Catalogue No. 69

1-1. Price List for Colt, Allen & Wheelock, Smith & Wesson, Sharp's Revolvers, and more.

Printed "List of Prices," with prices in manuscript by gun dealer, judged c. 1860, 5 ¹/4 x 8 ³/4, for old and new models of Colt's Revolvers, together with Allen & Wheelock's Revolvers nos. 30 and 32, Smith & Wesson's Revolver ("Imitation of" crossed out, and "Genuine" penned), Sharp's Revolvers nos. 1 and 2, camp knives, and "caps for Colt's and other Pistols always on hand." Penned at bottom, 7 lines: "Colts Cartridges 1 ³/4¢ ea., Allen & W(heelock) Cartridges 90 & 50¢ per 100...G.D. Caps, 50¢ per M for American, 55¢ for French, Water Proof $1.25 for B. & B., Colts Pistol 1.25." New Colt models include "Bore ³¹/100ths of an inch in diameter, 3 ¹/2 in., 5 shots, steel mounting, 12.00, 4 ¹/2 in..., 12.50...." Old quarter folds, some handling, but good, suitable for display, and scarce. $80-110

1-2. Antebellum Virginia Advertising Broadside for "Percussion Guns" and Hardware.

Charming Southern prewar advertising broadside, evidently not later than 1837. "New Hardware Store. Van-Lew & Morton, Importers of Hardware, Saddlery and Cutlery, at the sign of the Golden Anvil [with small detailed woodcut], Bollingbrook St., Petersburg, Virginia...." At bottom, prominently featuring "Single and Double Barrel Flint and Percussion Guns, Flint and Percussion Pistols, Game Bags, Shot Belts, Powder Flasks, &c...." T.W. White, Printer, Richmond. About 8 x 13 ¹/4. Two-column list of assortment of merchandise: "Carpenter's Planes and Tools of all kinds...Scotch Spring, Knob, Mortice...Book Case and all other locks, Brass and Iron Butt Hinges of all sizes and kinds...Brass, Steel and Iron Shovels...Cut and Wrought Nails...Ames and other Spades and Shovels..." and more. Lengthy manuscript on verso, on "proximity of Sharon Church meeting house to the Baptist meeting house, at Tar River [N.C.]..." and building a new church. Once begun, the structure was found "to do little or no good in that neighborhood," and the semi-finished 24 by 32' building was moved. Naming clergy attending the church's first supper, the crowd overflowing into five tents. Perhaps a period transcription from a North Carolina newspaper article, using the broadside as writing paper; 1833 the last date mentioned. "James" in contemporary hand at upper left; "Owing" in margin. Deckled at top and bottom, rather tattered along right vertical, but wide margin, and affecting no text; prominent water stain affecting about right vertical half, lighter staining elsewhere, but still satisfactory and displayable. RareBookHub records nothing relating to this business at auction or in dealer catalogues, 1860 to present. No related institutional holdings on WorldCat. Google finds only a Van-Lew & Morton advertisement in The Farmers' Register of Mar. 1837. An excessively rare antebellum imprint, perhaps a unique survivor. $300-375 F

1-3. Broadside: St. Patrick, the Horse from Ireland.

Splendid illustrated broadside, with oversize woodcut of "St. Patrick - This celebrated imported Horse will stand for the season at the stable...and will be let to mares...Single leap, $4. Season, $7. Insurance, $12...St. Patrick was got by the famous Race horse Richmond...bred by the Marquis of Donegal, and imported from Ireland to America...is a Chestnut Sorrel, 15 hands high, and of very superior action...." C. Chism, Rotterdam (N.Y.), May 12, 1838. 11 ¹/2 x 16 ¹/4. Woodcut by Anderson. Listing St. Patrick's lineage, including Challenger, Tom Tug, King Herod, Young Wood Pecker, Platina, and others. Lacking blank lower right corner, mousechew at blank upper right edge backed with small piece white linen on verso, light waterstains, some wrinkles, but still good plus, and striking for display. No examples located by WorldCat. Perhaps a sole survivor. $140-180

1-4. Flour and Beef for "one Indian and two Squaws."

