Steuben, a Prussian army officer and trusted advisor to George Washington, came to America in 1777 and performed an invaluable service in the training and reorganization of the Continental army. Scarce ALS in French, one page both sides, 7.25 x 9, May 29, 1790. A lengthy and excellent letter to a Monsieur Le Comte regarding Steuben’s financial difficulties, which were remedied in part when Congress, as a token of gratitude for his service during the Revolutionary War, granted him a parcel of land (“ma terra de Steuben”) and a stipend of $2,500. Elsewhere he mentions “la nouvelle Constitution en France” and the Marquise de Bréhan. While von Steuben is most commonly encountered in documents (and in many cases, with a “cancelled” signature), letters in his hand are quite elusive. In fine condition, with usual mailing folds, well away from signature. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
