophical about talk of his being nominated for Vice President: "Blessed are they that expect nothing, for they shall not be disappointed." A variety of U.S. congressmen, statesmen, and state government officials are also represented in the collection, particularly via letters collected by Powell Stackhouse, Jr., in the 1840s.
Many classic American and British authors are represented in the papers, including Louisa May Alcott, Pearl Buck, Charles Dickens, Bret Harte, Washington Irving, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Sir Walter Scott, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Alfred Tennyson, and John Greenleaf Whittier. Cowboy humorist Will Rogers complained that "we are the funniest Nation in the World to other Nations and yet we look down on our Comedians." Thomas Aldrich thanked a friend for retrieving his spectacles, and had evidently learned a lesson. "When I again visit Mr. Clemens," he vowed, "I shall take care not to bring my gold-mounted glasses along with me .... Mark Twain can always resist anything but temptation." And Henry Bunner explained his poetry this way: "I've proposed to my girl, long ago, and got bounced .... That's the reason I took to poetry -- some men take to drink, but poetry is cheaper."
Science and exploration is another, although more minor, focus of the collection. Letters to Alexander D. Bache refer to his work as superintendent of the U.S. Coast Survey in the early 1860s. There are letters from several individuals involved with or interested in the development of the telegraph and trans-Atlantic cable. Among the Revolutionary War letters are several references to medical matters, especially smallpox. Other letters mention various Arctic exploration expeditions, advances in transportation, scientific instruments and equipment, and similar matters.
Among other items in the Ford Collection are legal documents of colonial America; long, detailed letters on the Mexican War; letters from Civil War heroes; a letter describing the battle between the ironclads Monitor and Merrimac; letters or documents of various British and other European political figures and heads of state; an illuminated manuscript from the sixteenth century; and letters about life and politics in Russia, Turkey, China, Haiti, and India. Perhaps the most unusual item is a marriage agreement, dated 1706, which is written on a sheet of paper a foot wide and ten feet long; it lists more than 400 points on which the bride and groom pledged agreement.
The collection also includes an acquisition card file prepared by Ford that identifies the author, date, physical description, and Ford's acquisition number of each item. A card index prepared by Minnesota Historical Society staff identifies items within the collection by place, occupation, subject, type of document, date, and authors of multiple letters.
The documents are organized into the following sections:
The original documents have been microfilmed and are closed to general use. Access and use of the original documents requires the curator's permission.
Saint Paul, Minnesota: Minnesota Historical Society, 1965. 5 reels ; 35 mm.
Microfilm available for interlibrary loan or sale from the Minnesota Historical Society.
Non-Minnesota documents were deaccessioned in 2010 and are no longer in the collections of the Minnesota Historical Society.
Accession number: 10,055; 10,243; 11,446
Processed by: Lydia Lucas, 1975; Heidi Zimmerman, 1998; Lydia Lucas and David B. Peterson, 2012
Catalog ID number: 001715188
Most individual items in the Ford collection have been given abbreviated material designations to indicate if an item is signed, handwritten (autograph) or typed, a draft or a letter, manuscript, document or note. Designations used in this inventory include:
AD (autograph document)
ADf (autograph draft)
ADfS (autograph draft signed)
ADS (autograph document signed)
AL (autograph letter)
ALS (autograph letter signed)
AM (autograph manuscript)
AMsS (autograph manuscript signed)
AN (autograph note)
ANS (autograph note signed)
DS (document signed)
LS (letter signed)
TLS (typed signed letter)
Identification of author, recipient, date, and places of origin and receipt were taken from either the document or its envelope, if one was included. All personal names are written in their fullest verifiable (or, occasionally, their most common) form, with brackets used only where a name or portion of a name was in doubt. In instances where Ford acquired a group of letters written to a particular person, the recipient's name was verified from his records if it did not appear in full on the document; this is the case particularly with George Weedon, Rose E. Cleveland, Powell Stackhouse Jr., E. G. W. Butler, and Alexander D. Bache.
All place names are spelled in modern form (Columbia Lippincott Gazetteer), and state names are written out or supplied where missing. All dates are written out in full, regardless of how they appear on the documents, with bracketing reserved for date information supplied from an external source or surmised from the document's content. Such cataloger-supplied annotations as "undated," "n.y." (no year), "n.p." (no place), and "addressee unknown" are not bracketed.
Includes envelope. Offers to sing "Auld Lang Syne” for President Cleveland during her visit to Washington, and congratulates Miss Cleveland on her book.
Includes envelope. Thanks Ford for photograph of Cromwell document and suggests source of information on "Mr. Mayhew.”
Cover note on campaign broadside. Urges nomination of Richard Jackson for office of First Magistrate (a compromise candidate to eliminate party feuds in Rhode Island). Signed by M.[?] E. Gorton, William Valentine, William Goddard, Thomas Coles, Benjamin Dyer, and James Rhodes. With note of transmittal on face of document from Aborn to Waterman, asking for his support. On inside of document, in unidentified handwriting, are rules for maintaining good health. (George Waterman is a doctor).
Personal letter concerning his health and neighborhood news. (Zuriel Waterman is a physician, Cranston, Rhode Island, 1756-1786.)
Fills the recipient’s request for a John Quincy Adams autograph, gives information on John Quincy Adams, and also sends autographs of Webster, Clay, Calhoun.
Agrees that Army and Navy are both essential to "interests and greatness” of the United States.
(To Clay as Secretary of State.) "Best to wait until we hear further from Mr. Gallatin before giving him new instructions regarding modifications proposed by British Government to Convention of 1818 upon its renewal. Does not seem possible that a settlement on the Northwest coast will receive congressional sanction within the next ten years, but if it should, the stipulation that either party may within twelve months notice annul the convention would enable them to undertake it as freely as if we had no engagement of forbearance. Nevertheless prefers renewal of convention unaltered."
Note of well-wishing. Probably to Mrs. Richard Bland Lee, then eighty years old, a friend of Dolly Madison’s. Includes penciled notations.
John Quincy Adams is Secretary of State in President Madison’s Cabinet and Govan is a congressman from South Carolina[?].
Asks Sibley to deliver three books to David C. Scudder. (Adams is a Congregational clergyman of Massachusetts, author of South Side View of Slavery. Sibley is librarian of H[arvard] College.)
Appoints him ensign of a company in the First Regiment, Second Brigade, Eighth Division, Massachusetts Militia in Lincoln County.
Adee as Acting Secretary of State sends three copies of a proclamation by the United States President regarding the existence of war between the United States and Spain. The proclamation (declaring the United States at war with Spain on April 25) is not included.
Certificate of his parentage, from which he became an American in 1778. Evidently a handwritten copy of the original certificate. Includes translation.
Repays forty dollars he lent her, with thanks. Fields is Alcott’s publisher.
She is President-General of the International Sunshine Society in New York and its founder. Joslyn is of the editorial department of the Buffalo Evening News. She thanks him for the editorial in behalf of their home in New Jersey, and comments on attacks being made on the Society.
Thanks for sending his spectacles back. "When I again visit Mr. Clemens I shall take care not to bring my gold-mounted glasses along with me. Like the late Oscar Wilde, Mark Twain can always resist anything but temptation.”
Letter relating to the death of Mr. Butler (Edward Hubert Butler, journalist, editor and owner of the Buffalo Evening News, and on the board of trustees of Grosvenor Library).
With decorative envelope. Note to "Dear Rollie” from "Affie,” sending bonbons.
Includes envelope. Invites Prescott to dinner at Popil House, Glasgow. (Alison and Prescott are both historians.)
Orders him to pay 31 pounds to John Hoyt.
Letter relating to the behavior of Butler’s son Lawrence Lewis Butler in France.
Includes envelope. Discusses Democratic party politics in Massachusetts, Hayes’ effort at civil service reform, Benjamin Butler, U. S Grant, and the 1880 Presidential election.
Includes envelope. News of family and friends, Boston weather. Distrusts U.S. government officials (Blaine, Conkling, etc.), tired of hearing about General Grant, and dislikes openness of U. S. immigration policies.
Includes envelope. Expressions of friendship.
Includes Special Order No. 9, November 1, 1864 (DS., 1 page.). Civil War letter to Parkinson explaining his duties. Encloses Special Order No.9, A. Anderson to Parkinson, appointing him an Engineer of Repairs, United States Military Railroads, Military Division of the Mississippi, in general charge of repairs of road, bridges, buildings, etc. of the lines terminating at Nashville.
Handwritten orders limiting the number of employees and extra duty men in Hindman’s Corps. (Anderson is Assistant Adjutant General to various general officers in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.)
Asks for a return [list] of the militia under Weedon’s command, with their time of service, arms and equipment. General Washington came yesterday, and Anderson thinks a movement will shortly take place. (Preparations for movement against Cornwallis at Yorktown and Gloucester).
Major Anderson thanks Davis for the $250 that Davis sent him to distribute among his comrades at Fort Sumter. (Attack on Fort Sumter is April 11-12, 1861.)
Thanks Kunft for making arrangements that enabled him to fulfill his engagements last Friday. Sir Henry P[?] told him the Queen wanted him (Andrew) to attend if possible.
"There will be no field officers on duty at Williamsburg to take command of any of the battalions Weedon is marching down. Lt. Colonel Dabney (commanding at Half-Way House between York and Hampton) is the only field officer to be left in the Neck below Sandy Point. Andrews’ force is only about four hundred men, who want to go home. General Nelson expects to start up-country tomorrow." (Andrews is Secretary to General Thomas Nelson.)
"A body of London [Virginia] militia have been ordered to join Weedon immediately (400 or 500 men). Governor has directed all Negroes taken from the enemy be returned to their former owners. 'The Principle on which it is supposed men fight at present is to protect and secure to themselves and fellow Citizens their Liberties and Property, and not to procure Plunder.'"
Encloses printed copy of the poem "Carthage.” Sends poem and gives its history and asks that it not be known that he wrote to her. Tells a little of himself and his Confederate Army service.
Fragment (first four pages only). Comments on resolve [regarding mode of payment for army officers?] recently passed by Congress (the comments of General Washington, who the author is commissioned by the field officers to consult). Problems of victualing and paying for the army, issuing of rations and Mr. Sandys’ complaints regarding some of the procedures, contractors’ problems in obtaining a fair payment, conflicts of interest between officers and contractors.
Single sheet of paper containing a single paragraph. "People are already beginning to look on slaveholding as a crime, and in later years will regard it with the same abhorrence with which we regard piracies of Barbary."
Has sent Bourne a post note for $170; laments irregularity of post mail, which is due (he thinks) to carelessness of post riders.
On National Woman Suffrage Association stationery. Asks for appointment with Miss Cleveland.
Binds Asa Geer, son of Elisabeth Parke and one of the poor of the town, to John Geer and his wife to serve as an apprentice until age twenty-one. His master will teach him to write and cipher, provide him with suitable board and clothes.
Arista (1820-1855) is a Mexican general in wars of Mexican independence; in 1836 is second-in-command to Santa Anna; during Mexican War commanded at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Plama; in June 1848 is appointed minister of war under President Herrera; in 1850-1853 is President of Mexico.
The President of the Council of Pennsylvania has published charges (dated February 3, 1779) tending to prejudice the public against Arnold. He therefore sends Rodney the proceedings of the court martial on his trial, and asks him to lay them before the Council and General Assembly, so as to clear Arnold’s character. (Rodney is President of Delaware). In 1778-1779 Arnold, recovering in Philadelphia from injuries, lived extravagantly, associated with Tories, got in debt, and quarreled with Joseph Reed, president of the Pennsylvania executive council, who brought charges against him. The charges were investigated by a committee of Congress in 1779, and he is acquitted on all that affected his integrity. Reed then claimed to have new evidence and Congress handed matters to a court martial which also acquitted Arnold (January 1780).
Transmits a return of the stores at West Point and mentions his most immediate needs for repair and maintenance of post and housing of troops. (At house of Colonel Beverly Robinson, opposite West Point, occupied by Arnold as his headquarters. Pickering is quartermaster general, U.S. Army. Arnold is preparing to stock West Point for surrender.)
Draft copy. Asks payment of his claims against British Government for cash he advanced during his service in West Indies in the early 1790s, so he can pay his debts. (Pitt is Prime Minister of England.)
Arnold is master of the Betsey, from Bordeaux bound for Providence. Gives numbers and descriptions of casks, packages and contents (liquors, fine foods, and clothes), and consignee. Certified by Jere[mia]h Olney, Custom-House, Providence, Rhode Island, October 3, 1791 (collector of customs.)
Regrets unable to dine with her.
To her sister, replying to Phebe’s "consolatory Epistle” with professions of her (Zerviah’s) belief in an afterworld and the goodness and mercy of God. Also, she knows of a medicine that she thinks will cure Phebe entirely.
On letterhead stationery of Arthur, Phelps, Knevals and Ransom, New York (law offices). Notifies Lewis of a meeting February 10th of the commissioners for opening Spuyten[?] Duyvil Parkway, at the law offices.
Signed by Arthur as U.S. President and Lincoln as Secretary of War.
Engraved dinner invitation.
Refers a Mrs. C. S. Wilson, a stranger in destitute circumstances, to her for aid. Also signed "I cordially approve of the above, Edmund Deacon, Publisher of the Saturday Evening Post.” (Arthur is an author of temperance literature. Mrs. Townsend did charity and rehabilitation work in Philadelphia and vicinity.)
(Asbury is a Methodist Episcopal missionary bishop.)
Small slip of paper with Ashburton’s signature at the close of a letter. On reverse is memo of donations[?] to ”Kirk and School” 1808-1810. (Ashburton (1774-1848) managed his father’s financial house of Baring Brothers and Company, is made a peer in 1835.)
Complying with Stackhouse’s request for autograph. (Ashley is Senator from Arkansas, 1844-1848.)
Astor has received the furs Smith sent him by Mr. Kipp and most are o.k., except there were too many large thick-pelted ones among the bears, but he has taken most at the highest price, partly to reward Smith for his efforts in getting them. He will try to pay cash, but do not tell that to the Janes[?] [or Kanes?], who are very jealous of him (Smith). Attaches list of pelts sent and prices paid. (Smith is a merchant and Astor’s fur trade partner in 1788-1789. They opened a general store in Utica in 1789, traded with Indians, speculated in land.)
Complies with Canby’s request for autograph. (Atherton is United States Representative from New Hampshire 1837-1843, Senator 1843-1849, 1853.)
Envelope letter, written from Goodburn[?] House. Hopes James will spend much time with them if he comes to England next year. Talks of Richmond and vicinity. (Author is James’ brother. First name is illegible.)
Letter relates to Bacheller book Keeping Up with Lizzie (published 1911) which he is writing. "I’ll be in New York next week and if you care for it we’ll talk about terms.” (Duneka is manager of Harper and Brothers.)
Complies with Stackhouse’s request for an autograph. (Bagby is Governor of Alabama, 1837-1841, United States Senator, 1841-1848.)
Holograph. Lists charges for his services at funerals (ringing bell, digging grave, attending funeral).
States that on June 4, 1799, Fortesue Cuming is delivered to bail at the suit of James Griffiths, of a plea of trespass on the case. (Filed at Mayor’s Court, June 13, 1799, Cuming adv Griffith.)
States that on May 14, 1799, George Campbell is delivered to bail at the suit of Robert Barnes of a plea of trespass on the case, $100. (Filed at Mayor’s Court, June 24, 1799, Campbell adv Barnes.)
States that on May 14, 1799, Francis Dawson is delivered to bail at the suit of Johnson Robins in a plea of trespass on the case. (Filed at Mayor’s Court, August 7, 1799. Francis Dawson adv Johnson Robins.)
States that on August 27, 1799, Moses Coe is delivered to bail at the suit of Hendrick Sherman of a plea of trespass (slander), $249. (Filed at Mayor’s Court, September 2, 1799, Coe adv Sherman.)
Illustrated (with pen sketch) autograph, on parchment. (Bairnsfather is a writer of books and cartoons on the World Wars and miscellany.)
Complies with Stackhouse’s request for autograph. (Sherman is Governor of Connecticut, 1844-1847, United States Senator, 1847.)
Doubts wisdom of freezing social security tax at one percent, anticipates heavy postwar demand. (United States Senator from Minnesota.)
Single certificate, for shares numbered 28748 and 28749, to Daniel Deadys[?], for two shares in Baltimore and Fredericktown Turnpike Road. Signed by W. Cooke (Treasurer) and William Jessop (President) with company seal. (Constructed first link in Maryland’s highway to the west.)
Will receive Miss Cleveland tomorrow at 3:00. Impatient to see her. Finds from Miss Cleveland’s book that her outlook on this world is similar to her own.
Letter home to his mother-in-law. Impressions of the Navy Department and Washington. Asks her to take good care of his wife. (Historian and diplomat; Secretary of the Navy, March 1845-September 1846.)
With envelope (unstamped) addressed to her at the President’s Mansion. Asks for leave to call on her on Monday evening the eleventh, with his granddaughter and a young married woman.
With unstamped envelope addressed to her at the President’s mansion. Weather makes it advisable for him to stay home. He dines with her brother at Secretary Bayard’s tomorrow.
Thanks for flowers sent to his sick wife.
Thanks for note of sympathy on the death of Bancroft’s wife.
Daughter of James and Margaret Richmond Cochrane (James Cochrane is a flint glass manufacturer in Haddington Place). Signed by John Adams, sessions clerk.
Asks her to accept a manuscript, which she can publish if she wants to. Barbé-Marbois is Minister of France under Napoleon; negotiated sale of Louisiana to the United States; is created Marquis by Louis XVIII; became French Minister of Justice. Includes translation.
Has given orders, per Weedon’s request, to hold as many men as possible in readiness to march when the Potomac is invaded. But since there have been complaints that rotation has not been observed in calling out militia from the different counties, the Governor has decided that orders will come from him. Advises Weedon to obtain an okay from the Governor. (Thomas Jefferson is governor).
Five verses in his handwriting.
Did Waterman or Captain Rhodes ever receive the two half Johanna[?] he sent to Waterman’s care? Waterman is not likely to get any prize money from the vessel and cargo he [Waterman] referred to, since its passport is found to be genuine. (To Dr. Waterman of the brig General Gregory.)
"…I can no longer regard you as I did before and …our present relations are necessarily changed.” He detests secession and cannot overlook that Beauregard is now in arms against the country he is trained to serve and did serve in the Mexican War. Still entertains kind personal regards for him, but deplores his position. Expressions of sorrow and regret that Beauregard has accepted a Confederate commission. (Barnard is a U. S. Army engineer.)
Discusses Benedict’s proposal to establish a scientific society in Pawtucket, recommending a wide scope and advising him as to its organization and nature. (Barnes is a Baptist college educator and conchologist in New York; Benedict is a Baptist minister and author.)
Barnes can not comply with his request for proceedings of the recently adjourned Constitutional Convention until they are issued in volumes.
On letterhead stationery, "The Gables.” Two enclosures: signatures of Archbishop Tache, First Archbishop of St. Boniface, and of Major Grandin, first Bishop of St. Albert. Friendly message, and sends the autographs. (Willis is a lawyer; Barrett is active in Catholic Church.)
Declines an invitation. ("Dear Bobby” may be Robert Howard Russell.)
With envelope. Thanks for Gibson picture he sent her.
Bartlett expects tomorrow to be able to discharge the demand Jenks had against him. (Bartlett is a Massachusetts adventurer, actor, senator, attorney. Jenks is a Congregational clergyman.)
Ill health prevented him from calling on Jenks last Monday. Will call Friday and hopes Jenks will go with him to Salem. (Jenks is probably a student at Harvard; he graduated there in 1797.)
Comments on his liking for Jenks, on Dr. May’s[?] dissertation, and on Dr. Clark’s letters.
Is sending his carriage for Jenks and hopes Jenks’ visit with him will restore his health.
An elaboration on his previous letter.
Urges him not to despair of getting well.
Jenks’ father is coming to take him to Watertown.
Hopes he is better, is glad he is living with such good people, will come see him next week, let Bartlett know if he needs anything.
Glad to hear he is better. Gives advice on improving his health.
Sends him a pair of stockings, happy he is better, has paid the trifle Jenks owes Kimball.
Expressions of confidence in his ultimate restoration to full health and happiness. "Every thing I have is at your service.”
Will meet him soon.
Gratified at the confidence Jenks places in him, will do anything for Jenks, there is no doubt Jenks will return to college.
Happy to hear he is almost able to return to college.
He will be readmitted to college with no trouble; Bartlett is sending a horse and chaise for him.
Advises him to spend a few more days with Mr. Dit before going on to Cambridge, since the weather is stormy.
Come soon and spend a day. Happy to hear he is better.
Sorry the weather prevented Jenks from visiting, expects him Thursday, his friends at college are anxious to see him.
Expected Jenks would have spent a few days with him. Why doesn’t he write?
Acknowledges receipt of Jenks’ letter enclosing fifty dollars, and sends receipt. Hopes in the future Jenks will give him a more generous remuneration.
Bartlett is sick and destitute and asks for aid.
Cover letter, sending vote of the General Court directing two companies of men be raised to defend the western frontier; and Chase is to have the selectmen of the towns from which men are raised pay for travel to a rendezvous. [Enclosure is not present.] Bartlett is chairman, Committee of Safety, Exeter; Chase is a colonel.
Written from prison, asking Bradley to plead his case, and wants to know what he will have to pay. (Barton is a Revolutionary War soldier, captured British General Robert Prescott in 1777. Later his right to a piece of land in Vermont is contested, he refused to pay a judgment and is imprisoned in Danville for fourteen years. Lafayette paid his claim in 1825 and he is freed. Bradley is a Vermont lawyer, and United States Representative.)
With envelope. He has received Butler’s letter inquiring about a contemplated biography of Andrew Jackson and sent it to Jackson’s grandson for answer. (Bate is Governor of Tennessee.)
Sends letter from Colonel Andrew Jackson regarding President Jackson’s papers. The family’s finances are poor, and Bate hopes the government will buy the papers.
(Author and poet from Cambridge, Massachusetts.)
Includes envelope addressed to Executive Mansion. Would like to drive with her, but is afraid to venture out in an open carriage. Anxious to see her and awaits her convenience. (Bayard came to Washington, D.C. in March 1885, died January 31, 1886.)
Includes unstamped envelope addressed to Executive Mansion. Will be delighted to join her and see the children.
Chargè d’affaires Mr. Lee’s declining to transmit Myer’s monograph on the Waterloo Medal to the Emperor of Austria is in accord with precedent in these matters. The new minister Mr. Lawton will seek an informal way of presenting it. (Bayard is United States Secretary of State.)
With envelope addressed to Executive Mansion. Invites her and Mr. and Mrs. Cleveland to drive with him and daughters. "In this administration the rule seems to be ‘business first and pleasure at no time.’”
Congratulates Shields for his "manly declaration of independence of attempted intellectual tyranny and moral coercion by certain of your associates.” (Shields is professor of the harmony of science and revealed religion at Princeton University.)
Certifies that Cruse has qualified as Justice of the Peace by taking the prescribed oaths.
Farewell address. Beauregard is being transferred to the Department of Kentucky and Tennessee, for defense of the Mississippi Valley.
Describes destruction at Würzburg, efforts at relief, expresses appreciation for contributions made by Faribault citizens. Asks Ford to try to stimulate interest in Würzburg among patriotic societies and churches in Minneapolis. (Beebe is Commanding General, Headquarters, Würzburg Military Post, United States Army.
Includes envelope. Appreciates Ford’s interest in Würzburg relief work.
Includes unstamped envelope addressed to Cleveland at Executive Mansion. Written from "Williard’s Hotel.” Thanks Cleveland for her hospitality when Mrs. Beecher paid her a call, and expresses friendship.
Written on two little illustrated cards. Invites her and President Cleveland to Peekskill. Congratulates her on her book. Thanks for photo of President Cleveland and she will send one of Mr. Beecher.
Written on illustrated note paper. Sends news clip with endorsement of Cleveland by Judge Noah Davis (a former enemy) and comments. Speaks of grave illness of her son’s wife.
Expressions of her loss in death of Mr. Beecher a year ago.
With unstamped envelope addressed to her at the White House. Introductory letter for Mrs. Upshur, who wants a government position. Recommends her on grounds of humanity and patriotism.
Refers to Bell’s hobby of silver collecting and his attendance at a recent sale.
Includes envelope. Thanks for invitation to meeting of National Society of Autograph Collectors (declines).
Includes envelope. Invitation to luncheon for people active in readying the Bell Room at the University of Minnesota Library
Includes envelope. Declines engagement at Ford’s house that evening. Special delivery letter.
Complies with Stackhouse’s request for autograph. Bell is President Harrison’s Secretary of War, and United States Senator, 1847-1859.
Suggests a day for them to lunch together. Doubts if they could agree on a price for serial rights to his article. Would be very willing to write for the recipient’s "famous paper ”
On letterhead card, Author's Club. Rideing can rejoin the Author’s Club without formality of election.
On letterhead stationery of Cunard R.M.S Lusitania. He will arrive tonight, can not go direct to San Francisco, will visit Boston before the 10th of November.
On letterhead stationery of George H. Doran, New York City. Would be delighted to meet his leading men, but not at a dinner if he has to make a speech.
On letterhead stationery of George H. Doran, New York City. Thanks for books which Braithwaite let him have. (Braithwaite is an anthologist and poet.)
Statesman, 1782-1858.
He is changing lodgings, and dares not ask his friend to visit until he is settled. Bethune is a Dutch Reformed Church clergyman, writer, and editor.)
Draft no. 41, for 1,318.75 francs, payable to J. J. Sterrett. Signed by J[oseph] Cowperthwait (cashier) and N. Biddle (President).
Unable to address her group on the 14th. (Bigelow is a journalist and author, United States Minister to France 1865-1867, Secretary of State for New York 1867-1868, inspector of Panama Canal 1886.)
Thanks Joslyn for his "friendly judgment” of the first installment of Bigelow’s Retrospections.
Sends her a copy of his book Old Mexico and Her Lost Provinces.
Includes envelope. Thanks him for article in the Ledger. (Childs is proprietor of the Philadelphia Daily Ledger. Blaine is United States Congressman from Maine 1863-1881; Secretary of State 1881, 1889-1892; candidate for President 1884.)
Includes envelope. Praise for his Recollections.
Thanks for Willis’ congratulations to him on his appointment. News from the White House is encouraging.
With envelope. Believes the scope of the law has been complied with in the witnessing of the will of Mary [------]. (Andrew Jackson is one of the three witnesses.) He has most of Jackson’s papers in Jackson Hall, but the most important are still in the hands of Mr. Kendall, who is writing a biography of Jackson. Jackson had asked him to turn them over to Blair, but he delayed and still has them.
The Adjutant General has so far not been able to find President Jackson’s order of March 3, 1837. Encloses a receipt of the Adjutant General.
With envelope. Compares generalship of Frederick the Great and Napoleon (Carlisle’s comparison), and discusses (with praise) Andrew Jackson’s generalship and the permanence of his contribution to history.
Includes envelope. More on Jackson’s generalship, and the high opinion held by the army of his Adjutant General, Colonel Butler (1814).
With envelope. Discusses annexation of Texas, criticizing Van Buren’s leadership. Fears intrigues of Southerners and Southern sympathizers will lose the 1880 election for the Democratic Party.
With envelope. He is devoting all his spare time this year to the public. Thinks we are in "one of the really great crises of our history.”
"We have been lately sweetened” with the good news from the soldiers of Sumter’s, Washington’s and Marion’s affairs. Admiral de Jounay is dead. "The infamous Arnold” has gone on an expedition to New London. Sends Weedon renewed lottery tickets and his renewed commission.
Answers Stackhouse’s inquiry regarding the wife of Lieutenant [Rankin] Dilworth, stating that she died before her husband left for Mexico. (Bliss is private secretary to President Taylor, 1849-1850. Dilworth died of wounds in September 1846 during the Mexican War.)
Includes envelope. There is no demand in New York for Butler’s wines. Should he forward them to St. Louis?
New York and Albany Railroad Company has just been organized, the directors are determined to make it a success, and they hope to have an engineer corps organized soon. Will take all summer for surveys, and hope to start building both ends at the same time. Perhaps the "Western railroad” should connet with us near Connecticut border. (This scheme eventually died, and the New York and Harlem Railroad acquired all its assets.)
Directors of New York and Albany Railroad Company are still interested in a connection with Connecticut. Directors would be gratified if Holley could assure that Connecticut will take this link. Putnam and Dutchess counties are ready to finance their sections of the road. Hope to start construction in the fall.
Expresses optimism regarding Holley’s Connecticut line. The turning[?] of Holley’s line necessitated one of the New York and Albany lines being made longer, and will Holley reimburse him.
Hopes to pay him and Mr. Sedgwick a quick visit next week. The railroad’s stock is considered A #1. There are four corps [or camps?] of engineers in the field.
To Isaac Huntington, justice of the peace, county of New London. Samuel Pettes is drinking at the house of Nathaniel Lothrop "So that he is thereby Bereaved[?] and Disinabled in the use of his Understanding.”
To Isaac Huntington, justice of the peace, county of New London. Against Samuel Stow and James Bemain, for profaning the Sabbath by quarreling and throwing dirt and dung at each other.
To Isaac Huntington, justice of the peace, county of New London. Against Martha Washbone for profaning the Sabbath by laughing in church.
To Isaac Huntington, justice of the peace, New London county. Against Samuel Crocker for "sinfully and wickedly” saying "Damn ye Grandjurymen.”
To James Wadsworth, justice of the peace, county of New Haven. Against four boys for "unseasonable night walking,” after 9:00.
Warrant to arrest four men for nonattendance at church, "without any reasonable excuse.” Signed by Samuel Huntington, justice of the peace. Huntington is a Connecticut judge; member of the Continental Congress, 1775-1784; signer of the Declaration of Independence; governor of Connecticut, 1786-1796.
To James Wadsworth, justice of the peace, New Haven County. Against Daniel and Rebecca Merwin for playing cards at the house of Jesse Alwell.
In French, on vellum. With details of Minvielle’s service record. Signed "Bonaparte.” Also signed by the minister of war and secretary of state. Document says "par le premier consul: Le secrètaire d’Etat.” The word "Boneparte” is written slantways across the document in front of this.
Sends the letter by Dr. Wilson, appointed by Congress to manage hospitals in Virginia. Letter of introduction for Wilson, and asks Weedon’s friendship toward him.
Small slip of paper saying: November 9th, Boston Theater, Pass two, Edwin Booth.
Note on back: "Lady Charlotte de Bourbon.” Order to pay Captain James Philip Moreau six percent on the sum of £779.3.4 (her stock in South Sea Company), which is now "in Discharge and Annihilation.” (South Sea Company: an English joint-stock company which originated the first of a series of speculative financial ventures known as the South Sea Bubble.)
Items in in French. Includes translation (taken from Allyn K. Ford’s files). Writing to a lady, telling her where she can get a book she wants.
We (Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company) never make loans beyond the limits of the state of Massachusetts. Comments on progress on printing of his book (fourth volume of his translation of Laplace’s Mécanique Céleste). (Bowditch, a mathematician and navigator, in 1823-1838 is actuary to the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company, Boston.)
Acknowledges receipt of his gift of the circle used by Bowditch. The chronometer which Bond had had for some time is again at his service if he wants it, and he may keep it until his death or until it is called for. Signed by N. I., H. I., I. I. & William I. Bowditch.
Boyd wishes he could have made it to the meeting of Friends of Lafayette, or that Ford could have visited Princeton; hopes to see him next time and thank him for his assistance.
The British are advancing with great caution, Americans have taken prisoners and deserters, the bay is covered with dead horses, no one expects them to reach Philadelphia. Recipient’s letter to Morgan got a very lukewarm reaction.
He distributed all his autographs last summer (autograph collection). He lost his election due to divisions between Whigs and Antimasons. Will send Canby a speech of his (Brackenridge’s). Health of self and family.
Complies with his request for an autograph.
Requests a military commission for army service in Mexico. Iowa’s quota (one regiment) has never been called for, and he can easily raise a regiment or battalion, whose members will remain to settle California or New Mexico after service. Asks Haralson to bring him to the President’s attention. With cover note from Haralson to President Polk placing Bradford’s name before him, though he does not know enough of him to recommend him.
Addressed "to Se John Wollastone and the rest of the Trears at Wairs[?] or any two of them.” Warrant to pay to Francis Smith £3000, as part payment for wheat loaded by him for the service of Ireland. With notation of payment, July 21, 1649. Bradshawe is an English judge, signed the death warrant of Charles I.
Includes envelope. Sends him information on swamp land[?] appropriations. Act No. 23, 1858, gave $50,000 for Iberville and St. Martin parishes. [Iberville is E. G.W. Butler’s parish]. Does not know what this is used for, as the swamp land commissioner has not turned over his records, but he has drawn warrants for $49,902.28. For want of information, "this board” has adjourned for a week. All state works are in the same condition. Bragg is commissioner of the board of public works, State of Louisiana.
