Delaware politician who served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and as president of Delaware (1738–1789). ALS signed “Nichs. Vn. Dike,” one page both sides, 6.5 x 8.5, July 23, 1767. Letter to Benjamin Chew, in part: “Last November Court at New Castle, Tho’s McKean Esqr. enquired of me if I was not one of the Extrs &c of David Clark, I answered him I was, he then informed me that you had left and obligation with in the Hands of George Read Esqr. against said Clark, and that it was for Ten Pounds, or thus I understood him, I spoke to Mr. Read who said he had an obligation against Clark…I did not enquire of him the Sum it was for…but told him if he would not bring a suit I would pay the Money in the Spring…at May Term last I waited on Mr. Read to pay the money—he produced the oblign., which I found to be a Bill given by Dd. Clark in the year 1757, to John Houseman for £37.10.0—it differing so widely from what I expected & being an old affair, I told Mr. Read I could not pay the Money untill I informed myself of the knowledge the Widow & Son of Clark might probably have it—they inform me it was given by Clark in consideration of a Tract of Land purchased by him of Houseman in this County—from which Houseman nor any Person for him has ever made any Conveyance to Clark…we say it is highly unreasonable that his Estate should…pay the £37.10.0 & Interest.” Addressed on the reverse of the second integral page in Van Dyke’s hand. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, show-through from writing to opposing sides, and repaired edge separations to second integral page. Especially interesting content as two of the parties involved, McKean and Read, were signers of the Declaration of Independence. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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