Unsigned partly-printed document completed in an unknown hand, one page, 6.5 x 8.25, February 3, 1787. A dinner invitation, in full: “Marquis de la Fayette’s Compliments Wait upon Mr Derby and Begs the Honour of His Company at Dinner on Monday next.” Accompanied by the 4 x 2.75 address panel from the original mailing envelope; also includes a ship’s ‘bill of health’ document signed by Joseph Hiller, December 6, 1787, for the ship Grand Turk, which was owned by Elias Hasket Derby, the gentleman that Lafayette invited to dinner. In overall fine condition, with both documents encapsulated in Mylar sleeves. Elias Hasket Derby was among the wealthiest and most celebrated of post-Revolutionary merchants in Salem, Massachusetts, considered by some America’s first millionaire. His ship, Grand Turk, was the first New England vessel to trade directly with China. RR Auction COA.
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