Engraved invitation to call, evening.
Complies with his request for an autograph.
Disallows a bill of exchange for $100,000 in favor of Miami Exporting Company which Taylor had sent him. Pressed for funds to pay troops. (During War of 1812, Taylor used his credit to pay Kentucky troops. Brent is paymaster general, United States Army.)
What time does Mr. Updon wish to dine with him tonight? Written from Grand Pacific Hotel, Chicago.
On letterhead stationery of Ohio State Archaeological and Historical Society. Received Judge Willis’s report for Philadelphia Prison[?] Congress, and liked its treatment of reformation from a spiritual rather than physical standpoint.
Thanks Joslyn for editorial favorably mentioning him. Reminisces regarding their earlier friendly acquaintance, and wishes to renew it. (Brockway is a penologist, retired from the New York Reformatory, Elmira.)
Signed by Boglie as Minister and Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs (France). Passport to M. Jollivet, Member of Chamber of Deputies, proceeding to London. Co-signed by de Lonnarre [?], Chief of Bureau of Chancellory.
Does not know anything about the Movement. to which her note refers. (Brooks is Protestant Episcopal bishop of Massachusetts.)
Encloses autograph letter of Thomas Campbell [see no.239], and asks them to purchase it or sell it for her. She is in great financial need.
Notifies Joslyn that he is elected a life member of the Buffalo Library. Brief comments on administration of the Library, and obligations of membership. (Brown is librarian of Buffalo Public Library.)
He saw Mr. Wesley Harper this morning. On receiving Mr. Dana’a letter, directions were given to stop any further printing from Two Years Before the Mast.
Declines Hicks’ request to compose a poem for celebration of the Fourth of July by the citizens of Oshkosh, because of old age and lack of time.
Declines invitation to deliver an address to members of Free Church College Theological Society in Glasgow, because House of Commons will be sitting then. (Bryce is Member of Parliament, Aberdeen, Scotland, 1885-1907.)
Mr. [I. Randolph] Clay (secretary of legation) is carrying dispatches to Washington and will stay a few days in Lancaster. Will Mayer extend hospitality to him?
Cannot comply with request to try and obtain a naval appointment for John W. Ashmead. There are no vacancies in the corps of midshipmen from Pennsylvania, anyway.
Invitation to a party or dinner at Carusi’s Saloon.
Engraved invitation, on heavy pressboard paper.
Signed by his secretary. Grants to Horatio Lawrence, assignee of John Robinson (the original grantee) the NE ¼ of Section 3, Township 5N, Range 6W, Ionia (Michigan) District.
(1) Signature cut from letter, pasted onto a 3”x5” card. (2) Page two of a letter on the Roster (planned as a clearing house for information pertaining to China); page one is missing.
Includes envelope. Asks him to read an enclosed report (not included) and give "support in this effort.”
On stationery of China Relief Legion. Appreciates their membership in China Relief Legion, and sends Award of Recognition.
Encloses 2-page typed memorandum Includes envelope. Asks them to join the East and West Association, discusses its purpose, and encloses a two-page memorandum on its program and plans.
Includes envelope. Thanks for letter and clipping. Regrets Ford is receiving letters urging him to join the National Association of Manufactures. Bullis is president of General Mills.
The poem first appeared in Century Magazine, November 1887 (XIII, 120).
Penciled notation on first page, "OS Braner[?] Bric”; may indicate it is to go in the "Bric a Brac” section with other poems. First printed in Century Magazine, December 1882 (III, 320).
Addressed from Puck Office. Returns Collier’s’s article, with apologies for being so late. He is allowed no margin for buying outside contributions to Puck. Bunner is editor of Puck, 1877-1896.
I will go to my office and get the book. I proposed to a girl long ago and got bounced; that’s why I took to poetry.
On letterhead stationary of Puck magazine. "The committee can’t have any choice. My stuff doesn’t read well.” But he will select something. Numbers 207-211 are published by Gerard E. Jensen, with commentary, in American Literature, May 1945, pp.161-169.
Gilder is editor of Century Magazine.
Autographed handwritten verse. 1 page.
Advises against levy of any new [army?] corps in Ireland "at this crisis,” until success or failure of the corps already raised can be ascertained. Townshend is joint vice-treasurer of Ireland. Burgoyne is privy-councillor and commander in chief in Ireland.
Regrets that the trial prevents him from receiving the addressee and "the gentlemen of the Committee” this morning and fears the same will be true tomorrow unless they can catch him in the Hall. Burke is prosecuting the impeachment trial of Warren Hastings, governor general of British India.
Letter of introduction and request for a government position for Mr. L .M. Johnson.
Regrets that he cannot spend this evening with her and her husband because of a bad cold. Burne-Jones is a painter.
Regrets not having seen him when he is in New York. Can not promise any new work now, as she is under contract for several plays and writing a book. Burnett is author of "Little Lord Fauntleroy.”
Sends autograph to this young boy. Would like to send him an account of the battle of Bull Run, but too busy. Burnside commanded a brigade in the battle.
Regarding sale and settlement of some lands belonging to Mr. Drinker.
Incomplete. First sheet (2 pages) only. Instructs him to call on editors of the Register and the Gazette and "stop the further transmission of these papers.” Editor of the Register has no right to claim [payment]; editor of the Gazette has some claim. Someone is about publish, under Burr’s name, an anecdote regarding him meeting the Indian educated in Paris by Lafayette, and he wants the facts "truly stated.” Mentions mortgage of Pendleton [Burr’s home is "Richmond Hill”]. Burr is Vice President, six months after shooting Hamilton.
Fragment, torn. Intended to have seen him today, but is unable to because he is waiting for someone who is supposed to be coming. The general left home this morning. (Editors of The Papers of Aaron Burr identify the recipient as Col. Robert Hays. Letter is written from Andrew Jackson’s home.)
Encloses "the Notes of the Little Sailor-Boy and of Megen oh” [plays?], with comments [not present]. Also comments on "Mr. Dehone” [minister?].
Bill of sale for ship Abigail by Samuel W. Greene and John Barker to John Innes Clark for $8000, signed by John Barker and Samuel W. Greene. With covering attestation (ADS.) by Burrill as notary public.
Letterhead stationery of League of Universal Brotherhood (London), with copy of its pledge (against all war) and with note from Burritt to de Liancourt below, sending him a copy of "Bond of Brotherhood.” With second sheet translating Burritt’s note into French. Burritt is an English reformer who advocated peace and international associations.
Explaining to a young boy why he finds so many shell fragments form birds’ nests on the ground.
The court intimates that Presidential electors are traditionally bound to vote for their party’s candidate. Any other ruling would be ridiculous. Burton is a United States Congressman and Senator. In 1916 he got the unanimous support of the Ohio Republican delegation for President.
Complies with his request for an autograph.
Proposed discharge of "young Peligree” from E.G.W. Butler’s regiment is causing agonies to his father. If consistent with duty, can he permit Peligree to remain, or reassign him? Speaks of bright prospects of E.G.W. Butler’s son’s career. E.G.W. Butler commanded Upper Department of Upper Rio Grande, Mexico, 1847-1848. He and A.P. Butler were not related.
Criticizes Admiral Porter for his handling of ships during the Civil War.
Includes envelope. Describes his son Frank’s horseback accident, news of other family members. Political outlook for the Democratic party is not promising, since factions are feuding in several states. Thinks McDonald is the strongest man (politically) in the country; Judge Thurman also good (for the Presidency). We must get a man from the West, it being the center of population, political power, and material power; we should build a power base there to be independent of New York’s corrupt local struggles for spoils. Commends "Mr. Davis” for his defense of the South and Confederacy against Northern critics.
Sends extract from a letter of his to a prominent New York Republican leader (extract not present).
Holograph, autographed. Sheet for album of "Miss Walton.”
Signed with initials. Penciled notes on letter identify author and recipients. Calhoun is U.S. vice president. "Mgr. Robedeau who has charge of the mathematical instruments has left his office, and the French Killogram cannot be had today….”
"The widow of Alexander Hamilton is at present in this city.” Cameron is United States Senator from Pennsylvania.
Cameron as Secretary of War to Bache as Superintendent of United States Coast Survey. Asks for number of square miles and population of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia in accordance with change in boundaries shown on an enclosed map, for his annual report.
Thanks Wheatley for promising to try and use his influence to get the Queen to accept three of his volumes of poems and letters. Originally enclosed with number 188. See letter from Mrs. W. G. Brown, number 188, offering this for sale.
A very long letter regarding the Mexican War: activities against guerillas; activities of other army units, including General Scott and Santa Ana; General Taylor cannot advance until fall, when the year’s crops will provide forage for animals; discusses logistics of various possible army movements; feels General Taylor has been deliberately sabotaged by assignment of all his veteran troops to Scott; discusses Battle of Buena Vista and says he is writing a history of it; lists the volunteer and regular troops and their commanders camped at Buena Vista and vicinity; expects Taylor to be President; Scott is moving on Mexico City; comments on Mexican public opinion. (Carlton is on General Wool’s staff in Mexico, afterwards in the West. Evans is United States Senator.)
Includes envelope addressed to her at Executive Mansion. Mrs. Carlisle accepts Rose Cleveland’s invitation to drive with her tomorrow. Carlisle is speaker of House of Representative.
Family news and expressions of friendship. Trusts she will be very happy—is she getting married? His mother is still living. He is planning a round the world trip. Mentions Stewart’s death at age 73. Mentions her mother, brother, and sister.
Cover page with names, dates, scraps of writings. Carbon copies of letters: to "Bro. Humphrey” (from Colchester, August 1847), discussing family news and Colchester prayer meetings; to Mr. Bassett, regarding prayer meetings. Includes typed copies (4 pages), the carbons being backwards and virtually illegible. Carpneter is Allyn K. Ford’s maternal grandfather. Includes typed transcript, 4 pages.
Letter is signed Father. Includes family news, including talk of Allyn K. Ford. E. Carpenter will be 77 years old in two weeks.
To his mother. Describes his job as a clerk with Mr. Sherman and Mr. Hughes, the people he works with, and family matters.
Family, friends, and acquaintances.
Advises him not to expect perfection and utopia anywhere, and to remember he is better off with his present master than at home, which is becoming very undesirable. Family and home news.
Family news. Advises William to behave himself.
Family and acquaintances.
News of Philenia, William and acquaintances.
Forbids him to leave Mr. Grant’s service until he hears from Orville again.
Talks of William’s intention of leaving his place with Mr. Grant. Advises Horatio to employ his time in reading, and to study mankind.
News of family and acquaintances.
Regarding his (Orville’s) buying books for Horatio. News of William and Philenia.
His twenty-first birthday. Musing on himself, his situation, his future, Philenia’s paintings.
Mostly advising him of the necessity of acquiring the art of letter writing. Personal and family news.
News of self and Philenia.
Talks of his new job and boss, riot between college students and town boys.
Sends material for shirts, talks of Philenia’s school teaching, rumors of war. He has escaped the first draft.
Advises Horatio regarding taking a job, advising him that since jobs are scare he should take what he has been offered. Connecticut’s preparations for war.
Thinks there is a job opening in New Haven for Horatio. Criticizes war and the government’s failure to protect the rights of its citizens and their property, asserting that it is appropriating all the spoils of war and privateering to itself.
Orville’s plans to go to Baltimore to take over that branch of his boss’ (Mr. Carrington’s) storage and commission business as his partner.
He is leaving for Baltimore tonight.
His journey to Baltimore; wickedness and debauchery of Baltimore; messages for his lady friends back in New Haven.
His business is prospering. Plans for a coal business.
Glad that Horatio is satisfied with his position. Orville is doing a commission business under the name of Carpenter, Hodges and Company. Discusses his employees. Business is prospering, but war makes things uncertain. News of family and friends.
Family news. Business prospects are dreary because of English blockade. Description of a ride in the country, a rural Methodist church service, and visit with acquaintances afterwards.
Reflects on their past life and experiences, and advises her to write more often.
The enemy has retreated from Baltimore. News of acquaintances. There have been many business failures.
Fears his business will not support him much longer. Describes his week’s service as a soldier during the invasion of Baltimore.
Speaks of his whiskers, "Betsy’s” death; he will close his business soon; he has been courting a lady.
His prospects are dreary; plans to come to Connecticut in July and visit Washington en route.
Mentions his trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains and his stay at Wilkes-Barre.
Congratulates Horatio on his recovery from illness. His partnership has failed and he will return to New Haven where he hopes to find work. Comments on family and friends, and on Horatio’s letter writing style.
Regarding a poem in defense of womanhood he wrote and had published in a local paper, and also regarding a girl he has been dating but does not want to get serious with. News of friends.
His business ventures (buying and selling occasional lots of goods), problems created by war. Has not yet found any permanent business.
His health, work on fortifications. Plans another trip to Baltimore. No business prospects. Received a letter from Horatio, who has fled to avoid the draft.
Can give him no encouragement in job-seeking in New Haven; business is totally stagnant. Advises him not to become a soldier, for the war is one of "conquest and ambition,” especially the Canadian expedition. He has been almost idle for months, but expects to take another trip south. News of friends.
Scolds her for not writing. Mentions relatives and friends.
His business travels. An anecdote of a lady asking for "lady’s knit indispensibles,” which he took to mean petticoats instead of pocketbooks.
Talks of friends, acquaintances, and social activities.
Peace has brought even more uncertainty to merchants. He traveled to New York on an errand last week. Advice on letter writing.
He has become partner with William Howell of Baltimore as Howell and Carpenter, and they are so far doing well; they seem to be commission merchants and agents.
Describes the city of Cape Henry and his impressions of Haiti in general.
His economic situation and recent trip to the West Indies. He goes to North Carolina next week.
He is having neither good nor bad luck. Talks of the Haitian merchants and a Mr. O’Brien.
He has returned from Haiti. Horace is now lodging at the same place as he. Has declined an offer to go to Haiti again immediately.
His life is very hum-drum. Will probably go to the Island of St. Croix (West Indies) soon.
Has returned again from Gonaïves. William had been with him, returned early, and left again for "Porto Rico.” Comments on Haitian revolution. He is going to marry a Baltimore lady named Ann Hasson.
His marriage, advice to Philenia regarding marriage, his financial affairs and prospects. Thinking of moving to Cheraw[?], South Carolina. Sees no very good prospects for her as a teacher in Baltimore.
Informs him of his marriage (two years ago); he has a daughter Mary. His most recent trip to Haiti. Hopes for a revival of business in Baltimore.
His health (he is enfeebled from measles). News of family members. Rogues and mail robbers in Baltimore.
His wife has been very sick. Talks of his daughter Mary. William wants Philenia to remember he is no longer a child. They have never received a ring which mother intended to forward. He finds himself becoming increasingly less attached to the North.
Mostly family news and comments.
Advice as to his studies and conduct (Walter is at Yale). Comments by Horace on Orville. Finished after the death of Orville by Horace Carpenter, November 23, 1825. ALS. 3 pages.
His financial situation, his rather unfavorable impression of Orville. Orville is about to be married. Horace is working in the Lottery and Exchange Office.
Orville’s financial situation and prospects. His own work and poverty. Advice on raising the younger children.
Schooner Eliza and Mary, in which Orville is returning from Gonaïves, is lost on Body[?] Island. No further particulars yet.
Orville is lost off the coast of North Carolina; last time he is seen he is in the main rigging. His window’s health is poor and she will probably not long survive him. William’s own health is poor.
News of Orville’s shipwreck. His widow not expected to live long. William has promised to take care of her, but does not think he can. His health is bad.
Describes treatment of a Mr. Dean for injury caused by a fall. Incomplete (last page only).
To his granddaughter, Mrs. Richard Henry Bayard. Pressure of necessary current expenses prevent him from buying her sister Elizabeth a cashmere shawl. Advises Mary to continue her harp practice. Wants to see her and her baby, but fears he will die or become too infirm before then. Doughoregan Manor is Carroll’s family home.
Applied [for a job?] to the treasury department on Rose Cleveland’s advice, and writes to be sure it is all right to use her name.
Applying to the Secretary of the Treasury for a job, using Rose Cleveland as a reference.
Includes envelope. Solicits further aid in obtaining the treasury job.
On letterhead stationery of Sybil Carter Indian Mission and Lace Industry. Has sent Mrs. Dougan a photo.
Includes envelope. Kane’s pamphlet has not reached him yet. Expressions of friendship and esteem. Cass is a United States Senator. Kane is a lawyer.
Sends two dollars for 1851 register. (Drake is editor of the Register of the New England Historic Genealogical Society.)
Includes envelope. Thanks for "excellent and patriotic letter.” Cass is Secretary of State.
Explains why he has been delayed so long in reporting to Weedon’s regiment. Castaing is aide-de-camp to General Du Portail.
Nature of document is indeterminate. He is "Charles the Bold,” the last Duke of Burgundy, 1433-1477.
Includes printed interpretation of symbols, signed in facsimile by Lin Yutang. Printed in colored inks and signed "Mayling Sung Chiang.”
Childs is a Philadelphia publisher.
Thanks for extra copies of his (Choate’s) biography. Choate is a New York City lawyer.
Warrent to impress or otherwise obtain spades, axes, pick axes, hatchets [for siege of Gloucester]. At the siege of Yorktown (October 1781), General Choisy invested Cornwallis’s fortifications at Gloucester and with Lauzun’s cavalry attacked and defeated Tarleton’s legion on October third.
On letterhead of National Association of Retail Grocers. Thanks for Ford’s congratulations on Christianson’s position as secretary-manager of the Association.
On letterhead of National Association of Retail Grocers. Thanks for assistance in advertising National Retail Grocers Week.
Printed flyer of two dispatches telling of capture.
A sheet printing dispatches of Generals Sherman and Foster.
Reached Richmond this morning. The box the addressee sent is in Richmond and he will send for it tomorrow. Lawlie also brought him clothes.
Apparently writing back to England. Impressions of Richmond, Confederates, progress of war, recent battles, movements o f Grant and Lee in The Wilderness, battle at Spottsylvania, operations in Georgia. He thinks Lee is a military genius.
Written by a Confederate soldier. Describes Lee’s movements against Grant, and their success. "Never since the beginning of the war have I seen such cheerfulness and confidence in Dixie as at this moment.” Battle of Spottsylvania Court House. Armies are now confronting each other south of the James River.
With endorsed cover sheet, 1 page. List of prisoners paroled by D. B. Bridgford by order of Lieutenant General [Stonewall] Jackson. Gives date, name, company, regiment, brigade, division. With cover sheet and with endorsements by various officers regarding referral and delivery of parolees.
Reply to a letter. A bill has been introduced in accord with the view that there should be some elasticity in legislation controlling organizations. Clapp is chairman of the Senate Committee on Standards, Weights and Measures.
He will come next Sunday with his sloop. Advises Greene to buy potatoes there rather than asking Clarke to provide. Asks Greene to be on the lookout for someone with goods to sell. Greene is Governor of Rhode Island. Clarke is probably a merchant.
Complies with request for autograph.
Objects strenuously to a public "protest” made by Low, "which no young Man who values character can pass over with silence.” Demands that he "Publickly recall your malignant Protest, or be prepared, to give me personal satisfaction.” Low is a merchant and real estate developer.
Bache can see him at his room tonight, or at the Senate parlor tomorrow. Clay is Senator from Alabama.
Regrets a bad cold will prevent him from dining with them today.
Front of envelope and seal have been pasted on the letter. He has determined to submit to the decisions of the Whig convention, will not allow anyone to present his name as an independent candidate, and will take no active part (either for or against Taylor) in the election. Thinks highly of Mr. Fillmore. Clay has been defeated by Zachary Taylor as Whig nominee for President.
Includes envelope. Grants his request for an autograph, because Stackhouse is a member of the Society of Friends, which Clay highly regards.
Printed broadside listing actions people should take to show respect while his funeral train passes through town.
The town of Smyrna, Delaware is not a port of entry.
Informing him of the death of President Taylor. Clayton is Secretary of State. Brown is United States consul at Tangier.
Handwritten, unsigned. Appears to be a draft, since it has some corrections.
"Truth is the most valuable thing we have. Let us economize it.”
Will you come Thursday morning?
The 27th will suit. Discusses meeting and lecturer arrangements.
How did your meeting come out? Can you give me a list of the patronesses?
Has finally persuaded the President that she won’t get too tired if she goes out on the day of her reception, and so accepts Mrs. Manning’s invitation. Mary Fryer Manning is wife of Secretary of Treasury.
Signed Frances F. Cleveland Preston. Mrs. Seeberger is welcome to stay until May first. On letterhead, Yacht Club Inn, Dunedin, Florida.
On letterhead stationery of Cleveland, Bissel and Sicard. Thanks for letter of well-wishing and picture of rooster [he has just been elected Governor of New York] and for Ward’s sentiments regarding 1884.
Mounted, with engraved portrait, glued into cardboard photo stand, along with picture of Cleveland. A pledge to devote his best efforts to duties of the Presidency if elected [statement accepting nomination?].
Engraved picture on stiff paper, with pictures and signatures of Cleveland and Hendricks, and with names of the inaugural ball committee.
A single card inviting them to four different receptions.
Signature torn off. Includes envelope. Instructions for purchasing of a gold comb for "Frank” for Christmas, and will Rose pay Miss Nelson the fifty cents he owes her.
Engraved, illustrated, on heavy paper, including pictures of Cleveland and Adlai E. Stevenson and names of ball committee.
It is true that Ms. Carroll’s appointment would be gratifying to her, but only if a vacancy exists and she is otherwise qualified.
Gives the residence of the Attorney General of Maine. (Clifford is United States Attorney General, later a Supreme Court justice).
He has read the prospectus of the American Scientific Journal and is quite pleased with it. Clinton is Governor of New York. Silliman is founder and first editor of American Journal of Science and Arts.
Came here last night. Will provide for balance due to R. Stockton. Refers to a proposed exchange of servants with Captain Litle. Morgan is a land speculator, Philadelphia merchant, Indian agent before Revolutionary War; farmer and land owner in New Jersey after war.
Has recommended Dr. Stoddard to care for the sick in Jackson’s detachment. Cochran is surgeon-general in army hospital department. Jackson is colonel of the Sixteenth Massachusetts Regiment.
On letterhead stationary of The World. Requests a poem for publication, on day of dedication of the Statue of Liberty. Cockerill is managing editor of The World.
Sends pamphlet of "Hamilton.” Burges is United States Representative from Rhode Island.
Will speak a week or two in his state. Comments on coming elections, and hopes to foil the Democrats. Colfax is a Republican congressman.
Hopes to be in Boston early next week. Collins is a novelist.
Encloses A Halting Amen!, a 15-page manuscript Cleveland. Returns Cleveland’s manuscript, which apparently Comstock has had since 1881. Many editors have expressed interest in buying it.
Thanks for Hartford papers. Poor quality of army food. Brothers William E. and Joseph H. Cone were Hartford hardware dealers. William served nine months in Company E, 22nd Connecticut Volunteers.
Thanks for letter; family news; asks for tobacco and clothes.
Asks him to pay Mrs. Mason ten dollars, because he (William) borrowed it from her husband.
He has been sick with colic; living in log house; thanks for food the family sent.
His health and the desecration of Falls Church by Captain Preston.
His health, asks Joseph to come for a visit.
Visited Washington and got caught in a snow storm; asks Joseph to send him ten dollars.
Thanks him for money; family inquiries; camp life.
He may be promoted; has been digging rifle pits; thanks for papers; the regiment generally does not support Seymour for Governor.
Thanks for articles sent; comments on approaching elections; many soldiers are going home to vote.
Letter regarding his possible promotion.
Sends birthday present for Johnny and asks for money.
They are about to march, he thinks to Fortress Monroe; he did not get promoted.
Describes march to Suffolk; they are about four miles from rebel troops; he asks for things to be sent.
Asks for things to be sent; describes camp life and skirmishes with rebels.
Describes march and skirmishes with rebels.
No. 13393.
No. 224 of 235. Paid by the Farmers Bank of Virginia for Confederate four percent bonds.
For hard bread shipped on the Western and Atlantic Railroad, destined for Captain Isaac Shelby at Charleston, Tennessee.
Explains delays he has encountered in settling matters regarding the Union Bank [mortgage?] and other financial matters [Panic of 1837?].
No. 9290.
No. 2472.
He will pay Robinson’s expenses to and from Gibraltar.
Discusses failure of "Rhode Island Expedition” [a naval excursion against an offshore island]. Sending clothes for Rhode Island troops tomorrow. We are going to have trouble completing our two Continental Battalions: Lord Howe with a great number of marines and army is at Newport and we are virtually defenseless, with our troops few and scattered, and neighboring states won’t help.
On letterhead of Massachusetts Executive Department, Coolidge Governor. Thanks for his "gracious message.”
On United States Vice President letterhead. Thanks for invitation to dedication of Memorial Drive in Minneapolis; does not know yet whether he can attend. (Collins is Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota.)
On Vice President letterhead. Regarding arrangements for Coolidge to speak at the Knife and Fork Club in Minneapolis, and to meet with Smith in New York. (Written a week before he became President.)
On The White House letterhead. Congratulations for his part in bringing election victory in Minnesota.
Includes envelope. Sends copy of a register, and a series of (army) general orders, and is in the process of getting other information Butler wants. Cooper is Adjutant General United States Army.
Will write to Colonel Butler regarding the flag as soon as he (Cooper) gets information from West Point.
Includes envelope. Describes the "Wyoming Flag” in West Point trophy room. Does not know its history, but thinks it belonged to Colonel Butler’s regiment at the Wyoming massacre.
Includes envelope. Sends three copies of guide to Mount Vernon; pleased with recent elections; regrets that he did not see more of Butler’s son. Corcoran is a real estate dealer and banker.
Thanks for her invitation to "my little girl” to drive with her.
Includes envelope. Thanks for birthday congratulations.
Includes envelope. Thanks for photograph.
Thanks for his offer of service in the Eastern District. He is at Colchester with Balfour with "8 weak regiments of Militia.” Cornwallis had been commander-in-chief of British forces in Ireland. In July 1801 he received command of the Eastern District, with headquarters at Colchester.
Letterhead stationary of HMS Scarborough Includes envelope with Bermuda stamp. Thanks for Ford’s letter of sympathy regarding death of his father.
Reply, with commentary, to Stackhouse’s request for an autograph; he is against the Mexican War.
Asks for assistance in putting autographs in shape for preservation and exhibit. She is librarian, Minneapolis Public Library.
Includes envelope with letterhead and seal of United States Legation in Constantinople. Social life, and the danger of a Balkan war. Cox is minister to Turkey, 1885-October 1886.
Brief reminiscence of Cleveland’s father, and regrets she is not in when he called. He is Protestant Episcopal bishop.
Thanks for Smith’s recommendation of Mr. Howard; he will consider it. Crane is a member of the Republican National Committee.
Describes attack by Confederate steamer Merrimac[k] on the United States ships Congress and Cumberland (March 8) and the battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac[k] (March 9).
Asks for another copy of the Bank’s "statement of notes on ‘special deposit.” (Crawford is United States Secretary of the Treasury; Jones is president of the Bank of the United States.
On vellum. Nominates Mayhen as public preacher at the rectory of Iken, Suffolk County. Signed "Oliver P.” Written from Whitehall.
Orders a book. Crosby is director of General Mills.
Includes envelope. Appreciates Ford’s comments regarding his address at Olivet College, and sends thirty-five booklets [of his address?]. Curtice is president and general manager, Buick Motor division, General Motors Corporation.
Elephant folio, on vellum, with seal and letterhead of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Signed by W. H. Armstrong, Deputy Secretary of Pennsylvania, with Curtin’s signature at top of document. Curtin is Governor of Pennsylvania.
Letter making a claim of $76.78 for supplies purchased by Lt. Granville Gates in March 1874, written by Leo Peugnet of Peugnet and Company (office of De Graff and Company, contractors, St. Paul), May 1, 1874. With eighteen endorsements, Custer being the fifteenth (from headquarters Black Hills Expedition, Fort Abraham Lincoln, Dakota Territory). Excellent example of army red tape.
Endorsed by Vaughan, June 19, 1750. Bill [?] for making of clothes. Custis is first husband of Martha Washington.
Safe arrival of French ship in Hampton Road yesterday, with military clothing and supplies. Three bills have passed the Virginia House of Delegates for reinforcing the army; he summarizes their provisions. "I think We have now offered the most generous Terms and if they do not inlist they must be drafted.” Endorsed in George Washington’s handwriting. Custis is Washington’s stepson.
Apologizes for Colonel Bassett’s valuation of cattle causing Washington so much trouble, and his own failure to obtain for Washington all the interest his money is entitled to. Explains how this came about and blames it on a resolution passed by Congress. Thanks Washington for paying the rent of Custis’s Mother’s Dower, and explains his own temporarily straitened financial circumstances, rental of property, and debts to Washington. Endorsed in Washington’s handwriting.
Thanks for editorial in Buffalo Evening News. Cuthbertson is with United States Weather Bureau, Buffalo.
Address to Second Congregational Church of Dorchester.
Expects enemy to harass ports. Would like three companies of ill-equipped militia relieved.
Movements of British ships.
Sends copy of report on Gerry’s Battery. Dahlgren is appointed Commander of the Washington navy yard in 1861, chief of the Ordnance Bureau in July 1862.
Recommends Alice Fletcher as a person Cleveland should know. Also Mrs. Dall is going to sell her house and wants Cleveland to come look at the furniture. Dall is wife of Unitarian clergyman C. H. A. Dall, a writer, and active in reform movements, especially women’s rights.
New Year’s greeting.
Includes envelope. Thanks for Butler’s letter regarding his (Daniel’s) address on General Lee, and explains why he did not say more regarding Mrs. Lee. Daniel is a confederate major, Virginia lawyer post-war, United States Senator 1885- .
[Davenport did not write it]. Promise to pay Davenport 300 weight of flax.
[Davenport did not write it] Signed by Ezek[iel] Price. To the sheriff of Worcester County, Massachusetts.
[No way to tell if Davenport wrote it].
He is having trouble keeping track of arms brought into the state and asks Weedon to try and locate receipts. Not more than one thousand stand were allotted to Weedon, and he wants to know the true state of Weedon’s armaments. Davies is Colonel of the First Virginia.
Likes the plan of defense proposed for Fredericksburg area. Urges importance of not impressing any cavalry equipment or horses from the public (Continental) allotment for the militia.
Includes envelope. Explains reasons for shortage of petroleum products along the East Coast, and the need for gasoline rationing. Davis is United States Senator from Pennsylvania.
Original and longhand copy. Praises Wool’s letter commending General Gibson instead of blowing his own horn.
Estimates the cost of completing a military road from the falls of the St. Louis River (Minnesota) via Fort Ridgely to the Missouri River and from there to intersect the Pacific road on the Platte River at $100,000. Describes location of existing military roads along this general line. Douglas is chairman of Senate Committee on Territories.
Includes envelope. Thanks for news of General Harney and letter of Mr. Black; comments on George M. Dallas (Vice President) and Judge John Perkins (Louisiana).
Includes envelope. Will visit him and General Harney tomorrow.
Includes envelope. Pleasure he got from visit of Butler and General Harney. He comments on Allen G. Thurman as a Presidential possibility and himself being misquoted on some political subject.
Includes envelope. Thanks for pamphlet on General Jackson, and comments on it and on the tendency of [news?] papers to publish slander and absurdities.
An article [title illegible] will be printed soon in the papers and in pamphlet form, and will undoubtedly be for sale in Philadelphia.
Includes envelope. Date taken from envelope. Asks him to write a long newsy letter. Wilson is with an opera company. Davis is a novelist and playwright.
Receipt for four cords, 4 ½ feet of wood from Benjamin Bourne for use of his troops. He is a captain.
Capt. Stockton not seriously injured, contrary to reports of his death. Discusses bursting of a gun on board United States steamer "Princeton,” February 28, 1844. The "Princeton” is built under Robert F. Stockton’s supervision in 1844, and he appointed its commander. On a trial trip down the Potomac River, with President and VIPs aboard, one of the large guns burst, killing the Secretary of State, Secretary of the Navy, the Presiden'ts father-in-law, and several crewmen.
Giving name of Attorney General of New Jersey.
"Here we are John Bull and us all of a lump. They want to be at something and I believe they will bring themselves to it, but I guess they had better let it alone…. I wish we could get one or two of your forges here in time.” Decatur’s ship USS United States captured the British ship Macedonian in October 1812 and took it to New York. In May 1813, attempting to get to sea, the two ships were driven by a British blockading force into New London, and remained there until the close of the war.
Will be happy to supply Van Buren etc. with wine. "It is really a vexatious thing when the Nation owes me at least a hundred thousand dollars, that I should be obliged to sell my goods and chattels.” Susan is widow of Stephen Decatur; Van Rensselaer is United States Representative from New York.
American composer.
Includes envelope. Farewell letter as he prepares to leave for China (appointed minister). Denby held several diplomatic posts in China, 1885-1909.
