Autograph letter signed. 1 page plus integral address leaf. 25.2x20 cm (10x8").

Letter to Richard Smith, Esqr. Cashier of the Bank of the Metropolis, Washington, D.C., reads, in full: "Dear Sir, We beg leave to enclose you a certificate for $36532.00 Stock of the Mexican Republic, standing in our name; and a power of attorney to you to receive any payment now due us on account of the Stock. We take the liberty to request that you will remit to us, by a bank check, the amount you receive less your commission, and return us the Certificate now set. We are very respectfully your obedt servt, John Jacob Asto & Son. New York, 11th July 1843". The date of the letter corresponds closely with the acceptance by Santa Anna of an armistice between Texas and Mexico and likely reflects concern by the Astors (America's richest family at the time) that value of the Mexican Government stock was negatively impacted by Santa Anna's acceptance.