2350 C [Slavery, Mormons]. A remarkably long, closely-written
letter from St. Louis, Feb. 1840, from a Douglas Milner
writing to the Reverend Beckett in Scotland: "You say I am
becoming the apologist of American Slavery. I solemnly
deny this charge. No one would more gladly see or use his
endeavor to procure the abolition of Slavery than I. By
saying that it existed only in name, I meant that Slavery
did not bear that hideous and disheatened form set forth
by W. Thomson and the other Abolitionists of Britain. The
Slaves here are well clothed, well fed, and appear to be
happy - they dress as well, if not better than the whites
and far better than the free Negroes. If they are sick
they are well attended to, and in their old age, when
unable to work they are protected and cherished. At their
work they are forever singing - the jest and the laugh is
constantly in their mouth and they are as merry as the day
is long. Some with whom I have conversed tell me that they
would not accept of their freedom if their master would
give it them. In this city they have a church of their own
& a preacher of their own colour. Those who belong to this
church are of the Baptist persuasion but many of them
attend the churches of their owners, where they have a
gallery set apart for themselves. Selling is the worst
feature of Slavery, but then it is generally the worst
slaves who are sold - no one will sell or part with a good
or well behaved servant." etc. There are also descriptions
of white vagrants having their services sold to the
highest bidder, life in St. Louis, and a long discourse on
the many religious groups in the midwest, with special
attention paid to the Mormons including a description of
Joseph Smith and the angel Meroni, the Mormons being
driven out of Missouri, their increasing numbers, etc.
Blue St. Louis cds on face, New York transit, English
backstamps, lettersheet with some ink stains, with text
showing through the thin paper, still Fine. Despite the
writer's naivete, this is an important and remarkable
letter............................................................$400
2351 C [Slavery]. 1843 folded letter postmarked Columbia Ten.,
from a S.B Lee to his cousin George, regarding the
complications in selling "the Negro Girl Milly", promising
that only George shall have her (plus her "lively Boy
child") at cost. "If you come up bring as much as money as
you can & if not send me what is convenient by mail." Fine........$135
2352 C [Slavery]. Folded letter from Circleville, O. to the mayor
of New Orleans, regarding the kidnapping of a free black
(a boy) by a Mr. Ballard, and "supposing it probable that
the Boy may be offered for sale in your town, we take the
liberty of sending you the enclosed description of the Boy
with a request that it may be published in the papers of
your City," etc., Fine............................................$150
2353 C [Slavery]. Folded letter from Seven Islands Va., from John
H. Cocke, former President of the U.S. Temperance Soc. and
a founding member of the University of Va., to Cortland
Van Rensselaer, noted clergyman, discussing a plan for
transporting Africans "to the land of their forefathers" -
Liberia, etc., with integral address and ms. postmark,
Fine content......................................................$135
2354 [Slavery]. Receipt for $500, "for a negro girl by the name
of Lucy aged about eighteen years," dated Nov. 1847 at
Holly Springs, Miss., Very Fine...................................$125
2355 C [Slavery]. Interesting 1851 Kentucky letter to Va. from
slave owner: "Isetta is hired this year to a man who owns
her husband - and who I am told would like to purchase her
- and from the present price of cotton I suppose he would
give six hundred for her - if it would not be wrong in any
way - it appears to me much the best to dispose of her -
last year she hired for thirty - but it went to discharge
a medical bill for my children - these things I mention
Sir because I wished you to know what disposition had been
made with her hire - to have your opinion with regard to
disposing of her which I feel interested in for the sake
of the poor negro - who I think would be more comfortable
belong to the person who owns her husband," etc.
outersheet with ms. "La Grange Ky March 26" postmark and
ms. "10" rate, Very Fine..........................................$270
2357 [Slavery]. 1856 Florida document listing property and 28
slaves to be divided, as part of a bill of complaint in
the circuit court of Jefferson County, from 6 month old
Prince, valued at $100, to 62 year old Bess ($130), Very
Fine..............................................................$105
2358 [Slavery]. Part-printed Apr. 1861 court document, 8-1/2 x
14 in., from Decatur Co., Georgia regarding the trial of a
man accused of selling liquor, not being the owner
overseer or employer of such slave," Very Fine.....................$75
2359 C [Slavery]. Four hand-carried covers to Thomas Ruffin of
North Carolina, most likely when he was a N.C. Supreme
Court Justice: "Per Lewis," "By Jesse" (2), and "By
Calven," Fine lot.................................................$130
Abraham Lincoln
2360 Abraham Lincoln. Autograph note signed ("A. Lincoln"), on
small card, to Edwin Stanton, with peculiar (and
revealing) slip of the pen: "Sec. of War of War, please
see & hear Col. Eaton, whom Gen. Grant thinks is one of
the best Contraband agents. A. Lincoln Aug. 12, 1864.",
some faint smearing of ink in text, which does not
detract, but signature incredibly bold, Very Fine. Col.
Eaton was John Eaton Jr. of New Hampshire, Chaplain of the
27th Ohio. In Nov. 1862 he was appointed by Gen. Grant to
surpervise the large numbers of black refugees
("Contrabands") in a jurisdiction which included the Dept.
of Tennessee and Arkansas. The Freedman's Bureau was later
modeled on his plan. Lincoln's comment regarding Eaton's
qualifications are echoed in Grant's Memoirs and by
President Grant's appointment of Eaton as United States
Commissioner of Education. The textual slip, "of War of
War", reveals a war weary president with additional
distractions: on this same day Lincoln met with Republican
political boss Thurlow Weed who bluntly told the President
that his reelection was impossible..............................$5,250
2361 Abraham Lincoln. Full signature as President, on August
1861 vellum appointment for assistant surgeon, also signed
by Simon Cameron, blue seal, light fold thru signature,
Fine............................................................$4,000
2362 Abraham Lincoln. Autograph free frank as President ("A.
Lincoln") on front only with address in his hand to New
York, "Washington D.C. Apr. 2, 1862" cds in corner, Fine........$3,250
2363 Abraham Lincoln. Full signature on 1862 appointment for
Assessor of Taxes, also signed by Samuel Chase, faults
including separations at folds, signature with minute
internal tear in "h" and one in first "n", Fine appearance......$2,200
2364 C Abraham Lincoln. Cover addressed entirely in his hand to
the "Hon. A.R. McIlvaine/Brandywine Manor/Penn."
