Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Autograph Letter Signed as Secretary of State, Philadelphia, 5 November 1793.

Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Autograph Letter Signed as Secretary of State, Philadelphia, 5 November 1793. Single laid bifolium inscribed over one page, with address panel on outer verso of the sheet, to Joseph Yznardi, American Consul at Cadiz, recommending Tobias Lear, George Washington's private secretary, just before Lear's upcoming visit to Europe, very good, with only a small strip of paper from a former mount on the verso of the folded sheet, below the address panel, sold by Maggs Brothers in 1984, 10 x 8 in.

"Dear Sir, The bearer hereof, Mr. Lear, proposing to establish himself in commerce in the new city of Washington, he now sets out to visit such parts of Europe as he supposes may furnish him either articles or connections in the mercantile line useful for his position. He was probably known to you, during your stay in this country, as Secretary to the President of the U.S. and to that knowledge I can add my own testimony of his great understanding, discretion, activity, and perfect integrity, having for him a very high esteem, which an acquaintance of considerable intimacy has proved him to merit. I take the liberty of recommending him, not only to the ordinary protection & aids of your office, but to any other attentions & services you can render him, assuring you they will be considered as particular favors conferred on Dear Sir, Your most obed[ian]t & most humble serv[an]t, Th: Jefferson"