Details:

John Nicholson autographed handwritten letter (ALS), addressed to John White Griffith, Esq., concerning an impending legal proceeding. Written in ink and signed "Jno. Nicholson" at the conclusion.

Nicholson writes regarding a lawsuit involving parties identified as Stocker and Wheaton, advising the recipient that the trial is expected to proceed the following Thursday.

He writes, in part:

"The trial will indubitably come on on Thursday next. I hope you will endeavour to be here."

Nicholson further suggests that arriving by Monday evening would be advantageous, apparently allowing time to prepare before the proceedings.

The letter is accompanied by its original integral address leaf, bearing the recipient's name, additional manuscript notations, and a docket concerning expenses. An interesting example of early American legal correspondence from a prominent Pennsylvania financier and public official.

The manuscript measures approximately 6.25 x 8 inches and has been tipped onto a slightly larger backing sheet. Very good condition with age toning, original folds, and minor handling wear.

John Nicholson (1757–1800) was a Welsh-born American financier, government official, and land speculator who served as Comptroller General of Pennsylvania from 1782 to 1794. During the Revolutionary War, Nicholson worked for the Continental Congress as a clerk to its Board of Treasury before entering Pennsylvania's financial administration.

As Comptroller General, Nicholson exercised considerable influence over the Commonwealth's finances during the difficult years following the American Revolution. He subsequently became one of the largest land speculators in the early United States, forming a business partnership with Robert Morris, the celebrated financier of the American Revolution and signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Together, Nicholson and Morris pursued enormous land acquisitions throughout Pennsylvania and the western territories, becoming involved in ambitious development ventures, including the Asylum Company and speculative investments associated with the emerging federal capital.

Nicholson's financial empire ultimately collapsed during the economic difficulties of the late 1790s. Burdened by extensive debts and legal proceedings, he was imprisoned for debt in Philadelphia, where he died in 1800. His career remains closely associated with the dramatic rise and collapse of large-scale land speculation in the early American republic.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11705 1419335-1