Hartley, Thomas

Autograph letter signed ("Th^o Hartley"), 3 pages (9 x 7 1/2 in.; 228 x 190 mm), New York, 14 March 1789, to Jasper Yeates; formerly folded, remnants of mounting on final blank page.

formerly folded, remnants of mounting on final blank page.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The First Congress of the United States unable to reach a quorum.

Thomas Hartley (1748-1800) represented York Pennsylvania in the House of Representatives from 1789 to 1800. During the war, he had commanded a regiment in the Brandywine and Germantown campaigns. Jasper Yeates (1745–1817) was a judge in Lancaster Pennsylvania.

"I arrived here on the 4th of March and took my seat as a Member of the House of Representatives — but neither House has yet been able to form a Quorum — this is an unfortunate loss of precious time — the Senate have only 8, and we 21 present this morning. ... General Washington is unanimously President as we learn and John Adams Vice-President by a considerable majority of votes — or at least so far as to entitle him to his seat."

"The New Yorkers seem to have taken much pains to accomodate Congress but there appears to be little confidence on either side — what may be done concerning the seat of government or when that business will be taken up is very uncertain."