Collections : [University of Michigan William L. Clements Library]

Land indenture and reversion agreement for one year. Pertaining to lands of John Crooke, deceased.

Contract for Robert Boyd, Jr., a blacksmith, to construct waterworks at Chamber's Creek in New Windsor, New York, for scythe making. Divides property and profits as the Boyds go into business together.

Typed copy of the commission of William Bosson (1753-1823 or 1824) as "Major of the First Regiment in the First Brigade First Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth." According to the transcription, the commission was dated October 29, 1790, and was sent by John Avery, sec[retary], on behalf of Increase Sumner, Governor and Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. [Original manuscript not present.]

Regarding naval matters; appointment to second Lieutenant and reassignment to a new ship. Captain [Isaac] Hull has taken command of the Chesapeake. Bainbridge sends a message to Biddle's father.

Petitions Todd, upon the recommendation of James Madison, for the position of clerk of the Supreme Court. He is poverty-stricken by trying to help friends "who had rendered great services to their country in times of peculiar peril." Describes his personal history of serving in the militia during wartime and participating in a financial convention which precipitated the Constitutional Convention. Traces his career as a staunch Virginia Federalist in Congress, often in opposition to most fellow Virginians. "...in my old age it seems just that I should find a comfortable resting place in a metropolis which I did so much to establish."

Sailor anxious for news from his wife in Boston, feeling homesick. Anticipates loading cargo soon, but expects only to load sugar in Havana before sailing for Matanzas to complete the load and departing for Cronstadt. Pleased with his captain and promises to bring souvenirs from Russia. News of President William Henry Harrison’s death. “… the ships here will all hoist there flags half mast to day I think that he did not die a natural death and that is the opinion of all that I have hard speak of it – there is foul play somewhere.”

Irwin is now chief of the Quarter Master's Department for southern army. Details on transportation of forces under Winfield Scott.