Major General in the Continental Army during the American Revolution who distinguished himself at Saratoga (1741-1801). One of Washington's most skilled and able generals, he turned traitor in an infamous plot to turn over the fortress at West Point to the British. Third-person ADS, one page, 7.25 x 4, June-July 1773. Handwritten financial document by Benedict Arnold, headed "Dr. Mr. Silas Marsh to Benedict Arnold," detailing money lent and interest paid, amounting to a total of £10.0.9. The most notable line item is "Johnson's Dictionary, 2 Vols.," sold for £1, evidently an early edition of Samuel Johnson's influential Dictionary of the English Language. In fine condition, with a small hole to the right margin. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA.
Benedict Arnold had established himself as pharmacist and bookseller in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1762, and expanded his mercantile empire over the course of the decade—by the time he penned this document, he was a partner in multiple trading ships that conducted a lucrative West Indies trade. However, he also operated his business on the brink of insolvency and openly defied Parliamentary Acts levying unjust taxes—which led to his joining the infamous 'Sons of Liberty' in opposition.
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