The sixth President of the United States, John Quincy Adams, wrote this letter on September 19th, 1823. It is addressed to one Herman Allen, of Colchester, Vermont. Mr. Allen, a lawyer by trade, had been named the first Minister Plenipotentiary to Chile some few months prior. At this time, Adams was serving as the Secretary of State under President James Monroe. Adams would be elected to the presidency two years later, expounding on the legacy of his father, John Adams, the second President of the United States.

     This letter discusses a matter of salary, as Mr. Allen had previously written to Adams about receiving an advance on his government paycheck. Adams states his desire to help Allen receive his advance, writing that he will “ascertain if an arrangement can be made at the Treasury by means of which you may be accommodated as you desire.” Previously, an Act of Congress left it up to the executive branch of government to decide if advances could be given to government employees.

     This letter has been written in black pen. Adams signed the bottom of the letter, writing “I am with great respect, Sir, your very humble and obedient servant, John Quincy Adams”. This letter measures 8 x 10 inches and comes in a 13 ½ x 15 ½ inch frame. This item comes with a full LOA from PSA/DNA (AC01286).

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