Abstract
James Jay (1732-1815)
American physician and politician, elder brother of John Jay. During the American Revolution, Jay supplied medicines to George Washington and developed an invisible ink used by Washington, Thomas Jefferson, his younger brother, John Jay, and members of the Culper Spy Ring.
Autographed letter, signed. 1 page, legal folio.
Date: Washington, Jan. 9, 1808.
Dimensions: 26 cm. x 20 cm.
Provenance: acquired at auction from Alexander Autographs (Stamford, CT) on March 30, 2011.
Processed by: Kristen J. Nyitray, Head of Special Collections and University Archives/University Archivist, May 2011. Transcribed by: Christine Astras, Intern, City University of New York, Queens College, August 2011.
Description
Transcript: Washington Jan. 9. 1808
Dear General,
The critical state of National Affairs, will no doubt occasion
some embar[r]assment among mercantile gentlemen, let their for-
-tunes be what they may. My son in law, Mr. Okill, is a prudent young
fellow, and I presume has adapted his measures to the Times. Yet to
Let him see that I am not insensible to the State of things, nor un-
-mindful of himself, I send him, by this Post, my note for $2000. If
He should want the money, I shall esteem it a favor if you will
get it discounted for him. The distance I am from N.Y. prevents
me from offering him Cash, but before this note is due I expect to
have the pleasure of taking you by the hand.
As to Public Affairs, I can say nothing worth notice. Mr. Rose is
not yet arrived here. As to myself, I am soliciting an old Debt,
and not a small one, from Congress, and there is great reason
to think I shall not solicit in vain. I remain, with great
regard,
My Dear General
Your Most Obt. Servt.
James Jay
