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Elbridge Gerry ALS

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
Elbridge Gerry ALS
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Excellent content Elbridge Gerry autograph letter signed to President-elect and Secretary of State James Madison. The Declaration of Independence signer and future Vice President under Madison writes extensively of France, Napoleon and Great Britain in this five-page letter datelined Cambridge, 20 February 1809. Letter reads in small part, ''…I have been more alarmed of late, than at any preceding period for the public welfare. The objects of G. Britain and France, are first to dupe us into the promotion of their respective views; and then to reward us with the honor of being their vassals. Our objects are to avoid their wiles, to pursue our own interests, and to be armed at every point, against both of them. Britain conducts her affairs here, by her agents, who put on the garb of federalists, but are as different from uncorrupted american federalists, as they are from true republicans. France has her agents garbed as republicans, but as different from them in principles, as the latter are from Napoleon: and God knows he has not a principle of republicanism in his pericranium…a man I think must be weak indeed, to suppose [Napoleon] will be our friend, for a moment, after we are in his power…E. Gerry''. Five pages on front and verso laid paper measure 7.25'' x 12''. Docketed by Gerry on verso of fifth page ''Copy of a letter to / his Excelly James Madison / President of the U States / 20th Feby 1809.'' The docket, signature, and at least the fifth page are in Gerry’s hand. Mounting tape remnants on two pages show through, else very good condition. With full transcription.