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Lot #299
Warren Hastings Autograph Letter Signed

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Estimate: $300+
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Description

English statesman (1732-1818) who became the first de facto Governor-General of India from 1773 to 1785. He was accused of corruption and impeached in 1787, but after a long trial he was acquitted in 1795. ALS, one page both sides, 7.75 x 10, November 4, 1814. Handwritten letter to William Leake in London, asking for advice in a lawsuit. In part: "On the 27th of July last Sam'l Dodge, my bailiff, was arrested at the suit of a Mr. Smith, for the sum of £113.6.4, affirmed to be due from a man of the name Young, in whose service he had been some time employed, as a journeyman cabinet maker, and had been persuaded by him to become a surety for the payment of it. Many circumstances concurred to cast a suspicion upon this demand. The ostensible debtor, a native of this parish, had been apprenticed by Mrs. Hastings and myself. He was married to a favorite servant of Mrs. Hastings…I saw no remedy but acquiescence , and paid 60£ of the debt, giving a bond for the balance…The day before yesterday I received the enclosed letter from Mr. Smith, containing the anticipated demand (as I conceive) of the sum in balance, with the threat of a further indefinite demand exceeding 27£…I have thought it proper to make you acquainted with the circumstances." In very good condition, with soiling and partial splits to folds, and repairs and losses to the integral address leaf.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts, Ft. Prince
  • Dates: #627 - Ended January 12, 2022





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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