Unusual third-person autograph note by General Robert G. Harper, followed by an ALS by General Samuel Smith, signed “S. Smith,” one page, 8 x 13.25, June 19, 1823. At the top of the page, Harper writes: "Gen'l Harper will thank Gen'l Smith to examine the enclosed statement of his evidence in the late trials at Hartford & to return it corrected without delay." Smith responds, in part: "I found the statement so incorrect that I would not answer it. I therefore thought it better to draw out a testament of my Evidence which I now enclose. I have made it from recollection…you will oblige me by returning my statement for I have no correct copy." In very good to fine condition.
Harper fought with the South Carolina Cavalry in the Revolutionary War, and served as a US Congressman (South Carolina), US Senator (Maryland), and Major General of Militia (Maryland) during the War of 1812. Harper is best known for the phrase 'Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute' that he uttered during the Barbary Wars. Samuel Smith was a Continental Army officer during the Revolutionary War, and served as a US Congressman and Senator (Maryland). Smith was the Commanding Major General of the Maryland Militia at Baltimore during the 1814 British bombardment of Fort McHenry, which inspired Francis Scott Key’s 'Star Spangled Banner.'
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