^Lot 422 Horatio Gates

ALS, one page, 7.25 x 9, August 9, 1799. Letter to an unknown gentleman. In part: “Being for a considerable time in daily expectation for receiving answers to letters I wrote to my correspondent in Washington County, I delayed until this moment to acknowledge the receipt of your kind letter of the 16th of May. To my astonishment I have as yet no answer to the letters I have wrote Mr. O’Neal! The reason for which I cannot comprehend, as he was always punctual in his answers until now; perhaps he may be sick…I therefore inclose you these letters, which I wish to have separately, and particularly delivered, to the persons they are address’d to; & for that purpose, request you will get your correspondent in Frederick Town to send a messenger Express to Delaware Mills, & thence to Hagars Town, with Directions to wait two hours at each place for answers.” In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds, one through a single letter of signature, small hole to top left, and a mild shade of overall toning. A scarce offering from one of the American Revolution’s most contentious military figures.