Rather extraordinary manuscript document, for meals for Indians assisting "Mad Anthony" Wayne's army - possibly as spies or captured informants - as the climax of the Northwest Indian Wars approached. Rare use of the place name (Fort of) Greene Ville (Ohio), June 5, 1794, 6 ¹/4 x 7 ¹/2. To "Contractors": "Provision return for one Indian and two Squaws, four days commencing the 5th and ending the 8th...3 Indians, 4 days, 2 Rat(ion)s pr. day = 24 Rations. Gentlemen: Please issue on the above return twenty four Rations of Flour & Beef." Signed by Asst. Q.M. Abr(aham?) Stewart, and Adj. Gen. John Mills, here serving under Wayne, in his new Legion of the U.S. In Jan. 1776, Mills had joined the Mass. Continental Line, serving through the Revolution. Here, in 1794, "he was the only one of Wayne's acting inspectors to receive the general's formal nomination to be Adjt. and Inspector Gen., but no action was taken..."--The Inspectors General of the U.S. Army..., Clary & Whitehorne, p. 426. The previous month, Mills had been "highly praised by Wayne for his efficiency at the battle of Fallen Timbers"--Michigan Pioneer and Historical Collections, Vol. 34, 1905, p. 346. In 1795, the Treaty of Greenville was signed, taming years of frontier warfare. In the famous 23-foot-wide painting by Howard Chandler Christy depicting the Treaty, John Mills - signer of this document - is shown with future Pres. William Henry Harrison, Lewis and Clark, Anthony Wayne, et al.

The stage was described in The Winning of the West, by none other than Theodore Roosevelt:

"Wayne showed his capacity as a commander by the use he made of his spies or scouts. A few of these were Chickasaw or Choctaw Indians; the rest, twenty or thirty in number, were drawn from the ranks of the wild white Indian-fighters, the men who plied their trade of warfare and the chase right on the hunting grounds of the hostile tribes. They were far more dangerous to the Indians, and far more useful to the army, than the like number of regular soldiers or ordinary rangers.

"It was on these fierce backwoods riflemen that Wayne chiefly relied for news of the Indians, and they served him well. In small parties, or singly, they threaded the forest scores of miles in advance or to one side of the marching army, and kept close watch on the Indians' movements. As skilful and hardy as the red warriors, much better marksmen, and even more daring, they took many scalps, harrying the hunting parties, and hanging on the outskirts of the big wigwam villages. They captured and brought in Indian after Indian, from whom Wayne got valuable information. The use of scouts, and the consequent knowledge gained by the examination of Indian prisoners, emphasized the difference between St. Clair and Wayne. Wayne's reports are accompanied by many examinations of Indian captives."--Roosevelt's footnote: "Examination of two Pottawatamies captured on the 5th of June" [the very date of this document]--American State Papers, Vol. IV, p. 489, no. 94.

Some 25 days after this document was penned, the inaptly-named clash at Fort Recovery took place. Docketed "No. 9 / 24." Some ivory and tan mottling from dampstaining, pea-sized hole at blank left edge, else about very good, and dramatic for display. Such items with Indian - and especially squaw content - are seldom encountered. If this is the "June 5" document cited in Teddy Roosevelt's book, it assumes even richer context. $950-1250 F

1-5. Winning Pair in an Early American Lottery.

Uncut vertical pair of Chelsea Lottery tickets, Norwich (Conn.), June 1794, about 4 ¹/2 x 5 ¹/4. "Class First." Nos. 1342 and 1343. Anti-counterfeiting borders, scalloped left margin. Consecutively numbered and signed by manager Joseph Perkins in salmon-pink ink. "4 dol(lar)s" penned in margin of each, indicating winning numbers. "This ticket entitles the possessor to such prizes as may be drawn against its number...subject to a deduction of twelve and an half [sic] per cent." No plate letter. Lacking blank upper right corner, edge tear at top, old half fold between tickets, uniform cream toning, tic-tac-toe cancellation penned in lighter pink ink, else about very good. From the papers of Nicholas Low, who began his career as a clerk to Jewish colonial merchant Hayman Levy, then founded his own firm during the Revolution; director of Bank of N.Y., 1785; member N.Y. Constitutional Convention, and business agent of Alexander Hamilton, Pierre L'Enfant, Gouverneur Morris, et al. Richards 19; old catalogue value 150.00 each. $160-200 (Pair)

1-6. The End of the Only Successful Privately-Held Patroonship in America - operated by Blacks, Indentured Whites, and Indians.