Accompanying this an 1848 glazed card listing the
"Committee, appointed by the House of Representatives to
accompany the remains of the Hon. John Quincy Adams to
Massachusetts" including the name of McIlvaine. Cover with
3c Dull Red (26) tied by "Springfield Ill. Oct. 19, 1860"
cds, stamp defective but not affecting address panel, Fine......$1,800
2366 [Abraham Lincoln]. Quill pen used by Lincoln while
President. Accompanied by the following affidavit: "This
pen was used by Abraham Lincoln while President in the
White House and was given to me by my father Colonel
William H. Crook executive Clerk to the President, Carrie
C. Brandenberg." Also inscribed, "Mary E. Emmons
(witness)." With an autograph note to Oliver Barrett from
A.W. Hannah regarding Mrs. Brandenberg. Ex Barrett, the
pen is mentioned by Sandburg, Lincoln Collector, p. 208.........$6,250
2367 [Abraham Lincoln]. Two large pieces of brocade taken from
the curtains used in the White House during Lincoln's
administration. Includes typed note datelined Hoboken,
N.J. Oct. 24, 1905 and signed by Christiana Mount: "They
were given to my mother by the upholsterer. If you care to
place them in your colection I will lend them to you for
exhibition." Well preserved, with remarkably vivid colors,
ex Barrett......................................................$1,400
2368 [Abraham Lincoln]. A single feather from the war eagle Abe
of the 8th Wisconsin Regiment, which a typed note explains
Fell from the Eagle at the Battle of Iuka, Miss., Sept.
1920, 1862" , preserved in a large War Dept., Headquarters
of the Army envelope with ms. note, ex Barrett....................$750
2369 [Abraham Lincoln]. A Soldier's bet on the 1864 election,
all in ms. headed "Camp Near Portsmouth Va. Sept. 21,
1864": "I John Anderson do bet with John Clancey that Abm.
Lincoln will be the next President of the United States
for $25 Dollars" Claney, of course, bets on Geo.
McClellan, and adds, "if neither Parties is Elected the
Bets is null & Void", signed by two witnesses, some hinge
reinforcement at folds, Fine......................................$135
2370 [Abraham Lincoln]. Illustrated playbill for "Uncle Tom's
Cabin", a 1912 production by the Robinson Bros. with
central oval portrait of Lincoln, 10-1/4 x 27 in., reverse
with additional scenes from the play, unfortunately
someone used scotch tape to needlessly reinforce the back
and two small areas are stuck down on the white board
which support it - still showy, Very Fine appearance..............$100
2371 C [Abraham Lincoln]. Hand-carried illustrated cover for
Mansino House of Brookyn, addressed "To His
Excellency/Abraham Lincoln/President." Small smear in
address, still attractive, Fine...................................$170
2372 [Lincoln]. LS of D. Williard Bliss, one of the doctors
called to Peterson House to attend to the fallen
president, letter dated May 22, 1864 at U.S. General
Hospital in Washington to a chaplain regarding the death
of Private Francis Stone of the 39th Mass., Fine...................$70
2374 [Abraham Lincoln]. Albumen print, 3 x 3 in., with penciled
title, "Abe Lincoln's Vault" at bottom, showing two
uniformed guards at attention and two seated soldiers,
reverse" with note in same hand, "J.R.
Orvis/Photographer/for German 1868", mounted on 4-1/4 x
3-1/4 in. board, creased at center................................$250
2375 [Abraham Lincoln]. Mezzotint of Lincoln and his family,
water stains, but still attractive, in what appears to be
the original oval frame...........................................$100
2376 [Mary Todd Lincoln]. Silk and bone fan owned by Mrs.
Lincoln. With a card inscribed: "Chicago, Sept. 19, 1900.
This box [no longer extant] contains the Fan that was used
by Mrs. Abraham Lincoln at Fords Theatre the night of the
assassination of Lincoln. Presented to Mrs. M.D. Dean by
Mrs. Lincoln in 1868." Written on a business card of M.D.
Dean. Fan with wear including some separations as to be
expected in such a fragile relic. In addition, on the
envelope the item was sold in at the Barrett sale is the
note: "The brown spots are Lincoln's blood," a comment not
found in the Barrett catalog description. Illustrated on
plate opposite p. 240 in Sandburg, Lincoln Collector...........$20,000
2377 [Mary Todd Lincoln]. Four relics: Mrs. Lincoln's needle
book made of various patches of silk cloth including a
beardless portrait of Lincoln from the first campaign, a
quilt fragment made from Mrs. Lincoln's dress, a piece of
mourning veil worn by Mrs. Lincoln, black & white plaid
silk scarf with ms. note, "Bot. in France by the widow of
Abraham Lincoln. Presented to Mrs. John C. Canfield niece
of Mrs. Lincoln by Mr. Robt T. Lincoln & given to Mae
Canfield dau[ghter] of John C. Canfield & then given by
said Mae Latourette Canfield to her Uncle James F.
Canfield, who gave it to his dear wife, Maude Canfield on
Sunday July 20, 1913", first two are ex Barrett.................$2,500
2378 C Robert Todd Lincoln. ALS, 2pp., datelined Chicago Aug. 2,
1865 on mourning stationery, to the Hon. Edward McPherson
in Gettysburg, Pa.: "I regret very much that I have not by
me all the sermons, &c. that have been sent, but before
leaving Washington, they were packed up, and it is now
next to impossible to reach them. As I recollect however I
had recd few or none from the Northwest...Of all that I
can reach, I have only three duplicates and I mailed them
yesterday to you, in the hope that they may add to your
collection." etc., with original mourning envelope
addressed in his hand with 3c Rose (65) tied by bold cork
cancel and Chicago cds, Very Fine, exceptionally choice...........$625
Civil War Figures (Union)
2379 Clara Barton. Important ALS ("Clara"), 4pp. dated May 16,
1865 from Washington, to her nephew Samuel. She writes (in
part): "I am grieved beyond measure at the course taken
with your fathers property. It was cruel - I do not know
if there is any redress, unless Gen. Butler should come in
Secy. of War. This I think would right the matter but
otherwise I do not know of any. I should be glad to come
and help you (although it might do no good) if it were
possible - but I never was so peculiarly situated in my
life. Never a time when it would seem so impossible to
leave. I suppose there can be no one woman in all America
with as much on her hand as rests on mine today. My
Paroled Prisoner business has turned into a search for the
Missing Men of the American Army, and been adopted by your
favorite Order, and as you will see by the circular which
I will send, has been endorsed as adopted by the three
Grand Heads of the Order, and they call upon all the
lodges to respond...Clerks come from the Surgeon Gen.
Office and today we shall send 5000 circulars under Gen.
Wilson's frank (who is here). The rolls are being made
ready to circulate with the circulars among the returned
Army when it shall wait in encampment outside the city for
its discharge." etc. Fine, a most desirable war-dated
Clara Barton letter...............................................$700
2380 C Clara Barton. ALS ("Clara"), 4pp with cross-written P.S.,
dated May 13, 1865, from Washington, to her nephew Samuel,
mentions arrival of General Wilson and "trophies of the
rebellion," particularly the contents of an elegant parlor
she hopes will be shipped to her from Richmond, and adds
in a P.S.: "Mr. WIlson tells me that Fred Seward cannot
live - his wound breaks out and bleeds - it is not spoken
of publicly yet but is a conceded fact among the Med.
fraternity that according to all rules of Med Science he
shold not have lived till now - the trail goes on quietly
and New York growls boisteriously" etc. Accompanied by
original transmittal envelope to Norfolk Va., with rare
printed corner card: "Clara Barton, Gen. Correspondent.
