A BLACKSMITH BIDS ON A CONTINENTAL ARMY CONTRACT Fascinating and rare manuscript document, 1p. legal folio, [n.p. probably Albany, n.d.], headed "Proposals for Supplying the American Army with Smith work by Jacob Reader". Reader then lists a variety of products and services offered the Quartermaster General's department, including broad axes for ten shillings, narrow axes for seven, while drawing knives cost five shillings. He also offered horse shoeing, door hinging and chain repair. He adds that: "Any other Articles that the Quarter Master General may think necessary for the Army not Specified in the above will be furnished at a reasonable a rate as the above Articles, to be furnished with what Tools he may Stand in need of, for carrying on the business and to be charged with the Same. That he may Sill have the privilege of the Shop that he now occupies with paying rent for the Same. To be furnished with a small quantity of Iron & Steel, likewise to have the Coal now on hand, with paying for the Same. That he may be allowed to draw one Ration pr Day for each man so employed, paying for the same... ". Light creases, otherwise fine. $400-600