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Lot #191
Benjamin Franklin

Franklin requests assistance from an influential Bostonian pastor

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Estimate: $10000+
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Description

Franklin requests assistance from an influential Bostonian pastor

LS signed “Your most obedient & most humble Servant, B. Franklin,” one page both sides, 7.25 x 9, August 24, 1783. Letter to the Reverend Dr. Samuel Cooper, in full: “The Bearer M. Bertaud, goes over to America with the Intention of settling himself in some Part of it where he may be the most likely to succeed in his Profession, which is that of a Surgeon. He carrys with him a variety of Certificates, that sufficiently attest to his Experience & Merrit; & He is exceedingly well recommended to me by Persons I much esteem; cannot therefore but recommend him earnestly to your kind Notice and Civilities, and request you would assist him with your good Counsel & Advice. You will thereby much oblige, Dear Sir.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Charles Hamilton.

A pastor for nearly forty years at Boston’s Brattle Street Church, Samuel Cooper was a beloved Congressional minister whose powerful sermons attracted a wealth of influential revolutionaries like John Hancock, John Adams, Samuel Adams, James Bowdoin, and Joseph Warren. Although he was among the first patriots to refute British dominion, Cooper advocated strongly on behalf of foreign alliance; his various diplomatic letters were received warmly in Versailles, and his strong friendships with John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, the latter whom he corresponded with regularly, acquainted Cooper with many French dignitaries. Dated to shortly before war’s end, this introductory letter displays both the congenial manner in which the two men communicated, as well as their shared loyalties in developing relations abroad. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs And Artifacts
  • Dates: #477 - Ended June 15, 2016





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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