Correspondence with Friends of Paroled Prisoners,
Annapolis, Med., franked with 3c Rose (65) tied by cork
cancel, Washington postmark, cover opened roughly at R.,
Fine, very scarce war period letter from Clara Barton.............$700
2381 Clara Barton. ALS ("Clara"), 4pp., dated May 30, 1865 at
Washington, to her nephew Samuel, regarding the arrest of
his father and confiscation of family property, Ms. Barton
telling no one of property owned in North Carolina &
Norfolk, etc., Fine contents......................................$375
2382 Clara Barton. ALS ("Clara") 3pp, dated Sept. 12, 1865, to
her nephew. She writes (in part): "I don't know what
counsel you had best employ. You are mistaken in supposing
that I have any means of knowing how Genl. Butler is to be
employed. I could not devise it any more than I could the
business of the man in the moon, and if there is any one
here wh know they would not inform me. he may be going
upon the Jeff Davis trial, but I cannot believe it yet. In
my opinion that would present an opportunity to
distinguish himself which would scarce be allowed him -
don't you think so? I know he is retained in the service
against his own urgent request for a discharge, and I
heard it suggested in New york the other day that this was
only prepratory for an investigation and Court martial for
himself for embezzelment." etc., With original transmittal
envelope addressed in her hand and with autograph frank of
General James H. Wilson, Very Fine................................$500
2383 Clara Barton. Important ALS, 3pp, 5 x 6-3/8 in., dated
Jan. 15, 1904, to Mrs. McLean: "I pray you accept warmest
thanks for words so kindly and timely spoken. True, a
great courtesy was paid in the fullest manner possible,
and it was sincere - but adroity a `string' was attached,
by which I am to pass through the ignominy of an
`investigation' which has no purpose under Heaven in it
but ignominy, disagreeable noteriety - the pulling down of
any little good reputation that might have attached to a
life of toil - and the compelling one to meet false
charges - or suffer under them. I shall probably make no
effort to refute or defend myself (for when they name the
`Red Cross' they mean only me). If the country will be
more benefitted or better satisfied with my name and
record in disgrace, than in honor, I have nothing to
object. i have no family to suffer by it. I bear alone
whatever is put upon me, and defame only myself. I have no
t seen a member of the committee appointed to investigate,
and have only casual acquaintance with any of them. I have
met Mr. Carlisle once some months ago, who seemed friendly
then. Pardon me, for this dash of cold water on your
enarnest gratulatins, I could not be honestly true to
either of us, and keep silent." etc., Fine........................$325
2384 Clara Barton. TLS, 1p, dated Mar. 5, 1895 on Red Cross
stationery, to a Mrs. Wheeler: "I have lived in hopes of
making a personal response to your welcome letter. I have
been too busy to get to you and was pained the other
evening when dear Mrs. tanner told me that you were not
well enough to be out. We must not give up that interview
which I know we both look forward to with such heart
interest. If you are able to come out, if you will drop me
a line naming any hour of any day when you could come to
me, I will hold myself against everything to receive you.
Meanwhile if you could bring it about I should come to
you. Yours sincerely Clara Barton." Small tear at top,
Fine..............................................................$250
2386 C Napoleon B. Buford. Signature ("N.B. Buford") with rank at
Helena, Ark., on cover to Gen. E.A. Hitchcock in
Washington, addressed entirely in his hand, 3c Rose (65)
tied by target and "Memphis Ten. Oct. 30" double-circle
ds, probably 1864 usage, Very Fine................................$150
2387 C Benjamin Butler. Autograph free frank on post-war cover
addressed in his hand, Washington postmarks, bit reduced
at L., not affecting signature, Fine..............................$140
2388 Edward R. Canby. LS, 1p, dated May 15, 1865, with imprint,
"Headquarters, Military Division of West Mississippi," at
New Orleans: "I have already under report with a view to
reductions at all the posts and depots east of the
Mississippi River, except New Orleans and Mobile. The
attitude assumed by Kirby Smith of continued hostility and
the instructions of Genl. Grant render it unwise to
attempt any reduction at these two points." etc., bold
signature, Fine. Genl. Kirby surrendered his troops to
Canby on May 26th.................................................$300
2389 C Schuyler Colfax. Autograph free frank as Speaker of the
House, on all-over illustrated House of Representatives
cover in gray, clear "Congress Washington, D.C. Apr. 23"
double-circle ds, addressed to a hospital chaplain in Ky.,
1864 docketing, eagle wax seal on back, slightly redcued
at R., slightly affecting address, still clean and Fine,
nice war-dated example of his signature............................$65
2390 C John W. Denver. Brigadier General, Governor of Kansas
Territory. Autograph free frank as member of Congress on
cover to the Navy Dept., cover faults, signature Fine..............$70
2391 C Samuel P. Heintzelman. Union General. ALS ("S.P.
Heintzelman"), 3pp, dated Dec. 6, 1832, to his cousin, Dr.
Lewis Wolfley, a naval surgeon stationed at Pensalcola,
entertaining contents regarding seasickness, attending a
play in New York, nullification controvery, Andrew Jackson
sending troops to Charleston S.C., etc., with outer
lettersheet postmarked Philadelphia, Fine..........................$95
2392 C [John A. Logan]. Advertising cover for his book, THE GREAT
CONSPIRACY with portrait of Gen. Logan, 2c Red Brown (210)
tied by "Chicago, Ill. Dec. 29 `86" duplex, dated three
days after his death, small opening tear at top not
affecting stamp or design, Fine and very scarce....................$30
2393 Albin Schoepf. ALS, with rank, 1p, dated June 16, 1864
with letterhead of "Head Quarters, Fort Delaware, Del."
turning down a request from a Mrs. Handy to visit a
prisoner "without special permission from the President
Scy. of War or Commsy. Genl. of Pris." With original
transmittal envelope in the general's hand, Fine..................$115
2394 C Carl Schurz. Union General. Autograph free frank as U.S
Senator, on cvoe addressed in his hand to Chicago, bold
Washington cds, Very Fine.........................................$120
2395 Winfield Scott. ALS, 2-1/2pp, dated March 13 (1862?), to
General Lorenzo Thomas: My dear General: Won't you or our
friend Col. Townsend send me a copy of the bill that has
just passed the Senate, regulating the pay of the army? I
fear some attempt to take from me brevet pay, & then to
cut down my pay as a major general. The first would reduce
me 65 percent, & the two would starve me outright. Why
should Congress take this trouble when if they will wait
but a little while I shall die a natural death. Can't you
also send me a blue book (new) & a Congressional
Directory? My kind regards to the ladies of your family.
