LS as secretary of war, signed “H. Dearborn,” one page both sides, 8 x 9.5, March 1, 1803. Dearborn writes to Thomas Perkins. In part: “From your representation, and from a certificate exhibited at the office (of which the enclosed is a copy) it evidently appears, that a mistake has taken place in relation to William Parker’s pension, and it is of more importance to correct the error, than to discover its origin. The certificate…I presume was given upon a reexamination of the Invalids, and fixes the ratio at which they were to receive their semiannual payments, to commence with the date of the certificate, and not to have a retrospective operation…. Unless you have reason to suppose, from evidence which I do not possess, that I have misconceived the subject, you will pay him, on application, accordingly, and place him on your books, at two dollars and fifty cents, which he is to receive in future pr. month. I will thank you to furnish me with a precise statement of the case of William Rideout accompanyed [sic] by a copy of the certificate alluded to by you, in order that justice may be done to that man….” In fine condition, with mild wrinkling and a few tiny spots of toning. RRAuction COA.
