Description:

1865 AMERICAN AND RUSSIAN PASSPORTS FOR JOHN RANDOLPH CLAY
A group of three documents relative to the diplomatic career of JOHN RANDOLPH CLAY (1808 - 1885). Orphaned at a young age, Clay was adopted and mentored by John Randolph of Roanoke and served as his clerk when he became U.S. Ambassador to Russia in 1830. He subsequently remained in Russia serving under ambassadors James Buchanan and William Wilkins. During his tenure he drafted the first commercial treaty between the U.S. and Russia. Clay served as an ambassador in Peru from 1847 to 1860. Retired from diplomatic service, Clay moved to England where he spent the remainder of his life save for a brief visit to the United States in 1865, documented here. Partly printed D.S. signed by CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS (1807 - 1886) as American Ambassador to the Court of St. James, 1p. folio on parchment, London, Apr. 18, 1865, a diplomatic passport in French issued to Clay by the American Legation in Great Britain for his "return to America". Additionally signed by Clay at the lower right. Usual folds, else fine condition. The other two documents date from his days in Russia and include a partly printed D.S., 2pp. oblong folio, St. Petersburg, May 9, 1847 in Russian with duplicate text in German on verso, a passport issued to Clay with a large paper and wax seal affixed to the lower right. Usual folds, marginal wear, moderate uneven toning, else very good. Also together with a partly-printed D.S. 1p. folio, St. Petersburg, July 9, 1847 in Russian, which also appears to be a passport and bears numerous endorsements and stamps. Fold separations, marginal losses, overall good condition. Together, three pieces.

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October 9, 2010 11:00 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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