Card extending club privileges to him while he is in New York. DePew is president of club. Walker is United States Navy commodore.
Appreciation for his editorial.
On letterhead of New York Central & Hudson River Railroad Company (Depew chairman). Appreciation of Joslyn’s birthday message to him.
Letterhead of New York Central & Hudson River Railroad Company. Thanks for Joslyn’s letter of appreciation.
Thanks for Joslyn’s birthday message.
Thanks for bound annotated copy of the Constitution. Devens is recently appointed United States Attorney General.
Regrets he is unable to attend centennial celebration of writing of the United States Constitution. Kasson is a former United States Congressman and diplomat.
Remarks for Green School’s "Peace Day” celebration. Permanent peace is an ideal to strive for, but meantime, and to settle disputes, adequate armament and judicial procedures are necessary. Admiral Dewey is president, General Board [Navy?].
Invites Wilson as his guest to a private dinner to be given for Mr. Black, editor of The Morning Chronicle. Wilson is a poet, essayist.
Humorous greeting. Note in pencil on back says, "to Lieutenant Augustus Tracy, Governor of Tottill Fields Prison Bridewell.”
Asks him to forward his (Dickens’) letters.
Unsigned, written in third person. Letterhead stationary of weekly journal All the Year Round. Rejecting a manuscript.
Complies with request for autograph.
Includes envelope. Addressed to her at a hotel in St. James Square, London. Miss Peel has arranged for Miss Cleveland to get a front seat even though her ticket is for a back one. Dillon is an Irish politician and member of House of Commons.
Thanks for contribution to aid "our suffering soldiers.” Dix is superintendent of hospital nurses during the Civil War.
Pleased to comply with his request. Dix is a United States Army officer, New York lawyer, and active in Democratic politics.
He will try to carry out Rice’s wishes. Written as Secretary of Treasury. Rice is United States Senator from Minnesota.
On New England Magazine letterhead. Dodge founded the magazine in 1886. Solicits article and/or contribution.
Requests copies of two books be sent to Speaker Blaine. Dodge is an author and essayist.
Letterhead partially torn off. Asks him to come [to work?] next Sunday or Monday.
Congratulations on "accession to your new office” [Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota]. Donovan is United States district attorney in New York.
Gives name of Attorney General of Illinois.
Consulate document no. 87. Request for safe passage for Henry H. Morey.
Complies with request for autograph.
On a post card. Correction for page three of his article. Headed "Wells and Spiritualism.”
On letterhead The Delineator. Asks if John Carter, who Reedy and another editor are trying to get released from Stillwater Prison, has any unpublished poems. He wants to see and perhaps publish.
Quote from Abraham Lincoln, in Drinkwater’s writing, with his signature and date. Drinkwater is a playwright, poet, essayist.
Regrets that he is unable to accept their invitation. duMaurier is an English illustrator and novelist, 1834-1896.
Deed for land in Chettenham Township, Montgomery County. Oversize, on parchment.
Personal news and hopes of seeing the Baches’ soon. DuPont is a naval officer. Bache is a professor of chemistry at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia.
Thanks for pleasant visit with the Baches, comments on supposed assassination of Russian Czar, Nicholas I, personal news and comments.
At bottom, in another handwriting: Abigail Jane Baldwin.
Program for eleventh annual dinner, Pennsylvania Society of New Jersey. Earle is the featured speaker.
For share number 128, to John Edwards, Salem, Massachusetts. Signed by H. Cleaveland (president). Eastern Stage Company by mid 1830s had come to operate or control much of the coach business in Massachusetts.
Includes envelope. Thanks for his note and good wishes. Envelope is postmarked "U.S. Army Postal Service A.P.O.”
Invitation to a luncheon.
Asks if Board of Admiralty is going to be dissolved. Mentions difficulty of fitting out the Alliance [John Paul Jones’ ship after he lost the Bonhomme Richard]. Asks about other Board members, its accounts and its future. Brown is Secretary of the Admiralty Board of the United States. Ellery is a Rhode Island businessman and public figure and served on Admiralty Board.
First page has letterhead engraved view of Washington, D.C. from Capitol. Describes skirmish with rebels near Falls Church, camp life, and accusations against General Dowell for losing Battle of Bull Run.
Extract from Special Orders Number 86: Lieutenant Colonel Evans, Commanding 20th New York Cavalry, to report to Brigadier General Devins for duty, by order of Major General Weitzel. Weitzel is Commander, Army of the James; Goodrich his acting assistant adjutant general; and Evans an officer in New York regiments during the Civil War.
Seems to be a brief list, with an occasional note on their activities, of suspicious Richmond business and professional men.
Brief description of capture of Richmond. Evans is assistant provost marshall at Richmond, administering the oath and parole to rebel officers and soldiers. With handwritten copy, 2 pages.
Orders him to send Lieutenant Colonel Manning’s clerks to assist Evans in administering oath of allegiance to Confederate officers and soldiers. Coughlin is Provost Marshall General, Department of Virginia and Stevens is Provost Marshall 25th Army Corps.
Directing him to establish himself in the Capitol building and administer the oath of allegiance, and to direct his cavalry to execute the Provost Marshall General’s Office orders.
Countersigned by Evans.
Countersigned by Evans.
Pass to a rebel deserter to go to New York. With notations on the back regarding provision of passes. With notes on verso by John Coughlin[?].
Confederate soldiers who give themselves up will be permitted to go to their homes after being paroled.
Asks to be paroled and allowed to visit his family near Petersburg and go to Washington. Endorsed, with instructions to parole him, on verso, by H. C. Whipple for General Ord. Ord is commander, Army of the James; Parker is formerly United States Consul General, Sandwich Islands.
Coughlin is turning over his office to General Patrick; send to Colonel Smith for blanks; Evans to take his choice of clerks.
Can Evans spare him some more parole blanks?
Introduces G. W. Hill, a Confederate soldier who wants to take the oath or be paroled.
Sends Evans a package of parole blanks for citizens. All application for parole will be referred to Evans. Leavenworth is captain of the Ninth Vermont Volunteers, Assistant Provost Marshall.
Details F. W. Davis as clerk in office of Assistant Provost Marshall, by order of General Charles Devens (extract).
Orders private F. W. Davis relieved from present duty for duty with his company (extract). Signed with a stamp. Smith is Assistant Adjutant General with Ord.
Visits with relatives and search for employment.
Difficulty of finding job, homesickness, his daily activities.
He has a job with Kellogg, Johnston & Company in New York, and thinks he will like it.
He has taken rooms in a hotel and is looking for a house to buy or rent.
Letter of introduction and recommendation for David M. Evans.
His plans for an unidentified (hoop-skirt business?) venture, "irons in the fire” regarding other jobs, work with Kellogg.
Job and salary arrangements with Kellogg; trying to make living arrangements.
On letterhead stationery Methodist Home Journal. Sickness of "Freddie,” rental of a house in Philadelphia.
On letterhead stationery Methodist Home Journal. Desire to have her with him; instructions on how to take train from New York to Philadelphia; the weather.
Includes envelope. Has received the box of coins, but wants to postpone his examination of them for a week or so. Addressed to Evans at Superintendent’s office, United States Mint.
Includes envelope. The parcel of coins must have gone astray in the mail.
Includes envelope. The box of coins has arrived.
Includes envelope. Thanks for the coins. Can Evans send another set, and say what Enniskillen owes him? He has most of the postage stamps on Evans’ list.
Includes envelope. Box of eight coins arrived. How much does he owe? Can Evans send a trade dollar and a half trade dollar for the British Museum?
Includes envelope. Brief information on a medal of which he sent Evans a copy. Written and signed by someone else.
Includes envelope. Sends money and repeats his request for trade dollars.
Congratulations on his election as President, with considerable commentary.
Includes envelope. News of local church, sale of the Evans’ house and property. Includes list of items and prices [received, for sale?]
Sale of house and property, news of local church.
Encloses letter from Henry S. Parmalee, April 20, 1885. ALS. 2 pages. Includes envelope. Sale of property, arrangements for moving. Signed "Lizzie.” Encloses letter to Mrs. Evans from Henry S. Parmalee (Philadelphia) giving advice on sale of property.
Includes envelope. Arrangements for moving.
On letterhead American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. Acknowledges donation; will send a bundle of Davis’ sermons; regrets "the unfortunate issue of your attempt to get a philosophical apparatus for your College” and its difficulty in raising money. If the college cannot pay any part of the principal on its note (for one thousand dollars, to ABCFM), can it at least pay the interest promptly and send a paper guaranteeing payment? Evarts is treasurer of ABCFM; Davis is president of Middlebury College.
Accepts invitation to dine and to drink a toast to the new President [United States President William Henry Harrison?]. He and family are wintering in Florence after his 1839 defeat for reelection as governor of Massachusetts.
Can not comply with his request because business engagements will keep him in Boston too late to leave for Framingham before the 4:30 train. Boutwell is a radical Republican politician and secretary of Massachusetts Board of Education.
Announces that Dr. Bowditch’s scientific library has been given to Boston Public Library, describes the library facilities for their care and use, and solicits [from various scientific organizations, apparently] continued transmission of their transactions or publications.
Pleased to comply with his request.
Includes envelope. On letterhead of Postmaster General. Thanks for letter enclosing copy of [Luther Ford and Company?] bulletin.
On board United States steam sloop Brooklyn, Pensacola Navy Yard. Reports on his conveyance of Robert M. McLane, minister to Mexico, from Vera Cruz to Mobile Bay. McLane asked him to wait at Pensacola for further orders regarding Brooklyn’s moves. Since July 1858 the ship had been at McLane’s disposal for traveling the Caribbean coast to communicate with American consuls in Mexico.
Relieves him of command of the ironclad Tennessee. Written from United States flagship Hartford, about a week after battle of Mobile Bay.
Decided not to visit Holland because water in ports is too shallow for the Franklin, and will go to England and the Near East. Describes visit of Belgian king and queen on board his ship. Farragut is cruising with the European squadron.
News of ships and personnel. Glad President Andrew Johnson has been exonerated in impeachment trial.
Thinks he will be able to speak at a meeting. Asks aid in raising funds to restore St. Margarets Church Westminster. Farrar is rector at St. Margarets, 1876-1883; later Dean of Canterbury. Addressee is a member of a society.
Sends manuscript for her magazine, asks for $30, and discusses it a little (in response to a note from her). Fawcett is an author of novels, poems, plays.
Complies with his request [for an autograph?]. Felch is Governor of Michigan, 1846-1847; just elected United States Senator.
Warrant for arrest of King on complaint of Nathan Angell to recover money due. Fenner is clerk of court of common pleas; later governor of Rhode Island.
Warrant to arrest on complaint of John Innes[?] Clark and Joseph Nightingale (merchants) to recover money due.
On complaint of George Robinson (merchant) for debt and breach of promise.
Warrant to arrest Willson (merchant) on complaint of Nicholas Brower and Thomas Jois[?] (merchants) for money due.
On complaint of Amos M. Atwill, William Wilkinson, and Samuel W. Green, managers of the First Congressional meeting house lottery, for breach of promise.
Sends goods ordered by his sister, clothes to be washed and mended. Also tells of his activities. Cyrus is clerk with Alexander T. Stewart and Company. D. D. Field is his father.
New York, Newfoundland and London Telegraph Company solicit Bache’s views on any subjects connected with laying trans-Atlantic cable. Bache is superintendent of the Coast Survey. Field developed telegraph between American and Europe; first communication established 1858.
Asks that he engage Sidney Bartlett and William G. Russell as Field’s counsel. Is anxious to get his case heard by the committee. (Presumably connected with depreciation of his investment in telegraph and elevated railway stock, and consequent financial problems.)
Fifteen lines in pencil on rough copy paper; working draft.
Thanks for the unexpected gift of "the Thackeray.” Will he and Miss Harriet "fall into Rector’s after the show tonight and take a farewell nip with me.”
Manuscript is a clean copy, in ink, signed and dated. Draft is in pencil, on sheet of rough copy paper, in two versions, total twenty-five lines, some rewritten.
Encloses clipping. Pleased with the President’s inaugural address and his proclaiming antagonism to Mormonism. She is ready to tell the President and Miss Cleveland what she has gathered against the Mormons and regarding their treasons. Encloses editorial from Salt Lake Tribune praising Cleveland’s position against polygamy. Field is a newspaper correspondent, actress, author.
Gives name of attorney General of New York. Includes frank clipped form the envelope: "Free M. Fillmore V. P.”
Invitation to dinner.
Thanks and congratulations for his "Field Book of the Revolution.”
Includes envelope. Thanks for his report as Paymaster General New York. He agrees with him on ills of bounty system (for soldiers during war): it promotes frauds, crime, destroys patriotism.
Includes envelope. Is transmitting a letter for Miss Williamson. Sends letter form General Humphreys as to when Mr. Trumbell has to be at West Point. Fish is United States Secretary of State.
Includes envelope. Thanks for Butler’s congratulations on marriage of Fish’s daughter; muses on his life; thanks for Butler’s interest in one of Fish’s army friends [ a general, name illegible]. He is tired of policy of leniency towards Indians, thinks them "utterly treacherous and faithless”: we should pay up our treaty obligations, then end all treaty arrangements and bring them under white man’s law.
Sorry regarding Joslyn’s indisposition [which apparently prevents his attending a conservation conference].
Thanks for invitation to meeting of Autograph Collectors, and regrets he couldn’t be there. Flynn is president of St. Thomas College, St. Paul.
He can’t come to meeting, but hopes to another time.
Musician and composer, 1853-1937.
Complies with request for autograph.
Accepts invitation to dancing party.
Allyn K. Ford notation on back of check: "The last ck mother made out.”
Lists the pro-Quaker books he has in stock (fifteen). Ford is a book dealer.
Printed, first edition. Printed sheet music (Foster’s plantation melodies number 20), as sung by Christy’s Minstrels. New York, Firth, Pond and Company, 1853 (five pages, quarto, last leaf blank). [AKF note: First edition, agreeing with Library of Congress copy described by Whittlesey and Sonneck. Very scarce.]
In recognition of service as a Four-Minute Man during war of 1917-1918. Countersigned by local chairman [name illegible].
Printed copy of an act of the General Assembly of Pennsylvania.
Order to pay Silas Warren for services. [AKF note: Probably a forgery of Joseph Cosey.] Rittenhouse is Treasurer of the Commonwealth.
Order to pay James Hunter for services and attendance as member of Congress. [Probably a forgery.]
Printed. A one-page rebus, with engraved illustrations.
Mentions trip through New York, Erie Canal (opened fall 1825), Niagara Falls, arrival on Mackenzie River and journey down it, building Fort Franklin and winter quarters there, weather and nature of surrounding country. Written during second Arctic exploration voyage, on which he surveyed Canadian coastline from Coppermine River to 150th meridian.
Signature.
Signature.
Requests a return be made of the number of 18-months men raised in 1779, number of 18-months men raised in 1780, number of 8-months men, and the 3-months militia who were ordered south; also of arms, ammunition, and stores, and list of officers of the Virginia Line.
Requests purchase of "stuff” to make flag for port of Fort Saint Johns. Fort Saint John (Spanish St. Jean) is one of the forts that the Spanish built to encircle New Orleans; commanded the mouth of Bayou St. John.
Sends photograph of a "youth who bore my name and who will look much better the part he is to play in your book than any photograph of the present bearer of the name.” French is a sculptor, did "The Minute Man of Concord.” A pencilled note on the letter identifies the recipient as Frank Miles Day, Philadephia.
Since his plan for a canal from Paris to Diepe and Cambray has been adopted, he has decided to remain in France until April or May. Asks that a copy of his plate be sent, and to be remembered to his friends. Fulton in the 1790s is in England planning improvements in canal navigation, and inventing boats and machines. Gilpin later helped promote construction of a canal between Chesapeake and Delaware rivers.
Order to give Captain Child pouches and cartridges. Gardner commanded a regiment of Massachusetts troops; received a mortal wound at the Battle of Bunker Hill the day after writing this.
Mentions 42nd Ohio Volunteers’ Cumberland Gap expedition under General Buell (glad they are safe, thinks their retreat is Buell’s fault), and his sickness (August-September). The President and Secretary of War are thinking of sending him (Garfield) to Florida to supervise settlement on confiscated plantations. He blames weak administration plus West Pointers (Halleck, McClellan and Buell) for poor course of war. Garfield had been Lieutenant Colonel of the 42nd Ohio Volunteers. In September 1862 he went to Washington on court-martial duty.
Expresses his opposition to the ruling overturning an action of an 1863 court-martial against Fitz-John Porter. Addressed to Evans as "my dear classmate.” Garfield is United States Representative from Ohio.
Thanks for Evans’ letter regarding hopeful progress of his (Presidential) campaign in Pennsylvania.
Includeds envelope. Thanks for Evan’s congratulations on his election as President.
Printed.
Invites the Sheldons to go with them to the White House after the inauguration and stay for several weeks. She asks for advice on who to consult regarding Washington society and etiquette. Gives news of new clothes. They have received notice of the reading of the electoral count.
She has put most of Garfield’s letters and papers out of her hands for safekeeping, but retained a few, one of which she encloses.
Acknowledges honorary membership conferred upon her by the society.
Six enemy ships are sailing up the mouth of Wiccomico[sic?], presumably pursuing a fleet from Baltimore. Gaskins is a lieutenant colonel of Virginia troops.
The mortgage has been paid in full.
He is convinced the troops under British General Leslie (who surrendered to Gates in March 1780) are only the advance guard of a larger body under Clinton. He has urged Governor Jefferson and Congress to prepare for them. Last Wednesday General Sumter clobbered a party of British troops under Major Wemyss. Cornwallis has fortified Camden and is evidently awaiting reinforcements, when he will cooperate with Virginia troops to try and divide the American army. Thinks Washington should come south with five thousand crack troops. Written after Greene is appointed to succeed him following his defeat at Camden, but before Greene’s arrival.
Thanks for suggestions regarding the New York Stock Exchange’s letters [newsletters?]. Gay is president of the Stock Exchange.
With royal seal. Not George’s signature. On vellum. Reid is a Scottish architect.
With royal seal. On vellum.
With royal seal. No signature of George III. On vellum. Text dated June 29, 1808; sealed and registered February 20, 1809.
Addressed to Reid as King’s Architect.
Signature at head of first page: George (illegible). Countersigned at end by Frederick John Robinson, E. L. H. Somerset, J. Newell Charles. The offices of Kings architect, surveyor, and sole master of works are being combined. Also orders him to report to each term of the court the condition of all royal palaces and other buildings, and exhibit all records pertinent to the work of his office. Master of the King’s works is the same as King’s architect. Reid is the last one; the office is abolished in 1840.
Master of Works to be responsible for repair and upkeep of all royal and government buildings in Scotland. Also provides for salaries (three-fifths out of his hereditary revenues) and housing. Counter-signed by Robinson and Charles.
In French.
Glad for Jenk’s recent letter saying all is well with his (Gerry’s) family; gives instructions on painting and other aspects of upkeep. (Apparently Jenks is more or less overseeing Gerry’s property and seeing to the education of his children.)
Includes envelope. He will try to secure adequate protection for Trumbull’s[?] Island if placed on the House Committee on the Levees. Agrees with Butler that all currency should be placed on a specie basis. He will lay Butler’s claim before the Committee on Claims. Gibson, a Mississippi lawyer and sugar-planter, is a United States Representative.
Deed to land in Norwich. Countersigned by Isaac Huntington, Justice of the Peace.
Asks him to send down another load of flour for his troops. Gilbert is Commissary. Chase is a colonel.
Asks for one of her old dresses so she can go and visit her aunt and cousin in style.
Gilmore is a composer and United States military band master, 1850s-1870s.
Wife can’t have breakfast with Dr. Hathway on Friday, but he can.
Received of United States Naval Agent Henry Jackson four dollars for storage of planks for USS Constitution.
Appointment of Case as notary public for Minnesota Territory. Gorman is Territorial governor.
Authority to discharge James Farragut. Adams is commander of the ship Ontario. Graham is United States Secretary of the Navy.
Will be unable to attend the meeting of the Lake George Memorial Committee. Ferris is a New York lawyer, member of many historical and patriotic associations.
Itemized list of leather, harness, and leather-working supplies purchased by Ellison. Payment received by U.S. Grant. The Galena store is managed by Grant’s brother Simpson.
Recommends John A. Rawlins be appointed Brigadier General and Chief of Staff. To be sent as a ciphered telegram. Stanton is Secretary of War.
Ornate illustrated invitation, on heavy paper.
Letter of introduction for former Navy captain Phelps, who wants to see Boutwell regarding interests of Pacific Steamship Company. Boutwell is Secretary of the Treasury. Phelps may be naval officer, eventually rear admiral, Thomas S. Phelps.
Includes envelope. Invitation to a dinner on March third (the last day of his administration). Creswell is a former Maryland Congressman and United States Postmaster General.
Encloses a newspaper clipping. Includes an envelope headed United States Legation at London, addressed to Rose E. Cleveland. Clipping describes funeral service in Westminster Abbey, and prints Archdeacon Farrar’s eulogy.
Wants to know Weedon’s prospects of cooperating with the French fleet against Arnold. If there is a plan, he will come to take the command Weedon has reserved for him, and will write to Congress to say he won’t be returning to the War Office for awhile. Grayson is a commissioner on the board of war.
Appreciates Weedon reserving the Prince William and Fairfax militia for him, and would like the Loudon also. Let him know when they leave Fredericksburg, so he can join them at Williamsburg. If the object is not the capture of Arnold, he does not want to stay long.
Not signed. "Sir Henry Clinton’s embarkation has terminated in nothing” and is probably only a cover for Connolly’s sailing for Quebec with Sir John Johnston and some Tories and Indians to invest Fort Pitt. Virginia troops should now be able to beat General Philips, but if they can’t, General Wayne is coming to join them. If matters grow bad in Virginia, he (Grayson) will come, if not he will stay in Philadelphia. Rupture between Britain and Russia is likely, and Spain has recognized the United States Minister. James Mease and William West are being tried for conspiring with Arnold to cheat people out of merchandise. Arms are being sent to Virginia.
Not signed. Virginia’s failure to stop Philips and Arnold is due to inferiority of numbers. If any more British come, Rochambeau and presumably Washington will follow. British in New York are preparing to embark on ships southward. Considerable clothing has arrived from Spain. Arms are being repaired and furnished to Virginia troops.
Not signed. The arms have been sent to Virginia and are now the state’s property. Clinton is still embarking and disembarking, and maybe only means to confuse us. Cornwallis and Philips are about to join, and he fears for Greene’s fate, even if Wayne goes south and joins [Lafayette?]. We [in Philadelphia?] are equipping cavalry and will send them on. He wants Weedon to tell him his needs for cavalry.
Not signed. He is attending to the supplies of arms. The boat with the clothing is feared captured. Talks of the siege of New York. Virginia is beginning to make a good name for herself again.
Not signed. There is no European news. Washington and Rochambeau are nearing New York. He anticipates Cornwallis will remove some of his troops from Virginia and send them to New York. He will try to send more arms.
Not signed. The horse accoutrements are almost ready to be sent to Winchester. When this is done, he will leave for Virginia. Doesn’t know where the army is going to get clothes. Either Cornwallis will pull troops out of Virginia, or Washington will take New York. Britain has refused mediation of Russia. He calls Weedon’s attention to some intercepted letters of Lord George Germaine.
He will leave in about ten days for Virginia.
On letterhead of New York Tribune. A committee [purpose illegible] is here all week and wants democratic speakers. He will try to line up Governor W------] and will be in contact with General Holley[?]
Encloses a memo regarding General Grant. The memo (enclosed) gives his impression (favorable) of U.S. Grant as a man. Greely is a Civil War soldier, in Signal Service post-war, explored Arctic in 1881-1883.
Sends his account of a Civil War incident, at Bacheller’s request, which may be of interest to his pupils. The enclosure tells an incident of kindness done to a captured Confederate officer, and his later repayment by kindness to captured Union troops. Green is commander of a division in the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, 1862-1864.
A personal letter regarding her travels in England; glad the Evans’ have found a nice house; questions about family[?]. Greenaway is an illustrator of children’s books.
Cover with Greene's signature, endorsed by Weedon.
(Numbered, by Green, 28 in upper right-hand corner.) Mentions his problems supplying and directing movements of the army. Had a terrible time through the Jerseys with no one to assist him until after the battle of Monmouth. What is the public opinion regarding the Battle of Monmouth? "General Lee is rather unfortunate.” Greene is Quartermaster-General of the army. On June 18, 1778, the British evacuated Philadelphia and marched through the Jerseys. Greene took a temporary field command to help try to stop Clinton at Monmouth Court House. General Charles Lee, commanding the advance corps, is dilatory and disobedient in the battle, and Clinton succeeded in continuing his retreat.
Feels a Spanish declaration of war will force Britain to sue for peace in America. England has foolishly bartered away her territory and will become contemptible in the eyes of other nations. Clinton’s reinforcements under Admiral Arbuthnot arrived, but West Point is still too strong for them. Praises Henry Lee’s attack on Paulus Hook, but "he has been persecuted with a bitterness by his Country men, that is almost disgraceful to mention,” and brought to trial for misconduct. Captain [Major] Forsyth will give Weedon the details. West Point is Washington’s headquarters for four months in the summer and fall of 1779; Clinton is trying to capture it.
As attorney-general he has no objections to Ezra Luther’s petition for remission of penalty. Greene is attorney General of Rhode Island. Marchant is a judge of United States District Court of Rhode Island.
He is glad to see the spirit of Federation in Rhode Island, and that the [United States] government is acting energetically in the present crisis by enlarging the naval and land forces and passing a Sedition Bill.
Lists property holdings of William Greene, including three tracts of land with their estimated produce, livestock, and debts. Greene is Governor of Rhode Island.
Gives history and details of a business transaction by which he sold Thay Sands a plot of land and is now taking him to court to force payment for it. Asks Marchant to represent him in court, since he has hurt his leg and can’t come.
"It is highly necessary that a painter be imployed [sic] to paint all the Carriages for Cannon & Mortars, Canvas for Ammunition Carts, Bell Tents, covering for Ammunition Boxes &c &c.” Written sixteen days after the battle of Bunker and Breed’s Hill, on the day George Washington took command of the Continental Army at Cambridge. Bradley is an artillerist in the British army before the Revolution. In 1775 he commanded United States artillery at Cambridge, planned Bunker Hill fortifications.
Includes envelope. Describes progress of fortification of Charleston, Fort Ripley. Thinks his company should be assigned some quiet position until it can recruit replacements. His religious feelings. If things get too hot in Spartanburg she might try to move to central Georgia.
In German. Regarding photographs and letters. Attached is the front of an envelope with canceled postmark addressed to his brother in Munich, with sketch of a man’s head (profile) on verso.
The newsletter includes a poem by Guest.
Burgess oath and gildbrother’s oath.
Burgess oath and gildbrother’s oath, given at admission.
Burgess oath and guildbrother’s oath. On vellum.
With business card of Guitean attached. Ruis Brothers and Company agreed to give him half of all he could obtain on a settlement of their claim. He has succeeded in collecting half of the sum of the claim (the other half is being sued for), and thinks it should all be his for the trouble he has gone to. In response to an apparently satirical article about the matter in the Herald.
Complies with request for autograph.
They are fortifying the country around Boston and Charleston. General Washington and Lee are coming to take command and no furloughs are being issued now, until the army gets organized. Estimates number of British regulars killed and wounded in battle at Charlestown [Bunker Hill]. Gives instruction for management of their farm. Some people fear there is treachery in the army because it doesn’t act instantly, but this is nonsense. He is not the executed spy Nathan Hale. He is a minute man in 1774; commissioned major Third New Hampshire, June 2, 1775.
Comments on his and their family’s health. Cannot buy pins anywhere. Instructions regarding provisions (what to keep, what to sell) and care of livestock. Asks her to send one or two shirts.
Health of self and family. Does not know yet what kind of a market they will have for their cattle.
Instructions regarding her and daughter Charlotte coming down to see him. Asks for stockings and to have a wool suit made. Details naval stores taken with a recently captured brigade and other prizes taken by American privateers. Have heard that a hurricane destroyed much of the British fishery fleet at Newfoundland.
Describes two recent prizes brought into Boston by privateers.
Last night General Putman [Putnam?] led a raid on Charlestown, burning several houses and taking seven or eight prisoners. They are fortifying against Boston. Bought some material for a gown for Charlotte, and arranged to buy some "tafity”[taffeta]. [Illegible] will not be home until the end of the month, since those who leave earlier will not be paid.
Describes march from Winter Hill to New York. They have fine houses for barracks, but have to buy fresh water. Spring has come already with fresh produce available. The city is full of wicked people and Tories, and "is one the wickedest places this side of Hell.” He expects to be ordered to Virginia or Canada soon. They are fortifying New York and the troops are in good spirits.
Comments on death of his sister Philbina. American troops’ reversals in Canada: driven from Quebec, Major Butterfield and 350 men captured, British reinforcements coming [to?] Quebec. The behavior of the American army has alienated the Canadians. General Sullivan came yesterday and maybe can straighten things out. Smallpox is rampant and he has caught it but expects to recover. Food is scarce and the Canadians will sell them nothing. He is sending a letter from Colonel Gilman to his wife, and asks her to forward it. Also, he wants the house painted, and paper the rooms if she wants.
Comments on his and the family’s health. The army is getting better and new militia have arrived, but he fears smallpox will spread among them (it is almost over with in his regiment). They have many vessels on the lake and figure to keep control of it. Lieutenant Whitcomb went into Canada and spied on the British for three weeks and killed General Garding. Hale is with General Gates and Benedict Arnold at Lake Champlain, building a fleet to try and keep control of the lake.
Last week General Howe landed 12,000 troops on Long Island, on Tuesday skirmished with the Americans, on Wednesday attacked and were repulsed with great loss. They likely had between five and six thousand wounded and won’t be able to do any more this season. We expect [Sir Guy] Carleton up the lake any day to attack us. Mount Independence is about two miles southeast of Fort Ticonderoga.
Describes defeat of Arnold’s fleet on Lake Champlain. The enemy are at Crown Point and we expect them here tomorrow. He sends her $300. Arnold is defeated by Sir Guy Carlton in a naval battle, but Carleton returned to Canada without pressing his victory.
They are seventy miles below Albany marching to join Washington at Brunswick in the Jerseys. He has sent his baggage to Worcester, Massachusetts, and if he doesn’t come home soon she should send for it, also $769 to be left at Captain Oliver’s house in Worcester for paying some of his men for ration money. They have just received orders to march to Philadelphia. Hale serves in New York under Washington. November 8, 1776, is made Lieutenant Colonel of the Second Battalion New Hampshire troops.
Has a comfortable hut and good provisions, garrison of four to five thousand. The enemy are cruising on the lake and we expect an attack soon. General Poor is in command, but Gates is expected soon. April 2, 1777 Hale is made Colonel of the Second Battalion New Hampshire Troops. Was with St. Clair at Ticonderoga until it is abandoned (July 6, 1777). On July 7, 1777, while retreating with a company of invalids, he is surprised at breakfast and captured at Hubbardtown.
Things are still quiet and they are fortifying. Mentions her being "surrounded with a set of Malisous Envious People.” Next winter he will do his best to be home with her or have her with him. Gives account of "Mr. Carr” of Rindge, who wound up being a drunkard and tried for desertion.
There have been a few casualties in his regiment. Describes skirmish with Indians. He sends a coat and some money home.
He will be happy to see her on Tuesday at any hour, and gives directions to his house. He is nearly finished with her second volume and has been making notes. Probably written in the 1830s. Hall is a British naval officer and author of travel books.
Her brother has just brought an album she wants him (Hall) to sign. Comments on his uncertainty as to what to say.
Letter regarding "N.Y. & A.” [New York & Albany] Railroad: agrees with him on the most direct route, and that the line to Sharon will be laid first, but has found that running many lines enables them to more easily gain land by cession or at a low rate. A committee, himself among them, will call on Holley next month to consult. Meantime, why not sound out people in his area regarding the possibility of ceding land and buying railroad stock? Also mentions progress in other counties of surveying and obtaining land. See also A.H. Holley letter, no. 729.
Signature on stationery of the "Commander Third Fleet,” [November, 1945].
Asks him to pay Jeremiah Wadsworth five hundred dollars for apprehending counterfeiters [or to help apprehend them?]. Hamilton asks payment in this manner because there is no appropriation for it, and he will reimburse Howell. Hamilton is Secretary of Treasury. Howell is "paymaster.” Wadsworth is United States Representative from Connecticut.
