Franking signature, “J. Q. Adams,” on the integral address leaf of a secretarial letter from the Navy Department, one page, 7.75 x 9.75, June 18, 1818. The text of the letter, which is addressed to Captain Thomas MacDonough, reads, in full: “Sir, the President of the United States has given permission to Doctor Samuel L. Mitchell, and other scientific Gentlemen, to send out in the ship Guerrier, under your command, sundry articles as presents to the Emperor of Russia, and which you will be pleased to receive, and have placed in the Ship where they will be free from risk of damage; the quantity is not limited, although it is presumed not many boxes will be sent; Doctor Mitchell will among other articles send a Plow from New York.” In good condition, with folds (several near-complete separations, some with tape reinforcements), toning and scattered soiling, mounting traces to reverse, Adams’ signature nonetheless dark, clear, and touched only by a single, lightly toned fold. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
