Influential American statesman and jurist (1755–1835) who served as a congressman, U.S. Secretary of State, and, from 1801 to 1835, fourth Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Among the notable cases over which Marshall presided were the judicial review landmark Marbury v. Madison (1803) and the 1807 trial of Aaron Burr for treason. LS signed “J. Marshall,” one page, 8 x 10, January 16, 1801. Marshall writes from the Department of State to Israel Wheeler in Philadelphia. In full: “I am anxious to know what progress Col. Stevens has made in procuring a vessel to carry the third cargo to Tunis. Will you be pleased to communicate to me any information you may have on this subject?” Marshall, who was Secretary of State at the time of writing, assumed office as Chief Justice less than three weeks later, on February 4. Matted with an antique portrait engraving to an overall size of 16.5 x 12.5. In very good condition, with intersecting folds (light vertical fold to last name; a few tiny separations elsewhere), toning from previous framing, stain to blank upper portion at right, and mounting tape to top and bottom edges of reverse. The signature is large and clear. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