He is not at Washington when the law is passed to admit Minnesota as a state, and forgets its boundaries. If they include "all your territory,” it is too big, but diminishing the boundaries might increase Southern opposition to its admission. He fears[?] Minnesota will be yolked with Kansas if her constitution favors slavery, in which case Minnesota will be admitted whatever her boundaries are. The safest bet is to conform their boundaries to the act of Congress. Hamlin is United States Senator from Maine. Nourse is a lawyer in St. Anthony and St. Paul. In April 1857 he is secretary of a committee that met to organize the Republican party in Minnesota. He is evidently also a member of the special session of the Minnesota legislature called to prepare for a constitutional convention. The Minnesota enabling act had been passed by United States Congress February 26, 1857.
Sends her a brief sketch of himself, as she requested.
His uncle is sending wine, rum and beef (he lists them), and the plates for the coffin. The corpse should be put in the coffin as soon as possible for fear of bots. Let him know if anything else is needed. Hancock works in the counting-house of his uncle Thomas, who adopted him and left him his fortune and business.
Informs him of his appointment as Brigadier General in the colonial army, and requests he leave immediately for headquarters at New York. Invites him to stop at his (Hancock’s) house if he passes through Philadelphia. Hancock is a delegate to the Continental Congress from Massachusetts, and its president.
Orders him to pay to Mace Tisdale one pound four shillings as bounty on two hundred pounds of hemp. Accompanied by an order from Tisdale to pay to David West the bounty money due him (October 24, 1794). Hancock is governor of Massachusetts. Davis is state treasurer.
Describes ride from Chicago to Galena en route to missionary station at Red Wing, Minnesota. Troubles getting mired in mud continually between Chicago and Galena. At Galena they purchased a cow, furniture, and provisions and shipped on a steam boat. Met up with other missionaries and ex- Governor Slade en route. Comments on scenery, heathen dress and practices of Indians. Maria Hancock is the wife of Joseph Woods Hancock, teacher of the Dakotas at Red Wing and one of its earliest settlers.
Includes envelope. He is at Carondelet (St. Louis), Missouri awaiting orders to proceed to New Orleans after yellow fever abates. If he has to go sooner, he will probably make his headquarters outside the city. If he visits Butler’s parish, he will call on him. Hancock is a Union army general during the Civil War, and afterwards in charge of defense against Indians in the Department of the Missouri (1866-1867). On August 26, 1867,he is transferred to command of the Fifth Military District (Texas and Louisiana) with headquarters at New Orleans.
Includes envelope. Butler’s letter regarding "the Negro element of your vicinage[?]” and "the embarassments you experience in consequence of the failure of crops and the peculiar disposition of the laborers,” along with similar letters from others, have been sent to the Commissioner of the Freedmen’s Bureau for investigation. Hancock will do all he can to help.
Thanks for sending her "the paper containing write-up.”
On letterhead United States Senate. He has no printed copies of his political speeches, but sends a couple of other addresses. Agrees with Smith that the United States will go overwhelmingly Republican in the next election. Harding is United States Senator from Ohio.
Includes envelope. Mails her a little book as a Christmas greeting, and wishes her happy holidays.
Includes envelope. Invitation to dinner, very likely sent to his bachelor brother-in-law.
Doesn’t think he’ll be able to have anything for the Jubilee edition. Addressee might be editor Alan A. Milne of Punch or James Milne of the London Daily Chronicle.
Sign-off and signature[was it cut from a letter, and corners trimmed?] Harlan is an associate justice of the United States Supreme Court.
Parker commanded the Lexington Minute Company, the only organized formation at Lexington.
Orders to addressee to allow all British vessels to forego the formality of regular entry if they give bond not to land their cargo, and to pay required duties as soon as the legislature repeals the law forbidding trade with them. Harrison is Governor of Virginia.
On letterhead of law office of Harrison, Hines and Miller. Thanks Punie’s[?] committee for renewing their request, but fears the pressures of time and finances will forbid his traveling next summer. In 1876 Harrison ran for governor of Indiana.
He is too busy with his campaign now to make up a list of names to be furnished with the papers [the Senatorial Edition of the National Republican?] Will try to find time later. Harrison is campaigning unsuccessfully for re-election as United States Senator.
Declines invitation to attend meeting of Colonial Dames.
Announces his marriage to Mrs. Mary Scott Dimmick.
Accepts invitation to luncheon.
Addressed from Head Quarters Northwest Army and numbered (by Harrison) number 36. The appointment of (both) Colonel Morrison and Captain Piott as deputy Quarter Master General to this army with equal authority is going to cause all kinds of trouble. Wants Monroe to decide between them. General Winchester has been ordering and acting upon general courts martial [in Harrison’s department?], and Harrison doesn’t think he has the authority. Will Monroe decide this also? Monroe is Acting Secretary of War. Harrison is commander-in-chief of the northwestern army, against the British and their Indian allies.
A twelve-shilling, a one-shilling-six pence, and a fifteen shilling note.
Sends[?] the balance due Waterman with his current account, most in state money at 40 to 1.
Testimonial of "approbation and esteem, for her correct deportment as a Pupil of said Institution.” Signed by Helen S. Goodwin (principal) and I. P Warren (secretary). Top portion is an engraved picture of the seminary.
Encloses revision of "Peter Schroeder,” which he may publish a day or two before it appears in Belgravia. Has learned that the Sun sent a $250 check to Mrs. Harte for the "Twins,” and asks if Dana really thinks it is enough. Asks if Dana can pull strings to get him exchanged or promoted since the doctor tells him the climate in Crefeld is killing him. Harte is United States consul to Crefeld. Dana is owner and editor of the New York Sun.
In spite of government pledges to the Nabob, and Hastings’ own injunctions, many unlicensed Europeans still remain at Lucnow. Asks the addressee [probably the British resident official at Lucnow] to assure the Nabob that they are not under the British government’s protection and that he (Nabob) can and should remove them himself, using force and arrests if necessary. Neither Mr. Scott nor Captain Marrachis may be allowed to stay, and why does the addressee permit it, because it is with connivance. Captain Darell may remain until the end of the rains, if necessary to recover his health. Asks for a list of all English gentlemen still at Lucnow or in other parts of the Nabob’s domains. Hastings is Governor-General of British India. Lucnow (i.e. Lucknow) is the former capital of Oudh. In 1782 the wazír (or nabob) of Oudh is in arrears in payments for the East India Company garrison stationed there. The East India Company is seeking cash to meet its expenses, and compelled the nabob’s mother, the begum of Oudh, who controlled the province’s funds, to pay a huge fine.
Accepts honorary membership in the Kauai Kodak Klub, feels honored, etc. Has to admit that his portraits must be done by a more tedious process than with a Kodak. Hawkins is a British novelist.
He has dropped literature (mentions his qualms) and taken up development and exploitation of a mine called Temagami. Professional experts (theirs and their rivals) have convinced him and his associates that it is a good one, and they have refused several offers to buy them out. They have spent all their money on property, and want to get from Hodgeland a small sum to start mining. Goes into detail regarding the purchase of adjoining claims (because veins extended into them). They are trying to avoid dealing through brokers and so they want to sell some stock privately to get funds to start operations. Timagami or Temagami is in east central Ontario. A[lbert] H. Hogeland is chief engineer, Great Northern Railroad.
They have just acquired four additional claims. Gives some details on attempts by other firms to buy them out (by W. F. Wilkinson, Isaac Ellwood). Hawthorne plans to use his name, with its literary prestige, on their prospectus to get the public interested and induce them to buy stock, rather than sell it through a broker.
Invites him to attend a meeting. Apparently a fund-raising effort for a cause in which Bache is interested, and needs to overcome public opposition. In July 1860 Hayes sailed in command of the United States, fitted out by public subscription for exploration of the open polar sea. The letter probably refers to this.
His letter is received; Hayes is glad to be able so easily to oblige him. Hayes is surgeon of volunteers in charge of Satterlee Hospital. Before and after the Civil War, he is an arctic explorer and surgeon on arctic expeditions.
Invitation to a luncheon. To Margaret Drake, wife of the Chief Justice, United States Court of Claims.
Invitation to an evening affair to meet members of the Diplomatic Corps.
In reply to a request from Edgerly. Having just returned from President Garfield’s funeral, he thinks the most important lesson of the assassination is "the folly and wickedness of the extreme and bitter partisanship which prevails in our Country.”
Note on verso of a two-page interpretation of the Impressment Act (for articles of subsistence and forage), agreeing with the interpretation. The text of the interpretation is in another handwriting. Hayne is attorney general of South Carolina. Bonham is governor in 1862, also a Confederate general.
A petition that his regiment, the Second Canadian ("Congress’s Own”) be provided with supplies in the same manner as they are supplied to other Continental troops, with funds to come from the general military chest, and that all soldiers of the regiment be provided for equally. The regiment is originally raised (to about half its complement) in Canada in 1776. Its ranks were later filled by men from the states at large. These men could not be supplied with issues from their respective states, and Hazen claims they were overlooked in distribution of supplies by Congress. The memorial, which is quite long, gives the history of the regiment, its participation in Arnold’s campaign against Quebec, at Staten Island, Brandywine, and Germantown; losses; difficulties of collecting credits for their citizens from the home states of his soldiers, and of getting any provision at all made for the Canadian soldiers. Hazen is a Canadian soldier who joined the United States during the Revolution, became a brigadier general, and afterwards settled in Vermont.
Will be happy to meet her and family this evening. Note on back: "Miscellaneous letters 1865. Received from [?] in reply to invitation to come to the White House after Inauguration.” (wife of Cleveland’s Vice President, Thomas Andrew Hendricks.)
Regrets he can’t give Weedon any information regarding the arms Weedon is expecting. Supposes "their Pyrates” will visit "Potowmack,” though he doesn’t think there is anything of any value in the town. Is afraid they will be tempted by "your Town and Mr. Hunter’s Works,” and wishes there were enough men to defend them, but most men in the county have been impressed by "the Marquis’s detachment” and our militia is "so lately on duty having left their arms below.”
Thanks Weedon for news of the enemy’s situation. They have had vague accounts of an action near. "Cambdan,” but no details. He will send two shipbuilders of Alexa, Fleming and Caverly, to Weedon to inform him regarding "our ability to supply the Marquis.”
The bearer, Mr. Joseph Caverly, is calling on Weedon to "make an agreement respecting the Boats” and inform him of what they will be able to [build?]. They will also need cash to pay for wages and materials. Hendricks doesn’t have any, but "the Public” [treasury ?] has guaranteed their contracts.
Thanks for news of "the Skirmish below.” Doesn’t know how Summers is going to get enough carriages to transport the stores. Wants Weedon to send an officer "actually in service” to relieve Summers, who is liable to leave on the 20th with all the stores not yet forwarded. It is impossible for Hendricks to supply the necessities Weedon requests, but he has called on the county commissioners.
Thanks for news [of battles of Green Spring?]. Anxious to hear from General Greene as to whether Ninety-Six [British port?] has fallen [it had, May 26]. Mr. Summers is having trouble getting people to supply him with carriages and with irregularities and carelessness in shipping and invoicing goods. The boats are built, but they do not have the funds necessary to mount them on wagons. Caverly and Fleming should also be paid.
Has sent bread and vinegar to "Cases Warehous.” Has called on the Commissioners of neighboring counties, but he fears will get no more vinegar. No important news from the north. General Smallwood is supposed to be setting out from Annapolis tomorrow.
Has ordered Captain Summers to move all the stores from Leesburg to Farquhar, where the counties cannot so easily get them. Thinks the "Gentlemen Prisoners” Weedon introduced to him were treated well by him; "how shamefully these People have been neglected until they arrived at your town!” [These may be former British prisoners now paroled and returning home].
Introduces Colonel Nichol, who has some linens etc. for sale, but fears they come under the United States Seizing Law and wants to steer clear of it. Would appreciate any service Weedon can do him.
Tells of the apprehension and imprisonment of two spies, Zechariah Snead and Letitia Fitzgerald. Since the executive (himself) has exercised a power not expressly granted by law, he is informing the legislature of his actions. Harrison is speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates. Henry is Governor of Virginia.
Regarding transfer of money to John Cox. Henry is on his tract of land in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Henry County. The document is annotated "P Henry ADS,” but it is not clear that any part of it is actually written by Henry.
Thinks the enemy plans to evacuate Yorktown and move through Gloucester, hopefully surprising the United States army. Advises warning Washington of their intention and running a few ships upriver to block them. The tone of the letter sounds like a rather obscure spy, but the writing is similar to Henry’s (see letter number 717), and dealer Thomas F. Madigan believes it to be Henry’s. Henry is a member of the Virginia legislature, and may be in or near Richmond.
In French. Here is my latest score, and also that of Le Petit Faust. He is having vision problems, and can the doctor suggest something, "which could rid me of the bifocles”? Hervé (a pen name?) is a French conductor, composer, operettist.
Order to arrest William Moulton, for "trespass on the case.” Filled out and signed by J. Ward, attorney, and signed by Heyward as witness (one of the justices at Charleston). Heyward is a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and judge of the criminal and circuit court of South Carolina.
He is sending the Boston map today. Planned to send it last Monday, but had last-minute changes to make. Mentions some of them. Also mentions new assignments given some of his army friends. Hill is an assistant on the coast survey, stationed in Washington. Later a Confederate general. The letter refers to Major J. Reynolds being appointed commandant at West Point.
As Collins’ letter is rather ambiguous, Hill wants to know how much detail Collins wants him to go into in connection with the matters referred to. Stewart G. Collins says the letter probably concerns his father’s candidacy for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, following his retirement as associate justice, Supreme Court of Minnesota. See Allyn K. Ford information file.
Returns the letters Smith submitted. Has no objections to their publication. Hilles is in various business and Republican party positions.
Includes envelope. Written in the third person. Serious illness prevents Mrs. Hoar from accepting Cleveland’s invitation to lunch. Hoar is United States Senator from Massachusetts.
Friendly letter. Hoffman is a poet and editor, editor of American Monthly magazine. Cist , a poet even in his late teens (time of this letter), later went into business.
Long letter regarding the New York & Albany Railroad. Fears Mr. Bloomfield has no intentions of surveying a route through Salisbury, which he thinks the best route, from New York City to Albany. Goes into detail as to why this is the best route. A rough draft? On page four is also (in another handwriting) a resolution of the Methodist Episcopal Society of Salisbury to pay for repairs to the church. See also C. H. Hall letter, no. 665.
Regarding route of New York & Albany Railroad. He understands they are trying to immediately secure the location of the part of the route that lies in Columbia County. A route through Salisbury is once surveyed and pronounced very feasible. Explains why this would be the best and most profitable route, especially its marble quarries, and why the Columbia Company route is not very good; likewise a road from West Stockbridge to Albany. Written to Stevens as President of New York & Albany Railroad.
Sends Cleveland one of her books on temperance, and commends Cleveland’s writing.
"Per Ampliora ad Altiora. Oliver Wendell Holmes. From the library of Oliver Wendell Holmes. The gift of his son Oliver Wendell Holmes.”
"Lord of the Universe, shield us and guide us……” Four lines, with small photo of Holmes attached.
Gives permission to print "The Last Leaf” in her volume of selections, with wishes for success.
He knows nothing regarding Georgius Klon[?] of Frankfort other than that thirty to forty years ago a lot of old books with his name and comments by him in them were for sale, and Holmes bought a couple from the fifteenth century. Holmes has also just bought a copy of Valenius Maximus dated 1474.
On letterhead of Supreme Court of the United States. Thanks for a letter.
He neither sells nor collects autographs, but only keeps those few he happens across in his book auctioneering business. He has contacted an acquaintance who has a few for sale, and will act as intermediary for Thompson if he wants to buy. Hone himself would like autographs of John Lilburne and William Penn; does Thompson have duplicates? Hone is a London bookseller, essayist, book auctioneer. Thompson is a Liverpool druggist.
On letterhead of United States Food Administration. He does not want any European decorations. Would like to have work in the rebuilding in Belgium and Northern France. Thinks Whitlock should make a United States speaking tour about the need for maximum production of foodstuffs for the Allies. Whitlock is with the American Legation in Le Havre. Hoover is United States Food Administrator and chairman of the Commission for Relief in Belgium.
Sends a copy of his (Hoover’s) statement on reorganization of the Federal executive departments for Smith’s perusal and suggestions. Hoover is United States Secretary of Commerce.
Includes envelope. Also a clipping in which she refutes charges of assaulting a Bannock Indian, and accuses Piute Indian agent Gibson of fraud and slander. Cites examples that lead her to the believe agency system is a failure. Asks that he recall the Pyramid Lake agent and parcel the reservation land out to the Piutes. Last year she succeeded in getting an appropriation of $17,000 for her people, none of which reached Indians hands. She is a Piute princess.
To pay Thomas Bernard[?] thirty dollars as interest on money borrowed by the United States. Hopkinson is probably Treasurer of Loans, Continental Loan Office.
Glad to hear from him, hopes to see him again soon. His secretary is sending the Department’s yearbook and information on silos. Houston is United States Secretary of Agriculture. Newport is president of R.M. Newport and Company, a loan, investment and insurance firm.
Includes envelope. Complies with request for autograph.
On letterhead "Headquarters Division of the Atlantic.” Thanks for the reminder of his visit at her father’s house several years ago. Gives her a reference to a biographical sketch of him (apparently at her request).
Will attend the meeting of the Author’s Club at Miss Ticknor’s house. Ticknor is an author. Howe is an anti-slavery, woman suffrage, prison reform, peace crusader; wrote "Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
Includes envelope. Can come on January 16th. Gives list of her lectures[?] that she is giving this season; which does Mrs. Sonoyn prefer?
Includes envelope. Thanks for the biographical sketch of Professor Shields.
He is going over to West Point and will remand the party until can get a boat. Howe is a general in the Continental Army -- Second North Carolina Regiment. Commanded at West Point 1780. In 1781 quelled a mutiny in Pennsylvania and New Jersey regiments, and the same in Philadelphia, 1783.
Forwards a letter.
On letterhead of Harper and Bros publishers. Thanks for her "very interesting suggestion.” He will be glad to talk literature with her when he is in his office. Howells is an author, editor, journalist. Recipient may be Mrs. Adele M. Garrigues.
"I can’t say whether I forgive you until I have seen your article; and they don’t forward newspapers. But if it is in honor of Clemens, I will respite you, anyway.”
He is out of the questions on Julius Caesar, but encloses copies of others. Does she know of his book Shakespeare: His Life, Art, and Characters?. Some of her pupils might find it helpful. Hudson is a Shakespearean scholar, and professor of Shakespeare at Boston University.
He has never prepared any questions on A Midsummer-Night’s Dream. He would be glad to supply her with others, and to receive a visit from her at his house.
On letterhead of United States Secretary of State. Sends a copy of his recent address in Philadelphia. Hughes is Secretary of State.
He (Percival) will be ordered to the United States (frigate) shortly. Can he get leave of absence until then, so he can make arrangements? Also names others who will go. Hull is a naval officer, commanded squadrons in the Pacific and Mediterranean, head of Boston and Washington navy-yards, member of the Naval Board. On January 5, 1824, he sailed on the frigate United States to the west coast of South America to take command of the Pacific station.
Long letter (about 1600 words) regarding proceedings in the British Parliament at the repeal of the Stamp Act, and Pitt’s famous speech against it – particularly the divisions in Parliament over the vote, reasons behind the final result, schemes of Lord Bute against the present ministry and theirs against him. Conway, Earl of Hertford, is appointed Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland in 1766.
In German. A German popular composer.
Grants tenant rights to John Hunt and wife Elizabeth for land at Callingswood within Barton Manor. [Signed by the Steward, but apparently not by Hunt.]
He is pleased to see a proof of Mr. Simmon’s engraving of "The Light of the World” with all of Hunt’s suggestions followed. Hopes to get a chance to express his appreciation to Mr. Simmons. States the points he likes most about the engraving. (The Light of the World” (1853) is English painter Hunt’s most popular work.
Asks Rice’s help in securing a place in the army for Mr. A. C. Jones, a brother-in-law of a friend of Hunter’s. Hunter is United States Senator from Virginia. Rice is United States Senator, from Minnesota, probably in Washington when this letter is written.
On embossed stationery of South Kensington Science and Art Department. Huxley is an English biologist who promoted and defended Darwinism.
His son is recovered [from illness?]. Hopes she can come see the Tudor Exhibition. Irving is an English actor-manager.
Includes envelope. Almost illegible. Seems to be welcoming her back home. Written on engraved heading "Lyceum Theatre.”
Letterhead stationery and envelope: Fourth American Tour, Mr. Henry Irving, Miss Ellen Terry and the Lyceum Company. Thanks for her letter. Hopes to be able to give "Much Ado About Nothing” on his return visit to Boston in March.
On letterhead stationery: Fifth American Tour, 1895-1896, Henry Irving, Miss Ellen Terry, and the Lyceum Company. Thanks to Kauai Kodak Club for making him an honorary member.
Announces death of Irving’s brother Peter and plans for temporary interment until a family vault is constructed. Will Dr. Creighton officiate at the funeral? Creighton is rector of Christ Church, Tarrytown.
Fears our sloop Nancy is taken, but they won’t lose by the adventure, since Mr. Russell has no just claim on the sugar. Will go in with Trumbull on purchase of any amount of sugar, rum, or loaf sugar he wants to buy. About 7:00 Friday our whole army attacked the enemy at Chestnut Hill, drove them quite a distance, but due to a mix-up the army scattered and retreated. General Greene is blamed. Gives results of the battle. He has not been able to make much progress in settling commissary accounts. There have been many complaints against the commissaries. Irwin is captain and quartermaster for Pennsylvania troops, one of sixty Philadelphia citizens who provided funds for temporary support of the army at Valley Forge. Trumbull is commissary General of the Continental Army. Battle is Battle of Germantown, October 4, 1777.
On parchment. In Spanish.
Dr. Vandyke is to take charge of Colonel Lillard’s regiment of East Tennessee Militia as its surgeon, relieving Dr. Perkins to return to his own regiment. During Jackson’s campaign in Alabama against the Creek Indians after massacre at Fort Minns, War of 1812.
Gratified at Butler’s account of the celebration of January 8th, and especially its object of raising funds to aid the Creeks. His interest in their fight for liberty. Pleasure at the honor accorded him during a party at Mrs. Adams’, when Mrs. Curtis presented him with "the implements used by him [Washington] in the formation and establishment of our national independence and liberty.” Also at the pistols given to Washington by Lafayette, being presented to him. He has very little time to write anything but business letters, but would like to hear from Butler. Jackson is United States Senator, presumably in Washington; Butler is United States Army lieutenant.
Comments on Butler’s letter regarding his southern tour. "The scenes in Georgia give you a view of human nature when under the influence of party excitement, and selfish political views.” Governor Troup has shown himself to be without merit: excitement over the danger of Indian hostilities is produced to draw attention away from the means used to obtain an unjust treaty. News of mutual friends and family.
Acknowledges Butler’s letters from Georgia and the Creek Nation. Regrets that General Gaines allowed himself to be drawn into political controversy with Governor Troup, because Troup’s friends in Congress now have grounds to oppose Gaines, and the Executive (Adams) is likely not to risk his own popularity to support him. He has resigned from the Senate. Congratulations on Butler’s approaching marriage. Butler’s sister Eliza is recovering from her difficult childbirth.
Acknowledges gift from Mrs. Lewis [Butler’s note says he is acknowledging a lock of General Washington’s hair]. Expressions of friendship and well-wishes. Butler’s sister Eliza is recovering her health.
Grant for 80 acres in Township 85, Range 14W, Bronson (Michigan Territory) District. Signed by A. J. Donelson [Andrew Jackson Donelson, Jackson’s adopted son and private secretary]. Vellum (parchment?)
Expressions of friendship and wishes for continued good health. Glad to hear Louisiana is "released from the wicked rule of Modern Whiggery and Federalism.” Veto of the tariff bill with its provisions for distribution of revenue from sales of public lands puts to rest most of Clay’s schemes. Comments on slurs by Borrow and Conrad against his fame.
Relays von Steuben’s orders that Sturtevant immediately join his (Sturtevant’s) regiment, unless his health does not permit. Van Steuben will strike from the rolls all officers not absent by sickness or proper authority. Jackson is major general of Massachusetts militia.
Includes envelope. "We are thrilled with the prospect of displaying your outstanding collection of letters and documents here at Trinity.” Ford is welcome to stay at the college when he passes through; Jacobs will be out of town, but his assistant will handle things. Jacob is President of Trinity College.
Seems to be written on parchment. Expressions of gratitude for those who are working in his cause and supporting him; regrets he cannot reward them as they deserve (or even at all); hopes when he is restored to be able to do so. Son of James II, Catholic King of England, deposed in 1688 by William and Mary. In 1722 he is contemplating another Jacobite expedition to England.
Gratified that Butler likes his wines. Wishes Butler a good sugar crop. Annexes an invoice for wine ordered and explains shipping arrangements and charges. Lists wines newly received and their prices. Janney is a Quaker wine merchant.
Encloses copy of a letter from von Steuben and authorizes Weedon to call on any militia and public property needed to carry out von Steuben’s recommendations for protection of Hunter’s works. Would like Weedon to come join General Nelson’s forces if Hunter’s defenses can be left adequate. Benedict Arnold’s attack on Richmond: burned the magazine, boring mill, and foundry roof; most ammunition is saved; also lists weapons, quartermaster stores, and public papers lost.
Arnold is retreating down the [James?] River after his raid on Richmond. Suggestions to Weedon on preparing to protect Williamsburg and Fredericksburg (Arnold’s potential targets).
Unable to supply Weedon with lead except in dire emergency. Their supply is used to furnish the Southern Army (under Greene) and some is sent to the Northern Army. Stock very low and about one-third is destroyed by Arnold. As soon as the money press starts working, he will supply Weedon with money for enlisting men.
Commissioners of the provision law in Weedon’s neighborhood have agreed to lend aid in furnishing Weedon with provisions. Approves Weedon’s arrangement for defense of Potomac and Rappahannock and has referred the matter to von Steuben for his approval.
Hanover, Caroline, Spottsylvania and King William counties have been called on to send militia immediately. Gives list of various counties and their quotas.
Fears the French fleet may come into the bay not knowing a British fleet is already there. Will Weedon send orders to Colonel Avery to send out two lookout boats to intercept Lafayette, if he is returning to the north side of the river, and tell him the situation.
Written in council. Penciled note on document says "This letter is in Va. Executive letter book addressed to La Fayette.” He will procure trenching tools etc. for operations against Portsmouth. Doesn’t know how to get seamen for manning the armed vessels except by drafting them from the militia. Maybe it would be better to withdraw the private vessels. Captain Maxwell is at the Chickahominy ship-yard, and will receive the addressee’s orders regarding the naval department. Gives amounts of militia being called from various counties to relieve those who have been a long time in the field. Captain Reid’s cavalry have reported, but have been sent to Port Royal to refit. Encloses letter from General Greene. [Part of A.K. Ford’s Weedon collection, but sounds more like something he might have written to Lafayette.]
With covering letter to Rose Elizabeth Cleveland, Washington, D.C. from Mrs. Eleanor Wayles Harrison, Keswick, Virginia, March 15, 1886.
Encloses letter for Joseph Bartlett. Asks him to give the enclosed ($30) to Mr. Bartlett. Plans of ministerial labor and fellowship [in Portsmouth?] have been frustrated. Remember him to various friends in Bath. The enclosure [probably a copy] sends Mr. Bartlett $30, apologizes for the delay due to difficulty getting money, would have been glad to speak to Mr. Bartlett had Mr. Bartlett permitted it. With a note appended giving Jenks’ estimate of the amount he owes Bartlett, and when and how the obligation is incurred Bartlett contributed to Jenks’ support while he is in school. Jenks and Parker are both ministers.
Expresses pleasure at being named an honorary member of the Kauai Kodak Club. Jerome is a British writer.
Signature on both sides, with handwritten quotation. Johnson is a United States Senator.
Pardons him for participation in the rebellion against the United States, provided he takes the loyalty oath, never holds slaves, pays any outstanding legal fees and fines, and does not try to reclaim property confiscated and sold by the government.
Co-signed by William E[aton] Chandler, Acting Secretary of Treasury.
Note in upper left-hand corner: "Recorded volume 4 page 77 Adjutant General’s Office April 9, 1866.” New York regimental lists show Murray is from Seneca Falls, New York.
Note in upper left-hand corner: "Recorded, Volume 4, Page 106, Adjutant General’s Office, June 7, 1866.”
Note in upper left-hand corner: "Recorded Volume 5, page 16, Adjutant General’s Office August 3, 1866.”
Invitation to dine. Creswell is United States Senator from Maryland.
Pardon for participation in the rebellion against the United States.
Tennessee lawyer and judge, United States Representative, United States Postmaster general.
He displayed his portrait of President Cleveland at the last meeting of the Century Club, where it is much praised. Would like the President and family to see it before it goes to Albany. Eastman is a genre and portrait painter.
Complies with request for an autograph. Johnson is United States Senator from Louisiana.
Complies with request for an autograph. Johnson is United States Senator from Georgia.
Letter of introduction for O. M. Dougherty, son of ex-Senator Dougherty, who wants to obtain a position in Dougan’s department (Engineer’s Office, Great Northern Railway).
Complies with request for an autograph. Johnson is United States Senator from Maryland.
Letter regarding Mr. Thrale’s stroke. Hopes for his recovery; we will do all we can; cites two friends who have recovered from strokes. (Penciled note at top of document says "Vol. II. [page] 51 Letter 205.” Transcription in Allyn K. Ford background file cites it as "#620 in Letters of Samuel Johnson vol. 2, pg 97.”
Copy of his address to his troops before the battle of Shiloh, exhorting them to fight for victory. Signed A. S. Johnston and countersigned by Thomas Jordan (assistant adjutant general), both with the word "(signed)” before their names. Also countersigned George G. Garner (assistant adjutant general), in whose writing this copy presumably is. A sheet in Allyn K. Ford’s background file says this is dictated by Johnston. Johnston is killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862.
Includes envelope. Thanks her for sending "the beautiful box.” Wishes President Cleveland and his new bride happiness. She is a niece of James Buchanan and mistress of the White House during his presidency.
Includes envelope. He has been so busy at his office that he has only just found time to answer Butler’s letter. Wishes he could have stopped to see Butler when passing through St. Louis. Looking forward to Colonel Gantt’s[?] coming to Washington. In early life, he is often in General Lee’s house, where Butler’s son is frequently spoken of. In 1887 Johnston is appointed United States Commissioner of Railroads.
Postmaster has been frequently complaining that too many letters are being allowed to pass free. De Grasse’s fleet has arrived in the Bay and they had early word of it at Philadelphia. Arnold has raided New London, captured Fort Trumbull by assault and killed or captured its garrison, and plundered the town. There are also rumored to be 4000 [British?] troops on Long Island which may be sent against Philadelphia. [British] Admiral Digby is also said to be on the coast, but Jones thinks de Grasse’s fleet is greatly superior in numbers. Jones is representing Virginia in the Continental Congress.
Bill to freeze the social security tax at one percent has passed Congress. There is almost certain to be a presidential veto, but they hope to pass it over the veto.
Includes envelope. On letterhead stationary of China Relief Legion. Written to the Fords as members of the China Relief Legion. Explains progress made in China (education, medical, etc.) with China Relief Legion funds, and appeals for more funds (to fight communism). Includes a flyer on China progress under the China Relief Legion. Judd is chairman of the China Relief Legion.
Thanks for campaign support. Hopes the Administration will "turn to sound measures … to get … desirable social gains” and that the President will replace State Department personnel "who have been proved wrong about Communism in Asia with those who have correctly understood it and how to deal with it.”
Thanks for her wire expressing opposition to the Bricker Amendment. The possibility of a treaty "taking precedence over our Bill of Rights or other Constitutional safeguards” should be thoroughly debated.
Includes envelope. Sympathy for death of Ford’s father.
Sends invitation to a White House luncheon (Eisenhower) for Ford’s collection. Has no letters in his files with the President’s signature.
Thanks for campaign support. Comments on dirtiness and ruthlessness of the campaign, the thrill of victory, and confidence that popular policies and programs can be developed despite the Republicans not having a majority in Congress.
Thanks for telegram approving the President’s budget and adequate funds for national defense. He agrees.
Thanks for comments regarding his appearance at the Rotary. Glad for their viewpoints regarding labor union investigations. Public confidence needs to be restored regarding some irresponsible union officials.
Postcard. Thanks for sending a copy of the letter to W. Warren Barbour written by the Eastburns and the Arthur Bluetts. On address side is a picture of Kaltenborn and the days and times of his NBC news broadcast.
Wants to confer with Bache regarding the best way of making available the material of his recent voyage. Does Bache have a position for Mr. Sonntag, who took charge of the expedition observatory and is now without a job? Mentions the equipment used for meteorological and magnetic observations. The theodolite is nearly useless due to excessive cold. In May 1853 - August 1855 Kane led an expedition to the Arctic to search for Sir John Franklin and companions and explored Smith Sound, Greenland, and Grinnell Land. His voyage expanded knowledge of Eskimos and geography.
Hopes to be in Geneva soon. Appeals for help for her representatives. Mrs. Henry is president of the Geneva Woman’s Club.
