Prussian army officer (1730-1794) and trusted advisor to George Washington who came to America in 1777 and performed an invaluable service in the training and reorganization of the Continental army. War-dated endorsement, “Steuben, Maj. Gen.,” at the foot of a manuscript order signed “William Davies, Col. & Pres,” one page, 8 x 9.5, February 15, 1781. The order reads, in part: “The board of field Officers, now sitting for the arrangement of the Virginia line, do Certify that Lieut. Colo. John Webb, being one of the Junior Officers of his Rank of course became a Supernumerary and according retires upon half pay, agreeable to the resolutions of Congress….” Accompanied by a 1782 ALS to Steuben from Edward Phelon, complaining about his not having received a commission as lieutenant, “having been confined near 4 years by excruciating wounds contracted in the field,” and claiming that Governor John Hancock must have a “private pique” against him. The order is in good condition, with intersecting folds (separations and small losses with old repairs and restorations from reverse; vertical fold slightly touching signature), wrinkling, and scattered toning and mild soiling; the letter to Steuben is fine, with scattered light handling wear. Steuben’s signature is clear, dark, and otherwise unaffected, and itself rates as near fine to fine. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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