The first United States Secretary of the Navy (1751-1813). ALS signed “Ben Stoddert,” one page both sides, 8 x 9.75, January 7, 1801. Letter to John Mason, President of the Bank of Columbia. In part: “I have rec’d your favor…informing me that it was assured by the Directors, that the note I proposed should be discounted–but on the express condition that it should not be renewed…I did not ask the Directors to agree to a renewal of my note for 6000 Dollar and I am sorry they thought it necessary to go into the determination that it should not be renewed.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered toning, foxing, and soiling, and scattered ink marks. RRAuction COA.