Kelley is a founder of the Republican Party in Pennsylvania, lawyer and judge.
Obliged to Smith for his call and the information he gave. Written on letterhead of United States Senate, Committee on National Banks, F. B. Kellogg chairman. Kellogg is United States Senator from Minnesota.
The President has called him (Kellogg) to Washington for an emergency consultation. Expresses regards and appreciation for Collins’ support and association with him in his fall campaign. To Collins as lieutenant governor of Minnesota.
Regrets can’t accept Ford’s offer of honorary chairmanship of the Minnesota Committee of American Friends of Lafayette.
Wiley states he is present when Captain Alexander read Kellogg the court martial verdict against him, and Kellogg acknowledged he had come to the Confederacy as a spy, but Kellogg denied he is a Confederate deserter. Captain Alexander (commandant of the Eastern District) corroborates Wiley’s testimony. Notarized (and witnessed) by Robert D. Ward, Richmond, Virginia.
Finds him guilty of deserting to the enemy, and of acting as a spy after representing himself as a Federal deserter and joining the C.S. Engineer Corps. To be hanged September 26th under supervision of Captain G. W. Alexander, Assistant Provost Marshall. Signed by J. W. Pegram.
Includes envelope. Gives him an account at Kellogg’s request of an interview with Kellogg just before Kellogg’s execution. Kellogg seemed calm and resigned to his fate, expressed appreciation for Captain Alexander’s kindness. Harvey is chaplain, 110th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and a prisoner of war.
Robert Ould, Confederate Commissioner of Exchange, has asked him to make a statement of his interview with Spencer Kellogg on the day of his execution. Awaits Meredith’s instructions. Sends a letter [presumably the one to Cozzens] for Meredith to read before sending it on.
Statement that Kellogg considered himself guilty of spying but innocent of desertion. Notarized by Robert D. Ward. With covering signature of Ro[bert] Ould, Agent of Exchange, referring it to United States Agent of Exchange, General Meredith.
Includes envelope. Addresses her as "My dear Bessie.” Hopes she can come to Lenox to visit this summer, and expounds on the pleasure they will receive from her (Bessie’s) visit. Frances Anne Kemble, actress, especially Shakespearean.
He (Kendall) has looked to no other connection with a California Telegraph Company than a rule to them of the patent right for $50,000 in cash. Smith’s portion would be $12,500. Is he to understand that Smith is unwlling to consent to this? Kendall a journalist, Democrat, political writer, United States Postmaster General 1835-1840. Became associated with Samuel F. B. Morse in 1845 in ownership of Morse’s telegraph patents, which made him rich. Smith,a former United States Representative from Maine, assisted Morse in perfecting and introducing the electric telegraph.
Does not clearly understand what interest it is that Smith proposes to sell for $50,000, but whatever it is he will not lay out $50,000 cash for it, even assuming Smith’s claims are completely good under law. He doesn’t see how the patent right can be made more productive in the current seven years than during the proceeding fourteen. Discusses the possibility of naming a trustee. Discusses progress of "the New York suit.” Leaves open the possibility of their buying Smith out, but not on any terms so far suggested.
Gives breakdown of $931.09 as divided among the interested parties (F. O. J. Smith, Morse, A. N. Greenton[?], Kendall). Thinks Mr. Tracy should abate his fees.
On letterhead Mitchell Kennerley, Publisher-The Forum. Thanks for the clipping of Joslyn’s review of Max Eastman’s book. Considers it the most important book published since the War.
With letter from J. Malcolm, Edinburgh, Scotland to James Cochran [Edinburgh, Scotland], September 11, 1832. Miss Kerr is suing for a share from the estate of Archibald Cochran. Attached to the summons of declarator is a summons to James Cochran to appear at court October 13,1832. The letter from Malcolm [solicitor] asks Cochran to give him the names and addresses of his children. Addressed to James Cochran, brass founder.
On letterhead of "The Magazine ANTIQUES.” Discusses an eagle tablecloth. Gives prices for some numbers in the Morris Murray sale.
On letterhead "The Magazine ANTIQUES.” Thanks for writing regarding the photostat owned by Mr. Gillinder. He is writing to Mr. Gillinder to see if he will lend it.
On letterhead State of Minnesota, Department of Public Instruction. Includes envelope. Congratulates him on selection as president of the University of Minnesota. The presidents and principals of high schools are planning to meet soon to discuss high school curriculum and state high school law; can Northrup be there? Kiehle is superintendent of public instruction.
On letterhead New York Times. Includes envelope. Complies with her request to send an autographed manuscript. Suggests she write also to Helen Gray Cone and Margaret Widdemer for autographed poems [apparently for a bazaar].
On letterhead Philadelphia Museum of Art, and signed Fiske Kimball, Director. Includes envelope. Thanks for further documentary information on Nehemiah Adams. Suggests he contact magazine ANTIQUES to see if they will publish it. Kimball is a music director, architect, professor of architecture and fine arts, director of Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Announcement of Commodore Perry’s naval victory on Lake Erie. Hampton also expects a victorious end to his campaign, urges the army to move quickly and without baggage. The army will be formed for a national salute in honor of Perry’s victory at 12:00. King is a United States career soldier; adjutant general with rank of colonel, July 1813. Hampton is placed in command of the army on Lake Champlain in July 1813. Undertook campaign against Montreal in fall 1813. It failed and Hampton resigned his commission.
Gives the residence of Dixon H. Lewis at time of his death. King is United States Senator from Alabama; subsequently Vice President of the United States 1852-1853.
Encloses autograph of Kipling. Includes envelope. Kipling’s secretary [name looks like M. E. Walyn] conveys Kipling’s thanks for her gift. Regrets he can’t autograph her books, but he has made a general policy not to do so. Sends his autograph.
Addressed to him as Doctor George Waterman. No news. Would like to hear from Waterman. Congress is giving laws to the new ceded territory and will probably not adjourn until March. Asks about mutual acquaintances. Has just heard his son is badly hurt at Corp’s Bridge; will Waterman go to his house and see what is the matter? Knight is United States Representative from Rhode Island.
Encloses a newspaper a containing speech by Mr. Bidwell of Massachusetts. Has been in good health. Would like to hear from Waterman.
Speech on a bill to extend the time to construct a railroad from the St. Croix river or lake to the west end of Lake Superior. Knott opposes it, very sarcastically, ridiculing Duluth, the Northwest, and their possible development and future [A sale catalog excerpt calls it "a famous address.” His ridicule killed aid to the railroad and his speech is still cited as a specimen of satire; it actually enhanced the fame of Duluth.] Knott is United States Representative from Kentucky. His Duluth speech gave him a reputation as a humorist.
Can’t find a good photo of himself to send to Miller. He will have one taken in Washington when he goes there.
A "gentleman of the press” has just told him some of the [illegible] have been missed. We want all the support we can get. [Seems to be cautioning Mason against taking copies without paying for them.] Knowles is a British dramatist, author, teacher.
No horses have been sent to Kings Ferry despite Pickering’s promise to do so. When will they be delivered for the light artillery? Needs one hundred thirty, plus twenty-five teams for ammunition wagons. Pickering is Continental Army Quartermaster General. In July 1781 Washington’s men were crossing from Staten Island to New Jersey, beginning the march to Virginia that ended at Yorktown.
He received Weedon’s letter regarding circumstances of 1778 which led to his temporary retirement from the army [quarrel between Weedon and General Woodford]. Sympathizes with circumstances which "irresistibly impelled you to conform to the point of honor held sacred in the army never to endure being superseded in rank.” Hopes he can therefore be treated the same as many other officers who received pay during "long recesses from the field.” Knox is Secretary of War.
In German. Includes translation. Letter of recommendation for violinist Arthur Argiewicz, who will be returning for a considerable time to America and will be looking for a concert-master’s position. Will Damrosch do what he can for Argiewicz? Walter Johannes Damrosch is director of the New York Symphony Orchestra, 1903-1927. His brother Frank H. is a New York music director.
In French. Includes translation. Hopes deSigoyne is not among the dead and wounded. Asks him to congratulate all Lafayette’s old friends in the army, especially Colonel Armand and General Smallwood. No news other than the treason of Arnold and trial of Andre. Lafayette is a member of the board of fourteen generals that condemned Andre to death.
Planned to move down all General Muhlenberg’s corps, but the ammunition has not arrived. Skirmished with the British, but lack of ammunition prevented driving them back into town. He is waiting for the Baron. Can Weedon send five hundred axes? Will Weedon assist the French seamen and officers in the area? When Arnold with a British force invaded Virginia early in 1781, Lafayette is sent with 1200 men to assist in its defense. His troops were ill equipped and he bought supplies at Baltimore in drafts on the French treasury, endorsing them himself to pledge payment. He planned to cooperate with Rochambeau’s fleet, but this fell through. He is expected to harass a force several times his own with insufficient ammunition. See J. Bennett Nolan, Lafayette in America Day by Day.
The enemy is prepared to attack Richmond on the 30th, but the Continental detachment beat them to it and they retreated. Describes the defense measures he is taking now. Fears the enemy will head for Fredericksburg. Will Weedon stay in that vicinity and gather together a force. Lafayette will come to join him if the enemy actually show up there. The public stores ought to be readied for a move. But the first object must be to send a convoy under Major Galvan. Military stores were mostly at Richmond, and Arnold and Phillips had planned to destroy the town.
Will Weedon direct the distribution of troops north of the Rappahannock? (sending them to defend their own counties). But be ready to centralize them if the enemy should move toward Fredericksburg. We have gotten between the enemy and our stores, and most are safe. The Baron, with about 1500 men and artillery, has retreated to the south side of the Staunton River. Will Weedon inform the Board of War we are "entirely destitute,” and if they continue to hold up the shipment of clothes we will be unable to move. Lafayette had gotten between Tarleton and the stores by forced marches with his small force. Steuben is dragging his feet. Arnold had been joined by Cornwallis.
Wants Weedon to stay where he is a little longer. The enemy evacuated Richmond this morning and may head for Williamsburg, but don’t know.
The enemy evacuated Richmond yesterday; seem to be heading towards Williamsburg; we are following them. Badly in need of cartridges, powder, and lead; can he send? Is it possible to get several boats[?] on carriages? The enemy’s light horse is vastly superior, and this makes it difficult to get equipment. Need all available caps, swords, shoes, rum.
We are near the enemy. The militia are daily going off, with no relief coming in. Will Weedon use his influence to get the people to rally to them as fast as possible, especially horsemen? Sends a letter (intercepted) to Cornwallis, which shows he planned to go further from the James River than he did.
The enemy is in Hampton Road, about 2500 already embarked, supposedly for New York. Will Weedon send scouts out to watch what they are up to? If they go up the Potomac, Lafayette will pursue them. On July 6th, the Americans had attacked at Green Spring, near Williamsburg, but were unsuccessful, and Cornwallis continued his retreat to Yorktown while Lafayette occupied Malvern Hill and waited.
Cornwallis is fortifying Yorktown. Ships are said to have been sent by Clinton’s orders to bring troops from Portmouth. Lafayette’s men badly need arms, can Weedon forward some? Will Weedon also send Bedkin’s Corps and all other available cavalry to Lafayette? Can he get about fifty light spears for horsemen?
Cornwallis is concentrating his whole force at Gloucester. Wants militia of the Northern Neck to be ready to move on the shortest notice. Cavalry accoutrements are vital, and will Weedon forward them from Frederick as fast as possible. There is supposed to be a stock of cartridges at Leesburg; can Weedon have it sent to him?, and also four hundred stand of arms.
He is moving to a position nearer the James River. Supplies coming to him should stay as far away from the enemy as possible. What has happened to the sixty volunteers that were supposed to be coming?
Counte de Grasse’s fleet has arrived in Chesapeake Bay. Lafayette is taking steps to prevent Cornwallis’ retreat to Carolina. Vessels capable of transporting supplies should be collected in the Rappahannock. Will Weedon hurry the march of the Maryland troops for this army.
A camp of about one thousand militia will be formed at Gloucester; he would like Weedon to come and command it. Will he assist Mr. Livingston in supplying French troops with flour. All proper vessels should be forwarded to the Head of Elk [for Washington’s army].
Printed. In French. With translation. Decree of the French National Assembly accusing Lafayette of treason and ordering his arrest. Lafayette had been appointed (20 April 1792) to command the army of the centre in the war against Austria. On June16th he wrote a letter denouncing the Jacobins, then planned to remove the king from Paris but is too late. After the August 10th revolution, Lafayette refused to obey orders of the assembly, and on August 19th he is removed from command. Fled to Belgium, is captured by the Austrians and turned over to the Prussians, who imprisoned him for five years in revenge against the execution of Marie Antoinette.
Expressions of regret for friend’s departure, and for not having a chance to say good-bye. Lafayette’s whole family will miss him also. In English. Lafayette is in retirement at his castle of La Grange, in Brie, but apparently has made a trip to Paris.
In French, with translation. Alexandre de Lameth has sent him a copy of translation of Franklin’s letters. Does not know where to reach Lameth, so is sending him a letter in their care. They are addressed as booksellers.
Signed by John Adams, Mayor, William Fitzwhylsome, Recorder; and Thomas Brockenbrough, Senior Alderman.
Printed. Announcing members of the provisional government of the Paris Commune, with Lafayette’s name heading the list. In the revolution of July 1830, Lafayette is made commander-in-chief of the national guard, and is instrumental in placing Louis Philippe on the throne.
In French, with translation. On letterhead Gardes Nationales du Royaume (National Guards of the Kingdom). Regarding a letter of recommendation for the addressee that Lafayette, M. Maurice, and M. Odilon-Barrot are presenting.
In French, with translation. On letterhead Comité Central en faveur des Polonais (Central Committee for the Polish). Sends the committee’s thanks for the poem on Cheringue, Poland, which de Montémont has just published. Lafeyette is president of the Committee.
Complete edition with an article on a medal presented to Lafayette.
His unfavorable impressions of Mary Anderson [actress]. Lamar is United States Secretary of the Interior.
Nothing has yet been heard of the vessel carrying some friends. Sorry not to have seen Cleveland, but the Custom House people are holding everyone to their posts until the vessel is sighted. Lamont is Grover Cleveland’s private secretary.
Written on Executive Mansion stationery. Includes envelope. Miscellaneous comments: President Cleveland, family, Rose E. Cleveland’s work in New York City.
At bottom is written "Jane Phelps” [sent to her?]
He (Latta) is acquainted with Colonel Lyford, United States Ordnance Bureau, after the Civil War. Since Latta shared his favorable opinion regarding General Sherman, Lyford gave him a letter written by Sherman. He now sends it to Gubbel for his Civil War collection.
He has written to Major General Heath asking him to forward von Steuben some money and aid him in traveling to Washington’s camp. Advises him to use Continental paper money for expenses and hang on to his own coin money. Written soon after von Steuben’s offer of aid to the American cause. Apparently accompanies an order appointing him Lieutenant General and directing him to report to Washington. The camp referred to is Valley Forge, where von Steuben spent the winter drilling United States troops. Laurens is president of the Continental Congress.
On letterhead Prime Minister’s Office. Not surprised at Barrett’s information that the breach is now complete. What Barrett seems to be suggesting is to get the goodwill of both parties and eliminate the question from politics. The problem is that neither party dared move for fear of being attacked by the other. He will try his best to cooperate with Barrett if it will help.
I will order my regiment to march with your troops agreeable to your orders. What time will you march? I would like to have more to do with Tarleton and Simes. Lauzun came to the United States with Lafayette, commanded a troop of five hundred cavalry, participated in siege of Yorktown.
Includes franked envelope. Thanks for letter regarding bill to regulate sales in interstate commerce. Your suggestion will be considered. Lea is a United States Representative from California.
Leacock is a Canadian author and essayist.
Explains arrangements he has made for posting and training his militia and holding them in readiness, but "what are we to do for Arms.” They need at least one hundred to replace those sent to Williamsburg. He will keep only as many men on duty as can be armed. Harry Lee is a colonel of Virginia militia at Prince William.
Includes envelope. Discusses printing and circulation of her book [apparently her father’s reminiscences]. Hopes to be at the White House frequently, as her son and daughter propose to live there. Inquires after Butler and family. Lee family news. Mary Randolph Custis Lee, wife of Robert E. Lee.
Hopes assembly and transfer of the drafts (troops) will be expedited. Thinks Colonel Mason’s method will be too slow, and will Weedon therefore do what he can to hasten it? Wants to send everyone who has had smallpox on to the Army immediately, and keep back only those not yet inoculated. Goes into detail on these various points. Lee is a member of the Continental Congress, commanded militia in Westmoreland County, and served in the Virginia Assembly in 1780-1782.
Feels the resolution of Congress is unfair to Weedon and that Woodford should not have been promoted over him. Elaborates on this. But feels the cause of liberty and country supercede all other considerations, and would definitely not resign. Thinks military men carry their honor too far. His brother’s illness continues dangerous.
Henry’s letter to the delegates (regarding exchange of war prisoners) has been laid before the Marine Commission. Prisoners belonging to a state may be used by them to benefit [exchange for?] their own people. So far only Continental prisoners have been exchanged, because Great Britain refuses to deal with the states. Encloses a resolution of Congress on the subject [not present].
Thanks for news of Morgan’s success. Has he heard anything else? Thinks there may be some chance of getting a marine force into Chesapeake Bay after Arnold. News of General Parsons’ successful attack on the British in New York.
Hopes for defeat of Britain, who is now carrying on a war of malice only. Has arranged to get news of the approach of the enemy fleet to Weedon as soon as sighted. Describes the richness of the Northern Neck and difficulty of defending it, and asks for an officer to organize their militia and a few regular troops to help in defense. Many people in the area are apathetic and unconcerned. Could they get General Spotwood? Can they have cartridges? Hopes not too many troops are being sent south to Greene.
Likes the plan for levying militia (from counties according to population). Has heard ships are going up the James River with reinforcements for Cornwallis, and fears foraging parties. Hopes the presence of a legion in the area for support will induce more militia to turn out. Thinks cavalry can be raised in the four lower counties if they can get horse accoutrements. Also need arms and ammunition. Believes the enemy "are now playing the last card.”
They have a string of lookouts watching for the enemy ships. Would like stores to be brought down soon. Other news and rumors of enemy activities. Two American deserters have turned themselves in and he has furloughed them in hopes of attracting others, but if this fails, what should he do with the two?
News of Cornwallis’ activities. Thinks the enemy will concentrate on the Virginia low country this winter. Describes measures taken to have militia ready to muster and fight on short notice, but militia are slovenly and need the pressure of an emergency. Tends to agree with Lafayette that establishment of a militia camp would be best. Something definitely needs to be done about them.
Includes an envelope engraved Washington College, Lexington, Virginia. Discusses his visit to Petersburg and the fortitude of its inhabitants in trying to repair their fortunes. His pleasure in his new daughter [in law]. Family news: his sons’ work to earn a livelihood; health; daughters’ activities. Good opinion of General Hancock as district commander. Necessity to "persevere, and continue to labour.”
Includes envelope. Death of his brother Smith. Family news and health. Other acquaintances at White Sulphur Springs. Mentions Mr. Peabody and his donation for education in the South. Congratulates Butler on receiving a letter from Prince Leopold thanking him for books. His low opinion of Bancroft’s History. Drought in Virginia.
Includes envelope. Thanks for pecans. Advises him to plant plenty of corn to insure subsistence if the cane crop fails. Feels the South should attend to its material prosperity and stay out of federal politics for a while. If it had done this from the beginning and built up its wealth and white population, its construction of the Constitution would have been listened to.
Letterhead says, "Methodist Autographs & History, Bishop Frederick D. Leete, Randolph Hotel, St. Petersburg, Fla.” Discusses a Methodist document Sweet is offering for sale, and a Buffalo Bill signature he (Leete) sold.
Accepts their invitation to attend the Young Men’s Convention at Baltimore, and hopes nothing will prevent his coming.
Sends autograph. Lewis is United States Senator from Georgia.
Letter regarding Butler’s account with a Mr. Remington for purchase of Negroes. Family news and Lewis’s health. Lawrence Lewis is a nephew of George Washington and father of Butler’s wife. Year date comes from a penciled annotation on the letter, apparently by Butler.
Glad he (Lewis) is able to dispose of his Negroes to as good a man as Valery Hebert. Discusses the Negro Henry. Family news, comments on Butler’s plantation and on [Butler’s?] land on Kanahwa River.
Upcoming horse races at New Orleans. Friends General Gains and Mr. Conrad and William Brand.
[By a secretary?] Asks permission to go to Gloucester to pick up his family’s Negroes there. Lewis is a Virginia plantation owner and captain of Virginia militia.
They received the note on H. B. Truett, sued, and obtained a judgment on it against William L. May. The other partner is insolvent. [Handwriting resembles Lincoln’s, but some differences.] John T. Stuart is Lincoln’s law partner.
Sends autograph.
Franked by John Hay.
Endorsed by Lincoln on verso. Includes envelope with notation: "350, 351, & 352 D. T. Patterson, John C. Gant and Seth J. W. Lucky, East Tennessee.” Pardon for David T. Patterson, circuit judge in Tennessee under the Confederate Government. Handwritten [copy?]. Endorsed by Lincoln: "Governor Johnson on Pardons. Attorney General please make out pardons in these cases in the form Gov. Johnson will request. A. Lincoln, March 7, 1864.”
Very poor condition. Upper part torn off in several pieces. This has been identified as a forgery; see Papers from the Conference on Preservation Management for Performing Arts Collections, 1982, p.43.
Captain Smith with more than thirty horse is being ordered to Davis’ area. Will Davis assist him, and take command of the local militia in the absence of the militia officer. Davis is a South Carolina militia? captain. Lincoln, a Revolutionary soldier from Massachusetts, in May 1779 is protecting Charleston against General Augustine Prevost.
F. O. Lindquist is a member of Congress from Michigan.
On letterhead stationery "S.Y. ERIN.” Gives him the words for a toast which may suit his purpose. Lipton is a British baronet and yachtsman. Nesbit is a Chicago newspaperman.
Thanks for the letter with good wishes. He will arrive in New York on August 20th or 21st, and will be glad to show Nesbit the Erin and Shamrock if he can come. [Refers to the American Cup Race of 1914, in which Lipton had entered his yacht Shamrock IV and withdrew because of the outbreak of World War I.]
Message (handwritten, apparently in another hand) in French, and signed by Franz Liszt. Liszt is Kapellmeister to the ducal court at Weimar, 1848-circa 1859.
Livermore is a Massachusetts author and lecturer, active in antislavery and temperance movements.
The first woman admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court. In 1888 is nominated by the Equal Rights Party for United States President.
On letterhead of United States Senate Committee on Private Land Claims, H. C. Lodge Chairman. Thanks for Joslyn’s commendatory letter on his (Lodge’s) early memories. Would like to continue them, but doesn’t know when he will find time.
I am not as pessimistic regarding the party affairs as some of our friends: there are too many good men available to long tolerate inefficient or dishonest leaders. I have won out here (office of New York customs collector) and made people understand my work is in the interests of honest passengers and importers. Loeb is a New York businessman, secretary to various public officials, especially President Theodore Roosevelt, and collector of the port of New York in 1909-1913.
Four lines, written and signed by Longfellow.
Four lines, written and signed by Longfellow.
Writing seems to differ from that of the other two items.
Endorsing copy of a speech delivered in 1886. The speech is in another handwriting, but given by Longstreet. Not clear whether it is for the the anniversary of General Grant’s death, or Memorial Day. See Allyn K. Ford’s note file.
Includes envelope. She would be pleased to see Miss Cleveland Saturday, and will send carriage.
Includes translation. Orders him to establish signal men along his section of the coast, and mobilize the navy against foreign vessels, because of pirates and corsairs in the area. Signed "Louis,” countersigned "De Richelieu.”
Includes translation and a correction thereto. For ten thousand pounds to the two first ladies-in-waiting of his sister Elizabeth, for return of the unused candles.
Includes translation. Informs him of the date of opening of the Chambers session. Louis Philippe, "King of the French” from July 1830 following royalist revolution to revolt of 1848, when he abdicated and fled to England.
In French.
For a plantation on the right bank of the Mississippi River, six arpents by forty arpents, bounded by lands of Edmond Capdevich and Joseph Henry (formerly property of Joseph Hebert). Also stock, improvements, slaves. Copy certified by John Dutton, parish judge.
Petition and appointment of Samuel M. Spraggins as curator of the estate of George Bell, deceased, intestate. Inventory of estate, including half share in the plantation and slaves [see number 935]. Sale of this property to Robert Bell. Copy made and signed by John Dutton, September 15, 1832.
Three promissory notes held by I. Ogden and Company of New Orleans have been paid in full, and they consent to canceling the mortgage. Certified copy signed by John Dutton, notary public, June 14, 1836.
Copy made and certified by John Dutton, June 14, 1836.
For land on right bank of Mississippi River, bounded by lands of Francis Evan Bush and Pierre Joseph Landry, one and one half arpents by fifty arpents. Copy certified by John Dutton, September 8, 1832. (Cover note gives Allain’s first name as Victor, text as Victorien.)
Note of sympathy on death of Reverend Dr. Shields (Charles Woodruff Shields). Low is a Brooklyn merchant, interested in charities and political reform, New York City mayor 1881-1885.
Thanks for support during campaign and at convention. Lowden is governor of Illinois, presidential nominee at Republican National Convention in 1920.
Gives permission to publish his letter to Smith’s father.
[Regarding publication of Atlantic Monthly?] All the articles will be anonymous; he will have the proofs sent to Emerson. Can not afford to print each poem as a separate; if he can have only one poem, would prefer "Days.” He goes to Portland tomorrow to be married. Author and essayist Lowell is the first editor of Atlantic Monthly.
Sends him copy of a poem [not included here], and expresses liking for Tennyson’s verses. Lowell is ambassador to England. Farrar is archdeacon of Westminster.
Gives her the address of a wine merchant and name of a wine.
A previous engagement at Cambridge prevents him from dining with her tomorrow.
Includes envelope. Apologies for not writing for so long. Remarks on Butler’s present life and his liveliness and interest in the world. Cold, snow-shoveling, winter activities at her home.
Receipt for four hundred Pounds. [Date could possibly be 1760?]
Request for muskets and ammunition for Washington Fire Company, which is providing patrol and military guard for the City of Charleston. Macbeth is mayor of Charleston, Pickens is governor of South Carolina.
Deposition of George Saunders stating the value of a tract of land in Chichester, in the case of a petition against Reuben Sanborn for his dispossession of John Blaco, with a witnessing statement by McClary, justice of the peace.
If Cullum still wants his assistance at the Assay Office, he is willing to accept. It is desirable for him (McClellan) to be in the East for a while. Otherwise he will take a six month leave of absence. Cullum is superintending engineer for construction of the New York Assay Office. McCellan has recently been recalled from railroad survey work in the West.
He has just today learned that John M. Tufts (85 years old) graduated from West Point in 1820.
Reply to Swinburne’s telegram asking some Treasury Department official to go to New York to prevent delay of persons and baggage under quarantine. The views of the Collector of Customs of New York have been requested. Swinburne is a New York health officer. McCulloch is United States Secretary of the Treasury.
Includes envelope. Sends them a picture [not present] of a parade in Berchtesgaden. He is with the Third Brigade[?] 327th Glider Infantry. Berchtesgaden is Hitler’s hide-away in Bavaria. The Germans had surrendered on May 7.
The General is glad he can carry out his former plan to send the Third [U.S. Dragoons] to Victoria. Tells where some other units of the army are going, with the aim of getting as large an area as possible under control and subject to taxation. They have heard that the Mexican Governor at Queretaro has signed a peace treaty, and Scott has suspended his movements toward San Luis and Zacatecas. McDowell is aide-de-camp to General John E. Wool, and acting adjutant-general on his march to Chihuahua.
Includes envelope. Thinks a quorum will soon be assembled in the Mexican Congress, but that they probably won’t ratify the treaty. Large quantities of merchandise are enroute from Tampico to San Luis. Establishment of a post at Mazapil will draw a large quantity of bar silver from the interior. Monterey and vicinity are very quiet.
Prospects for peace. The Mexicans are trying to get the armistice extended to July 1st. McDowell feels the government at Queretaro will not be able to consummate a treaty of peace and partition. Hopes to see Butler in Monterey soon.
Writing to his brother: would prefer he continue his present occupation rather than enter the army, especially since he is the head of a family with responsibilities to them. Must hoard stock and capital until trade is resumed. A declaration of independence may not be far off. Both America and England are too far engaged for reconciliation. America has materials to carry on a war of any duration. Is chagrined and disappointed that John writes so seldom. McHenry joined the army as assistant surgeon in January, 1776.
Sends a contract made with them by Lafayette and Congress. McHenry is aide-de-camp to Lafayette.
Cornwallis has been holed up in Williamsburg for several days. "Cornwallis is an old gamester, but we have thrown out so many purling appearances, that I cannot help believing him purled.” What are the public expectations regarding the proposed peace? We have fair prospects from France, and she has given us much help, especially in supplies.
Yesterday the Marquis moved down to Green Spring about 800 troops to ascertain the enemy’s intentions. They fired on the enemy, but had to give way when Cornwallis’ whole force came up. A detachment is moving to take possession of James Town, evacuated by the enemy. [This may refer to the battle of Green Spring (July 6) or to a later engagement at that place.]
The General requests that Weedon forward a few chests of arms to the field commissary of military stores. McHenry will send the ladies’ letters by flagship to Charlestown.
Commodore Baron has written that "this morning (31st July,) the fleet weighed from Cape Henry” and went up the Bay.
McHenry is a Philadelphia physician, merchant, political leader, magazine editor, poet, critic.
Letter regarding debt of 605.73 pounds due to him (McKean) as a member of Congress for Delaware. The Delaware legislature had dealt with it, but no final action. It would be a great injustice if the Delaware House did not intend to pay him the interest as well as principal. He received only six shillings a day for his time, instead of twenty schillings, and has lost other money as a result of his legislative service. Lewis is speaker of the Delaware House of Representatives.
Medical attendance will be furnished by the surgeon general of the United States Army if required for any of the Choctaw delegation now in Washington. McKenney is in charge of the Office of Indian Affairs, War Department.
Includes envelope. Acknowledgment and appreciation of her "tender and sympathetic” letter to Mrs. McKinley. "Idas conduct in this great misfortune, has been simply heroic.” Refers to financial difficulties which came close to ruining McKinley’s political career. He had repaid early favors of an old friend by endorsing notes totaling $130,000. The friend failed, McKinley didn’t have that much, all his property is deeded to a group or trustees who raised funds to meet the debt.
Formal reply to an invitation to a reception. Regrets.
Letter of introduction for Mr. Reynolds, who wants to deliver a course of lectures in Baltimore "on the new theory of the earth and possibility of interesting discoveries by an Antarctic voyage” (for which he is trying to raise funds). McLean is United States postmaster general. Skinner is postmaster of Baltimore.
Regrets she is unable to transfer her Negroes [to Waggaman?]. They are reluctant to leave Montpellier, and the large wheat and tobacco crop requires them all. Had hoped to rent her land and Negroes, but has decided against it.
Copy of a letter from Vincent Gray, acting consul at Havana, to Madison telling him of the extent of the slave trade from Cuba, Nassau and St. Augustine with South Carolina and Georgia, and the means of their shipment. With cover sheet by Madison to Milledge advising him this may be against Georgia laws. Milledge is Governor of Georgia and Madison is Secretary of State.
Printed circular announcing the date of the convening of Congress in extraordinary session to ratify the Louisiana Purchase. Madison is Secretary of State.
For 566-2/3 acres in Ohio between Little Miami and Sciota rivers (tract set aside by act of 1790 for granting to officers and soldiers of the Virginia Line). The grant is willed[?] to him by Robert Means, who is assigned it by John and Hugh Mercer, representatives of George Weedon. Countersigned by Robert Smith, Secretary of State.
Board two days, 33½ cents per day each, and one gallon of whiskey. Signed also by John B. Cross, J.C. Macline, Maclin T. Cross, William Carvin[?], and Andrew Henry as witnesses.
Acknowledgment letter regarding Senate Bill 2897. Maloney is a United States Representative from Connecticut.
Text in Latin refers to the birth of Christ. Two leaves (four pages). First page illustrated, the other three lettered only. Note in Allyn K. Ford file says: "Leaf from an illuminated Flemish ‘Evangelia Festivalia,’ or the Gospels for the Feast days of the year. Written on vellum in a bold, liturgical black letter, this is from a book which is made in the 16th century for the use of Chicester Cathedral in England….” Text is from the second chapter of Matthew.
Includes envelope. Promotional letter for Imperial Salons, Ltd., with Young-Quinlan as Minneapolis distributor Marie is evidently their agent.