Two fascinating items: Attractive D.S. of William H. Seward as Gov. of N.Y., Albany, July 6, 1840, 10 x 15. Appointing Gary V. Sacket of Seneca Falls as a Commissioner under "An Act to provide for the Settlement of the disputes existing between the Landlord and tenants of the Manor of Rensselaerwyck...in the place of Gideon Lee who declines the appointment in the recess of the Senate...." Begun in New York's Hudson Valley by Dutch patroon Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, a diamond and pearl merchant and a director of the Dutch West India Co., which founded New Netherland, Rensselaerwyck utilized enslaved black, indentured white, and Indian servant-laborers. Established 1635 as a feudal manor around Claverack, N.Y., Rensselaerwyck became "the only successful privately-held colony in America"--"Contested Ground: Hinterland Slavery in Colonial New York," in Afro-Americans in New York Life and History, Williams-Myers, 2009. Remaining a functioning, legal entity for over two centuries, it became the focus of the Anti-Rent Riots in 1839, which motivated the family's sale of most of the vast property. The present document began the dismantling of the colony, which had operated through Dutch, British, and American eras; its contemporary colonies, including Jamestown and Plymouth, had long before evolved into modern jurisdictions. Blind-embossed seal. Old glassine tape reinforcement on verso along breaks of eighth folds, moderate toning along vertical fold, split along one horizontal fold, passing through dark signature, but expertly repaired not later than 1970 and probably before; some cream mottling, but in all appearing about very good, and entirely displayable. Old pencil notation and 25.00 price, possibly in Mary Benjamin's hand, 1967-70, based upon folder in which found. The namesake of "Seward's Folly" - for his purchase of Alaska - less well known is that in a newspaper account of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, readers were reminded that "Sec. (of State) Seward...anticipated forty years ago that the battle of freedom would be fought upon this ground, and that slavery would die"--New York Weekly News, Nov. 28, 1863 (not present). On the night of Lincoln's assassination, he was seriously wounded, and his son killed. • D.S. of heir S(tephen) (Van) Rensselaer, as endorsement on manuscript promissory note of noted N.Y. banker and property tycoon Nich(olas) Low, paying Van Rensselaer $300 in 56 days after Feb. 3, 1807. Albany, 3 ¹/4 x 7 ³/4. Also signed by Low, and on verso by Bank of Albany clerk John Willard with elaborate paraph. Light toning at three edges, else fine. Heir to Rensselaerwyck, Maj. Gen. of militia in War of 1812, early advocate of Erie Canal, and founder of today's Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute, it was upon Van Rensselaer's passing in 1839 that tenants rose against his successors. The ensuing, violent Anti-Rent War spelled the end of Rensselaerwyck. Even as Seward signed the first document in this lot, "practically nothing" was remembered about the original patroon. It was not until translation and publication of the Van Rensselaer family records in the early twentieth century that "reveal(ed) the personality of the man who figures prominently in the history of colonization as the founder of the only successful patroonship that ever existed in New Netherland..."--wikipedia. A significant lot. $350-425 (2 pcs.)

1-7. When Roosevelt was Rosevelt - 1826.

