Commonplace book of Jonathan Belcher, 1725-1727

This leather-bound volume contains excerpts copied by Jonathan Belcher from books he read while he was a student at Harvard. The excerpts come from a variety of sources including periodicals and contemporary publications. The inside cover has Belcher's bookplate with the motto, "Sustine. Abstine." The back cover has some additional personal information including reference to French lessons with "Mr Law Merciers," and notes of the dates when he began certain books/essays.

Student essay attributed to William Ellery Channing, 1797 June 5

Three-page handwritten essay composed in English and attributed to Harvard undergraduate William Ellery Channing. The verso of the last page is inscribed "Channing 5 June 97." A quotation from Edward Young appears at the top of the first page: "A Competence is vital to content / Much wealth is corpulence, if not disease" and discusses the topic of affluence. The document includes edits and struck-through words.

Letters from William Tudor to John Thornton Kirkland,

Four letters regarding the North American Review, as well as Tudor’s request to be considered for a position as Smith Professor of French and Spanish Languages and Literature at Harvard.

Letter from Peder Blicher Olsen to William Tudor,

One letter from Olsen thanking Tudor for a description of Harvard.

Letters from Catherine Russell to William Tudor,

Four letters relaying information about Russell’s travels and social activities, including her observations on the manners of Southerners she had encountered.

Letter from John Collins Warren to William Tudor,

One letter inviting Tudor to his wedding to Susan Powell Mason, daughter of their mutual friend, Jonathan Mason.

Letters from Joel Barlow to William Tudor,

Two letters regarding the shipment of books from Paris to Boston.

Letter from John Belknap to William Tudor,

One letter in which Belknap declines Tudor’s offer to partner in business speculation.

Letter from David Cargill to William Tudor,

Two letters regarding shipment of books and news of mutual business associates.

Letter from John Carter to William Tudor,

One letter regarding a bill for various sundries from Thomas Vantandeloe.

Letters from Degen, Purviance & Co. to William Tudor,

Four letters, several including price circulars for various goods and foodstuffs. Also discussed is the impact of the Napoleonic Wars on trade.

Letters from Degen, Purviance & Co. to William Tudor,

Three letters attached to price circulars.

Letters from Frederick Degen & Co. to William Tudor,

Three letters providing updates on various commercial activities and describing the impact of renewed hostilities between England and France on trade. Included with one letter is a price circular.

Letter from Legrand & Stappaerts to William Tudor,

One letter from Antwerp detailing the services the firm could provide.

Letters from David Lynch to William Tudor,

Three letters regarding trade in Dutch Guyana.