Written on board HMS Chesapeake, off Aberdeen Dock, Hong Kong. They are trying to get into the dock, but the water is too shallow. The ship has been ordered home, but he hopes to transfer to the flagship and stay another year so he can see "John” when he comes to China. Family queries. Note on letter says to his brother Arthur in Galesville, Wisconsin.
Glad to hear she made the trip from Guernsey safely. It must be the fault of the post office that some of his letters are missing. Describes his riding accident. Success of tea exports from Foochow. Got a letter from Albert recently. Family comments and queries.
Thanks for her letter and for liking Marlowe’s performance as Ophelia. By all means go to see Miss McCracken (recovering from a "horrible catastrophe”). Marlowe is an actress, real name Sarah Frances Frost.
Ten feet long and one foot wide.
[986 and 987 are two separate items]
Copy of text of marriage vows for both, signed by them. Copy made and attested by Daniel Grosvenor.
Statement of intent to marry, and statement by two witnesses that they were lawfully married.
Tells him that Captain William K. Latimer is commander of the Navy Yard at Pensacola. Mason is the Secretary of the Navy.
Second class ticket, number 24946, for the Massachusetts semi-annual state lottery. Minot is clerk of Massachusetts House of Representatives.
Introduces himself as the Maxim who invented the automatic gun, torpedo gun, and smokeless powder. After 1889 another party (Hudson Maxim) changed his name slightly, began passing himself off as Maxim, and threatened to blackmail Maxim with scandalous articles. Succeeded in getting some of them published. A Mr. Hill has a quarrel with this man, and Maxim wishes to disclaim all connection with it, and requests that scandal and controversy be kept out of the papers.
Sends him a copy of a photograph. Maynard is United States Representative from Tennessee.
Gives position and marching order to be followed by each brigade and division, instructions for conduct expected of soldiers during the march, positions and instructions for battle wagons. Sheet in Allyn K. Ford’s information file says this is an original draft of Washington’s orders to the Continental Army, in the hand of Colonel Richard K. Meade, aide to General Washington. On this date, /the army is at Middlebrook and under orders to watch the enemy’s left flank.
He has neither written nor come to him because of a severe cold. Medary is governor of Minnesota Territory, 1857-1858.
Meigs is an educator at Yale University (1781-1784, 1794-1801), lawyer, printer, acting President of University of Georgia (1800-1810), Surveyor General (1812-1814), and Commissioner of United States General Land Office (1814-1822).
Certificate stating that one pipe of brandy is imported into Massachusetts District, Port of Boston, by Dan Pilman. Signed by J. Jackson, supervisor, and countersigned by T. Melvill Inspector. Document is also printed at lower left with "T. Melvill, Boston.” Thomas Melvill is a Boston merchant, member of the Boston Tea Party, officer of Massachusetts artillery in Revolution, afterwards naval officer of Port of Boston. Grandfather of Herman Melville.
Certification of importation of four cases of indigo and a statement of duties. Signed by Thomas Melvill, Naval-Officer, and H. A. S. Dearborn, collector. Signature is somewhat different from that of the previous document, but found no evidence to indicate they are two different people.]
Text of the Treaty of Ghent, ending the War of 1812.
In French. No translation. Written from 99 Rue de Richelieu, Hotel de Paris. Meyerbeer (1791-1864) is a German composer and pianist.
Will bring him into contact with some singers.
On parchment or vellum. Handwritten deed for a piece of land in Philadelphia, signed by Daniel Ridge and three witnesses (but not by Mifflin or Britten).
Message requesting an additional grant for construction of the mansion for the President of the United States. Suggests the tax on pleasure carriages be applied to this purpose. For a residence to be built in Philadelphia for President Washington. Mifflin is governor of Pennsylvania.
Encloses application and fee for membership. Miles is a general in the Civil War and wars against western Indian tribes.
On letterhead: "Head-Quarters of the Forces in Garrison, District of Minnesota, Department of the North-West.” Encloses vouchers for Sibley’s approval. Miller is a colonel of the 7th Minnesota, helped quell 1862 Dakota Conflict, governor of Minnesota in 1864-1865.
Signatures of judges of the Minnesota Supreme Court and of the district court of the Second District, Minnesota.
She is sending him part of her article and invites his criticism. Tells him that part of her conclusion states that one of the benefits of the [United States Coastal?] survey is the memoirs presented at scientific meetings by survey members. Mitchell is an astronomer, educator (Vassar College); discovered a new comet in 1847; first woman member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Are new L.L.D’s to wear a Princeton gown when receiving degrees or one to which they are already entitled? Mitchell, a physician, neurologist, poet, and novelist, received an honorary degree from Princeton in 1906.
Acknowledges letters regarding S.F. 2897, in which Ford opposed a state sales tax on interstate commerce. Monaghan is a United States Representative from Montana.
Would be pleased to sell the addressee some of his slaves and other property in Albemarle, which are being sold to pay debts contracted during his public service. Monroe is United States President 1816-1825.
Receipt for thirty dollars from Miss L. Augusta Mayo for tuition at Boston University School of Oratory.
Thanks for sending him papers in which his name occurs.
Soliciting his interest in the Bible Institute, Chicago. On Bible Institute letterhead (for home and foreign missions of the Chicago Evangelization Society). Moody is president. Addressed to Miller as Chief Engineer, Great Northern Railroad.
On Bible Institute letterhead. Asks for a contribution for the Bible Institute for Home and Foreign Missions.
Complies with his request [for an autograph?]. Moor is United States Senator from Maine.
Thanks for Cleveland’s newspaper letter, which supports Mrs. Moore’s stand against slanderous newspaper articles. Wishes every woman would follow Cleveland’s example. "The Newspapers have made my ‘reputation’ for me.” Moore is an author and philanthropist.
Evidently refusing a request to send her some poetry. The public must be tired of his verses, and if he ever does write any more, a friend has been promised first chance at them. Moore is the Irish national poet.
Thanks for tangerines. Father’s voyage.
Sends [Whipple] the little book he asked about. Family news. He has been made partner in D.M. & Company.
Receipt for $37 from Holley for a subscription for a railroad survey.
Disappointed at missing him. Has paid a draft of £500 on Lee’s account in favor of Major Joseph Holmes. Muire[?] protested Lee’s bills and Morris is unable to procure payments in England on Lee’s account. He has paid every demand on Lee except a bond for £200 sterling. Addressed to Major General Charles Lee.
He is constantly occupied "in raising the means of fulfilling my engagements,” and hopes soon to be able to comply with their wishes. Morris is United States Senator, speculating in Washington (D.C.) and Western lands, East India and China trade. In 1798-1802 is in debtor’s prison after financial failure.
"The Senate have just passed my bill without division and without opposition.” Morse invented the electro-magnetic recording telegraph and Morse code. A Congressional appropriation of $30,000 is voted in 1843 for experimental line from Washington D.C. to Baltimore, completed May 24, 1844. The letter refers to this.
Receipt by Kendall: received from Morse stock certificates in the Magnetic Telegraph Company, for $34,400, to be exchanged by Kendall for Morse for stock in the American Telegraph Company. With note added: "Settled S.F.B. Morse Kept as memorandum.”
Informs them that he has transferred to Cyrus W. Field half of the American Telegraph Company stock to which his (Morse’s) subscription of $10,000 (to purchase stock of the old Magnetic Telegraph Company) entitles him. Asks that that amount of stock be issued to Field.
Quotes the first message ("What hath God wrought”) sent over the first completed telegraph line in the United States and tells how it is chosen.
Commission as Lieutenant Colonel, First Battalion of Associators in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Morton is speaker of the Pennsylvania general assembly; signer of Declaration of Independence.
He can’t be in New York before June 13 because of trouble the United States Veterans Bureau’s Boston office is having. Moses is United States Senator from New Hampshire.
The enemy are encamped at Petersburg. General Phillips died [Benedict Arnold, as his second in command, succeeded him]. Lafayette refused to correspond with Arnold. The day before yesterday Simcoe and Tarleton joined at Hicksford. Yesterday Major Dick’s corps captured a gunboat. Muhlenberg is in charge of troops on the south bank of the James River during the siege of Yorktown.
They havebeen camped in Malvern Hills ten days without learning his Lordship’s [Cornwallis?] plans; a fleet of transports is in Hampton Roads. The Green Spring affair might have been fatal to the army and state, due to [Wayne’s?] impetuosity. Gives an account of the Green Spring engagement. Malvern Hill is on the south bank of the James River, eighteen miles southeast of Richmond.
Note on document says Universalist preacher, 1741-1815.
Informs them that he has been appointed as a Commodore by Sir John Jervis and that he has drawn a bill for £15 for stationery. Written after his first big promotion.
Hopes to see him soon, if Bonaparte permits. Sorry to be seeing Duckworth’s services allowed to lay idle. No news yet of combined Squadron [French and Spanish]. Nelson is awaiting intelligence of the French-Spanish fleet. In September 1805 both he and Duckworth were called to combat the French at sea, and in October Nelson is killed in the battle of Trafalgar.
Order to pay £14 to Sammuoll Shrimpton, charged to account of James Lloyd. Nelson is a Massachusetts patriot; headed the party that took Governor Andros prisoner in 1689.
He feels the Clayton Act went too far regarding interlocking directors, and is supporting an amendment to liberalize it. Nelson is United States Senator from Minnesota.
Thanks Smith and Mr. Carpenter for getting Colonel Roosevelt to support himself and Governor Burnquist. There is considerable activity for Calderwood through a Minneapolis bureau operated by the Non-Partisan League.
With separate cover. News of Howe. Fears the formation of factions and jealousy in the American Army. Wishes a proper system of promotion had been established. Does not have time now to give an opinion on Weedon’s plan of modeling the Army. Virginia has voted ten regiments of volunteers, but he fears the smallpox scare will impede it.
Letter regarding the bearer, Colonel Wolfe (Prussian). Smallpox in his family. Virginia militia situation: young people are so incensed at being singled out in the draft, that few have volunteered. Difference between volunteers’ and draftees’ spirit.
Reporting further retreat of the British. They seem to have no further design on Williamsburg. They may try to destroy Hunter’s Works. The force at Williamsburg is large enough to protect the country if they make winter camp at Portsmouth. Nelson is commander of Virginia militia.
Congratulations on arrival of the French fleet. Asks help in supporting an army en route from the northward to Fredericksburg, in case there are delays in getting provisions from the Commissary General. Predicts Cornwallis will surrender soon. Nelson is governor of Virginia, June -November 1781.
Sends Colonel Innes to Weedon, to have command of a brigade on the Gloucester side.
The reason no relief has come to Weedon is that most militia were ordered to come down on the other side. He will see that Weedon has a "respectable” force.
He will see that Weedon is properly reinforced. Officers have already been sent to wherever they are likely to be able to impress supplies. He does not want to promote [militia?] officers above the rank they hold in the regular service.
Sends authorization to justify any steps Weedon has to take to procure supplies. The army on "this side” [of the York River?] would appreciate receiving any surplus. Hopes reinforcements will be available for Weedon soon. Has empowered Colonel Griffin to impress horses. Enclosure: authorization to procure supplies for use of the Army from Middlesex and King and Queen counties.
Will be able to furnish Weedon with the arms he requested. Don’t know about medical supplies.
Authorizes Weedon to have vessels and crews impressed to collect at convenient places for transport of the army across the York River if the enemy moves to Gloucester.
Asks Weedon’s assistance for the bearer, Colonel Samuel Temple, who is appointed to superintend supplying DeChoisie’s French troops. Will Weedon countersign his vouchers if necessary?
Congratulations on Cornwallis’ surrender. Weedon should march the prisoners on his side [of the York River?] to Fredericksburg and turn them over to General Lawson.
Instructions regarding refugees, Negroes, sick and wounded prisoners. Deliver all arms to the Conductor of Military Stores.[they were anxious to have the prisoners marched inland so they could not be captured if the British fleet appeared.]
In French. Includes translation. A letter regarding gourmet foods and lamp oil being sent to him, and regarding sale of some of his possessions to pay his debts to the addressee and to Mr. Momsarnu[?]. Date unclear; probably 1817, since in 1807 he is only twenty-seven and just starting his diplomatic career.
Blank commission forms for sergeant and corporal.
Contains a long letter from Zachary Taylor to General Howard describing a skirmish at Rock River. In August 1814 Taylor had ascended the Mississippi River to destroy Indian villages at the mouth of the Rock River in Illinois. He failed.
Brief mention of ocean voyage from England, alterations to his house. Speaks of his acquisition of a first folio of Shakespeare. He is going to see the Adams and the Ishams (Johnsonian collectors).
With envelope (postmarked July 26, 1929). Comments on the "Memoirs of Dr. Dodd,” his trip to Egypt and Jerusalem, his acquisition of a Columbus letter, Kern Sale, California.
Informs addressee that Private George Morris, Seventh Royal Fusileers, is dead or disappeared (supposed to have fallen overboard from the hospital ship Bombay). Will she (addressee) inform his wife. Written during the Crimean War, when she and a corps of nurses worked at the great Barrack Hospital at Scutari, trying to relieve the appalling medical and sanitary conditions there.
Complies with request for autograph. Niles is United States Senator from Connecticut.
Signed in facsimile.
With envelope. Sends best wishes in regard to acquisition of the Allyn K. Ford Collection by the Minnesota Historical Society.
In French. Includes translation. Farewell, best wishes, certainty of "rendering America free in the coming campaign.” Noallies is Lafayette’s brother-in-law.
The campaign situation is fairly satisfactory. Uncertain what the Stalwarts will do. Cherry (Democratic nominee) will be the third man in the race. Norbeck is Governor of South Dakota, running for United States Senator.
Sends a memorial from Sir John Burgoyne, who wishes it presented to the king. Trusts the addressee to put Burgoyne’s conduct "in a fair and true light.” North is English Prime Minister, 1770-1782; from 1784 onward acted with the opposition against William Pitt. Burgoyne is commander-in-chief in Ireland, June 1782-December 1783 (fall of Whig ministry), then joined the opposition against Pitt.
Makes arrangements for Van Vechten to travel to Schoharry in connection with construction of the Schoharry Turnpike road by Mr. Inghold and associates. They have not built the road near North’s mill pond as they promised and burned several acres of his woodlands. Is he obligated, therefore, to continue payments on his subscription to the road? [Probably refers to Schoharie Mountain Turnpike built from Schoharie Court House to East Cobbleskill to Shad Point to Mineral Springs to Warnerville and Richmondville.]
Thanks for letter. Remember him to Mr. Butler. Has no knowledge regarding the subject of Joslyn’s telegram of yesterday. O’Gorman is a United States Senator from New York.
On letterhead of Sanitary Commission, Washington D.C., Treasury Building. Will try to see Bache soon regarding the subject of Bache’s note to him.
Manifest of cargo on board the sloop "Fanny,” John Tillinghast master, bound for New York. Lists cargo and consigner. Signed by Tillinghast, and by Olney as Providence collector (of customs).
Thanks for her praise of his poetry. Encloses two poems for her consideration. Best wishes for success of her magazine.
Sends three cases to be brought before the Military Commission.
His creditors have fallen upon him. He has disposed of the addressee’s note and it must be paid to the endorsee. Will he inform [gives some names] likewise. None of them have the effects of Otis and Henly in their hands, only those of Samuel A. Otis.
Mr. Martin Benson is bringing bills on you, which we want you to honor. Sell enough brandy to cover it and keep the rest until prices are higher in spring. If Captain Shaw needs two or three hundred dollars for his voyage, give it to him and place it to our account.
Difficulty of procuring good water men (men with marine experience) [to help pilot the French fleet?]
To Welcome Arnold for $1000 to be delivered to Jona Arnold in Charleston, South Carolina.
[Does not look like his writing. See signature in Appleton’s.]
With envelope. Regrets a severe cold will, keep her from calling on Cleveland. Thanks for last evening’s enjoyment. Palmer is an opera singer.
Palmer is a Congregational hymnologist, author of religious tracts and articles.
Been laid up with a severe cold. Thanks for the invitation to visit any evening. Mentions "long mourning and anxiety.” The mother of Charles Stewart Parnell, Irish political leader and agitator for home rule.
On letterhead of Repath’s Lyceum Bureau. Letter regarding [poetry?] reading to be delivered by him to Tolman’s group.
"Here you have it.” Parton is an author and biographer.
With envelope. Letter is nearly illegible. Something about an appropriation for General Butler’s sword, which Pennsylvania ought to have. Wishes the state also had Washington’s field maps.
Enjoyed her volume of essays. Sarah Winnemucca has started a school on the principles of Froebels New Education (though unconsciously), which answers all the vital questions of Indian education. Would her brother [Grover] read a letter on this subject if written to him? The object of the school is to educate Indians as teachers and interpreters in the schools. Peabody is a Boston educator and philanthropist, Winnemucca a Paiute educator and interpreter.
Has enjoyed Cleveland’s book. Has succeeded in raising the money for Sarah Winnemucca’s school house [for education of Indians]. Winnemucca has the advantage of knowing both English and her native tongue perfectly. Indians must not be forced out of their tribal relations against their will, or made to exchange their virtues for civilization’s vices. Both races will benefit if the Indian is given free will in the conduct of his life. The Indian has more to offer than the Negro. Talks of ethnologist Will M. Cushing.
Complies with his request [for an autograph?]. Pearce is United States Senator from Maryland.
On letterhead of Army and Navy Club, Washington. Encloses photos of his knots eggs. The report of his giving them to the American Museum is erroneous: he still has both sets. Is willing to dispose of one set, but would rather it go to a private collector where it will be treasured than be lost in a great museum. The value of the set lies in its completeness and authenticity, its extreme northern latitude, and its association with the discovery of the Pole.
Penn is the proprietor of three-fourths of Pennsylvania and the colony’s manager at Philadelphia 1732-1741.
Will be glad to consider Smith’s recommendation of Guy V. Howard for election by the National Committee to replace Mr. Thayer. Penrose is United States Senator from Pennsylvania, and a member of the Republican National Committee.
The letter is to her son. Her illness, her appreciation of his letter, her letter will be sent by the ship Montana. Let her know his health and the crew’s, how many barrels they have, where the ship is and where it is bound.
On letterhead of American Expeditionary Forces, Office of the Commander-in-Chief. Thanks for the high compliment of his proposition, but he has military obligations which he feels bound to devote all his attention to. He has been asked to run for President; see Smith’s letter, no. 1282.
Would like to accept the invitation to attend the dedication of the [American Legion?] Memorial Drive in Minneapolis, but doesn’t know yet if he can.
Agreement entered into by James Pettey, Richard Jackson, and William Valentine with Stephen Olney and Elisha Angell, with specifications. With a report on the total amount and the payment thereof, submitted December 6, 1820.
Having trouble raising militia: they are unwilling to serve and many have deserted the county. They are badly armed. He has sent eighty stand of arms to the public factory in Fredericksburg for repair. [Virginia is expecting any day to be invaded by the British Army]
With envelope. On letterhead of the legation of the United States in London. Letter of introduction for Miss Eleanor Calhoun.
Complies with request for autograph. (Phelps is United States Senator from Vermont.)
Finds an empty envelope from the addressee. What request did it contain?
Will not be able to lecture before Lancaster’s Lyceum this week. Phillips is a lawyer and reformer.
Written at 9:00 p.m. Orders for the next day’s attack on Fort Ticonderoga, mainly regarding disposition of cannon. [The Americans evacuated the fort on the morning of July 6].
Letter regarding the balance still due the British Government for provisions delivered to James Richardson, commissary general of the Continental Army. Requests immediate payment.
With envelope. Congratulations on son Edward’s position with the army. "We have only done that which we had a right to do” [regarding secession], and explains. Phison is rector of St. Mary’s Church, Bayou Goula.
Will they send him six copies of "A Woman’s Poems” [by his wife, Sarah Morgan Bryan Piatt].
Signed by Pickering as Secretary of State.
On title page of Essays and Notes on Husbandry and Rural Affairs, by J. B. Bordley. Inscription "to Stephen Williams Feb’y 8th, 1812 at Wanham” is added later.
Pickering as Secretary of State announces death of George Washington, and sends newspaper regarding the same. Sargent is Governor of Mississippi Territory.
The auditor says the only obstacles to settlement of Pickering’s account is need of records kept by Mr. Anspach. Does Wolf have any information on them? Written two days before he is dismissed as Secretary of State.
Fowards ordnance returns for Eighth Infantry, Company I. Pickett is commanding Company I.
Plans for "proposed gathering … of old friends at the Bromfield House.”
With envelope. Letter regarding supposed headstone of one of DeSoto’s companions, supposedly found in Tennessee. Doubts the correctness of this report, but he is making inquiries.
Feels obliged to give the Anoka National Bank our Anoka payroll account, as we already have our grain account with them and want all our banking arrangements in one place. Pillsbury is vice president of Pillsbury Flour Mill Company.
Witty invitation to dinner to celebrate Mrs. Lutwyehe’s[?] birthday. [From the A. Edward Newton Collection]
Requesting them to raise local troops to join with the king’s troops in preparation for invasion of Canada and actions against French posts there, and to issue officers’ commissions. The British Government is to supply all arms and provisions, the Province to supply clothes and pay. They should collect as many arms from the last campaign as are serviceable. [This is to complete the conquest of Canada.]
Declining an invitation to attend a reception commemorating the 250th anniversary landing of Peter Stuyvesant.
Filled-in printed form.
Accepts honorary membership in Capitol Hill Fire Company Number 4, and would be pleased to be a working member should the occasion arise. Polk has retired from the Presidency. Written a couple of weeks before his death.
Letter of introduction for her niece Mrs. George W. Fall and daughter Miss Fall. With their calling card.
Thanks for her note and photo of President Cleveland, and for her attention to Mrs. And Miss Fall. With her calling card.
Invitation to his house at Kadi King, with directions how to get to it, and hints as to the magnificence of the area. When he arrives, Porter will explain why he can’t ask permission for Read’s ship to come up. Porter is chargé d’affairs at Constantinople. Read is commanding the Constellation in the Mediterranean.
Did she receive the $250 check he sent? "What a gas bag William is.” "Vicksburg will soon be ours.” Quite amused at William’s idea that he occupies a higher position than his father ever did: comparison of the relative importance of various ranks then and now. The writing is almost illegible. Vicksburg is captured July 4, 1863.
Addressed to "The Vice President.” Letter of recommendation for George E. Lincoln. Wilson is Vice President of the United States.
Written by a secretary. With envelope. Regrets ill health prevents him from attending the President’s reception.
Can Woods obtain tickets to the Coronation ceremony for him?
Extending privileges of the Union League Club of New York to him. Signed by Porter and John R. Van Wormer.
Had to re-write the story. Am sending you part of it. Will have the rest ready this evening. Am much better pleased with it as revised. Title will come with the last installment. Porter is the author O. Henry. Griffith is managing editor of Hampton’s magazine, 1906-1909.
Lighthearted note, apparently regarding weight-watching. Might be to William (Andrew) Johnston, on editorial staff of New York Herald 1897-1900, New York World 1900-1927.
Postcard with Trinity College scene and brief message.
Encloses a letter for his translator. Mentions German (by Eberty), Spanish, and French (by Pinchot) translations of Conquest [of Mexico?].
Plates of the Conquest of Mexico seems to need repair and engravings need retouching. I would like to leave the matter in your hands.
Encloses a letter to his brother, president of South Carolina College, where Butler is sending his son. When he returns to Carolina he will seek the boy’s acquaintance.
Official announcement to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps of the death of Zachary Taylor, and brief eulogy. Preston is Secretary of the Navy.
On letterhead of Preus as Governor of Minnesota. "Your judgment is better than mine on that committee. Please appoint it.” Signed "Jake.”
Countersigned by Mike Holm, Minnesota Secretary of State.
Awaiting the appearance of Miss Cleveland’s essays, and will do her best to have it appreciated. Has written her cousin Mrs. Clarke about it. Encloses printed poems "Forward!” and "Beside the Bier.” Proctor is a poet, magazine contributor, and author.
Your note arrived, and also one from Mr. Palmer of your Library Board asking for a message from me to be used at the dinner.
I have received your letter enclosing a copy of His Excellency’s [George Washington’s] orders to you. I had before heard of the Scudder [privateer] affair, both from himself and General Parsons. Will you retain the goods taken into custody until a decision is made regarding them. I have written to Washington and Governor Clinton regarding them. "As to Rogers, whom is sent under Guard, I cannot find … that he is try able by a Court Martial – but if he is, the crime, should be made out particularly against him…. I have therefore sent him back to be disposed of as you think proper.…” Should be careful that the military does not encroach on the jurisdiction of the civil powers, and there has been another case where prisoners guilty of robbing the public stores were not considered try able by court martial.
Plus copy of an essay (or portion of ) by Sedyard on Woman and a fragment of an unidentified essay or story. (Mrs. Josiah Quincy.)
Has sent him twenty-five copies by express, and will transmit others to whom or where they will be useful, if Furness will send names and addresses.
With envelope. Congress has once again failed to appoint him (Radziminski) into the Army. He is also occupied with the creation of a new Boundary Commission out of the debris of the old one; it started for New Orleans this morning. Major Emory’s and others’ remarks led him to believe that if Mr. Davis had been elected to the United States Senate, Butler would have been offered the Ministry of War. He (Radziminski) has also been working on settlement of General Campbell’s accounts at the Treasury. Major Emory (the Boundary Commissioner) had appointed him (Radziminski) to the new commission, but he had declined and became secretary to the Mexican Commission on the part of the United States. They except to be in New Orleans en route to El Paso, circa September 10th. "How do you like our new Ten-million acquisition?” Fears the Nebraska bill will be harmful to the South by swelling the ranks of fanatics. References are to the Gadsden Purchase and the Mexican Boundary Commission.
Sent to [Samuel] Church, Salisbury, Connecticut. Desirability of a railroad up the Ousatonic River Valley from Bridgeport. Invitation to a convention on the subject, from the Bridgeport Railroad Committee.
Petition to construct a railroad from the point between Sheffield and Salisbury [Connecticut?] where the proposed New York and Albany Railroad will strike the Connecticut-Massachusetts boundary, through Berkshire County along the Housatonic River to the West Stockbridge to connect with the West Stockbridge railroad route.
"Let ‘the Blue bird’ have a small keg of power, a bag of lead and ten pounds of tobacco.” Ramsey is territorial governor of Minnesota.
Addressed to "Dear Mother Brother and Sisters.” He is fine, why haven’t they written, Mr. Luse plans to move here, has sold his first farm and got another, hopes mother can come live with him when it is fixed up. His sister Anstis is George Waterman’s wife; see Waterman family letters, below.
Thanks for flowers and note. Hopes he will have a speedy recovery. Randall is a merchant and politician of Philadelphia, and United States Representative.
Had a talk with Mr. Dana. I believe him to be your friend. He thinks your book will yield a large profit. Encloses printed obituary of Thomas A. Hendricks by Randall.
The Governor has shown me your letter, and I believe the suit of the commonwealth properly rests on a decision of Congress, and shall therefore direct it be dismissed. Written before Randolph became governor, on November 7.
"I think you have taken every step that prudence could suggest and proper regard to your own dignity permit. Do not … censure yourself as romantic.” A little romance can be a very good quality (discourses for two pages on this). I will talk to the Venetian minister regarding your present purpose. Bronapace[?] is still in Ireland, recovering slowly. Politics go on in a very pettifogging style. Give my respects to Mrs. Stuart. Penciled note on top of first page says, "Hastings (Rawdon)”.
Arrived safe at Dover. My brother Will and a Mr. Boyd were murdered at the Havanna by Spanish ruffians. I will see you as soon as possible. Addressed to "my dear Getty.” Endorsement on letter says "Received from A. G. Pearce 1833 May 7th”.
Warrant for arrest [?] of William Brown, New Castle County, to answer Jonathan Rumford and Thomas Rodney of a plea of Trespass on the Case. Bail to be £170 in specie. To [Gen. J.?] Bedford (first name illegible).
With envelope. Weather, muddy roads, health of Butler’s family, news of friends. "I observe you are on the move to join the old General.” Strange times: Americans though successful wish to stay their hand; Mexico though defeated refuses to accept favors though false pride.
Regrets it will not be possible to address the Society of Daughters of the American Revolution on December 14th. Reed is a United States Congressmen from Maine.
On letterhead of The Mirror, "Reedy’s Paper,” Reedy as editor and proprietor. Sends a letter from Theodore Dreiser regarding [John] Carter [the enclosure is no. 474]. Hopes Carter will be able to resist the temptation Dreiser offers. Has received an avalanche of publicity connected with the appeal for his pardon. Have Carter communicate with me: I think I still owe him money.
Certificate of admission, stating Reid’s vows of gratitude for the rescue of Great Britain and Ireland from Popery and Slavery by William and Mary, and the further security of religion and liberty by settling of the Crown upon the House of Hanover, and his allegiance to King George III. Signed by Martin Moubray.
Requesting that John Greene of Warwich be empowered to take charge of the estate of Samuel Gorton and discharge Gorton’s debts, since Gorton’s widow (Greene’s sister) is insane. Signed by Richard Waterman (town clerk). With an endorsement by D. Updike for the Assembly that the Town Council nominate someone to act in Greene’s stead.
That Stephen Brown be appointed administrator of the estate of Nancy’s brother John Carpenter, who sailed many years ago in the privateer Blockade and never returned.
Signed by John R. Bartlett, Rhode Island Secretary of State.
I am well. I have inquired of your essayers[?] Will he deliver the enclosed letter to Mr. Quidell[?] asking him to undertake a suit, and if he is engaged by the other party, will Weaterman employ another attorney for him.
Describes his health problems, but he is now recovering. Would like Waterman to write to him. Expects to spend the winter in Boston shopkeeping. Handwriting is considerably different from that of Zachariah Rhodes, number 1169.
Sorry about Waterman’s effects being "transported.” My brother Joseph is sailing to Edenton and on his return you will receive your things. Hopes to be able to come to Pawtuxet in two or three weeks. Mentions his brother John.
On letterhead of Eastern Air Lines, Office of the President (Rickenbacker President and general manager). Thanks for the letter, regrets we did not have a chance to meet.
"Lord Robertson allows all concerned to see and object to this Locality betwixt, and next calling.”
Legion de Lauzun informs me we have only grain and forage to last until the 10th. I have ordered them moved to Petersburgh where there is abundant pasture. Will the addressee ("Your excellency”) send an American quartermaster to assist. Addressee may be George Weedon.
"…He is a very sick man; but – he is going to pull through. I feel it. He is tonight holding his own…Keep up your courage and don’t stampede.” Refers to the dying President Garfield.
"The scene described in your No. 2[?] is a pure invention, as is also the Mrs. Sargent business…. We are a little more hopeful of the Prest this a.m.” [Garfield died September 19]
Informs him of the choice of a full-length figure of an Indian Chief, representing Tamonary, for the figurehead of the 74 Delaware [battleship?] There is no foundation for the rumor Commodore Porter is going to the Pacific. Captain Jones is appointed to command the Constitution.
Issued to John Greer for payment on Greer’s mortgage.
Informs him the Executive Authority approves his (Yeates’ )appointment as Deputy Quarter Master for this State.
Will probably send my paper from Santa Barbara, California where I am spending the winter. Thank you for the latitude given. Wishes her success.
Suit by John Rogers and Obediah Brown, merchants in Providence, against Josiah Hazard for money owed to them [from a loan?] and for the value of the use and improvement of their ship Union. Witness A. Fenner, clerk[?]
"Thanks for that fine offer but it looks like bad for degrees. Government put too much dependence in em….”
Appreciates his fine gesture. Afraid it would defeat its own purpose for an ignorant guy like me to get a degree. Wait until I am an old man and maybe they will have chairs in these colleges for comedians. "We are the funniest Nation in the World to other Nations and yet we look down on our Comedians.”
The Navy Department does not consider any mirror light or bright substance advisable for use on periscopes. Smoke screens, if used correctly, are considered to be an advantage. Roosevelt is Assistant Secretary of the Navy.
Thanks for the letter and William Penn Stamps, which I am glad to add to my collection.
Unable to accept his invitation.
On letterhead "State of New York Executive Chamber.” (Roosevelt is Governor of New York.) Enjoyed meeting you and would like to see you again. "…the thing that gave me the keenest pleasure in connection with my regiment is the fact that it is realizing one of my ideals.” War brought England and the United States closer together. Can’t get the article to Low in time for the September number; would a later one do?
On letterhead, "State of New York Executive Chamber.” I don’t think anything can be done the along the lines you suggest. "…Blessed are they that expect nothing, for they shall not be disappointed.” If I am not reelected, I will be satisfied with my two years of honorable service; if I am reelected, I will be pleased, for there are still things I want to do. "Further ahead than that I do not look.”
With envelope. On letterhead, "The Vice President’s Chamber.” Unable to speak at the University of Minnesota commencement. Has had to refuse a great volume of such requests.
On letterhead The Northwestern Miller. Thanks for the beautiful flowers you sent me. Theodore Roosevelt appeared and spoke at Minnesota State Fair, September 2, 1901. Four days later, President McKinley is shot.
