American soldier (1735–1786) who fought in the French and Indian War and led the 2nd Pennsylvania Continental Regiment during the Revolution. Scarce LS signed “J. P. de Haas, Major,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 12, June 6, 1764. Directive to Lieutenant Colonel Turbutt Francis, under the orders of John Penn. In part: “Whereas the Government hath, in consequence with the requisition of His Excellency Major General Gage, agreed to raise, clothe & Pay One Thousand Men, exclusive of Commissioned Officers to act in conjunction with the Kings regular Troops in such offensive operations as shall be carried on the ensuing Campaign against our Indian Enemies.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, partial separation to second integral page, and light overall foxing. The largest battle during this period was Pontiac’s War, launched against the British in 1763 by a group of Native American tribes in the Michigan area. By the time of this letter, which was sent at the order of Pennsylvania’s governor, John Penn, fighting had expanded into Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania—the atrocities became so great that one month after this letter, in addition to raising greater numbers of troops, Penn reinstated rewards for Indian scalps. A boldly signed document offering insight into the tense relations between the colonies and native peoples in the years leading up to the American Revolution. RR Auction COA.
