12. TRISTAM DALTON (1738-1817) Close friend of George Washington and U.S. Senator. Good content A.L.S., 1p. 4to., Newburyport, July 15, 1778 to New Hampshire Gov. John Langdon concerning rudder irons for a warship. In full: "Sir, Among a parcel of Iron I lately imported from St. Sebastians, there are a few very thick wide Bars-which will make excellent Rudder Irons for large Ship-Being told you were going to finish that set up by you for the Continental Service, I showed this Iron to Mr. Sheafe, who thought it would answer for her Rudder Iron-if you want such & on Enquiring of him this will suit I shall be glad to spare them-Price 12s pr Ct Your Advice hereon will oblige." The iron was very likely intended for use in the first vessels constructed for the Continental Navy. Lightly toned at center fold, otherwise very good. $300-400