AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED, FROM BOSTON 3 MARCH 1780, TO COLONEL SAMUEL B. WEBB, CONTINENTAL ARMY OFFICER, AIDE DE CAMP TO GEORGE WASHINGTON, AND A PRISONER OF WAR AT THE TIME OF THIS LETTER

[4]pp bifolium, text written on recto of first leaf, folded for mailing and addressed [with red seal] to Colonel Webb at "Head Quarters Morristown." Small tear to left margin from seal [text unaffected]. Very Good.

The Massachusetts Federalist Otis [1740-1814], the first Secretary of the U.S. Senate, served as such until his death. He was an ally of John Adams, the father of Harrison Gray Otis, collector of clothing for the Continental Army, and a member of the Continental Congress. Here he writes in familiar and colloquial fashion to his friend Webb, who had been captured by the British in December 1777:
"So you are going for the Camp - I am determined to make an excursion upon Henleys return who is the bearer of this, help him to wipe off some impressions that hurt him, every hope is vain from that quarter. You talk of being here in April. I lay you 2 to one I see you unless blind with both Eyes. I think you will have a curious Journey Colo. W, W E, & G L. In short, I am distressed 3 young Men should travel without one of my regular sedate manners by way of ballance, But I'll do my duty in advising you to get to bed in season, drink only your half pint at a Session, and avoid the Hussars in the bottomless Pitt. You had better do so, than go upon Water gruel.
"In truth you never will write me again, what a druggery. Improve from one sheet to another, but breath a moment & believe me yours in Esteem & friendship. Sam. A. Otis
P.S.I have a thousand smiles from Miss S-B known to be your friend."
[On verso, "It is not lazyness but engagement prevents my company."].