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American naval officer (1794-1858) who took a leading role in the establishment of international trade with the formerly insular nation of Japan. ALS signed “M. C. Perry,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 7.25, June 22, 1832. Handwritten letter to Captain Joseph C. Delano, in full: “A person from New Bedford, who represented himself as a former second mate of a whale ship wrecked upon the coast of Japan, called onb’d the Mississippi the other day and expressed a desire to go out with me. I had a note of his name, but have mislaid it. He stated that he was one of the several prisoners and gave to Captain McClung of the Mississippi some account of his captivity. He is described by Captain McClung as a fine-looking sailor, a man from New Bedford, having his name and address as a resident of that place. He was not willing to accept any situation inferior to that of Master Mate. If his representations are true, I shall probably be disposed to give him the situation he desires. He mentioned the name of the vessel in which he was wrecked, and his story made a favorable impression upon Captain McClung, but I do not recollect to have heard of any such shipwreck. May I ask the favor of you to make some inquiry at New Bedford as to this man and his whereabouts, his character, etc.?I suppose if he is there, he can be easily traced as one who was a prisoner in Japan. The delays I have met with are very provoking, but I must submit to these with the best grace I can. The causes are the failure of the contractors to finish in time the Princeton's engine and the scarcity of men – the former the principal reason. I am collecting many interesting books, charts, etc., etc." In fine condition, with trimming to the bottom edge.
From the personal collection of a lifelong collector, teacher, and traveler with a passion for world history. His collecting years ranged from the 1970s to the present day, meaning that several of the premier pieces have not been on the market in decades.
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