Truly yrs, Winfield Scott. March 13." Fine, a scarce
example from Scott in the last years of his life. In poor
health and nearly 75 years when the war began, Scott
requested retirement in the fall of 1861..........................$450
2396 C Winfield Scott. Autograph free frank as Major Gen. on
cover addressed in his hand to Charles King in
Elizabethtown, N.J., red "Washington Railroad Oct. 4" cds,
small edge wear, Fine.............................................$160
2397 C Winfield Scott. Autograph free frank as Lieut. General, on
Head Quarters of the Army cover to Lt. Read of the 8th
Infantry, small edge flaws, still Fine...........................$350
2398 C William H. Seward. Autograph free frank on Dept. of State
envelope, addressed in his hand to Mrs. Seward, flap
opening ends in small tear at top, light wax seal stain at
center, neither affecting signature, Fine.........................$250
2400 William T. Sherman. ALS ("W.T Sherman/General"),
2pp.,5-1/8 x 8 in., dated Aug. 30, 1875 on Army
stationery, at St. Louis, declining an invitation to serve
on a committee "at the Banquet in honor of the Rifle
Team." Very Fine..................................................$375
2401 Harriet Beecher Stowe. Signature ("Very Truly yours/H.B.
Stowe"), dated Jan. 1, 1878 at Brooklyn, on the same
autograph page as a large bold signature of Henry Ward
Beecher dated Jan. 5, and his wife Eunice White Beecher,
Very Fine.........................................................$130
2402 C [Harriet Beecher Stowe]. Rare publisher's ad cover for
Uncle Tom's Cabin, 3c Brownish Carmine (11) tied by
"Cleveland O. Nov. 15" cds, undated but undoubtedly 1852
as the 3c stamp (Plate 2 Late or 3) is from an 1852
printing, cover with flap missing and toned area at B.,
stamp faulty, still an exhibitable and important ad cover
in the first year of publication..................................$210
2406 C Mary E. Walker. ANS, one page, to General William
Montgomery: "Dear Sir - Allow me to introduce George H.
Hurd, Co. D., 74th N.Y. Vol. Yours most respectfully Mary
E. Walker, M.D. Washington D.C. March 9th 1863." With
original transmittal envelope - a hand-carried patriotic
("Stand By It!") Very Fine, exceedingly scarce war-dated
piece. A Medal of Honor recipient, Mary Walker was one of
the earliest female medical school graduates, and served
as a surgeon for the 52nd Ohio....................................$850
2408 Gideon Welles. Signature as Secretary of the Navy, on
three Navy Dept. orders, 1863, 64 & 65 to Walter Rankin
(see lot #), two signed in full, other is "G. Welles",
Very Fine.........................................................$250
Col. Ellsworth: A Specialized Collection
2409 C The Death of Colonel Elsworth. Four-page letter headed "NW
Wall St. New York May 24 1861, from a L.W. Gilbert to a
friend in Maine: "I can give you no news that you do not
get from the newspapers, unless it may be about my own
affairs. I fear that the fight between the north & the
south has commenced today. Col. Ellsworth with his Fire
Zouaves went early this morning to Alexanderia to take
possession of Custom House &c. when he was shot dead by a
Secessionists who in turn was killed on the spot. What the
effect of this will be I cannot even guess, but as Co. E.
was a pet with Lincoln I fear that terrible results may
follow." He also notes, "I had hoped that we could avoid
having a conflict until Congress meets in July, & that
there some effort would be made to put a stop to all this
terrible work. It may be so still, but I fear we must have
some fighting." The balance of the letter discusses
Gilbert's money woes, and most likely reflects Wall Street
nervousness in general, with his finances tied up in
southern securities "I might about as well be propertyless
so far as raising money is concerned.") Includes original
transmittal envelope with 3c Dull Red (26) tied by bold
"New-York May 24" cds and grid duplex, Fine, a rare and
very early account of Col. Ellsworth's murder, dated the
day of his death - most likely the earliest such report
from New York City..............................................$1,200
2411 C Frank Brownell. Union soldier who killed James Jackson
after the latter had killed Ellsworth. Bold autograph
signature on unused patriotic (Magee) with portrait of
Brownell, in blue at left, in addition he wrote "Born July
14 1840 at Troy N.Y.", Fine, very rare autograph souvenir.........$800
2412 C [Elmer E. Ellsworth]. Buff cover, carried outside the
mails and addressed to "Capt. Andrew D. Purtell Co.
J./care of Col. Elsworth of N.Y. Fir Zouave
Regiment/Washington D.C.", uncanceled 3c Dull Red (26) in
B.L. corner, back of envelope with printed label,
"FORWARDED FROM Leader Office" in rose red and pasted over
flap, Fine and very unusual - the only example of this
"forwarder" label we've seen, and one of the few covers
extant with Col. Ellsworth's name in the address..................$100
2413 C Ellsworth. Mourning-style patriotic in black on orange
cover with 3c Dull Red (26) tied by grid, matching "North
Cambridge Ms. Jul. 25" cds, barely reduced at L.,
Extremely Fine....................................................$250
2414 C "Him! The first great martyr in this great cause."
Mourning-style patrioti in black on white, 3c Dull Red
(26) tied by large "Paid" in circle, neat red "Pawtucket
R.I. Jun. 4, 1861" cds, some trivial toned spots at edges,
still Very Fine...................................................$160
2415 C Col. Ellsworth. Handsome design in red on immaculate white
cover with 3c Rose (65) tied by "PAID" hs, brownish red
"Roxbury Ms. Jan. 27, 1862" double-circle ds, Extremely
FIne..............................................................$200
2416 C Col. Ellsworth, His Last Letter to his Parents. Design of
Ellsworth and flag with text of letter written the day
before his death, on cover with 3c Dull Red (26), pen
canceled, matching "Lumberton O. August 9, 1861" postmark,
Very Fine, very scarce............................................$240
2417 C Remember Ellsworth! Design on cover with 3c Dull Red (26)
tied by "Medford Mass. Jul. 24" cds, small cover tear at
T., Fine...........................................................$85
2418 C Father - Col. Ellsworth was shot dead this morning.
Dramatic woodcut design on cover with 3c Dull Red (26)
tied by "Washington City D.C Free Jun. 26, 1861" cds, only
one month after Ellsworth's death, J.G. Wells imprint on
flap, cover reduced at L., just into design, otherwise
Fine, scarce.......................................................$75
Union Letters, Manuscripts and Ephemera
2419 [Arkansas]. Union manuscript field order datlined
"Headquarters 2nd Brigade Cavl. Division Camp No. 23
Arkansas July 23rd 1863" which asks officers to "prevent
the growing evil of Gambling and also to the passing of
Spurious Confederate and Counterfeit money to the citizens
of the country through which the army is now passing." It
also admonishes soldiers for taking the property of
"innocent women and children", etc., Very Fine....................$115
2420 Battle of Bull Run. Two interesting letters, dated Jul. 23
& 25, 1861 at Washington, from a gentleman who accompanied
several Maine regiments on their journey to the capitol:
"I went down to Alexandria where the firing at the great
battle of Bull Run was distinctly heard. It was very heavy
and as the result shows very destructive on both sides.
Sunday night the men began to straggle in separately and
in squads over the Long Bridge bringing news of the defeat
of our troops...All speak in the highest terms of the
Maine Regiments. They were in the thick of the
fight...They fought like tigers. Dr. Hamlin escaped with
Dr. Banks of the 4th but the rest of the Medical staff of
that Brigade are all prisoners in the hands of the rebels.
The 2nd & 5th Me. were badly cut up losing a good many
men...The city is full of returned soldiers and when I
visited the House of Reps. this morning I found a large
majority of the desks occupied by soldiers writing home.
