Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
(800) 937-3880
SELL

Lot #12
John Quincy Adams Autograph Letter Signed

Handwritten response to nuisance news from the French minister: “It will not set fire to the Potowmack, the Seine or the Thames”

This lot has closed

Estimate: $5000+
Sell a Similar Item?
Share:  

Description

Handwritten response to nuisance news from the French minister: “It will not set fire to the Potowmack, the Seine or the Thames”

ALS, one page, 7.25 x 9, September 9, 1817. Handwritten letter to Richard Rush, his successor as United States Minister to the United Kingdom, marked "Private." In full: "I am stepping into the carriage on my way to Washington, and have scarcely a moment to acknowledge to receipt of your two favours of the 2s inst. and their enclosures. I had previously received one from you of 23d ulto. and one from Mr. Brent of 1 inst. with enclosed Letters for me from Europe. If the Communication from the French Minister is as important as that which Lord Castlereagh took so much trouble to transmit, it will not set fire to the Potowmack, the Seine or the Thames." Gorgeously mounted, matted, and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 22.5 x 17. In fine condition.

Adams wrote this letter when departing from his home in Quincy, Massachusetts, for Washington, DC, to assume his position as secretary of state in the cabinet of President James Monroe. Monroe took office on March 4, 1817, and recalled Adams from his diplomatic post in London to become the new secretary of state. In the interim period, Richard Rush acted in his place; once Adams arrived, Rush was appointed as minister to the United Kingdom. Adams finally arrived in Washington on September 20, and officially began his duties as secretary of state on September 22.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #616 - Ended September 15, 2021





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $75.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.