Bogardus, Jacob

Autograph letter signed ("Ja Bogardus"), 2 1/2 pages plus integral address leaf (12 1/2 x 7 5/8 in.; 318 x 194 mm), Sharon [CT], 21 March 1776, to Robert Livingston [Jr] at Livingston Manor [NY]; formerly folded, lower margin frayed affecting 2 lines on the first and second pages, small seal tear, a few stains and soiling at folds, fold-tear in address leaf mended with tape. With a typed transcription.

formerly folded, lower margin frayed affecting 2 lines on the first and second pages, small seal tear, a few stains and soiling at folds, fold-tear in address leaf mended with tape.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"The liberty I contend for is natural liberty so far restrained by human laws (and no further) as is necessary & expedient for the general advantage of the publick, or in other words, a most Excellent Constitution."

Bogardus appears to have been a Connecticut merchant with whom Livingston had traded as early as 1767; the largest collection of their correspondence appears in the Gilder Lehrman collection. A recent order of cloth has brought forth the present lengthy reflections on Thomas Paine's Common Sense, and the passions it has unleashed in "these troublesome times."

He begins: "... , I am much pleased & highly approve your Sentiments on the Pamphlet called common sense, formerly much applauded here but now preached up as a Christian Doctrine in our Pulpits, on this side the line — I say I am pleased that a Gentleman of your good Sense (and whose Judgment I always Revere) confirms my sentiments in regard to this important point, a mistep in this may be our Ruin."

Bogardus is shocked that "men of no property nor principles ... take the reins of Governing." He confesses he is "no politition" and "I have had various conjectures with respect to our present Contentions with parliament, altho I never was in opposition to the measures taken in America, yet I have often troubled of the legality of some ..." but resolves "as a subject of command to do my duty concentiously."  "As to news, ... the Regular troops have plundered and left Boston, there destination not known ... this colony is to raise more troops. God help us, in this Town I am sure we have not hands sufficient now to do the necessary farming work."