All seem cheerful and determined to retrieve the
misfortunes of Sunday...Twelve thousand men left here for
Virginia Sunday and it was a splendid sight to see them
move followed by their waggons and ambulances. But it was
a sorry sight to see them come back yesterday worn and
weary half naked, wounded unarmed and crestfallen." etc.
Very Fine, well-written, vivid content, with detailed
information regarding the Maine regiments who participated
at Bull Run.......................................................$450
2422 [John Brown]. Anonymous letter to Governor Wise from a
fanatical follower of John Brown, shortly after the
latter's arrest at Harper's Ferry, 3-1/4pp., dated Oct.
29, 1859, and which reads (in part): "This is to the
Governor of Virginia now sir Governor Wise I merely want
to inform you that we all know that you have John Brown in
your state and in your power to take his life from him &
the other friends of humanity but we say to you Sir as the
eternal God lives on his throne you may shed his blood but
by the powers that is of God he will have a thousand lives
for every drop of Blood that your State and the sixteen
states John holds our Bretheren in Bonds. John Browns
company was but a mote in the air...We will hunt your rice
fields your cotton plantations your swamps and prairies
and that sooner than you expect I want you to say to your
Governors of the Sixteren Stats that we intend if slavery
cannot be abolished without the shedding of Blood it shall
be done the sharps rifles and picks and revolvers that you
have taken from Brown is but a drop out of the ocean we
intend that Slavery shall scease or we shall all die you
have all told lies in every state on the poor Negro...This
is Enough for the wise in this nineteenth century." Great
contents..........................................................$350
2423 "Camp at Brandy Station." Heading on Apr. 19, 1864 letter
from Union soldier who writes (in part): "...it was a part
of Gen. Grant's plan to be away from here before this, but
no sooner has he appointed a day for some grand inspection
or review preparatory to a move, than the couds have
gathered, the floods have descended and the Lord has amde
it manifest that the time for movement has not yet
arrived. Fro the beginning of this conflict I have had the
most implicit faith in God's control over our affairs and
this has been my great comfort and support during all the
reverses which have befallen our arms...I doubt if Gen.
Grant makes such rapid progress as the impatience of the
country will demand, but when he does go ahead you may
rely upon his holding all he obtains." etc., fresh and
Very Fine.........................................................$100
2424 "Camp in the Woods Va." Oct. 24, 1863 semi-literate letter
from a Union soldier to his friend regarding rumors from
home: "...he ses that my Wife was Drunk every night stedy
Ded Drunk Brought home to the house By a different man
every night and ses to me she is a damed old hor he has
roate those words to mee and ses she is anneything But a
dasesent Woman," etc., Fine.......................................$160
2425 C The Correspondence of Robert DeForest Lee. An original
find of seven patriotic covers with original contents -
five are from Robert Lee of New Jersey, at various camps,
2 from a cousin at Camp Morton, also five patriotic covers
(most with contents) from family writing to Robert, also
one pre-war cover and one hand-carried cover, in addition
there is a MILITARY DISCHARGE filled in and signed by
General Lew Wallace as a member of Capt. Moreau's Indiana
vols., lot also includes a daguerreotype of Lee as a young
boy, and a ambrotype of him as a young man - dag with
original seals, in whole case, mixed condition, recently
discovered........................................................$500
2426 [Encased Postage]. Scott 121, Lord & Taylor, with most of
original silvering, light normal wear, Very Fine (Reed,
Rarity 8+, 5-10 examples knowm)...................................$675
2427 [Encased Postage]. Four, Scott Nos. 2, 45, 72 and 97, all
with intact mica, cases with wear and some rusting................$425
2428 [Ephemera]. Black on orange glazed card, "75th Regiment,
O.V./Good For/Ten Cents./Redeemable In/Goods Only.
Anderson & Harper." On back is pencil note in the hand of
express agent J.P. Hawkins, "Taken at the Battle of
McDowell" Pristine example of sutlers scrip.......................$325
2429 C The Fall of Fort Hindman. Letter datelined "Mouth Arkansas
River Jan. 18, 1863", from a Union soldier, John Ritter,
to his wife: "...We have just returned from a trip up the
Arkansas River where we had a considerable battle at a
place clled Arkansas Post. We killed, wounded and cptured
the whole arsenal - about 8,000 in all. We were not very
much exposed...We took 20 guns, 8,000 stands of msall
arms, wagons, mules, horses without number...where or what
next I do not know Perhaps Vicksburg. The health of the
Reg is not very good." With original transmittal envelope
(faulty No. 65 tied by Memphis postmark), Fine....................$150
2430 [Furniture]. Folding oak chair, identified as a Civil War
officer's though most likely much later, original finish...........$60
2431 "The grandest and most decisive campaign of the war."
Excellent eight page letter, 7-3/4 x 9-7/8 in., dated
April 13, 1865, from Captain Clifford Stickney to his
brother at headquarters in Savannah, beginning with events
from Mar. 29th to Lee's surrender, includes description of
a night assault on rebel works: "I went with them,
somewhat in the rear, but under a hot fire of minies and
shell exercising my authority as a staff officer by
driving forward, sheltering themselves by remaining behind
stumps and trees. With drawn sword I drove upwards of a
hundred into the ranks again and we sailed in but came out
again in a hurry being beautifully whipped and charged in
turn losing one fourth of our numbers, and Gen. Madill
wounded." etc. He describes riding for reinforcements,
finding Generals Grant & Meade under a tree near
Petersburg, "sharp fighting every day", capture of guns
and wagons, and on Apr. 9 riding into a group of
Confederates when Lee's surrender was still a rumor: "I
asked them if Lee had surrendered and they said they did
not know - had merely been ordered to stack arms and were
waiting for orders. All the while, we were with them we
felt uneasy because although Grant had summoned them to
surrender they had not acceded and could have kept us
prisoners and taken all we had. Finally I said `Boys we
are stragglers got into your lines. You'll let us go won't
you' smiling as I said so. One said or drawled out `I
reckon you're jokin'...I saw that they supposed we were
part of the flag of truce party there by authority so I
merely smiled and calling to the other we rode off
unmolested." Later he rides with Meade as an officer
announces to the men that Lee has surrendered, describes
celebrations of troops, interview with Genl. Wise (he
gives the captain two autographed $10 bills), depression
of Lee, etc., Very Fine, a wonderful account....................$1,300
2432 "I think some of them ought to be buried face down so they
cant dig out again." -Some opinions on Missouri
Confederates. Four-page letter from a G. Davis, dated Aug.
