1859 New York Cotton and Rice Trade Letter to Sprague, Soule & Co. For Sale

1859 New York Cotton and Rice Trade Letter to Sprague, Soule & Co.

2 pages Approximately 10.5" by 7.5" some folds

An original December 29, 1859 handwritten business letter from New York merchants H.W. & J. Mowton to Messrs. Sprague, Soule & Co., likely New Orleans-based traders. The letter discusses the pricing and shipment of prime rice and cotton, referencing current market scarcity and speculation on rising prices. It notes New Orleans rice supply issues and includes pricing (e.g., 39¢/lb for the best rice) along with an urgent call for immediate response. The second page underscores the anticipated value of New Crop rice and mentions a small lot of goods for decision-making. A vivid snapshot of antebellum Southern-U.S. commodity trade and merchant correspondence.