Autographs
Book From the Library of George Washington, with Words Written by Washington Tipped Inside Front Cover
(GEORGE WASHINGTON). First President of the United States of America.
1798-Dated Book entitled, “Family Secrets: By Mr. Pratt,” Vol. III Only (of Five, others not present), Not Signed, Second Edition, Printed for T.N. Longman, Paternoster-Row, London, Choice Very Fine. This rare Book is Volume III of the full five Volume complete original set of this popular novel, here being offered individually. It has an original printed bookplate of Benjamin Lincoln Lear inside the front cover, and is stated to be from the library belonging to George Washington. Also tipped inside the front cover, above the bookplate are Three Words authentically written by the hand of George Washington which read: “with the said”. This Volume III has 434 pages, measures 4” x 6.75” with its original outer boards and gilt print on spine reading, “Pratt’s Family Secrets.” There is some light expected wear to contemporary calf covers with rubbing to spine, from actual use, else in Very Fine overall condition. The book is Accompanied by a Xerox copy of a contemporary c. 1800 listing of books titled: “Catalogue of Books received from Washington.” The Book, “Pratts Family Secrets.” is listed at top of the second (back) page of the listing.

Benjamin Lincoln Lear (1791 - 1832) was born in the President's House in Philadelphia. Benjamin's godfather was President George Washington. His father, Tobias Lear, was his personal secretary as the President of the United States. The three words written in George Washington’s hand are clear and sharp. (2 items).
Benjamin Lincoln Lear (1791 - 1832) was born in the President's House in Philadelphia. Benjamin's godfather was President George Washington. His father, Tobias Lear, was personal secretary to the President of the United States. Benjamin was only two when his mother Polly died and he spent most of his childhood either with his grandmother in New Hampshire or in boarding school.

Lincoln, as he was called, became a successful lawyer in Washington. Lincoln got married twice: his first wife died in childbirth and his second wife gave him his only child, a girl. Unfortunately, Lincoln never saw his daughter. He, like his own mother Polly, was the victim of an epidemic. This time it was not yellow fever but cholera that took his life.