29, 1862 at Columbia, Mo., letterhead with woodcut of
rooster, in red (("On to Victory - Cock-a-doodle-doo"). He
writes (in part): "Some pretty tickleish places this
summer and i have about made up my mind that the Secesh
are carless with there guns for the balls came pretty
close some times althought hey have not scratched me
yet...i have seen a good many of my brother soldiers fall
by my Side it looks hard but it cant be helped in the
first fight we had our second lieut. and orderly sargehit
was wounded and six privates in the Co. was wounded two of
them died my bed mate was shot down by my side poor
fellow...i have seen some of mo and a grat meny of its
rebels soldier and I have seen some of them laid lo in the
dust I think some of them ought to be buried face down so
they cant dig out again they are more than snakes for they
are in the cornfields all over a waiting for us to come
along." etc. Fine content.........................................$170
2433 [KKK - Post-War Reconstruction Period]. Remarkable twelve
page letter on American Missionary Assoc. stationery from
a woman writing at Augusta Ga., Apr. 5, 1868: "I have
thought that the rebels were feeling better towards them
yankees, but now as the election draws near we find that
there is a good deal of the old virus left, for they are
threatening the lives of union men at a fearful rate, it
is doubtless a good deal of it done for a scare, but it is
really true that there are secret organizations formed all
over the south, called the `Ku Klux Klan' or `KKK' I
presume you have heard of them, one radical union man was
assassinated in his bed a few nights ago by a band of them
in disguise, he was candidate for the legislation at
Columbus in this state, other men here in Augusta...have
had threatening letters, and letters of warning. I do not
fear for J. as I should if he was a politician, he does
not meddle with politics, although he never hesitates to
let his sentiments be known, nor his calling, I think the
rebs have more respect for him than they would if he was
after any office, and if they don't do any worse than
throw bricks in at the windows, turn up their noses, and
call out `nigger teacher' as we pass we shall get along
very well." There are also interesting remarks about black
churches and education, local tax oppression, harassment
of yankees, and this curious vignette: "Fred Douglass is
the boys playmate, he is fine looking little darkey about
Eddie's age, `Abe Lincoln' and Jeff Davis go to school and
are in the same classes, Jeff is stupid, but little Abe is
splendid." Accompanying this is a 2nd letter on matching
stationery, from Eddie (Edith) writing to her grandpa,
letters with some waterstains, still Fine, a very rare and
very early and detailed reference to the KKK......................$525
2434 Letter from an Ambulance Corp outside of Richmond. Four
page letter dated Oct. 30, 1864: "It is hard to say when
we shall take Richmond, it is a hard nut to crack, but
patience and Grant will do all things...if all troops
would fight as well as the 3rd Div. 18th A.V (Colored) do,
we should make better haeadway than we have done," etc.,
with original transmittal envelope with Sanitary
Commission handstamp and 3c Rose (65) tied by target and
Washington D.C. postmark, Fine.....................................$70
2435 C A Letter from Union Occupied Fort Brown. Written by a
member of the 19th Iowa Reg., detailing the evacuation of
the fort. There is also a remarkable description of an
execution - a deserter from the U.S. Texas cavalry: "This
man was a Mexican. His grave was dug near the cemetery. At
six o'clock P.M. the Division marched to the place of
execution. Presently the procession came up. Four men
carrying the coffin were the head of the procession. There
followed the prisoner seated in a cart drawn by a mule
which was led by an old Mexican. I should have said that a
martial band playing the `Dead March' headed the
procession. The Catholic priest walked just behind the
cart. Then came the Provost Guards, whose duty it was to
carry the sentence into execution. Thus the procession
moved around the inside of the entire line of troops,
which were formed on three sides of the grave. Then the
coffin was placed near the grave, and the prisoner got out
of the cart and came and stood by the coffin...Twelve guns
were loaded, six with and six without balls. After which
the sentence of the prisoner was read to each regiment,
and to the prisoner in Spanish. Then the priest prayed
with the prisoner. His time had come. He was placed
kneeling upon his coffin, his feet to the rear of it, and
facing the guard who were to shoot him. A bandage was
placed over his eyes, but he removed it, prefering to see
the guns raised to kill him. The command was given to fire
and he lay a lifeless bleeding piece of flesh." etc. With
original transmittal envelope with 3c Rose (65) tied by
target and "New Orleans La. Aug. 2 `64" double-circle ds,
matching "Due 6" in circle, Very Fine, terrific content
from occupied Texas...............................................$625
2436 Letters from the 3rd Ohio Cavalry. Five 1862 letters, with
original transmittal envelopes, includes good letter from
Woodville Ala. (cover with rarely seen Woodville Ala.
occupation cds tying 3c 1861) describing guerilla warfare
in the area, also letters from Warrenville, Corinth,
Savannah, Fine-Very Fine..........................................$250
2437 The Letters of William H. Story. Approx. 80 letters from a
private in the 8th New Hampshire vols., to his wife or
father, serving under Butler and Banks in the 19th Army
Corps, Dept. of the Gulf until March 1863, then as a
citzen clerk in Gen. Dow's Brigade during the seige of
Port Hudson. Headings include Ship Island, Fort Macomb,
Camp Parapet, and Carrollton La. The lot includes three
CDVs of fellow soldiers, a rare illustrated lettersheet
showing Jackson Square in New Orleans, a Adams Express
receipt, a hand-drawn plan of Fort Macomb, etc. Story died
in his 93rd year - the original 1932 Hillsboro, N.H.
obituary is included, a Fine and interesting
correspondence..................................................$3,000
2438 The Letters of Hiram Vandermark. Approx. 57 war-dated
letters comprising the correspondence of a captain of the
50th New York Engineers, some on patriotic stationery of
the 50th (one on unused muster sheet), 1861-64, excerpts
as follows: "Old Lee has a strong position bu the will
have to get out of there before long and not stop again
until he gets to Richmond - remember what Grant did to
Vicksburg he is going to do the same with Richmond - our
men throw shells on the other side of Petersburg - the
Rebels put our prisoners in the city so we can't shell
it," also terrific description of execution of Pa.
bounty-jumper by firing squad: "they fired, the balls
entering his breast he fell upon his coffin, but he was
not dead they raised him up and with 6 balls in his breast
he still set firm upon his coffin," lot includes small
diary found among the letters - a few soldierly entries
but mostly the owner's children appear to have taken a
stab at writing - doodling, lines lifted from a child's
primer, etc. Fine, a scarce engineer's correspondence...........$2,000
2439 C Letters from Fort Scott, Kansas. Four covers with three
enclosures dated 1862. A soldier writes (in part): "I
cannot help but cry out against the cruelty of our
officers The indian Expedition for so it was called did
not accomplish anything it was placed under teh command of
one of those nothern Villians who has had to flee for fear
of retribution and came here to Kansas to make a farther
display of barbarous acts and here let me say that the
majority of the Kansas people are made up of material just
like this man whom I am going to discribe. This man Weer
he does not deserve the title of Col. was place in command
of the expedition and from the first began to display his
qualifications both as a coward and a villian." etc.
