A military surgeon in the Revolutionary War, McHenry was captured by the British at Ford Washington late in 1776, but was freed in a prisoner exchange early the next year. Returning immediately to duty, he was assigned to Valley Forge, where in May he became George Washington’s private secretary. Hand-addressed and free-franked folded envelope panel, 5 x 3.5, addressed in McHenry’s hand to “Mr. Samuel Hodgoon, Superintendant of Military Leaves, Philadelphia,” and franked in the top right corner, “Department of War, James McHenry.” Two vertical folds, one through a couple letters of frank and signature, some scattered mild toning and a small pencil notation to bottom, otherwise fine condition. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