"…thank you for writing me. Everything is all right.”
On letterhead The White House. Thanks for book by Jesse Lynch Williams.
With envelope. Printed invitation to White House reception.
On letterhead The White House. I told your friends I had the power to appoint you only until March 4th; after that it is up to Mr. Taft and I am not making any suggestions as to who is to stay. The appointment up to March 4th is to relieve you of the stigma of retirement. Knowles is minister to Nicaragua.
On letterhead "The Outlook, Office of Theodore Roosevelt. "That is mighty nice of you and Mr. Butler. I appreciate it and thank you for having telegraphed.”
Thanks for your kind letter regarding my article on "Our Responsibility in Mexico.” Roosevelt has been occasionally writing and lecturing since retiring from the Presidency.
Thanks for sending clippings. In 1915 Roosevelt is trying to rouse the United States to enter World War I.
On letterhead Navy Department, Assistant Secretary’s Office. Glad you liked my speech at Albany. Interested in what you say regarding your relationship with father [in 1884] when you were editor of the Buffalo News.
"I am living in serene confidence that the revolt of which you speak does not extend to the Indian River, Florida.”
Robert Black has applied to me for part of the tract that the John Hazlett family lived on. He informs me you have the field in oats. Is it all right with you to have him settle there and you take this year’s oat crop?
Send me the names of the pieces you wish sung at my concert. Stockhausen (for a duo) and Mr. Klindworth (for piano accompaniment) will be available to you if you want them. Madame Hayes will sing.
Introduces Mr. Harrison, who wants to try his fortune in Baltimore and would like advice and/ or assistance from McHenry. Congratulations on "recovering your freedom and independence by retiring to private life.” His comments imply that he thinks politics petty and contentious. Rush is a Philadelphia physician, signer of the Declaration of Independence. McHenry is recently retired as United States Secretary of War.
Unable to accept invitation to a dinner for Mr. Buchanan; much expression of his regret. Rejoices at Buchanan’s election. I have read your son’s work, the Arctic Explorations. Mentions Ingersoll’s African Slavery in America.
Gives the name of the Attorney General of Texas, but don’t know but what the new Governor will appoint another one. Rusk is United States Senator from Texas.
Certifies that, as two of the wardens of the Port of New York, at the request of Mssrs. Baker and English, they have inspected the cargo in the brig Friendship and found it damaged.
To Hannah Heyward from Rutledge, for £1200 which he owes her. Endorsed on back with notations of different payments, until paid in full in 1827. Rutledge is a Charleston lawyer, signer of the Declaration of Independence, Governor of South Carolina 1798-1800.
Richard Sutton, who had plundered from some of the inhabitants of this state, is arrested by General Sumter, but forcibly released by Mr. Matthew Locke. He cannot conceive under what authority Mr. Locke acted. Fears Sutton will dispose of the plundered property in North Carolina before he can be caught. Requests Burke to deliver him up to his pursuers if caught there. General Green marched for the Congaree on the 26th August, but the enemy retreated toward Monks Corner. Sorry to hear the Tories are rising in your state. The Georgians have elected a government and hope to push back the enemy. I propose to call a legislature as soon as the Charlestown and St. Augustine prisoners arrive. Rutledge is president (i.e., governor) of South Carolina. Burke is governor of North Carolina, and soon after this letter is written is seized by the Tories.
Deliver the horse[es] of Tarleton’s Corps to the Quartermaster. Can’t determine from the inhabitants’ claims who they belong to. The boat taken by the troops does not belong to the French and should be left at Gloucester for now. Anxious for the prisoners to be marched [anxious to get them inland so they can’t be recaptured if the British fleet appears].
Would like to obtain a seat in Westminster Abby at Her Majesty’s [Queen Victoria’s] coronation, if possible.
Signatures of St. Paul citizens, apparently in support of John W. Willis for some office.
Nearly illegible. Commenting on the Transcript’s review of one his works. Edgett is literary editor of the Boston Transcript.
Pleased to comply with his request [for an autograph?]. Sala is an English journalist and author.
Deed for Pew number 60, to Clark-Gayton Pickman, for £36. Signed by Nathaniel Ropes, John Nutting, William Browne, Benjamin Pickman Jr., and deacon John Bickford, with signatures of witnesses Joseph Bowditch and Benjamin Harding.
He has laid before the Queen the copy of Myer’s work on the Waterloo Medal which Myer wished presented to her, and she accepts with thanks.
On letterhead Atlantic Telegraph Company (Seward is Secretary); year is mis-dated. Mr. Field did not, previous to the election of the Honorary Directors, say Morse is hostile to the Atlantic telegraph. He did say that differences among opposing telegraph companies in the United States had led Amos Kendall [Morse’s agent] to oppose the Atlantic Telegraph Company in the United States. No further work has been done on the cable [from England?] lately. Mr. Henley has been working on some electrical apparatus [for cable-laying?]. The government has been dragging its feet.
Letter of recommendation for Captain Dexter, Second Rhode Island Regiment.
Mimeographed form letter, signed. Acknowledges receipt of Ford’s recent letter.
Two lines of handwritten musical notations, salutation (illegible), signature, place and date.
Prussian-born politician (Republican), Civil War officer, newspaper editor. Secretary of the Interior.
Addressee’s name is nearly illegible.
Best wishes for Babcock’s fair, to be held in aid of the Mercantile Literary Fund.
Proposes to leave a week from today, gives possible travel arrangements, hopes to see her by the end of that week. "The Bank bill is still with the president, and tomorrow a conference is to be held upon the excise bill.”
With envelope. Is sending her a copy of his Centennial poem. Regrets the huge crowd prevented his attending Mrs. Cleveland’s reception. Clintonians will remember the kindness of those who by their presence honored its "day of days.” Encloses newspaper clipping of poem "Centennial Ode, 1787-1887.”
Thanks for your letter informing me of the "valuable curiosities.” Hopes for the family’s sake they do not go at too low a rate. My house is already fitted up at considerable expense and I can’t afford the present prices of antiques. Won’t be in London anyway.
From the son of poet Sir Walter Scott.
The funeral is of Sir Walter Scott’s son. Walter Scott Lockhart is the son of Sir Walter Scott’s daughter Sophia and John Gibson Lockhart.
Humorous invitation for a weekend visit. "A slight indisposition” prevented him from [attending the Clay reception] at Trenton. "For Sunday, I promise you two good sermons and one indifferent dinner.” Can Blunt bring "that ci-devant Loco Foco,” Charles L. Livingston, with- him? They may have some chess or three-handed whist, but Blunt must bring the cards. Scott in 1839-1840 is being spoken of as a Whig nominee for President, largely by enemies of Henry Clay.
If Butler is not too far from Annapolis, he should consider himself its temporary commander, and string out a regiment along the railroad to keep communications open for troops and travelers to Washington. Recommends the points to be occupied. Send spare troops to Washington. The Civil War had started April 12.
Printed letter of thanks for a gift, signed by Joseph Anderson, assistant secretary.
Tell Mr. Hurlbut the subscriber will be communicated with by me. My illness and the need to revise the list of addresses has caused delays in subscribers [receiving?] their copies. She is on the staff of the New York Mail.
Describes a journey from Darien, New York through the Great Lakes to Milwaukee. Comments on topographical features and land, the lakes, hiring a house in Milwaukee and their domestic arrangements. He starts tomorrow for Turtle Prairie. Long letter.
Posted from Turtle Creek Post Office, Wisconsin Territory. His family’s move to Turtle Creek, his finances and unfinished business affairs in New York. Descriptions of nature and the fine quality of the soil. Prices of farm produce. Arrangements he has made to accumulate livestock and food supply. Villages of Beoit and Rockford. You should send DeWitt this fall to select land for you, and tell all our friends about it. Long letter.
Their activities in getting settled, gathering provisions and supplies, starting work on the farm. Answers several of his brother’s questions regarding the area and people. Expounds on how his brother will prosper if he moves to Wisconsin. Healthiness of the country. Tells him what arrangements he should make if he wants to come to Wisconsin. His family’s health. Long letter.
Discusses his health, hauling logs [and railroad ties?], weather and snow. Doesn’t expect Walter will come this spring, and suggests ways they could help him manage it.
With envelope. Selassie is emperor of Ethiopia.
We should have a meeting: something has occurred which worries me.
Gives name and residence of the United States District Attorney for Arkansas. Sevier is United States Senator from Arkansas.
I do not yet have muster rolls for your regiment, though I have sent repeatedly for them. Sewall is a First Lieutenant and Deputy Muster Master.
General Hamilton has left the service. Tells Stackhouse where he can contact James A. and John C. Hamilton. Seward is United States Senator from New York.
He is obliged to remain home due to the pressure of long-neglected business and therefore can’t look into "your new and flourishing territory.” He is pleased to observe you are "so zealously engaged in the cause of Justice and Freedom.”
There are incidents in Judge Robinson’s conduct which if closely inspected would reduce his popularity considerably. Is it politic to divulge them to Judge Potter and Robinson’s enemies? But if I do it and am found out, it would expose me to the fury and revenge of Robinson and friends. The incidents are not yet publicly discussed. If you think proper, I will relate them in my next letter. Proposes fictitious names to be used when writing and when discussing various people. The author’s identity has not been determined.
Shaw is a humorist.
To George Waterman for the Town of Cranston. A formal appeal for support for his selection as United States Congressman from Rhode Island, with a statement of support of proposed amendments to the Constitution. Mentions the previous care he has taken in his constituents’ interests.
With envelope. Envelope headed "Headquarters Army of the United States.” Conveys Mrs. Sheridan’s thanks for Miss Cleveland’s invitation. Regrets illness prevents her acceptance. Sheridan is general-in-chief of the United States Army.
Will be pleased to assist at her reception.
On letterhead of Treasury Department. Approves the nomination of Charles Habersham for temporary duty at Savannah as Inspector of Customs on board the British bark [i.e., barque] James Peake. Addressed to Atkins as Collector of Customs.
Notification of appointment as custodian of the Government Building at St. Paul, without compensation. Addressed to him as Deputy Collector of Customs.
Requesting release (temporary) of the estate taken by Wolcott from Daniel Averil by order from William Sherman. Wolcott is county sheriff; Sherman held various local offices.
Captain Selfridge will be allowed to select 200 Negroes from the fort gang, if he will transport "a due proportion of their families” to Cairo also, as Sherman can’t take care of those left behind.
Can’t imagine why General Ripley should not want to see Lyford promoted, unless he is jealous of him going to another command. There should be a good ordnance officer with each Army Corps in the field, since their knowledge would be useful in battle. I wish I had one. Describes his frustration at the delay that has occurred in getting his artillery repaired and overhauled, and many batteries are not getting it done as a result. Would suggest that the Ordnance Department pay more attention to arms in the field rather than at the arsenals. If you want a field of action, let me know. Long letter.
Letterhead: "Headquarters, Military Division of the Mississippi.” I can’t modify the orders giving General Saxton charge of recruiting blacks, since Secretary Stanton thinks both you and I are inimical to the policy of arming them. If Slocum has to wait for provisions it will be dead loss. Get the Railroad broken back to the Edisto as soon as the enemy lets go.
Sorry to hear of your illness, I will serve you in any way I can, I am sending flowers. I have been to see Mr. Roane[?] in regard to his petition which I presented to you. Would appreciate your acting on it as soon as you feel able.
Letterhead: Office of Silliman’s Journal [The American Journal of Science and Arts]. Regrets he can’t accept Bache’s invitation to nomadic life. Can’t get away from business and their son is sick. Comments on Rosencrans and Dalgren. Silliman is a faculty member at Yale Scientific School, and editor of the American Journal of Science.
Writing as administrator of the estate of William Shaw regarding money possibly still owed by Ayrault to Shaw. If Ayrault has not yet paid the money, will he turn it over to Silliman so it can go into the common fund for the estate, to pay creditors.
Encloses an editorial he wrote for a Charleston paper, and hopes Bache will be pleased with it. Simms is an author of poetry and fiction with Southern settings.
With envelope. I declined to receive the DSM after the war; gives reference to a printed explanation of why. War books are a drug on the market and writing them is a waste of time. Admiral Sims commanded American naval operations in European waters during World War I.
Thanks for the copy of Israel Putnam’s letter; enjoyed visiting with Ford.
Thanks for clippings. Enjoyed visiting Allyn K. Ford and seeing his wonderful collection.
I have formed the young men of the county into three companies. Sends returns. I hear the enemy have gone to sea. The bearer will wait for the rum you promised to send to the county militia. I shall continue here until you discharge us.
Thanks for the salary check and for the gardener. He has accepted an honorary degree given on account of his book from Dean Hodges. Slattery is dean of the Episcopal Cathedral of our Merciful Savior, Faribault.
A $200 reward for the return of Charles Cook and Joe Cook, with a description of them.
Sale of Negro boy George for £8, to be held as a slave for life.
Sale of Negro girl named Bett for $160 Spanish dollars.
Sale of Negro girl named Cornbore(?), circa seven years old, for £55. With three transfers of ownership on the back, one to R. D. Shepherd of New Orleans.
Copy filled in by hand on a printed form. Sale of Negress slave named Darkey, sixteen years old, for $520.
Signed certification that the listed Negroes have not been imported into United States since 1808, and are held as slaves under United States laws. Signed by John Armfield, owner of the slaves, and Joseph C. Moore, master of the brig Uncas. With a list of 92 slaves, giving age, size, and color; consigned to Isaac Franklin, New Orleans.
Purchase of slaves named Sally and Mary for $650.
Sale a of mulatto man named Jesse for $480.57-2/3, endorsed by George Wise (notary) and Bernard Hove (mayor of Alexandria).
With envelope. Glad you think favorably of my Mexican correspondence. Regret I did not know you wanted to take part in military affairs, or I would have interceded for you. Slidell is United States minister to Mexico to adjust problems of Texas annexation.
With envelope. Dr. Butler and I wrote to the President strongly urging your son’s appointment and he has a good chance of getting a commission if the new regiment is organized. The letter refers to E. G. W. Butler, Jr. who apparently did not get his commission then. Slidell is United States Senator from Louisiana.
With envelope. I delivered your message to [illegible] Cooper. Your wishes regarding your post office have been carried out. Your son left here a few days ago, sailing by the Baltic [E. G. W. Butler, Jr. going to his post as Secretary of Legations at Berlin.].
With envelope. Glad Van Buren supports the cause of Union and Constitution. Pleased with the recent election giving Moore a majority of eight thousand. We have a majority of at least twenty reliable men. We may have some trouble in the House. I leave tomorrow for Washington. Written at New Orleans but postmarked Washington.
With envelope. Am sending you a copy of the Pacific Railroad Reports. Glad you sacrificed your personal feelings to party allegiance in voting for Davidson. Governor Walker is expected here, and I hope he can explain his course in Kansas.
Thanks for letter regarding the Muller-Gage Repeal. The Miller-Gage act, passed in 1921, provided for state enforcement of the Volstead (prohibition) Act. Repealed June 1, 1923.
Sends Mr. Roswell-Smith’s congratulations for the honor conferred on [Johnson] recognizing his efforts in the copyright bill. Glad Mrs. Johnson is well. Handwritten note on bottom of letter is identified as the writing of Robert Underwood Johnson. The writer as Annie Ellsworth chose the first message over Morse’s telegraph.
Typed carbon copy, with original signature. Addressed to Pershing as commander-in-chief, American Expeditionary Forces in France. Offers support in securing the nomination for the next presidency and wants sanction from him to use his name in organizing throughout the United States.
Accepts an invitation to a dinner being given for James J. Hill to celebrate completion of the Great Northern Railway to the Pacific coast. To Cooper as chairman of the committee arranging the dinner.
In extremely delicate condition. Handwritten in pencil. Smith is an artist, author, engineer and contractor in New York City.
In extremely delicate condition. Discussing terms for exchanging (Smith’s) interest in [the telegraph in] California in exchange for "your principal’s” claim on the New York and E. Line. Estimates the value of the NY and E line [or construction costs].
Accepts Shields’ invitation to be his guest during Princeton University’s 150th anniversary celebration.
There must be some mistake in Shattuck’s interpretation of the agreement, as Smith never contemplated paying Mr. Barrett the whole bill, but only the remainder after Shattuck satisfied him for $1710 of it.
Hopes ship and cargo have been delivered to Crowninshield. It should definitely be American, unless the "Damned English and Damned French Rascals” have claimed it. Requests that Crowninshield purchase him some things. If Crowninshield loses our properties in the ship etc., apply to Thomas Dickason & Co. for money.
Regarding sale [or purchase] of a ship, the George Washington; money owed Brown by Smith which until the sale of ship and cargo he is not able to pay. Means to close his business with honor.
Handwritten document, signed by Olney but not by Smith. Olney agrees to bring Smith 80-120 cords of building stone, to the south part of Federal Plain, at 80 schillings per cord.
Will send map of Texas as soon as he can get one. Smith is a United States Representative from Pennsylvania.
Thinks Morgan’s success will lead to greater events, and hopes the Virginians will soon end the campaign against Cornwallis and Arnold. The capture of part of Commodore Hood’s fleet by Count d’Estaing is "of utmost importance,” if true.
Smith is a Baptist minister, editor , hymnist from Massachusetts.
Encloses a return of stores, and comments on management of it and future transactions.
Regarding movements of supplies and stores.
Sends return ticket. Enjoyed visit with her and husband. Addressee may be Julia Marlowe.
Complies with request for an autograph of his father Robert Southey, English poet, and man of letters.
"Read the Minneapolis Tribune for the Latest and Best War News,” with picture of a soldier firing a cannon and motto "Remember the Maine.”
Sends certificate of deposit for $1773. Spinner is United States Treasurer. Johnson is Savannah collector of customs.
With envelope. Would be pleased to have Ford call on him to renew their acquaintance and discuss the Sons of the American Revolution.
Complies with request for his signature. Spruance is a United States Senator from Delaware.
Approves of his progress in school. Improvement of educational opportunities since he is a boy. Joys to parents of having wise and educated children.
Returns a small sum of money he owed her, with interest.
With envelope. Apologizes for misrepresentations of her opinions in the press. She sincerely respects Cleveland for her activities and her dignity and good taste as First Lady.
With envelope. On letter with crest of Kentucky Geological Survey. Comments on her book and mentions his.
With envelope. On letterhead of Stassen as Governor of Minnesota. Thanks for letter and article.
With envelope. Thanks for letter.
Addressed "Dear Cousin Rose.” Laura will meet you tomorrow; George Parsons Lathrop will make his box available to you to see his play "Elaine”; characterizes Colonel T. W. Higginson. Stedman is a poet, contributor to literary magazines, and a stock broker.
He petitions for royal letters patent for improvements in steam engines which he has invented. With endorsement signed by Robert Peel, Whitehall, referring it to the solicitor general. Also with an affidavit signed by Stephenson. Stephenson is one of the inventors and improvers of steam engines.
Writing to his brother, whom he calls "My Lord,” and "Your Lordship.”
The enemy is marching toward Smithfield to establish himself in the lower counties. March with all the militia under your command to Williamsburg.
The enemy evidently means to take the post at Portsmouth, but for the defense of Fredericksburg you should discharge the militia from some of the counties so they can turn out to oppose a move in that direction. The other militia should proceed to Williamsburg under General Muhlenberg. Arms should be readied for the militia, if possible.
I want all the militia under your command immediately discharged, because of the expense of keeping them, but in such a manner that they can be called together at a minute’s warning. If the enemy moves toward Fredericksburg, they will be called in again, and you should collect 1000 stand of arms in readiness for them.
Discharge the militia from Orange and Spotsylvania counties. Divisions for the next tour of duty should be in constant readiness. Not going to be able to supply arms from here.
Form the two regiments of militia as soon as possible, and march to Hanover Court House. Steuben is going to a lead force of 500 [Continentals?] and 500 militia to join General Greene.
Cornwallis is retreating [north from Wilmington?] toward Cross Creek. General Greene’s force is not large enough to harm him, and the Council has rejected my plan. Do the best you can with what you have.
I have heard nothing from Greene since he ordered me to join him. I wrote yesterday to the county lieutenants on this side of the James River of the necessity of calling out every man that can be armed, but fear the force will be inadequate if Cornwallis crosses the James. The sooner you can join me the better. The arms I ordered have not arrived and I fear were waylaid by the militia.
He is in bed sick. "Though I have never written to thank you, I have been punishing your cakes.”
Thanks for your kind attentions to me. I is not wounded, but bloodied from riding a wounded horse. That is the most severe fire I is ever in. The enemy is at Portsmouth, but don’t know where he plans to go. Allyn K. Ford’s file notes that this refers to the Battle of Green Spring.
Knows of no organization established to promote Senator Root’s nomination [for presidency], nor has Root encouraged the idea. Let me know what would be involved in furnishing you with the requisite number of Senator Davenport’s speech. I feel Mr. Root’s personal wish is to keep out.
I have ordered Mr. Blanchard and Mr. Halstead to provide storage for Blue Mountain Valley’s cargo. Unload the ship as soon as possible and deliver it to them. This is a British transport ship that Stirling has captured.
Accepts invitation to dinner of the Clover Club. Stockton is an author of mostly juvenile books, many with nautical themes.
Appreciates his praise of the book Captain Horn, also his criticisms, and comments on them. I am going to have a five part continuation of it, entitled "Mrs. Cliff’s Yacht,” published in Cosmopolitan. Will you read it and note any glaring errors. We carry "The Vagrom” about with us.
If I send you a copy of "Mrs. Cliff’s Yacht,” will you look over the nautical part and make some notes?
Asks (at considerable length) for a dress Cleveland no longer wears.
Thomas Stone is a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
We hoped to see you in Florida soon, and the newspapers said you were coming, but now they say you are not. If true, won’t you reconsider? Henry Wilson is United States Vice President.
Hopes Miss Cleveland can aid the cause set forth in the enclosed letter [not present]. I am attending the sick bed of my husband, who is dying, and therefore transfer to you the papers sent to me. General Hawley would be an admirable person to undertake the matter.
Commander of the schooner Isabella of Philadelphia, bound for Philadelphia from Port au Prince. Gives details of capture by a British ship and capture and piracy by a Spanish ship, and a formal protest against their actions. With certification of its translation into Spanish signed by José Joachin Tradi.
Promotional letter for The Spectator, soliciting a subscription. By Strachey as editor-in-chief. Looks like printed script rather than original handwriting.
Receipt for rum for twenty-one men in Colonel John Stark’s regiment. Stark led a group of his neighbors from New Hampshire to Cambridge, Massachusetts, in April 1775 to join the siege of Boston and Battle of Bunker Hill.
Send his autograph. Sturgeon is United States Senator from Pennsylvania.
To summon Jacob Sheaf, Boston brewer, to appear in court on a charge of theft. Byfield Lyde is clerk of court.
To summon them to appear in orphans court in the case of Mary Carr verses Josiah Carr.
To summon him to appear in orphans court in the case of Mary Carr verses Josiah Carr.
To summon him to appear in orphans court in the case of Mary Carr verses Josiah Carr.
To summon them to appear in orphans court in the case of Mary Carr verses Josiah Carr.
To summon him to appear in orphans court in the case of Mary Carr verses Josiah Carr.
To summon them to appear in orphans court in the case of John Patterson verses William Gause.
I have directed the pack-horses to proceed with the boats. Pleased with your manner of forwarding the stores. Major Conway is detaining Captain Meade’s fleet until other boats are ready, and plans to escort them himself. In summer, 1779, Sullivan led an expedition to Iroquois country and defeated Britain’s Indian allies.
Thanks for his letter; when I am governor, come and visit with me and keep in touch. Sulzer is governor-elect of New York.
On letterhead of State of New York Executive Chambers. Hope you approve of the enclosed [not present]. Keep me advised.
Thanks for all your help in my reform efforts. You have no idea of the difficulties, but the truth will prevail. Of course the grafters and scandal-mongers are after me. When Murphy said he would destroy me if I did not do his bidding, I defied him. Sulzer is impeached on October 18. Murphy is Charles F. Murphy, sachem of Tammany Democracy.
Provisions for non-combat service for conscientious objectors. Sumner is United States Senator from Massachusetts, abolitionist and Radical Reconstructionist.
Instructions for sending Sumner proofs of the signatures containing the new passages, and any which he has questions about.
Letter of introduction for President Wayland of Brown University, Rhode Island, who is visiting England to study its school system.
In the case of the United States verses 410 Casks[?] Molasses: Questions asked of William Savage; Questions for cross-interrogation; and deposition of William Savage, answering the questions put to him and the cross-interrogation, and signed by him. Signed by Charles Sumner as witness. The document is in Sumner’s handwriting. Regarding price and conditions of sale of molasses in Cuba.
With envelope. Doesn’t have time to read the pamphlet Gardiner sent him, but hopes to read it on his journey outstate.
Obliged by your "liberal defense of my course.” The case of D. and S. occupies much of my time; some of their friends have still reproached me, and other people want to injure me. I have no desire other than to advance the cause of humanity. "To party I am absolutely indifferent.” Sumner has been chosen United States Senator [by the Massachusetts Legislature] despite refusing to modify his anti-slavery statements.
Various biographical sketches can be found at the end of the book, "Orations & Speeches by C. S.” Congratulations on success of your book.
Quotation from antislavery speech.
Declines invitation to a Horse Fair at Springfield.
Asks results of discharge case of M. T. Fallen. Addressed to "the Secretary of War.”
Sends those speeches on the slavery controversy that he has copies of.
Encloses a letter from a constituent asking promotion of his brother [enclosure not present].
I have a copy of your American Eloquence. Comments on Moore’s new story (which Moore has sent him).
I have sent the Nat[ural?] History Society five copies of the Report on the Pacific Railroad; regrets the set is not complete. My accident and invalidism caused my lists to become deranged.
"At last the war has come. The day of insincerity and duplicity is now passed… The Prest speaks simply and plainly of the state of the country…As I see more of him I like him better.” State Department dispatches are endless, and diplomatists are already afraid. War has been declared on April 15.
Requests Mr. Blaisdell receive a commission as lieutenant in the United States Army: he is a faithful Republican and served in the Mexican War.
Recommends Norman Liebe of New York for a lieutenancy.
"All the property of public enemies … should be proceeded against under the Jura Belli…” and limitations of the Constitution do not here apply. The President does not accept this. Informants who have merely spied out the existence of property should not be compensated the same as captors.
On July 5, [1862?], the Confiscation bill had not been agreed on by the two Houses. The House of Representatives had proposed a thorough emancipation bill. There is also no expression of harshness to slavemongers or opposition to slavery per se. "As long as this record remains what can be expected?”
Don’t know when I would be able to accept your invitation to speak in Buffalo.
I will not be able to lecture this season.
I have written the Secretary for your young protégé. I shall report a bill sweeping away all Fugitive Slave Laws, and a report on reasons therefor.
"It is our plain duty to unite…against the Chicago-ites…We must not stop to debate or wrangle among ourselves…Our cause is good enough for an angel. It is our misfortune that we have only a man to guide. But we must be none the less earnest.”
The [enclosure] which is with your letter has disappeared, and the letter gave no hint of its content, so I could not act on it. If not too late, repeat your desires and I will try to meet them. "You will enjoy the overthrow of Belligerent Slavery.” In assassinating Lincoln they acted naturally, yet many people seem astonished they could be guilty of such a thing. "With equal rights to all without distinction of color the future is secure.”
Mr. Sprague will undoubtedly send you a copy of his speech. I don’t know if I will make any speech on the English treaty. Sumner opposed the Johnson-Clarendon treaty with England, March-April 1869, as affording no means of adequate settlement of United States claims against the British from the Civil War.
I brought wine in London for Mr. Hooper, which he has received. Could our boxes be lurking in some warehouse in New York?
On letterhead of Chatto & Windus publishers. If you’ve got "the Chicago papers head-sweller,” would you send it over? "When a young man is told by Arnold Bennett that he is one of the hopes of English fiction it ought to take a good deal of head-gear to cover him”: it is in the New Age last week. [regarding Swinnerton]. Swinnerton is a British novelist and critic.
With envelope. Engraved[?] invitation to dinner.
Envelope and card. Engraved[?] invitation to a reception, with card to be presented at the door.
Thanks for the support Joslyn is giving him in the Buffalo News.
On letterhead Supreme Court of the United States. Neither Mrs. Taft nor I has a postal frank.
Petition to be allowed to sell butter, cheese, meal, salt, candles, corn, grain, beans, peas, flour, etc. at retail without penalty or molestation.
Presents copy of his new book, The Pathway of Life. Will she examine it and give her opinion. Signature looks like a stamp.
Tappen is an early Ohio settler, lawyer, judge, United States Senator 1839-1856.
Tells of a family in the town, descended from George Washington’s sister and Napoleon’s sister, with many interesting relics in their possession. Would an article about them, with photographs, be acceptable for the Magazine of American History.
Taylor is an Illinois author, newspaper columnist.
Transmits muster rolls. Explains his view that his troops are too few to effectively man the fort, also a great deficiency of officers. "I cannot for a moment believe that the situation of this post is properly understood…”
Sends return of ordnance and ordnance stores.
Reports on the thirty-six recruits under command of Lieutenant Cook which have arrived. A John Courtwright is brought as one of these recruits with no descriptive roll, and seems to be a deserter from a few years ago. I await your decision on his case.
With envelope. Very long letter. Thanks for Butler’s praise of the troops which captured Monterey. Discusses the "unwarrantable and slanderous attack” on Major General [William Orlando] Butler; I believe it done to bring about difficulties between him and me. Number of misrepresentations that are being written regarding the battle of Monterey. I have been talked of for President against my wishes and consent. General Scott arrived en route to Vera Cruz without consulting me, and I am left with inferior numbers to defend a four hundred mile line (gives details). Encounter with advancing enemy [Santa Ana] near Saltillo on February 21-23 (gives extensive details); his force’s retreat in the face of overwhelming superiority of numbers; and the enemy’s eventual retreat from the field. Another skirmish with cavalry in the rear near Saltillo on the same days in February. Hopes Butler will be sent to serve with him; regular troops are badly needed. This letter is published in whole in the New Orleans Picayune and in part in the Whig campaign paper The Battery, and received wide circulation.
Report of rout of Santa Ana by Scott at Cerro Gordo. I had not thought the volunteers’ term of service would have expired so soon, and hope we can receive a sufficient force before they have to leave. The enemy’s reverses mean we can maintain our position with a smaller force than before. I wrote a full description of the battle of Buena Vista to General Butler, not supposing he would have permitted any of it to be published in a newspaper, but I do not think any of my remarks were objectionable or reflected on anyone. He corrects one and refutes another statement regarding the battle attributed to him by the press. The best policy regarding such hearsay is to ignore it. My only wish is to do full justice to all participants in the battle.
Land grant number 11,790 for land in the Mineral Point, Wisconsin, district (160 acres). Signed for Taylor by his secretary, Thomas Ewing, Jr.
I had never received your letter of congratulations, thanks for it. Just now received Mrs. Moscheles’ very kind letter.
Thanks for letter and book. I fear neither Mr. Irving nor I will be able to come Sunday fortnight, because we have an engagement with a friend from Providence.
Thanks for letter. Written on envelope of Sixth American Tour 1899-1900 (Henry Irving, Ellen Terry and Lyceum Company), with dates and places of all their engagements.
I have engagements all of next week except Thursday. Should I come to Hamble Cliff on that day?
Mr. Forster is coming to dine on Sunday. Wish you would come too.
Letterhead The Cornhill Magazine. "Can the Cornhill Magazine and his two daughters come to the ball to night?” Thackeray is editor of The Cornhill Magazine, January 1860-April 1862.
News of her health and summer plans. Renewing a former friendship with him. See also Whittier letters, nos. 1518-1519, 1523-1525.
Tells of his father’s death. Would like to see Butler in Baltimore.
Complies with request for autograph. He is later 1st Baron Kelvin.
Hope the governor is sending me 250 stand of arms. I have permitted Captain Stevens to recruit a company of volunteers, as long as I can be assured they will be discharged when my other militia is. Urges Weedon not to order his troops to the James River, as a force is necessary here to protect the Potomac.
Glad to hear from you. I can’t come home before we return from this voyage. High regard for Zuriel. Aborn can tell you the news from here. Has been a long time since I have visited Rocky Hill. Addressed "Dear Cousin.”
Just arrived from the West Indies and am en route to New York. I hope to see you soon. Will you engage a bacer[?] for the widow Clay.
I drafted all the watermen [men with marine experience] from my militia. There were only fourteen. Am waiting your orders regarding them and regarding the six boats ordered by Baron Steuben.
Please send your orders regarding the fourteen waterman. I would have had more, but thirty were ordered up river by Baron Steuben to impress boats. If the approaching fleet is British, let me warn you of the exposed condition of Gloucester County, which would be easy to plunder, especially with the men gone.
Captain Travis took nine of the watermen. The men sent upriver to impress boats have returned with seven, and I sent you a return of them. Lieutenant Sears is stationed at the mouth of Queens Creek with thirty-two men.
