Lowrie, Walter (1784-1868) to Hugh Auld
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07484.03 Author/Creator: Lowrie, Walter (1784-1868) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 November 1846 Pagination: 2 p. : address ; 25.6 x 20.4 cm. Order a Copy
Lowrie, a former United States Senator from Pennsylvania, informs Auld that Henry Richardson of England has sent him 150 pounds sterling for the purchase of Frederick Douglass. Asks that the legal transfer papers of Douglass from Thomas Auld to Hugh be included with Douglass's freedom papers, and that the freedom papers be examined and confirmed by a lawyer (Meredith) in Baltimore. Lowrie does not wish to be connected to the transaction, noting that his involvement has been unpleasant from the beginning.
New York 24 Nov. 1846
Mr. Hugh Auld
Dear Sir
Mr. Henry Richardson of New Castle upon Tyne England has sent me, by the last Steamer, one hundred and fifty pounds sterling to purchase the freedom of Frederick Bailey alias Douglass. At the present rate of Exchange this amounts in dollars to seven hundred and eleven 66/100 dollars.
As Douglass, it is said was owned at one time by your brother Thomas Auld, Mr. Richardson desires that the evidence of the legal transfer of Douglass to you from Thomas Auld accompany the freedom papers, or that you both join in the Deeds of manumission
He requests further, that the freedom papers be examined by a lawyer, and be accompanied by a note from him that they are correct and legal you will please therefore to submit them to - Merideth Esqr. in Baltimore, (I forgot his first name, altho' I was formerly slightly acquainted with him) whose opinion that the papers are correct & legal will be perfectly satisfactory.
In making out the papers use the name of Henry Richardson, as I do not wish my name connected with this transaction. My agency in it, as I have already stated to you, has been an unpleasant one from the first.
As soon as the papers are received I shall forward to you the above sum, or pay it firm to your order.
I am yours with respect
Walter Lowrie
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