Montgomery, John (fl. 1778-1779) to Mr. Newton, Gordon, and Johnston
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.022.02 Author/Creator: Montgomery, John (fl. 1778-1779) Place Written: Lisbon, Portugal Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 7 July 1778 Pagination: 3 p. + addr. + docket 31 x 21 cm Order a Copy
First page contains a copy of his last letter dated 25 June 1778 (see GLC1450.022.01 for letter). States he has included a copy of the last letter. Advises on the status of accounts and drafts (possibly involving wine trade with Portugal). Explains that a convoy from England has informed them that British Admiral Augustus Keppel's fleet had taken into possession two French frigates and an armed schooner of the Arethusa near the island of Ushant. The fleet had also had a engagement with another French frigate and refers him to the Gazzette News for details. This engagement near Ushant was considered indecisive. Comments that they expect the French to declare war any day. The French had already signed an alliance with the colonies on 4 May 1778. Newton, Gordon, and Johnston were merchants from Madeira.
Seller's notes: These are letters relative to the wine trade that was in progress and it will be noted that some of the famous officers of the day were ordering sizeable quantities of spirits at this time. Water in the colonies was very poor, so that these products were important to the every day survival.
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