Another letter describes being attacked by jayhawkers,
comments on McClellan, Lincoln, fighting guerillas in
Kentucky, etc., all covers with Fort Scott postmarks, one
is stampless example with "Due 3" hs in oval, Fine lot............$325
2440 [Map]. Five page letter from Freeman Hodge of the 5th
Vermont at Camp Griffin, to his brother, detailing as
clerk of the Hospital Dept. the misfortunes of this
regiment due to illness, mentions a grand review of the
troops at Balls Cross Roads - 70,000 men with McClellan &
Lincoln present, includes a large map he has drawn in blue
and red ink showing the various commands (Brooks, McCall,
and Hancock), Falls Church, Lewisville, forts, etc., also
includes a copy of his morning report, Very Fine..................$650
2441 [Naval]. Group of 16 letters and documents to or from
Walter B. Rankin Acting Ensign of the U.S. Bark Restless
and other ships, mostly in the vicinity of Key West
1863-65, orders and letters incl. a remarkable memorandum
reporting a conversation between Rankin and his captain
regarding various charges and counter-charges of disrepect
and insubordination, Fine-Very Fine...............................$160
2442 C Our National Sins. Heartfelt, four-page letter dated Dec.
23, 1862, from a Betsy Bates to her friend Lizzie. She
writes (in part): "I feel anxious to hear from our boys
since the battle of Freericksburg. I expect that they are
killed or wounded. What awful scenes they have to pass
through. Oh how I wish this war was over. It is enough to
crush out every spark of humanity and chill a nations
blood. How long must these things be. Is it not enough to
humiliate the people into repentance and make them cry out
enough O Lord. The Government and Officials have been
weighed on the scales of justice and found wanting and now
is the day of judgement for our National Sins. The poor
Indians have been robbed of their rights and the poor
Negro has been bought and sold and made merchandise of.
How can we expect to escape the just punishment of a
violated home. If we do wrong we have to suffer so. With a
Nation God is not vindictive and cruel but kind and full
of mercy but we sin and being our own punishment as a
consequence." etc. With original transmittal envelope with
faulty No. 65 and large bold ms. "St. Ansgar Iowa Dec. 25"
postmark, Fine.....................................................$55
2443 Papers of the 93rd Pa. Vols., 4th Army Corps. Ten pieces,
all in ms., includes general and special orders,
circulars, etc., Fine lot.........................................$220
2444 Personal Recollections of the War for the Union by R. W.
Woodbury. Important 380+ page manuscript by a member of
3rd New Hampshire vols., "written almost entirely from
memory, more than twelve years after the close of the
great strife, and must therefore of necessity be quite
imperfect in its details." Woodbury eventually rose to the
rank of captain and saw action in coastal operations in
the Carolinas, Florida and Virginia. In addition to text,
more than 20 small albumen prints of various officers have
been tipped in at appropriate places, including images of
Generals Ames, Gillmore, O.M. Mitchel, Strong, and Viele
(the latter full-length image is exceptionally nice) also
hand-draw maps of Port Royal Harbor and Charleston
including the location of the Swamp Angel, also a piece of
the rebel flag of Fort Fisher, also scores of orders and
telegrams with numerous officers' signatures including
those of Generals R.S. Foster, Alfred Terry and John
Turner. Woodbury had the book privately bound, with the
title "PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS OF THE REBELLION" in gold on
the spine, the covers are separated but otherwise the book
is in fine condition and is exceptionally readable. As an
added "bonus," included is a piece of blue fabric mounted
to a card, with the caption "Piece of the Flag that Col.
Ellsworth pulled down at Alexandria Va." which was found
inserted in the book. There is also a typscript of the
diary and recollections of Woodbury's brother, Davidson,
who rode with Sheridan, and a 1904 book, "THE WOODBURY
FAMLY" Excellent lot............................................$2,000
2445 The Siege of Petersburg. Four-page soldier's letter (with
some cross-writing), dated Jul. 14, 1864, writing (in
part): "...we are near Petersburg & on the way (we hope)
to Richmond...Our pickets are quite close (to the Rebs).
They meet, play cards, chat, buy & sell rations, tobacco
&c like old friends...As you learn by the papers we are
sieging this place. heavy forts & works are building & we
have a large number of heavy guns & mortars...Some of the
Corps they are digging up to the Rebel forts & when all is
prepared they will be blown up unless they vacate. I have
no doubt it will be taken - but perhaps not - for two
months, but be assured great prepartion is being made to
accomplish it. Perhaps Grant will strike off in some other
direction, but I think not. If they lose this place,
Richmond must fall, as we can cut all communication South
of it," He also describes fighting in the Wilderness
campaign, Laurel Hill, Spotsylvania, the Chickahominy
River, heavy losses, etc. There is also a reference to the
field promotion of Joshua Chamberlain ("Colonel
Chamberlain is now Brigadier General & Major Spear of our
own is a appointed Lieutenant Colonel," etc., Very Fine...........$325
2446 C [Soldier's Correspondence]. 19 letters, nearly all from
Joseph Hobbs of the 17th Maine, 1862-65, most with
original transmittal envelopes, several letters are
written outside of Petersburg, details of the siege,
mention of Generals Grant, Meade, Hancock, Humphreys,
etc., Fine readable group.........................................$675
2447 [Soldier's Correspondence]. 17 letters from a drummer in
the 55th Pa. vols., a few pages written in pencil were
retraced in pen at a later date, headings including Point
of Rock, Va. Petersburg, and the 18th Army Corp Hospital,
Very Good-Fine....................................................$325
2448 C Soldiers Letters and Related. 25 items, includes a
correspondence of 11 letters and their covers from private
James Thompson, a New York soldier writing to his family
from various camps, several covers with various imprints
including boxed "Soldier's Letter 1st Rg. Wisconsin
Volunteers", fancy hand-drawn cover with letter from
Newport News, two CDVs with lithos of Generals McDowell &
Wadsworth owned by a Lt. Prentiss of the 23rd N.Y., very
good letter from Maine surgeon writing in Apr.`64 and
already overwhelmed by the number of wounded: "There willl
be a terrible battle when Gn. Grant advances. We are
putting up quarters at his Hospital for four houndred more
wonded patients. Government is preparing twenty thousand
additional beds in anticipation of the coming battles.
Rest assured taht steel will meet steel this summer, and I
think the loss of human life will be fearful." etc. Fine
lot...............................................................$625
2449 Union Soldiers' Letters. 50+, includes letters from a Pvt.
Crawford to a lady friend in Geneva N.Y., and Richard
Ketchum writing his brother, a few on patriotic
stationery, some good content to be found including seeing
"Old Abe' at review of New York State troops, listening to
a former prisoner in Richmond "with only one leg and one
arm and nothing but skin and bones", 3,000 wounded
soldiers from Fredericksburg, soldier having his hand
amputated, some racist content including "let the negroes
fight their negro war for it is nothing else" and "for my
part I do not feel inclined to dance with negroes anymore
not this year,", etc., some with original envelopes, a few
transcripts, Fine lot...........................................$2,100
Jefferson Davis
2450 Jefferson Davis. ALS, as President of the Confederacy,
dated June 18, 1864, to Sec. of War J.A. Seddon: "Sir:
your application for leave of absence is granted, and I
sincerely hope the cause which induces you to ask it will
be temporary - very truly yr friend Jeffn. Davis" Fine.
The president was aware of Seddon's poor health, and even
more aware of the frequent changes in this cabinet post.
