Details
JAY, JOHN, President of the Continental Congress, Chief Justice. Autograph letter signed in full ("John Jay Presidt.") as President of the Continental Congress, TO MESHECH WEARE, first President of the Council of New Hampshire, Philadelphia, 16 June 1779. One page, 4to, integral blank with recipient's docket, tear at central fold, tiny tear to lower margin.
"Copy of an Act of Congress of the 14th Inst, is herewith enclosed....recommending to the States to exempt Drivers of Waggons from Militia Duties while in Service [the next line is carefully deleted in the same early ink]...I have the honor to be With great Respect Your Exxcellency's Most Obedt. Servant...."
Weare (1713-1786), an eminent patriot, studied law and served in the colonial militia and the legislature; he embraced the cause of independence at an early date and became "the outstanding civilian figure in his state for the ensuing decade." In 1784 he was elected the first President of New Hampshire (the title Governor was later substituted). Letters written by John Jay during his brief term as as President of the Continental Congress (10 December 1778 - 28 September 1779) are relatively rare on the market.
"Copy of an Act of Congress of the 14th Inst, is herewith enclosed....recommending to the States to exempt Drivers of Waggons from Militia Duties while in Service [the next line is carefully deleted in the same early ink]...I have the honor to be With great Respect Your Exxcellency's Most Obedt. Servant...."
Weare (1713-1786), an eminent patriot, studied law and served in the colonial militia and the legislature; he embraced the cause of independence at an early date and became "the outstanding civilian figure in his state for the ensuing decade." In 1784 he was elected the first President of New Hampshire (the title Governor was later substituted). Letters written by John Jay during his brief term as as President of the Continental Congress (10 December 1778 - 28 September 1779) are relatively rare on the market.