George Washington (1732-1799, as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army) autograph letter, signed, dated at Headquarters, Newburgh, NY, July 11, 1782, to Lt. Col. George Reid (1733-1815, of the 2nd NH Regt.) introducing Capt. Montour, "who is going to Schenectady on a visit to his Friends the Oneidas and Tuscaroras;" 1 1/4 pp., folio, 12 1/2 x 7 7/8 in. Capt. John Montour (1744-1788) was the son of. Andrew Sattelihu Montour, of mixed French and Native American ancestry, who distinguished himself as an interpreter and diplomat beginning about 1743, through the French & Indian War, during which he served with Washington. The younger Montour had command of a company of Delaware Indians who fought on the American side. Washington was careful to note that he "has heretofore been employed in the Indian Service on the Frontiers of Pennsylvania." Because of Montour's Native American heritage, Washington probably felt the need to specify the treatment Montour should receive.

Slightly trimmed, with old darkened folds and general toning; silked. ********** Additional Comment, Oct. 27: With regard to authenticity, a letter of this sort would be almost impossible to fake. Provenance to Walter Benjamin adds assurance as well.