ALS signed “Jas. Monroe,” one page both sides, 6.25 x 8, November 10, 1790. Letter to Mr. Browne. In full: “Will Mr. Browne be so obliging as advance me 20 or 25 guineas tonight & wait the repayment on the 15 or 20th of next month to his order in Phil’d. I take the liberty to mention the subject to him, from a belief it will be more convenient to him than any other person & from a disposition on my part to make every attention to his & Mr. Donald’s command they may think proper to honor me with whilst there, that my situation & a certain respect for their wishes enable me. If Mr. Browne will be able to render me this service will it suit him to suffer some person to call him on the subject being exceedingly ingaged in preparing to leave town in the morning.” Intersecting folds, scattered toning and soiling, a couple light brushes to text, and a partial separation along a fold of second integral page, otherwise fine condition.
Among the leading political figures in Virginia, Monroe exhibited an independence of his own—including voting against ratification of the US Constitution (instead supporting a governing doctrine that allowed for the direct election of senators and the president, as well as the inclusion of a strong bill of rights. After the ratification of the new Constitution, Monroe unsuccessfully challenged James Madison for a seat in the US House of Representatives. Monroe lost by 300 votes—but was still rewarded with an appointment to the US Senate. That posting took effect on November 9, 1790...one day before Monroe solicited “20 or 25 guineas” from Mr. Brown with a pledge of “repayment on the 15 or 20th of next month.” While representing Virginia, he joined forces with Madison and Jefferson to oppose the Federalist policies championed by Vice President John Adams and Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton. Very intriguing content as the future fifth president looks for a small handout to tide him over. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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