Apr 17, 2012 - Sale 2276

Sale 2276 - Lot 21

Price Realized: $ 6,240
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 4,000 - $ 6,000
PROTECTING GRANDMOTHER FROM THE RATS? HANCOCK, JOHN. Autograph Letter Signed, "Jno Hancock," to unidentified addressee, concerning the transportation of a corpse, along with a shipment of rum, wine, and beef. 1 page, 4to; minor wear at corners, very short closed separations at folds, remnants of prior mounting on verso. Boston, 11 February 1760
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Additional Details

Written on behalf of his wealthy uncle and mentor Thomas Hancock. Tucked into the middle of what seems to be a routine mercantile letter is this remarkable passage: "Would have the corps put in the coffin as soon as may be for fear of the ratts. Sends the plates for coffin by bearer, with directions in the box, & send back the box." Hancock does not hint whose corpse is being discussed, but it was quite possibly his grandmother Elizabeth Clark Hancock, who had died in Lexington just three days before.
The letter's recipient was likely a family business partner in Lexington who was helping with the funeral arrangements. The remainder of the letter confirms a small shipment of wine, beef, and rum, possibly for the funeral, which his uncle "supposes will be enough." Hancock adds that "There is no good beef to roast to be had to day, but can get some tomorrow." Concludes with a nice bold signature. Published in The Fire Lands Pioneer, June 1866, page 100. Provenance: American Art Association sale, 30 November 1927, lot 208; Parke-Bernet sale, 6 December 1938, lot 97.