LOT #42086 |
Starting Bid: $6,000
James Monroe Autograph Letter Signed...
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Description
Secretary of State James Monroe Weighs Russian Mediation and British Intentions During the War of 1812
James Monroe Autograph Letter Signed ("Jas Monroe").
Two pages on a single leaf, 7 3/4 x 9 3/4 inches; Washington;
October 14, 1813.Written in the midst of the War of 1812, this important and unpublished letter from Secretary of State James Monroe addresses both domestic concerns and ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring the conflict to a close. Monroe directs that Francis Jeffrey, founder and editor of the Edinburgh Review, be allowed to remain in New York without interference, while also commenting on the uncertain status of Russian mediation between the United States and Great Britain. Monroe writes, in full:
"Dear sir
I had the pleasure to receive yours of the 22d. ulto. in Virg'a whither I had gone some weeks since in consequence of a slight indisposition arising from my confinement here. On Monday last I return'd in good health. Among the first objects to which I attended, was to instruct the Marshall at New York to permit Mr. Jeffrey, to remain there for the present unmolested. By Mr. Jeffrey I rec'd letters from Lt Holland J A. Baring, speaking of him in the favorable terms expressed by you; but they touch no political subject. I have intimated to him in reply to his letter, that he may rely on all the accommodation so justly due to the great respectability of his character, & the innocence of his views. Should you see him, I will thank you to inspire him will full confidence, on that point.
We have nothing interesting from Europe; not a line yet from our envoys, nor do we know with any certainty, what part the British gov't has taken in regard to the Russian mediation.
I am dear sir with great respect & esteem
Your obt servant
Jas Monroe."
Monroe's instruction that Jeffrey be allowed to remain "unmolested" is notable. Jeffrey had arrived in New York in the summer of 1813 to marry Charlotte Wilkes, daughter of Charles Wilkes, president of the Bank of New York. During his stay, he met with both Monroe and President James Madison, functioning informally as a conduit of communication with British circles.
At the same time, the United States had dispatched envoys to Russia, seeking the assistance of Tsar Alexander I in mediating the conflict with Great Britain. While the Americans viewed Russian involvement as a means of both achieving peace and strengthening relations with a major European power, Monroe's remarks here are revealing of his uncertainty in Britain's willingness to participate in the process.
The issues at stake, particularly British impressment of American sailors, remained unresolved, and the war continued. Although Russian mediation ultimately failed to produce a settlement, these efforts helped lay the groundwork for later negotiations, culminating in the Treaty of Ghent in 1814.
A revealing wartime letter, offering insight into both the practical administration of foreign nationals within the United States and the broader diplomatic strategies pursued by Monroe during a critical phase of the War of 1812.
Condition: Overall very good, with expected toning and folds. Minor ink show-through from verso to recto. Mounting strip along right edge on verso, just touching a few letters, including the very edge of Monroe's signature.
Auction Info
2026 June 19 The John H. Freund Americana Collection Signature® Auction #6331 (go to Auction Home page)
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