Catalog Archive
Auction 177, Lot 766

"[Lot of 2 - Evidence of Early Conspiracy to Free Texas from Mexico] The Affidavit of Andrew Jackson, Taken by the Defendants in the Suit of Robert Mayo vs. Blair & Rives... [and] Political Sketches of Eight Years in Washington..."

Subject: Documents - Texas

Period: 1839-40 (published)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

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Two documents by Robert Mayo relating to the charges that Andrew Jackson and Sam Houston conspired to wrest Texas from Mexico:

A. The Affidavit of Andrew Jackson, Taken by the Defendants in the Suit of Robert Mayo vs. Blair & Rives for a Libel, Analysed and Refuted, by Robert Mayo, M.D., published 1840 (6.3 x 9.5"). Eberstadt describes the affidavit as "an important chapter in Texas history. Mayo became acquainted with Houston in 1830, wormed from him and others the plans of the contemplated invasion of the Mexican province of Texas, the secret cryptographical correspondence, etc., and then sent all his information to President Andrew Jackson. The burden of the work goes to prove that the President was in collusion with Houston and the other conspirators in the scheme to wrest Texas from the Mexicans.” 80 pages. Tan paper wrappers with title "Fragments of Jacksonism" and a prospectus on the rear wrapper. Condition: Heavily soiled and frayed paper wrappers (which are rare to see according to Eberstadt). The first few pages of text have numerous dampstains, and the remaining text has typical light toning and occasional foxing. (C+).

B. Political Sketches of Eight Years in Washington; in Four Parts, with Annotations to Each..., by Robert Mayo, M.D., published 1839 (5.7 x 9.4"). This is Mayo’s original allegation that Jackson was well aware of Houston’s plan. Includes a four-page folding facsimile of President Jackson's confidential letter of Dec. 10, 1830, to William Fulton, Secretary of Florida Territory, relating to the proposed invasion of Texas. 216 pages. Hardbound in original brown cloth with paper title label on spine. Condition: Text has scattered foxing throughout. Both covers are detached and worn. (B)

For an excellent article on Mayo and his subsequent life, click here.

References: Eberstadt #105-294 & #103-277; Streeter (Texas) #1351.

Condition:

See description above.

Estimate: $300 - $400

Sold for: $160

Closed on 4/29/2020

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