NEW-/BERN. Perfect bold
brownish-black two-line handstamp in oval on back of folded letter
datelined "St. Dorothy's Jama. 2 July 1770" from Thomas Iredell in
Jamaica to James Iredell, Comptroller of Customs at Edenton N.C., ms.
"1N6" rate with notation on back "Mr. Neil is requested to
forward this letter by the first safe opportunity" in the same hand and
ink as rate, letter mentions difficulty of sending letters and recommends
routing mail thru South Carolina, also discusses shipment of a slave from
the island to Edenton, brittle along folds (reinforced with archival tape)
and slightly acid toned, but the letter is clean and complete (appearance
could be easily improved by a paper restorer)VERY FINE STRIKE OF THIS EXTREMELY RARE COLONIAL MARKING OF NEW BERN, NORTH CAROLINA.
This cover is the basis of the American Stampless Cover Catalogue listing. We are not aware of any other examples. (Image)
"Boston Camp, Aug. 12,
1775". Dateline on 7pp letter in neat handwriting, written by Private
Alexander Gray of 40th Foot (2nd Somerset) Regiment, written while the
British forces were under siege, content includes mention of Battle of
Bunker Hill, including "Since the 17th of June we have been busy
fortifying the heights of Charlestown & lengthening our Lines on the Neck,
& have now made both places so strong that with a very small force they may
bid defiance to the whole army of the Rebels...our communication with the
country is still cut off...they have even had the boldness to attack our
outposts several times, but they have always been beaten back.", letter
almost entirely devoted to current events, including raids, an epidemic
affecting both sides, and general comments including "With regards to
the military virtues of the Yankies I have little to say in their praise.
They are always in extremes, either rashly bold or foolishly cowardly",
many other interesting comments, fresh and Very Fine, a fascinating window
to key events of the Revolutionary War (Image)