Scottish writer, poet, literary collector, and politician (1736-1796) best known as the 'translator' of the Ossian cycle of epic poems. Macpherson’s 'translations' from the Gaelic bard Ossian were first published in 1761, and their authenticity was immediately challenged—most famously by Dr. Samuel Johnson. ALS, one page, 7.25 x 9, no date but docketed July 7, 1770. Handwritten letter to Mr. Spottiswood, asking for advice on how to proceed with two petitions to the Treasury. In part: "I returned from Edinburgh, Sunday last, and called at your Chambers on Monday—where I was told, you was out of town and not to return till this day. I delivered in the Baron's Reports upon both the petitions referred to them—and they are as favorable as I could wish them to be. I delayed to push the thing at the Treasury till your return—I am a stranger to the method of proceeding." In fine condition.
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