Fine Manuscript and Printed Americana

Fine Manuscript and Printed Americana

View full screen - View 1 of Lot 2138. Morris, Robert. Autograph letter signed, Philadelphia, 18 Sept 1795.

Morris, Robert. Autograph letter signed, Philadelphia, 18 Sept 1795

Auction Closed

January 27, 09:56 PM GMT

Estimate

1,000 - 1,500 USD

Lot Details

Description

MORRIS, ROBERT


AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED, ("R.(?). MORRIS") TO JAMES CAREY, DISCUSSING SOME OF HIS CREDITORS AND REVEALING SOME FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES


2 pages (9 3/4 x 7 3/8 in,; 246 x 187 mm) on a bifolium, integral address leaf, Philadelphia, 18 September 1795; minor tear at center gutter, slight browning at edges and fold creases, seal tear. 


Signer of the declaration of independence and the constitution, a leading financier of the revolutionary period


In a year of financial hardship for all, Morris was struggling as a result of his unwise speculations. This letter portrays his normal assurances to his creditors, but also presages the "hard fate" that awaited him as a result of his debts. He would later declare bankruptcy and go to debtors prison.