Lawton, Robert (fl. 1775) to Joseph Clarke
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.561 Author/Creator: Lawton, Robert (fl. 1775) Place Written: Newport, Rhode Island Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 May 1775 Pagination: 1 p. : address ; 33.6 x 20.7 cm. Order a Copy
Informs his father that he attempted to send the barrel of flour he previously requested, but that ship masters refused to transport the flour because "Capt. Wallace stops the least Trifle of Provision that is sent up the River." Writes that he received the offer of a treasury note from Captain [Werner's?] wife, and "should be glad to know Whether their is money to Reedeem it at this Time as she wants About Twenty Dollars in Goods and will Expect the Remainder in Cash." Relates that the note is dated 23 February. Addressed to Joseph Clarke.
In 1774, Captain James Wallace successfully combated the profitable smuggling trade in the Narragansett Bay while Commanding H.M.S. Rose. His success provoked Rhode Island merchants to appeal to the colonial legislature for naval protection.
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