Reply to telegram from them and several others: I am opposed to the Bricker amendment in its present form. I would a consider proposal that will "command general support and offer suitable safeguards in the making of international commitments.” Thye is United States Senator from Minnesota.
I will support a proposal to continue the investigation of unions.
Addressed "Dear Bror in the light.” Reminiscences on our agreeable acquaintance in your village. Talks about "the brazen [illegible]” attacking himself and friends. We are healthy and content, employed chiefly in farming, and would like you to visit us.
Testifies to the justice of granting Captain John B. Hopkins a pension due to disability suffered [in Revolution?] while commanding the brig Cabot.
Addressed "Dear Brother.” The lime and nails arrived. I am too poor to go to New York. Have not heard from anyone I wrote to. Have drawn up a form for advertisement, using the number of families rather than number of dwellings. There has been a woods fire near Mays Landing. Sallie would like her oil cloth.
Will you loan me $10-$15 until next month? With receipt at bottom of letter signed by her daughter Mary.
Still at York. Got the Liberty Boat to sail, but found it had no arms or provisions. I just got them today, and then the Liberty is taken from me for a Rhode Island expedition. Am fitting up another boat to sail if I can get the men.
Mr. Watson says you came to a conclusion regarding a place to make a dam across the creek. Can you come up to discuss it? If Watson continues obstinately to forbid us to make a dam, I will enclose my whole meadow with banks. Trent is an Indian trader and land speculator; served in the French and Indian War.
Comments on a volume of Stevenson’s letters. Can you arrange to visit us after we go to Welcombe? Trevelyan is an English historian and cabinet officer.
Praise for Colvin’s volume of Stevenson letters. I will not return from the Continent in time for the Literary Society dinner.
Comments on a translation of "salus populi suprema lex esto.”
On letterhead The White House. Statement of praise and congratulations for the twenty-fourth annual observance of National Pharmacy Week. To Gregg as President of the American Pharmaceutical Association.
No boats can be obtained this side of the river, but if you can provide some, General [Washington] approves their use for spy and guard boats. General Greene informs us of "a very compleat victorey” in battle on 8th September.
A deserter says Cornwallis and most of his troops crossed to Gloucester last night, the troops carrying extra clothing. Be on the lookout for them. "The General this Day received a Letter by Flag from Ld Cornwallis, proposing a cessation of Hostilities for 24 Hours – and that 20 officers from each side might be appointed to … consult on proposals for his surrender of the Ports of York and Glocester.” We will soon know if he is serious.
Newspaper clipping enclosed. Encloses a poem written and read by his son (Beverley D. Tucker, rector St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Norfolk, Virginia) at a Confederate Memorial Day celebration.
With envelope. Be assured that Mrs. Turner and I will be delighted to have you as a guest for a few days in October.
With envelope. Apologizes for not writing sooner. I will see if my brother can answer your question regarding the incident you heard about. Talks of her grandfather and his brothers. So many accounts of the Civil War distort the South’s view, why don’t you write the truth about it? Even Southern writers have overlooked the fact that there is not a single slave insurrection during the Civil War. A couple of quotes from Andrew Jackson.
Complies with request for an autograph? Turney is a United States Senator from Tennessee.
Invites her to dinner on the first anniversary of his inauguration.
Congratulations on the birth of his son and heir, Prince (Sultan) Abdul Hamid. Co-signed by Webster as Secretary of State.
Invitation to the Vice President-elect to come for the evening.
I is at Saratoga for a week trying the water, then at West Point. I wrote you enclosing an advertisement for land in Kentucky to be inserted in the Philadelphia papers. Let me know how much money Tazewell needs to enter college. Pierce’s election seems secure. I can’t make out your friend’s remedy for a complaint similar to mine. Written to his son, a Philadelphia attorney.
Condition of the regiment: behavior of men and officers; punishment on the spot for offenses is better than court martial when on the march; our Colonel "is too good a man for a Soldier” (too lenient and worries too much about small infractions of discipline). Submits a plan of march for approval. The enemy has captured Fort Montgomery (reported every defender is put to the sword) and Fort Constitution. The enemy is now near Peekskill, and General Putman is at Peekskill with all the Connecticut Militia. What do you think of your regiment joining General Washington this fall?
With envelope. Complies with request for an autograph. Underwood is a United States Senator from Kentucky.
Will you talk with Mr. Booker regarding Mrs. Cornel’s demand and see if it can be settled without a lawsuit. Discusses the merits (or lack of) of Captain Cornel’s claim Cornel apparently is a sea trader between Rhode Island and Cuba who had a claim against Updike for compensation for services.
Complies with request for an autograph. Upham is a United States Senator from Vermont.
Envelope addressed to Samuel McClellan, Navy Agt., Baltimore. Stamped "Navy Department” above his frank. Dated February 19 [1841-1843]. Upshur is Secretary of the Navy (1841-1843), Secretary of State (1843-1844). Killed in explosion of gun on the Princeton in 1844.
Dr. George M. Coe will be examined by the Medical Board in Philadelphia for admission into the Navy as Assistant Surgeon.
With franked envelope. If I do not act on your proposal, it will not be for want of esteem for you. I also regret the "present inauspicious condition of the country, upon the slave subject.” Harmony is being brought about in state [New York?] affairs, but nationally it is probably beyond any man’s individual efforts, and I will not leave my "retired political position.”
Thanks for the supply of yellow peppers. I handed over the pods to Mr. Duncan to cultivate in his greenhouse. I have gotten wind of a strong Butler feeling in Maine and New Hampshire (for General [William Orlando?] Butler). The New York state election can be considered a victory for us, and we can whip the Whigs easily. Son of Martin Van Buren.
With envelope. Anything I have about me is at your disposal, if I have anything you will want. With a four line verse for "Morven” [the Stocktons’ Princeton home?]: a sun-dial motto. Addressed to Mrs. Stockton at Morven.
Vane is a Puritan statesman in Massachusetts and England. Governor of Massachusetts 1636-1637 until opposition to his non-bigotry unseated him; subsequently an English legislator and politican, beheaded when monarchy is restored after Oliver Cromwell’s death.
On illustrated letterhead of Vassar Female College. Sends bills for tuition and board for Cornell’s daughters. They are in good health and apparently happy. Vassar built and supported Vassar College; Cornell founded and endowed Cornell University.
Inscription on a page for her album: his respect for her parents, urging her to follow the advice and example of her late mother. An accompanying sheet with this letter identifies R. V., Isabella, and Captain Basil Hall (see his letter, no. 664). Text tells us she is in Philadelphia. Although the sheet says Richard Vaux, it must be wrong; this has to be his father, Roberts Vaux, Philadelphia merchant and philanthropist. Richard, born 1816, is only twelve years old when the letter is written.
Illegible signature.
Also signed Norfolk, Earl Marshall. Sent from Court of St. James [London]. Requests his attendance at her coronation. Addressed "Right Trusty and Right Wellbeloved Cousin.”
Requests for tickets to coronation[?] For Mr.[?] Baring.
On letterhead of John H. Vincent, Office Chautauqua University. Asks her to write a "Socratic League Paper” on "The Secular Teacher as a Reader” for the new Chautauqua Teachers’ Reading Union.
On letterhead, House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary. Would be glad to assist in securing legislature along the line you suggest.
With envelope. Andrew Jackson (heir of General Jackson) has brought suit against the heirs of Montgomery Blair for possession of the Jackson Papers which had been placed in the custody of Amos Kendall and then passed to Francis P. Blair for the purpose of writing a biography of General Jackson. Blair claims the papers belong to his father’s estate. I have every confidence Jackson will win. As soon as we establish his ownership, the Committee on the Library of Congress will make him an offer to purchase them. Voorhees is United States Senator from Indiana.
Doesn’t know if he can canvass Minnesota before the fall election; gives reasons. Importance of carrying Minnesota, and fears election fraud by the enemy [Loco Focos?] again. With a newspaper clipping, eulogy to Senator Wade, firmly glued onto the letter. To Rohrer as Ch[airman] R[epublican] S[tate] Committee.
Thanks for advice and support. Wadsworth is running successfully for United States Senate.
On letterhead of United States Senate Committee on Military Affairs. Thanks for your note approving my recommendations on the Eighteenth Amendment.
He has marched circa 150 county militia under Major Dennis Ramsey, whom he recommends to Weedon. The county militia number only six hundred.
Pleasure and thanks for election to life membership in Sons of the American Revolution. To Porter as the organization’s state secretary. Waite is a Minneapolis lawyer and judge.
Reminiscences of a long-ago trip to the Yoho Valley (Canadian Rockies), and sends a poem regarding it [not present].
With envelope. Thanks for flowers on his ninety-fifth birthday.
On his ninety-seventh birthday. Printed message in card form, signed by him.
I will call tomorrow morning and take you and Miss Nelson to the Capitol. You will have time to look through our rooms and meet the judges before court meets. Waite is Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Date could also be January 1885, when Cleveland had been elected but not yet sworn in.
Tell Lucy (Mrs. Bache) that Rhode Island produces more per capita than any other state of the Union. In his forthcoming article, he is comparing Bache to Canute, "not commanding the tidal wave, but reducing it to laws and formulas.”
Will Bache come down and look at the Naugatuck, built and fitted out by Mr. Stevens at his own expense and presented to the Treasury Department. It can rise and sink several feet in the water and turn rapidly on its center without going forward. Wouldn’t such a vessel be useful to the coast survey? At the beginning of the Civil War, Edwin Augustus Stevens presented to the government a plan for completing a small twin-screw vessel called the "Naugatuck” that could immerse, raise, and turn on its center. It is accepted by the government and formed one of the fleet that attacked the "Merrimac,” but money is never appropriated for its development.
Page-length quotation from the chariot race with Messala, in Wallace’s writing and signed by him.
On letterhead of Advertising Department, Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine. Encloses clipping (included) on free marriage advocated in England. I want to organize a symposium on "Is the Present Marriage System a Failure.” Can you contribute?
Petition to Walton as chief justice of Georgia and the assistant justices of Richmond County to bring to court the partners of the late firm of Clark, Middleton and Company for nonpayment of a debt due "in the present year our Lord [1784].” Countersigned by Walton to authorize start of proceedings. A court order?
Asks for more supplies (ordnance and ordnance stores). Written the day after the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Headed Treasury Office, Columbia. Signed Bn Waring, Trear . Receipt for money received from Bynum as Lexington County tax collector.
We had a lovely visit with you and a comfortable journey home. Warner is an author and essayist; newspaper editor in Hartford, Connecticut; became co-editor of Harper’s Magazine 1884.
Printed colonel’s commission issued by the Congress of the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay, signed by Warren as the Congressional president P.T. and co-signed by Samuel Freeman, Secretary P.T.
On letterhead of Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute for the Training of Colored Young Men and Women, Booker T. Washington principal. Appeal for funds so the school can close the year free of debt; many donors have reduced or deferred gifts due to the recession.
Send pamphlet (not included) regarding Tuskegee Institute extension work and its encouraging results. We are trying to reduce expenses due to the very depressed financial condition in the country.
Urges him to return to camp as soon as possible, as many officers are now absent. Your claim of rank is not yet adjusted: a board of General Officers has declined to determine the matter, but reported that General Woodford ought to have been restored to his rank when he is appointed. Sorry there were grounds for a dispute of this nature, and thinks it would be much more to Weedon’s honor to acquiesce in any decision than to leave the service. Weedon is made a brigadier general shortly after William Woodford is also made general. This put Woodford ahead of Weedon, and Weedon always resented it. The rank dispute also involved other officers of the Virginia line, and many resigned.
The Gentlemen of the Faculty think it will be more convenient to inoculate for smallpox at camp. Do not detain any levies at Alexandria or George Town for this purpose. Gives instructions for taking precautions against them catching it en route.
Don’t know when I will be able to send you more firearms, but I will order you over as much as can be spared. Strictest economy is necessary. How much grain has been collected at Col. Taylor’s post? The practice of the Queen’s Rangers penetrating into the country and driving off stock must be stopped.
Letter of introduction for the Duc de Lauzun.
Sorry for the embarrassments you meet with. The legion of the Duc de Lauzun will soon join the troops under your command. Do as much as possible to prevent the enemy getting supplies from the country.
I am applying to the Count de Grasse for some of his mariners to assist in our operations; they will be employed on the Gloucester side, and an officer senior to yourself or Lauzan will command.
Complements Weedon on the spirit of his troops and the advantage gained over the enemy. Suggests he consult Choisey to determine the shortest route for his communications.
Invitation to dinner, sent to the Register of the Treasury. Presented to Rose E. Cleveland while she is in the White House (circa 1885-1886). With covering letter from Mrs. C. R. Dulaney, presenting it to Rose Elizabeth Cleveland.
Report on the enemy’s advance up the [Rappahannock] River toward Fredericksburg. Explains preparations made for watching and reporting on any fleet coming up the [Chesapeake] Bay. J. A. Washington is the brother of George Washington. Bushfield is his estate.
Asks continuance of his note for renewal.
Promise to pay £27.8.3 to them.
Promise to pay £143.18.7½ to them (merchants in Dumfries, Virginia).
For £401.6.4½.
For £24.18.10. On verso is transfer of bond from McAlester to Colonel S. T. Mason. This may be Warner Washington, Sr., of Frederick County, Virginia. McAlester is of Winchester, Virginia.
Pay to bearer $1207.19. Order to Bank of Columbia.
Colored (engraved) scenes of Washington, D.C. buildings and panoramas of the city, with portrait of George Washington at top.
You, me and my brother Thomas have been appointed referees to decide the action in the case of Samuel Anthony verses Christopher A. Olney, and in all matters of dispute between the parties. Can you meet at Hoyl Tavern in Providence on December 20? (house of Staples Fletcher).
My health is good; hopes yours is. I miss you. We will begin to take on molasses here. The climate is healthy with almost no smallpox. Will probably sail in early March.
I am in good health and hope you are. Hope to be home in early spring.
I arrived safe from Baltimore, is not able to call on you. Would be glad to know your intentions. Will set out for Pitt County [North Carolina] in a day or two.
Prescription for drugs, with price, for a child, [from?] Dr.[?] Thomas Greene.
Incomplete. Four pages only. Apparently a mutual protection society against horse thieves, etc.
Deed to a town lot, with a life lien.
Don’t know yet where I will settle. Discusses prospect of them going into practice together, and possible locations. Dr. Bartlett and I are still in partnership but there is only enough business for one.
Philosophizes at length on the nature of man, his divine attributes, his mind, and his frailties. The signature is very different from the handwriting. The body of the letter may be in another’s hand, but the signature has the appearance of an affectation.
I have to cancel my [speaking] engagement in Minneapolis due to pressure of work: Senator Penrose’s illness; he is a member of the sub-committee investigating the Federal Trade Commission; also chairman of the sub-committee to conduct the Newberry-Ford fight. Watson is United States Senator from Indiana.
What hit you? Wants details of votes in Minnesota for 1920, 1922, and special election [1923?], how much wet and dry entered in, contribution of the League of Nations and [Governor] Preus’s attack on the tariff to Johnson’s success. He wants to make an analysis for a public statement. Refers to the special election in Minnesota in which Magnus Johnson is elected on the Farmer-Labor ticket to the United States Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Knute Nelson.
Applies to the Governor and Council (of Pennsylvania) for money to buy provisions and cattle before proceeding to Virginia. "Before this is Dispatched, I recd letters from the board of War, the Govr of Virginia, and the Marquis Lafayette of the most alarming nature, and pressing for the advance of the troops under my Command….” Early in 1781 Wayne is sent to join Lafayette in Virginia against Cornwallis. After Cornwallis’ surrender he is sent to join General Nathanael Greene in the south, and on June 23rd and 24th defeated a large force of Britain’s Creek Indian allies.
Makes some racy-sounding comments on Colonel Lee’s marriage[?]. Has a high opinion of Rudolph’s light corps. Wishes him success in the spring season. Rudolph is a major.
"I transmit you this, in order that if any Harbour Improvement Bill come forward in the H. of R. your friends at Scituate may be remembered.” Webster is Secretary of State; Adams is a Representative in Congress.
Movement of the enemy to the Gloucester side has prevented my visit to the counties above. I approve your plan of arming the counties agreeable to their situation. The Legionary Corps I mentioned to you earlier will have to find their own horses and equipment. Can you spare us a pair of field pieces? The traveling forges shall be got ready, and will help keep a supply of effective arms always with the army. Davis is a Virginia militia colonel.
Encloses two letters [not present]. I have no reliable news. The speech of George III ("Big Geo.”) you will get tomorrow: he is asking Commons for more money to support the war. [Prince] William has returned to England to condole with Daddy over "the Misfortune of the Noble Earl” (Cornwallis). Well-wishes to Mrs. Gates. A piece is missing from the left-hand side of the document.
Your pupil William Mercer will be coming back to you for six more months; he is now taking the pictures of a family, but will leave as soon as he is finished. The finances of this state are so deranged that the money voted for his annual support can’t be drawn until next January; hope you will be patient until then. I am very anxious to have the scene of the death of Billy’s father. He is the very picture of his father. I hope you will sit for him before you part. Peale is a portrait and miniature painter; Mercer a deaf-mute portrait, miniature, and historical painter.
Letter in German.
Encloses calling card. Asks for a personal interview (in three pages of writing). I think you feel a great interest in women’s welfare, happiness and advancement. I have come to Washington especially to see you. Encloses calling card for herself as editor of "Woman’s Exponent,” Salt Lake City, Utah.
On illustrated letterhead of St. Mary’s Hall. Thanks for gift from her and her sister. Mentions Daniel LeRoy of New York.
Announces Cornwallis’s surrender. There probably has by now been a battle between the French and British fleets on the coast of Virginia, and the French fleet is far superior. Hopes for Charleston and Savannah before the campaign closes, but doesn’t think we will get New York. British East India affairs are also wretched: Minorca is in the hands of Spain and Gibralter probably is soon to follow.
Making an appointment for the next day to look at one of Dixey’s foils and a cane.
Addressed "Dear Madam.” All I know of my ancestors is that they were respected people at Middlefield, Massachusetts, and at Merinor[?], Massachusetts.
On letterhead District Attorney’s Office, County of New York. Thanks for telegram [on his election as Governor of New York].
On letterhead Executive Chamber State of New York. Acknowledges, with thanks, receipt of a letter.
The secretary of War has agreed to Whitney’s contract for muskets: the first 500 to be ready for delivery this month, and not more than 3000 nor less than 1500 each year thereafter. He has the 500 ready for inspection and delivery. A copy; on the verso is another letter, dated July 30, fearing the letter of the 9th has miscarried and asking when the muskets can be inspected. To Irvine as Commissary-General.
My health is fine. We would be glad to see you again. Written to him as her cousin.
Long letter expressing his disappointment at her not writing, his high opinion of her, his desire for her continued friendship, his memory of pleasant hours passed together. Gives a little gossip of Haverhill Academy. She is a relative of his, and he at this period of his life felt for her a great affection, perhaps love.
Sends a poem by him and one by his sister Elizabeth and asks her to copy them for Mr. Gallagher’s Cincinnati Mirror. Is it true the southern and western ladies like a man for having displayed his manhood in a duel? Glad you are returning to New England. Thinks the waltz is too productive of "feverish excitements.” Comments on literary acquaintances, a couple of his own works, dullness of Haverhill this winter, health and welfare of friends.
Are you planning to print a new edition of my rhymes soon, or are you disposed to assign the copyright to a Philadelphia publisher which has asked for it? Would you send me a copy or two of Clarke’s Edition of my poetry if you have it.
Two stanzas. "Centennial Hymn” is written for the opening of the International Exhibition in Philadelphia, May 10, 1876.
I have no copyright of [Centennial] Hymn, but Atlantic Monthly might. It might be well to consult the magazine’s publisher before setting the Hymn to music.
With envelope. I must leave Saturday for Amesbury and Boston. Still hope to see you. [Note on back of envelope says 1877.]
With envelope. Thanks for her token of remembrance, recalls their youth at Haverhill, few friends of fifty years ago are left now, glad of the card of your sister at Oak Knoll.
With envelope. Glad she is supporting the women suffrage movement, and feels it is a cause certain of success. The years press heavily on me, but I still love nature and my friends, and hope to meet you again.
With envelope. I will be glad to stay with you next spring when I come to Minneapolis to speak.
With envelope.
Envelope [postmarked 1949; does it belong with this card?]
In German.
I have completed the study from the great lamps in front of the Palace [Holyrood?], and they may be returned to their places. Wilkie is a genre, history and portrait painter. Reid resides in Edinburgh, where Holyrood Castle is located.
Hope I may see you. I remain only a day or two in Edinburgh, but would like to look over the apartments in the Palace of Hollyrood[sic] House. Can you arrange it?
"I have avoided intruding upon you but the enclosed [not present] seems to demand it.” Willard is president of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union.
I am pleased you will edit Literary Life. I am going to print my Chautauqua book "How to Win” (for girls), as I need money. Will you read the proof sheets and, if you approve my views, write an introduction?
I haven’t time now to send you any points, but here are some from Lady Henry’s paper.
Certifies that while pursuing the enemy in Montgomery County in October 1781, I promised the party of Oneida Indians with me that if the enemy were defeated they would each get a blanket. I have been unable to comply with this promise or get the state of New York to do so.
In Dutch. Looks like a military commission. William III is hereditary stadtholder of Holland. Married Mary, daughter of James II of England and second in line to the British throne. They ousted her father and she became Queen and he King of England in 1689.
Continues the Office of the King’s Works in Scotland, at Edinburgh (established by his brother and predecessor); outlines duties of the office and its various officers; appoints Reid "Sole Master of Our Works and General Inspector and Overseer and Architect and Surveyor of all Our Palaces and public Buildings…in Scotland…”
Bond for $2000 not to apply the passport to any other ship, and to deliver it up within the specified time in case the ship is sold or lost. Williams is master of the ship.
Announcement to the army of General Taylor’s victory and Santa Ana’s retreat. Signed by Williams as aide-de-camp to General Scott.
Writ for the arrest of Joseph Root (or confiscation of his property) for non-payment of a debt. To the sheriff of the County of Tollum or constables of the town of Coventry, Connecticut.
Minutes of meeting and list of members.
Apologizes for failure to answer his letter. Can’t come to Rollins College February 22.
Congratulations on Galsworthy windfall. Comments on his own copy of Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. Looking forward to receipt of a book. He is sending Paul a copy of his John Wilkes Booth book.
Hope you have seen the gentlemen you mentioned, and been successful. Perhaps you can give me more agreeable information when we meet the week after next.
Promise to pay Wilson £140 by August first. With notation of receipt on verso, written and signed by Wilson.
On letterhead Office of Public Buildings and Grounds. Regrets he did not have a chance to bid her goodbye. Thanks for her assistance which made his duties pleasant.
Account for $637.44 to be paid to Wilson for transporting goods purchased for Indian treaties from Philadelphia to Knoxville and delivered to Colonel Return I. Meigs. With notation of its receipt signed by Wilson.
Enclosed is a money order. Thanks for prompt attention to my order.
Invitation to a reception. With envelope and presentation card.
Thanks and appreciation for "your very generous telegram.” On January 31 the German ambassador declared a blockade of England, France and Italy. Wilson in reply declared the United States in a state of armed neutrality; Congress failed to go along. The telegram is apparently regarding this.
Mrs. Wilson will be at home from 5:00 to 7:00. With envelope, and a card to present at the White House.
Written from headquarters Department of Henrico. Extract. Approves findings and decision of a court of inquiry into the escape of prisoners from Libby Prison. With details of how the escape is made (through a tunnel), events at the prison the night of the escape, and a judgment as to the extent to which the prison management is to blame (not much).
On letterhead of Treasury Department, Washington. Forwards a letter and commends its writer (Mr. Van Sant) and the man whose retention as supervising inspector Van Sant recommends (Captain Scott). To Sloan as supervising inspector of steam vessels.
Thanking her (whose mother is a friend of his mother’s) for her message of sympathy [on his mother’s death?].
With envelope. Discusses her (Sarah’s) poem "Boats of Grass.” Would like more of Cleveland’s writings.
Wish I had the luxury of leisure to write to the right person at the right time. Gratified by what you said of my husband. Glad you wrote to Mrs. Endicott. "The Indian question seems to me one of the few into wh[ich] time must not enter.”
Sends Colonel [Alexander] Hamilton’s final report, and promises some other documents.
Receipt for £10 bounty paid for full grown wolf, with cancellation hole.
With envelope. Thanks for suggestions in your letter of December 5th.
I rejoice our party has worsted the enemy in every skirmish. Buckner has been entertaining at his home and seems not to feel what has happened. Pleased at the gallant behavior of Thornton Washington. Congratulates Weedon on his promotion. I will serve with whatever rank I am given, and am determined to disappoint my enemies. I have received no commission yet. Rumors that England has declared war on France. Some of our new [Virginia?] regiments are now in motion. Shall I bring some brandy to camp? (Woodford is commissioned brigadier general a few days before Weedon, and Weedon’s intense jealousy over this led to a split with Woodford and his resignation from the army until 1780.
With envelope. I want to send troops to Victoria and Parras as soon as it is safe to do so, including yours (Third Dragoons) if we no longer need to keep a post at Mier. Canales says he wants to declare Tamaulipas, New Leon and Coahuila independent and make peace with the United States. I find there is no truth in this. Gives location of a few small guerrilla bands in New Leon. It is rumored that we will soon have peace, but I don’t see how their pride will let them make peace in their present humiliating condition. To Butler as commanding in the Upper Rio Grande. Written from Headquarters Army of Occupation.
Thanks for your letter with report of the gallant Lieutenant Maddox and copy of the letter from Canales. Canales is probably tired of the war. If you have not executed Gonzales, keep him until you hear from me. Mexican authorities have officially announced the signing of peace; it will probably be ratified by the Mexican Congress. Tells where he has ordered various troops to.
With envelope. General Scott turned over his command to General Butler on the 18th. An armistice is being worked on, and we hear the Mexican Congress will ratify the treaty.
"I regret you permitted Canales to deceive you; my letter to him should have made it plain there is no understanding between him and me, and that he and his followers are not to be exempt from the punishment required by my orders. Orders #66 is to draw his [less dedicated?] followers away from him by offering them amnesty to return home, and so far it seems to be working well. When I wrote you regarding Gonzales, it is not because of any understanding with Canales, but because I do not want even guerrillas executed without due reflection. The Secretary of War has not yet ruled whether the guerrilla system of warfare is legitimate."
I told Mr. Edmondson and the other gentlemen your orders. I enquired after my plate [plundered by the British and evidently recaptured] but don’t know if I can reclaim it. I will not take back the Negroes until I know definitely whether the government will need them again [for labor].
The vessel is delayed by the wind and is at our door; we fear the smallpox [on board it ?]. We intend to land the people [his Negroes?] today or tomorrow, but the government will give me permission only if we promise to "’deliver them up, when demanded’”. We may not be able to comply with these terms, since no one in the family except myself has had the pox. I hereby apply for a guard, which may prevent the disorder spreading or the Negroes’ escape, and we are willing to pay for it. The people on the flag vessel also want to know their fate. [It appears that some of Wormeley’s slaves are being returned to him with smallpox.]
Form letter, signed. Sends a copy of the Illinois Assembly resolutions appointing commissioners to attend a meeting on the invitation of the Virginia Legislature.
Shots and shells of various caliber expended by the American forces, the French forces, and totals.
On letterhead Chesapeake and Ohio Railway Company, Young chairman of the board. Thanks for note of support.
Thanks for your invitation; I am pleased to have played at your reception. Ysaye is a Belgian violinist.
Yulee is a United States Delegate and Senator from Florida 1841-1851, 1855-1861.
Gives name of the collector [of customs], Pensacola.
Minnesota-related and other original documents retained from the microfilmed set listed above.
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Signatures cut out of documents and letters by unknown persons. Their provenance is unknown and dates for the majority of the items are also unknown. All total, this series includes 58 items bearing 61 signatures representing 54 individuals. These items have not been microfilmed.
Following signature: "Attorney General."
Sixth Governor of Minnesota.
Following signature: "Secretary of State."
Annotated: Lawyer - St. Paul, Minn.
British abolitionist.
A frank.
Following signature: "Pres[ident], Am[erican] Fur Co."
Includes 4 signatures on a single item with an annotation on verso.
Following signature: "State Auditor."
With annotation in Hebrew (?).
Second archbishop of the Twin Cities.
Stamped following signature: "Deputy and Acting Comptroller."
British war correspondent (1838-1900).
Following signature: "Managing Editor."
Representative to the 49th Congress from Minnesota (1885-1887).
Following signature: "Maj[or] Gen[eral]."
One item is a frank.
Following signature: "Col., R. M. Vol."
One item is an envelope addressed to Charles Mayo in St. Paul, June 12, 1801, that bears a "USS" frank.
Following signature: "U.S. Judge."
On verso: "Rec'd February 11, 1914."
On verso of one item: "Rec'd June 9."
With annotation in Hebrew (?).
A frank: Free, O. Smith, U.S.S.
A frank: Free, Smith, M.C.
Following signature: "Assistant to the Attorney General."
Bishop of Fond Du Lac.
Following signature: "Librarian."
A frank: Free, Hugh White, M.C.
Annotated: Formerly - Judge Willard.
Following signature: "Maj. Gen."
An inventory and card file index created by Ford as well as background files created by Minnesota Historical Society staff in the course of processing and cataloging the Ford collection.
Files accumulated by Ford in connection with his acquisition of collection items.
Consists of a typed descriptive calendar of the Ford collection of Revolutionary War letters, mostly to Brig. Gen. Weedon in 1781 (numbers 1-126); a typed list of autograph letters collected by Bishop Whipple (none, however, appear to be included in the Ford Collection); typed lists of letters to E. E. Smith, annotated with Ford's acquisition numbers; and a hand-written acquisition list, in numerical order, numbers 185-1108, 2000-2058 (some inconsistency in numbering, some numbers changed, numbers 1109-1999 apparently not used).
Biographical and other data on authors of collection items, and sometimes on their addressees as well; transcripts and/or photocopies of selected items in the Ford Collection; facsimiles, photoprints, and/or transcripts of items not in the Ford Collection but related to his purchases; correspondence with dealers (1932-1956), other collectors, and librarians regarding both Ford's acquisitions and related items; a few invoices and receipts for purchased items; pages or extracts from dealers' catalogs, some for Ford's acquisitions, some for related items. Some items are annotated with numbers that correspond to Ford's acquisition register. Not all authors in the Ford Collection are represented in these files.
Includes a facsimile of the Boston Gazette, March 12, 1770. Also includes an article by Gerard E. Jensen, "Bunner's Letters to Gilder" (American Literature, May 1945), and Ford's correspondence with Jensen about the article.
Typed transcripts.
Transcriptions (drafts and edited copies) of Hale's letters to Mrs. Hale, and background information on his military career. (This is not the Nathan Hale executed by the British as a spy during the Revolutionary War.)
Includes photocopies and transcriptions of letters; a typescript article, "Lafayette and Weeden"; and a printed address by Louis Gottschalk to the American Friends of Lafayette, "The Place of the American Revolution in the Causal Pattern of the French Revolution" (1948).
Ford's correspondence regarding acquisition and research use of some of the letters; biographical data; photoprints and/or transcripts.
A descriptive calendar of the letters (creator unknown); a few transcripts (mostly handwritten drafts); Ford's correspondence regarding background and use of the letters.
Assorted notes, lists, descriptions of items loaned by Ford or suggested for loan.
A few letters, photocopies, data sheets. Most pertain to a Lewis Tappan letter; it is not clear whether this was sent to auction or was missing.
A few transcripts and notes on materials not in the Ford Collection but related to its contents.
One card per item, giving author, date, physical description, and acquisition number. Arranged alphabetically. This file keys collection items back to the numerical Inventory of collection prepared by Mr. Ford.
News release, exhibit pamphlet, exhibit captions, and notes and drafts by Deborah Neubeck for the exhibit pamphlet.
Published and typescript articles on the collection and on its 1965 donation to the Minnesota Historical Society. Includes a typed transcript of an interview by curator of manuscripts Lucile M. Kane with Emily Brazer Ford (November 19, 1965).
Miscellaneous correspondence and notes concerning the collection made by Minnesota Historical Society staff, its donation to the Society, and Allyn K. Ford.
Information on items that apparently were once part of the Ford Collection but that were not present at the time the collection was microfilmed.
Prepared by Minnesota Historical Society staff. Indexes microfilm edition of the collection by place, occupation, subject, type of document, dates, and authors of multiple letters.
A typewritten transcript of an interview between Emily Brazer Ford (Mrs. Allyn Kellogg Ford) and Lucile M. Kane and Robert C. Wheeler. The interview includes information on Allyn K. Ford, the development of his historical manuscripts collection, and the presentation of the collection to the Minnesota Historical Society. The original sound recording no longer exists.