Lee, Henry (1756-1818) to Robert Townsend Howe
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00307.03 Author/Creator: Lee, Henry (1756-1818) Place Written: Richmond, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 29 October 1789 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 23.4 x 18.7 cm. Order a Copy
This is actually three letters on one sheet of paper. Lee, a Revolutionary War General from Virginia, was writing about an advertisement for land, which he appears to have an interest in, placed by Robert Howe. The other two letters are each a page. One is dated 3 November 1789 and the other 9 December 1789. Lee says he cannot make it to Howe's land sale, but that he will promote it in his area. Wants to know the standard price Howe expects from prospective buyers. Hopes he will respond by the next post because he knows a gentleman who might buy the land, but needs the value. Howe's letter of 3 November says he received Lee's letter too late to answer by the return stage. Says it is impossible for him to say what the land is worth, but that he hopes to get 3,000 pounds currency or more for it. Says they are looking into the rights for limestone and ore on the property. The letter of 9 December says he has still not heard about the limestone or ore rights. Says he saw no persons at the sale that appeared to be serious purchasers, unless you include Colonel Clapham and Mr. Janney. Says he therefore bid in, but that the lands remain unsold. Says a suit was brought against Jenkins in District Court for ownership of the land. But says since appearing in court he has become better informed and has reached out for a compromise. Told Jenkins he could not settle until he consulted Lee. Tells Lee he should only take a moderate sum and let the matter drop. Fragments from the letter are in a small envelope included with the file.
Sir:
I have rec.d your advertizement of the lands at [Reboucher] creek.
It will not be in my power to attend your Sale. But it may be in my power to advance the sale here perhaps. Therefore I wish to know what sum ought to be fixed as the standard price.
As you know its value please to inform me. Should it sell low I prefer it being bought for the present owners. I expect your reply by the succeeding post. A gentleman here seems to incline to buy it but I know not what value to place on it. For this purpose I wish your [illegible] [illegible] [illegible].
Your ob Sr
Henry Lee
Richmond Ocr: 29. '89
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