Seddon finally resigned in Jan. 1865 and was replaced by
Genl. Breckinridge..............................................$2,100
2451 Jefferson Davis. ALS, 1-1/2pp, dated May 22, 1882, with
his Beauvoir letterhead, in characteristic purple ink, to
Jos. De Grange in New Orleans, regarding the reunion of
the Washington Artillery: "It would be to me very
gratifying to meet the survivors of that gallant band
whose patriotism was shown in their prompt response to the
announcement of their country's need, and whose merit was
made manifest in the saguinary battlefields of both the
East & the West." etc., with original transmittal envelope
addressed in his hand, Very Fine................................$1,250
2452 Jefferson Davis. ALS, 1p, 4 x 4-7/8 in., dated Oct. 9,
1870 to Capt. J.A. Hamilton of Victoria St: "Allow me to
present to you Mr. Sarah Adderly Sleigh who has in common
with you many acquaintance in So. Ca. and to commend her
to your kind attentions. Mrs. Sleigh will explain to you
the business project which brings her to London at this
time. Very truly your friend Jefferson Davis Queenstown
9th Oct. 1870." Fine............................................$1,050
2453 Jefferson Davis. ALS, 2pp., datelined "Beauvoir Mipi 11th
Oct. 1884", to Col. Robert Scott: "Yours of the 8th inst.
has been this day received, and the enclosure compared. It
is in the main correct, the alterations you will find
restored by pencil erasures & interlineation. You were
correct in the supposition that it was a telegram, and
that together with the fact that it was addressed to one
fully informed of my views, will account for its brevity.
The Telegram to which mind was a response was, I believe,
the one which announced a change of the plan of campaign,
which Genl. Beauregard accept at Augusta, and thence, was
to proceed to execute. The last sentences, of my telegram,
conveyed to Genl. Beauregard my disatisfaction at the
change, & doubt as to the expected result. If the subject
is of sufficient interest to you, to induce you tor ead
further of it, allowe me to refer to a work entitled "Rise
and Fall of the Confederate Government" Vol. 2, pp. 567 et
seq. and th Genl. Hood's book "Advance and Retreat," pp.
270 et. seq. Hood writing after his disastrous campaign
into Tennessee, and the but little interrupted march of
Sherman, through Ga. in the absence of Hood's Army, was
too truthful and manly to attempt to avoid responsibility
by transferring it to me, or by showing how far he would
have to start behind Sherman, after he had allowed Sherman
to move southward & eastward, while he (Hood) was marching
to the Northward and Westward." Light toning along
vertical fold affects second page and "n" in "Jefferson,"
Fine............................................................$1,000
2454 Jefferson Davis. ANS, on back of Mar. 6, 1865 letter from
the Post Office Dept., Contract Bureau, which originally
enclosed a letter from Mrs. Ann Mary Coleman, daughter of
J. J. Crittenden, delivered by a Capt Jones of S.C., "a
returned prisoner". Mrs. Coleman requested that her only
remaining son, Chapman Coleman "in the ranks in Miss." be
assigned some lighter duty. Coleman was a private in the
"Secret Service operating near Greenville." Davis writes
on back to Sec. of War Breckinridge: "this case will
attract your attention from its merits and connections.
Please advise me as to any thing which can be done
consistently. J.D. 6 March 65." This was eventually
referred to Nathan Bedford Forrest whose adjutant Maj.
J.P. Strange, wrote, "HD. Qtrs. Forrest Cavalry Corp.
Gainesville April 21/65 Respectfully refd this Brig. Genl.
Tucker to Comdg. officer for remarks. By order of Lt. Gen.
Forrest." Below this is a note from Brig. Genl. William
Tucker's adjutant on Apr. 26, in addition to the signature
of John Withers, area with Davis ANS with some minor
soiling, still Fine, a most interesting document in the
twilight of the Confederacy. By the time Generals Forrest
and Tucker saw this, Lee and Johnston had surrendered
their armies, Davis had fled Richmond and Forrest himself
had been defeated at Selma. Documents with both Jefferson
Davis's and Bedford Forrest's names are exceedingly scarce
and this may represent the last time Forrest was to read
any message from the President of the Confederacy...............$1,000
2455 Jefferson Davis. ANS as Secretary of War, on back of 1856
letter from Henry K. Craig as Col. of Ordnance, to Davis:
"The chief of Ordnance will give further explanation of
this case to the committee on Mil. Affairs of the Senate.
Its history, and probable consequences not only to the
arsenal but also to the use of the magazine will be
clearly presented. Jeffn Davis Sec. of War May 13, 1856.",
Very Fine.........................................................$550
2456 Jefferson Davis. ANS, datelined "Washington Jany. 19,
1861", to C.C. Chapman of Illinois, "Yours duly received
and I have the honor to be very respectfully yrs & c.",
only days after Miss., Florida, Alabama and Georgia
seceeded, Fine....................................................$575
2457 Jefferson Davis. ANS, 1p, dated July 21, 1889, to J.D.
McPherson: "You would much oblige me, if you would send to
me existing tarrif laws. As ever truly your friend
Jefferson Davis", with original transmittal envelope
entirely in his hand with note to postmaster: "please
supply deficiency in address", Beauvoir Miss. cds and 1c
Ultramarine (212) tied by targets, Fine...........................$550
2458 Jefferson Davis. ANS, undated, most likely an autograph
request: "I have the honor to be very truly and
respectfully yours &c. &c. Jeffn Davis", mounted on paper,
small faults......................................................$450
2459 C [Jefferson Davis]. Large buff cover with 5c Blue, Local
(7) two horizontal pairs, margins all around, tied by
dateless "Charlotte NC." cds and addressed "To His
Excellency Jefferson Davis/President C.S.A." in Richmond,
some vertical folds and wrinkling, neither affecting
pairs, Fine and desirable usage...................................$575
Confederate Generals
2460 C Robert E. Lee. Autograph endorsement ("R E Lee Genl") on
field cover from Petersburg, addressed in his hand to Mrs.
Hetty Pegram in Richmond##ROBERT E. LEE WRITES TO THE
WIDOW OF GENERAL JOHN PEGRAM##Hetty Pegram was once
described by Henry Kyd Douglas as "the most beautiful
woman of her day and generation," but her marriage to
General Pegram was attended by several omens, including
the bride breaking a mirror on her dressing table, and
when President Davis sent his private carriage and horses
to take the couple to church, the horses stubbornly
refused to go forward. Three weeks later Genl. Pegram was
killed at Hatcher's Run on Feb. 6, 1865. This cover once
contained a letter of condolence, dated Feb. 11, 1865 at
Petersburg, which is now part of the collection of the
Virginia Historical Society. On the day of Pegram's death,
Lee was given command of all the armies of the
Confederacy.##Cover originally with small nick at T.L.
from opening, and which has been very skillfully repaired
(along with two tiny tears), beautiful appearance, a Very
Fine example of a Lee field cover, accompanied by 1967
Goodspeed certificate, a photocopy of Lee's letter to
Hetty Pegram, and a copy of an article on the Pegrams,
"Until Death Us Do Part - A Civil War Romance" by Walter
Griggs Jr......................................................$10,000
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