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Lot #315
Lord Jeffery Amherst

Rare handwritten letter from the controversial British general

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Estimate: $400+
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Description

Rare handwritten letter from the controversial British general

Commander-in-chief of the British army during the Revolutionary War (1717-1797) whose reputation was damaged due to allegations that he conducted an early form of germ warfare against Native Americans, distributing blankets contaminated with the deadly smallpox virus. ALS signed “Amherst,” one page, 7.25 x 8.75, December 20, 1789. Letter to Horatio Sharpe, the former proprietary governor of Maryland, in part: "I received the honour of your Letter, and am also to acknowledge the two preceding ones you mention; with the Account of the Balance due to you as Administrator to the late Mr. Joshua Sharpe. The Person who delivered to me the Letter at White Hall, I took to be a Clerk to the late Mr. Sharpe, and I therefore desired him to deliver a Message as I had not time to write. There can be no doubt that General Conway and myself must pay what is due to the late Mr. Sharpe, whether we receive anything from Government or not but you will give me leave to say the receipt of the Account was a great Surprise to me, and I imagine not less so to General Conway, as we concluded the Money we had advanced had paid all demands." In fine condition, with light toning to the first page only.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
  • Dates: #500 - Ended May 10, 2017





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