Signer of the Declaration of Independence, vice-president under Madison 1813, and the man for whom the gerrymander was named. ALS signed “E. Gerry,” three pages on two adjoining 7.25 x 9 sheets, August 9 [1797]. Letter written to his wife from Philadelphia while attending the Constitutional Convention. In part, “I arrived here, my dearest Wife, about an hour ago with Colonel [Alexander] Hamilton, whom I met at the Hook. We escaped a heavy thunder gust, which gave us Chase, about an hour before we reached the city. We had a cool ride, free from dust and I am not fatigued - How is my dearest girl, her little pet and family friends? An answer to such questions as these, is more interesting to me than all the delusive prospects of pleasure of happiness from other quarters. When I went to bed last evening, I began to reproach myself and have continued to do so ever since, for leaving behind my little Comforter, in absence of my Lively friend: I mean her portrait - how happened it to escape your memory as well as mine? I think such another accident will not soon happen to me…I have had some conversation with Colonel Hamilton, respecting the last bill drawn by Mr. Harrison, and as we are both at Miss Daly’s, I shall have a good opportunity to perfect it soon. He expects to return in a week to New York, and I hope to send it by him. I likewise entered into the merit of the other Bill, but found as your papa has always said and as Colonel Hamilton himself acknowledged, that he knew little or nothing of the matter. He depends on Mr. Harrison for information, but there must be other Dependence. I shall think upon the state of this matter and write your papa thereon. Adieu my only sense of happiness, kiss our lovely little girl for me whenever you kiss her for yourself & with my sincerest regards to Papa, Mama and the family believe me to be your ever affectionate.” It was in Philadelphia that the delegates met to write and vote upon the Constitution that they were to draft. Hamilton had a major part in guiding and developing the Constitution, and this letter clearly reflects that Gerry had a close association with Hamilton. Reverse of second integral page bears an address panel in Gerry’s hand to, “Mrs. Gerry - New York.” In fine condition, with a light shade of toning, slight show-through from text on reverse, expected mailing folds and a red wax seal to second page. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
