18 March 1789
Washington, George, 1732-1799
Autograph letter signed
Title: to James Mercer
Written one month before taking his oath of office as the first United States President, Washington attempts to collect a debt owed by the estate of James' father John Mercer. States that he was formerly promised repayment by James' brother, Colonel John Francis Mercer, but John did not deliver the sum in full. Informs James "I am thus explicit, for the purpose of evincing to you, that necessity alone prompts me to make this plain and unequivocal declaration" regarding reimbursement. Reveals willingness to receive land titles as repayment. Expresses his wish to secure titles for two lots…
GLC04860