Lot 353: Autograph: Thomas Pownall

Autograph: Thomas Pownall - Soldier and statesman (1722-1805) who served as colonial governor of Massachusetts. ALS signed "T. Pownall," three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.25 x 9, June 26, 1769. Letter to William Johnson. In part: "Although there has been an interruption in our correspondence, there has been none in our friendship. I am now in a situation independent not only of Gov but also independent of all the Parties & Factions with which our Affairs are perplext....When I left America I saw things getting into factions amongst ye Officers & King's Servants there. I saw some of my friends (some that I most esteemed, yourself amongst those) not treated so well as they deserved both of ye Crown, of ye Public & of Particulars who raised themselves upon merits no their own ... When ye Disputes first arose betwixt ye Mother Country & her Colonies, I was not in a Situation to take that part which I could have wished - & therefore in like manner wd take none. When I thought I saw ye Colonies pressed harder upon than I could acquiesce in, even upon ye Idea I had fixed to myself of not interfering, I threw out those Ideas & took those measures which (if attended to) might have prevented matters from coming to ye Difficulties which they are now under. I did this at a time even when I was connected with ye Ministry. But now I have none nor ever will have again, I shall give Scope to every sentiment of Friendship which I have for ye Colonies - & to every Sentiment of Affection & regard which I have for particular people therein ...." In very good condition, with a few small separations along intersecting folds and hinge, scattered toning, heavier along bottom edge, and scattered creases and wrinkles. Accompanied by the original 1956 receipt from Ben Bloomfield's Autographs of Distinction, with a sales price of $165, as well as the front panel of the original shipping envelope.