Details
GERRY, ELBRIDGE. Signer (Massachusetts). Autograph letter signed ("E Gerry") to James Boyd in Boston, Philadelphia, 20 February 1791. 1 1/4 page, 4to [with] Autograph free frank "free E Gerry") on integral address leaf in Gerry's hand, brown "21/FE" Franklin mark and "Free" handstamp, recipient's docket, small seal tear, otherwise in fine condition.
Regarding land claims apparently resulting from the late war with Great Britain: "...That your claim is just I have not the least doubt..., but the question is, how can you obtain possession of the lands? There appears at present no other way than...the institution of a suit for the recovery of them in a federal court, & how this will operate time will determine [the Federal Court system had been instituted only in 1789]. Be this as it may, certain it is that there will be no disposition at present in the Court of London to an amicable adjustment of this matter: I therefore have tho't it best to lodge the map in the office of the Secretary of Foreign affairs, where it may be useful to the President, in case of negotiation...."
Regarding land claims apparently resulting from the late war with Great Britain: "...That your claim is just I have not the least doubt..., but the question is, how can you obtain possession of the lands? There appears at present no other way than...the institution of a suit for the recovery of them in a federal court, & how this will operate time will determine [the Federal Court system had been instituted only in 1789]. Be this as it may, certain it is that there will be no disposition at present in the Court of London to an amicable adjustment of this matter: I therefore have tho't it best to lodge the map in the office of the Secretary of Foreign affairs, where it may be useful to the President, in case of negotiation...."