[John Williamson of Tynron Cottage, Thornhill, Scotland.] Autograph Letter Signed to Edinburgh lawyer David Williamson, regarding his immediate voyage to St Kitts in the West Indies, ship called the "Nevis Planter', with six gallons of Scotch whisky.

1p., foolscap 8vo. In fair condition, on lightly-aged paper. Addressed on reverse of second leaf, with red ink postmark and broken black wax seal, to 'David Williamson Esqr | Advocate | George's Square | Edinh'. There is no indication in the letter that the two men are kinsmen. 'My Dear Sir, | I am happy to inform you that the ship called the Nevis Planter sails from Liverpool for St. Kitts on the 12th. Inst - with your approbation, I propose sailing with her - | Mr. Wilson mentioned to me that he wrote you 10 days ago, requesting power to draw upon you for a sum to defray my expences, your answer was expected to be here 4 days ago, but as it has not arrived, I presume Mr. W. may draw upon you - theres no time for delay.' If he cannot get a boat from Dumfries to Liverpool he will take a coach: 'its a mere trifle from Carlisle'. He has 'got a case with bottles', and would like 'to take a few Gallons of Whisky out with me (the Idea of it is ten times more than the worth) Thinking that you would not refuse me such a small request, I have presumed to take it, & have sent it off with 6 Gall:' He concludes by asking him to write to Wilson upon receipt of the letter: 'we shall have it here on Tuesday or probably Sunday'. Williamson was certainly in the West Indies in 1805, when his son (also John) was born to Jane Russell in Blackdam. John Williamson the younger died in Jamaica in 1850.