Bourne Silvanus (1 results)

This politico served as consul to Cap Francois (Haiti) from 1790 to 1791, vice consul of Amsterdam (1794-97) and consul general of Amsterdam (1797-1816). ALS, 1p + integral address leaf, 7 3/4" X 9 3/4", Philadelphia, PA, 1794 December. Addressed to William Taylor, a well-known Baltimore flour merchant. Excellent content from the just-appointed vice consul on the eve of his departure to this noted businessman who appears to be a close friend. In part: ".am happy to find your Activity in business & the Success attending it; and I flatter myself, that my Son when of age, (at which time shou'd suppose you wou'd wish to Retire from the active part) will be able to manage it, with as much propriety & Care, as 'tis now done, provided you & he can agree on Terms, mutually beneficial." Of his own rising fortunes, Bourne notes: "I am well paid for my post & once are much beyond my expectation, the money is Sure tho to be paid by installments my future prospects are beyond calculation, this in the Strictest Confidence, hope my Son will in future Support his present principal good Character both at home & abroad. I am Solicited much for him at Boston, I tell them nay, no such thing, they offer money, Cloathing & c. I refuse all, & determine he shall Serve out with you." And, cryptically: "I have heard nothing about Mr. Johnson, if he resigns, your way will be, to procure the most Reputable merchants & others in Baltimore to Recommend your Brother for the office to the President of the United States, who with the Consent of Senate appoints all officers, foreign & Domestic -- depend, I shall do all I can." Integral address leaf and free-franked signature accomplished in another hand.