Gerry, Elbridge:

$2,750 · Offered by William Reese Company

[AUTOGRAPH LETTER, SIGNED, FROM ELBRIDGE GERRY TO AN UNIDENTIFIED RECIPIENT, DISCUSSING MASSACHUSETTS POLITICS]. Elbridge Gerry writes to an unidentified recipient - likely a son-in-law or another close male relative - regarding the recipient's political post and advancement in Massachusetts society. Gerry dispenses advice, based on many years in the field of political play:"The appointment of the Judge Advocate can easily be accounted for, by the presence of his advocates. Every wheel is put in motion on such occasions, & gives a great impetus. No application has been made for yourself, to my knowledge, as a secretary of legation. There was an enquiry, on this point, made to J.Q. Adams; but it is not a place in my estimation adequate to your talents & grade in society, & the emoluments, about 3000£, would not, when the expenses are deducted, be worth your acceptance....I do not conceive that circumstanced as you are at present, holding 'by courtesy' under the government of the state, a beneficial office, you can with propriety attack the government. To vote is one thing, but it is quite another thing, to be open in opposition. There seems to be an obligation of decency & consistency, if not of honor, to be neutral at least whilst you cannot be an advocate for the government; & previously to hostilities, to relinquish the office. The latter is a measure which cannot be justified to your family, under existing circumstances, & as it is not requisite or indispensable, I think y

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