Morris, Robert

Manuscript letter, 1 page (9 ¾ x 7 3/8 in.; 234 x 187 mm) on a bifolium of laid paper, Philadelphia, 31 May 1780, to von Steuben, address on integral blank; seal tear and repair, light staining, mounting remnant on integral blank — Autograph letter, 3 pages (9 5/8 x 7 ½ in.; 245 x 192 mm) on a bifolium of laid paper, Philadelphia, 10 May 1796, to Carey, autograph address on verso of second leaf; very light browning.

Morris writes to von Steuben on various financial matters: “Mr. Carre has just handed me your favr. of the 29^th Inst, and as I had a few days before found it convenient to pay your draft on Mr. Hillegas to himself in part of a purchase I had made of him I told him that the Ten Thousand Dollars were at his disposal and shall pay them this Morning to him.” He also discusses the funeral expenses and outstanding accounts of Don Juan de Miralles. 

The letter to Carey discusses an upcoming trial and Morris’s own precarious financial situation. “Mr. Croxall … is going to Annapolis to attend the Trial with Messrs Ridgely & Bowley, but he seems fearfull that improper evidence may be offered or given respecting a pretended agreement on my part, and after what I have seen in evidence … I have reason to suspect what may be farther done; for I have seen a mistaken statement under Oath. …” After further speculation about the trial, Morris offers reassurances that his affairs are improving and he will soon again be solvent: “The embarrassments that have surrounded me for some time oweing to too extensive engagements have alarmed you and others of my Friends, but I desire you to keep stedfast in your faith in me. I will clear all away by & by most honorably and come forth in that light in which my character and Fortune ought to place.”