$2,760
Davis, Jefferson (1808-1889) Archive of Correspondence with John W. French (1808-1871) Four autograph letters signed by Jefferson Davis, written between 1856 and 1859; a document appointing French as Chaplain and Professor of geography, history, and ethics at West Point, signed by Davis as Secretary of War, with the original envelope; and two letters written by French to Davis, same period. The first letter is an endorsement of French written by Davis on August 26, 1856, and signed twice by Davis; the second letter, also signed by Davis, with envelope a free frank signature as Secretary of War, concerns the courses taught by French at West Point; in the third letter (eight pages) Davis discusses French's plans and aspirations for his courses at the academy in detail, signaling his own frustration at not being able to better help. "To effect anything you must have the concurrence of the Superintendent and Inspector of the Academy, without this a Secretary of War can only commence a structure with the anticipation that at the close of his brief term it will be demolished. I have but little over two months longer to serve, for myself I wish the time was less [...]." Davis then moves on to personal news. "My little daughter who it gives me pleasure to remember received the first sacrament of the church at your hands has improved much since you saw her, and talks now so plainly that I find her quite an interesting companion, and very naturally suppose if you could see her how Read more…
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2013-11-17
