Henry M. Stanley

Personal check, 8.25 x 2.75, filled out and signed by lecture manager James B. Pond, "J. B. Pond," payable to Henry M. Stanley for $500, November 26, 1890, endorsed on the reverse by Stanley, "For Deposit acct at the 2d National Bank, New York City, Henry M. Stanley." In fine condition.

Having served with distinction in the Civil War (he received the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle of Baxter Springs), James B. Pond became a successful agent and managed Stanley's appearances on the lecture circuit. This check would likely have been an advance for a tour of the United States, which Stanley undertook from November 1890–April 1891.