5. ROBERT MORRIS (1734 - 1806) Signer of the Declaration of Independence, financier and politician. Morris was instrumental in the financing of Washington's armies, and was later financially ruined through his speculation in western lands. Fine content A.L.S., 1p. oblong 8vo., [Prune Street Prison, Philadelphia], Aug. 28, 1799, to signer of the Constitution Thomas Fitzsimmons (1741-1811), also a founder of the Bank of North America. In part: "...I return herewith the letter from Robt. James which came inclosed in yours...Mr. James is the agent of the North American Land Compy for the State of Virginia. Money is due to him from the Company, but Mr. Nicholson & myself have not the means to make farther advances, and I have lately written to him that the Board of Managers are without funds and must so remain untill they can sell lands. I pity the poor man & lament that it is out of my power to assist him. Your being a member of the Board of Managers has occasioned his address to you...". Mounted, with glue stains from adhesive showing through, yet boldly penned and entirely and easily legible with a bold signature. $800-1,200