2 page Autograph Letter, signed + integral stampless address leaf. Approximately 9¾x7¾".

Hoffman (1797-1878), Salem sea Captain, merchant and horticulturist, writes to the Hon. William King (first Governor of Maine): "Having learned that you take a great interest in agricultural improvements, I take the liberty to send you my circular respecting the application of Guano in agriculture. The Guano which I offer for sale is the best African Guano, from Ichaboe, and the only cargo of the best which has been imported into the U.S. I was the first person who sent from the U.S. to Ichaboe, for a cargo of Guano, and I obtained the best quality. Soon after, several other vessels were despatched, but before their arrival at Ichaboe, the island had been entirely cleared of the pure Guano by the fleet of ships which had been sent from England. And then for the American vessels, rather than return empty, took cargoes of the refuse, consisting of feathers, sand and wet Guano. Several parcels of this kind are now in Boston market, and offered for sale as genuine Ichaboe Guano...many persons believe that there can be no difference in Guano, and not making any comparison by analysis, pay dear when they think they have bought cheap..." Guano, mostly found in South America, was seabird excrement and Americans had recently discovered its value as fertilizer and in production of gunpowder.