Declaration Signer Robert Morris Writes from Debtors Prison, "Ben Harrison is as good a Being as exists in Human Shape"

MORRIS, ROBERT.  Autograph Letter Signed, "Robt Morris", May 3, 1798, "No. 2", 1 p., 6" x 7.75", to John Nicholson. Expected folds, toning, tiny chip at top edge, else near Fine condition.  

Morris writes to Nicholson from debtor's prison, in full, "I have just finished a note to be sent with G. Scotts letter to me.  This will accompany one which is more interesting to my feelings it is from poor Ben Harrison who is as good a Being as exists in Human Shape.  I have designated some little matters to his use to assist in regard to my notes in his hands but it is too little & will come too late to save him from impending Ruin without your help".

Robert Morris (1734-1806) was an English-born merchant and a Founding Father of the United States. He served as a member of the Pennsylvania legislature, the Second Continental Congress, and the United States Senate, and he was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the United States Constitution.

Morris was deeply involved with John Nicholson in land speculation and was financially ruined shortly after this letter was written. He was imprisoned for debt in Philadelphia's Prune Street debtors' prison from February 1798 to August 1801. One year after this letter was penned, Nicholson was also imprisoned when the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania placed a lien on his three to four million acres of land, as he was approximately twelve million dollars in debt.

A lovely addition to any Signers collection!

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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