Franking signature, “A. Hamilton,” on a 5.25 x 3.25 (panel size) postal cover addressed in another hand to Samuel Hodgdon in Philadelphia and bearing “New York, January 13” and “PAID” postmarks; a notation in another hand identifies the dispatch as “on public service” (i.e., qualifying for the franking privilege). A docket on one of the flaps dates the original letter to January 13, 1800, and summarizes the subject as “Captain Brock wants clothing.” Hodgdon (1745–1824) served as quartermaster general for a year in 1791–1792. In 1794, after a brief interruption in Hodgdon’s service, Washington appointed him superintendent of military stores, a post he held until Jefferson’s election in 1800. Accompanied by an antique portrait engraving. In very good to find condition, with vrtical folds (one to last name), a touch of very subtle handling wear, toning and soiling, and seal-related tears and losses to flaps (away from address panel). Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
