AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED (ALS)
Albany: 23 February 1817. Letter. A two-page letter on both sides of a single sheet (7-7/8" x 9-7/8") SIGNED "A. Burr" to Capt. Samuel C. Reid of New York, with a separate cover addressed in Burr's hand and with postmark and red seal. Burr writes a cynical letter on political patronage to War of 1812 hero and early American flag designer Samuel Chester Reid regarding his future employment. Burr begins by questioning whether Reid is likely to be appointed sheriff by the city delegation and continues with direct comment on the patronage system currently in play in U.S. politics: “In this state of uncertainty, would it not be prudent for you to look to the Govt. of the U.S.? It is said that there are to be some changes in the custom house department … some of which might be worthy of your notice ... apply yourself directly to Monroe or get some friend to do it or both -- you must improve the moment, now that your services are fresh in everyone's recollection ... I do not observe that anything is gained nowadays by modesty or delicacy; and you had better throw aside a little of yours -- when you once get into a good fat office you may be as modest as you please.” Reid successfully engaged the British in the Azores, which gave New Orleans time to fortify. His petition for a post was successful. He was appointed Sailing Master in the Navy. It is unusual to find a Burr letter with political content. Ink dark and clear, usual folds with short splits at the ends, light toning and thumbsoiling, the cover with small marginal loss where opened. Near Fine. Item #022472
Aaron Burr, a Continental Army officer in the Revolutionary War and third vice president of the United States, serving during Jefferson's first term (1801-1805), is best known for killing Alexander Hamilton in an infamous illegal duel in 1804, the final year of Burr's vice presidency. All charges against Burr were eventually dropped, but it ended his political career.
Price: $4,000.00