LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2007 June Civil War Grand Format Auction #663  / 

74305

U.S. General George Meade War Date ALS

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:250.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
U.S. General George Meade War Date ALS
<B>U.S. General George Meade War Date Autograph Letter Signed</B></I> "<I>Geo. G. Meade</B></I>". Two pages (front and verso of one sheet), 7.75" x 9.75" lined "Head-Quarters, Army of the Potomac" letterhead, Culpeper, Virginia , March 15, 1864, to "<I>Maj. Genl. Humphreys Chief of Staff</B></I>." Meade writes a letter of recommendation for Humphreys after hearing that his nomination to major general was in jeopardy because of opposition in the senate, in part: "<I>I have learned with great surprise & regret, that owing to certain false & slanderous reports, circulated by a subordinate officer, where in the discharge of your duties, you were compelled to have tried & dismissed the service that your confirmation by the Senate has been jeopardised. This due to truth & the relations existing between us that I should say I desire most earnestly your confirmation for the reason, that contrary to your inclinations, you gave up the command of a division thereby sacrificing your personal interests in order to accept the position of Chief of my staff which position you have not only filled to my entire satisfaction, but as I believe & know with great value to the army & the county... You are at liberty to shew this letter to any member of the Senate whom you may desire to communicate with...</B></I>" The nomination was eventually approved, and Humphreys was promoted to major general of volunteers on July 8, 1863, likely in some part due to this powerful letter from Meade. Humphreys' most ardent desire was a field command, but he accepted the position as Meade's chief of staff in order to get the promotion he felt he deserved, thus Meade's comment of "<I>...sacrificing your personal interests...</B></I>" Some age toning to edges and light general soiling, else very good.<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Flat Material, Small (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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