ITEM SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Charles W. Goldsborough

• Type: Autograph Letter Signed (ALS) & Historical Bill of Sale

• Style: Federal Period

• Country of Origin: United States

• Age: 1810 (Federal Era)

• Autograph Authentication: Not Authenticated

• Industry: Historical

• Original/Reproduction: Original

• Signed: Yes

• Signed by: Charles W. Goldsborough

  This original Federal-era manuscript letter, dated October 20, 1810, is written and signed by Charles W. Goldsborough—the long-serving Chief Clerk of the U.S. Navy Department and subsequent Secretary of the Naval Board. Addressed at the top to "Dear Bullus" (U.S. Navy Agent John Bullus), the letter acts as a rapid internal intelligence brief regarding European geopolitical developments affecting American shipping.

  Goldsborough writes: "It is a fact that Bounaparte [sic] has revoked his decrees; & Mr. Pinkney has had a correspondence with Wellesley upon the subject... the rescinding of the orders in Council is positively assured... every thing will determine favorably to our neutral rightful commerce. This is quite fresh. Make what you can of it."

  This text refers directly to Napoleon’s Cadore letter and the deceptive diplomatic maneuvering around the Berlin and Milan Decrees, alongside American Minister to Great Britain William Pinkney's negotiations over the British Orders in Council. This intelligence failed to prevent escalating naval friction, culminating in the War of 1812. It represents a vital piece of early American naval and diplomatic history.

• Please see my other listings to view more from my collections of fine vintage silver, early printing, and historical documents.
  

  SHIPPING, INSURANCE & SECURITY To ensure the safe arrival of your investment, all items are shipped via USPS Priority Mail. The $15.00 flat fee includes:

  • Full Supplemental Insurance for the purchase price.

  • Handling time is 5 business days for careful preparation.

  RETURN POLICY No returns. As a specialist collector, I provide high-resolution photography and hallmark identification so you can buy with confidence. All items are sold "as is."

  >>> PLEASE SEE BELOW TO INSTANTLY BROWSE SIMILAR PIECES AND RELATED COLLECTOR CATEGORIES OFFERED EXCLUSIVELY WITHIN OUR COLLECTION.