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Lot #123
James Madison

“MY GREAT AGE, AND DECREPIT CONDITION”: The now-elderly author of the Bill of Rights sends warm regards in his eighty-second year

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Description

“MY GREAT AGE, AND DECREPIT CONDITION”: The now-elderly author of the Bill of Rights sends warm regards in his eighty-second year

LS, one page, 8 x 9.75, August 10, 1833. Madison writes to John H. Sherburne, Esq. In full: “I received in due time your letter enclosing a portrait of your father, for which and the personal sentiments you express I return my thanks. My recollection of the political and personal good will always experienced from Col. Sherburne gives the due value to what I offered as a token of it; and the value is enhanced by its kindred effect in reminding me of the friendship of his near connection Governor Langdon [New Hampshire statesman John Langdon, 1741–1819] for whom I always entertained the most cordial esteem and regard. For the delay of this acknowledgement of your favor, I must offer the apology of my great age, and decrepit condition, the apology to which I am obliged to recur, on other epistolary occasions.” The recipient was evidently the son of John S. Sherburne (1757–1830), who served as an officer during the Revolutionary War and later became a U.S. Congressman and judge. In very good condition, with mild scattered toning and soiling, intersecting folds (one touching signature), a touch of wrinkling, and two tiny holes to blank portions. The overall impact of the points mentioned above is minimal, and, despite Madison’s advanced age, the signature is bold and dark. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #328 - Ended December 12, 2007