American soldier and statesman (1753–1831) who was aide-de-camp to Benedict Arnold prior to the latter’s defection to the British. Varick later served as Washington’s private secretary, mayor of New York, and a New York state legislator. Revolutionary War–dated ALS signed “Richd. Varick,” one page, 8.25 x 13, August 3, 1776. Letter to Colonel Robert Livingston. In full: “By General Schuyler’s orders I do myself the honor to inclose you a list of anchors & graplines as also of cannon and grape shott imediately wanted for the publick service which the General requests you'll order to be made and cast at your forge and furnace with the utmost dispatch. You'll be pleased to inform me by the return of this express whithor [sic] you have any & which of the above articles now ready made, & in what time the whole of the anchors & graplines will be finished and also how soon the general may expect to have the cannon and grape shott ready. As soon as any of these articles are finished you'll be pleased to order them to be rid down to your landing & inform the general thereof by express. It will be most expedient to have the several different kinds of shott cast at the same time, as it is uncertain which sort will be soonest wanted tho: the whole are much & immediately wanted.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, scattered toning, heavier along folds, paper loss and chipping to right edge, show-through from docketing on reverse, and a bit of light damp staining along bottom edge. Originally offered by Sotheby’s and accompanied by the original Sotheby’s folder. RR Auction COA.
