Monroe, James

1 page (9 7/8 x 7 7/8 in.; 250 x 198 mm), text written in a neat clerical hand, "War Department" [Washington, 13 September 1814, to Farish Carter; some light offsetting, repair to fold separation. 

1 page (9 7/8 x 7 7/8 in.; 250 x 198 mm), text written in a neat clerical hand, "War Department" [Washington, 13 September 1814, to Farish Carter; some light offsetting, repair to fold separation.
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.

Just weeks after the British burning of Washington and two weeks before officially assuming the office of Secretary of War, Monroe writes to a contractor about troop supplies. "Herewith enclosed you will receive a contract for supplying the troops of the United States in Georgia and East Florida. The contract bears the date of that originally proposed to be concluded with you for supplying the troops from the first of June 1814 to the first of for the written bond June 1815. Should you execute this contract and furnish sufficient sureties for the written bond it will be required of you to collect and settle … all issues."

A merchant from Sandersville, Georgia, Farish Carter became a highly successful United States Army Contractor.