Remarkable A.L.S. of attorney J(acob) R. Van Rensselaer, Claverack (N.Y.), center of the only successful privately-held colony in America - the feudal manor of Rensselaerwyck (see preceding and following lots). Apr. 7, 1826, 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4, 2 pp. To George Tibbits (family namesake of Tibbits Brook, a Westchester County waterway ending at Van Cortlandt Lake in The Bronx). Black c.d.s. Hudson, N.Y. Mentioning a veritable who's-who of founding families of New York, he writes, "I have no idea that Rosevelt [note spelling] can prove the payment of the mortgage to Schuyler. I am persuaded on the contrary that he owed him more money...and will have the deed from William DePeyster & his wife Mary for you. Every effort will be made for the protection of the Purchasers. Two or three years ago, John Rosevelt called on me for some money to aid him. I then told him there was money due to me from Peter Van Schaack on an assignment made to me by his Father...I will send to Kinderhook for copies of my letter & his [Rosevelt's] receipt, & if they are as full as I believe they will form the basis of a bill in Chancery...If I can make a pretty strong case I fancy Schuyler will be inclined to withdraw, as he will be obliged to risque his own property in the event of defeat...I cannot at my time of life calculate on doing more than supporting my family, on my own unaided exertions." One horizontal fold and other spots repaired with tape, 1 x 1 ¹/2 blank portion torn when opened, bottom edge dust-toned and chipped, else good. A leading N.Y. politician, this Van Rensselaer was key in building Erie Canal. His brother-in-law was married to Mary Roosevelt; the John "Rosevelt" referred to here was Mary's uncle, a land speculator. Shortly after Van Rensselaer's passing, his daughter, Catharine Schuyler Van Rensselaer, is said to have demised of grief. $80-110

1-8. The Rent Riots in Old New York State.

Five issues of Rural Repository, a scarce early magazine "Embellished with Engravings" and "devoted to Polite Literature." Published in Hudson, N.Y., Jan. 1, 1842-Jan. 4, 1845, variously, 9 x 11, (8) pp. ea., with woodcut on each front page, including Falls of Niagara, farm outside Albany (with delightful railroad passing through), views and histories of Johnstown and Batavia, N.Y. Item on "The Anti-Renters": "The days of chivalry have returned amongst us - all are now full of deeds of war and daring. We are surrounded as in a fortress with soldiers, swords, pistols, cannon, colonels, etc. These in Old Hudson have become the order of the day. The Anti-Renters of Columbia County have arisen in their strength and refused to pay the Rents...Our citizens appear to be resolute and firm, in supporting the law of the land...It appears...to be rather alarming...." Early joke on the "Locomotive vs. Old Dobbin" (1842). Considerable foxing, some tears; 2 x 4 triangular tip of one leaf lacking, two interior leaves tattered, some loss of text at 1 x 1 ¹/2 triangular wedges, else satisfactory, and seldom encountered. In the pre-Civil War years, Hudson was a key transit point on the Underground Railroad; even today, it has a sizeable Quaker population, and one of the finest collections of architecturally significant buildings in the state. $90-120 (5 pcs.)

1-9. Wisconsin and Iowa Territorial and early Statehood Letters: "...She was afraid you was killed by the Indians."

A substantial group of 25 poignant letters, Oct. 15, 1837-Jan. 21, 1864, mostly to a young, independent-minded, but deeply spiritual New York woman who bravely - and somewhat impulsively - moved to frontier Dubuque, initially in Wisconsin Territory. (When Iowa was incorporated as a territory on July 4, 1838, Dubuque then became part of Iowa Territory. Iowa next became a State in1846. Wisconsin became a Territory in 1836, and a State in 1848.) Primarily to Jerusha M. Wright, marrying in her first year in Iowa, thence addressed as Jerusha (Mrs. Leroy) M. Jackson. Many from Mary A. Wright, Jerusha's mother, in Greenport, N.Y.; others from cousin A(nn) E(liza) Wade in Williamsburgh, Long Island (today Brooklyn), cousin A.W. Bartlett, Waterville, Oneida County, N.Y., Jerusha's brother David, et al.

Just a few highlights: First letter, Oct. 15, 1837, from Jerusha's mother: "...I broke up house soon after you left...I was not a little surprised that you made up your mind so soon. I wish you to consider [impending marriage] well now and not when it is too late. You ought to know each others dispositions which I am afraid you can't in so short a time. Does Mr. J(ackson) know that you are a poor girl...Do not deceive him...My anxiety is great for you...I had ought to give my consent so you have it...Mr. Wright and wife was surprised that you had left to go so far. They felt as if they should never see you again...." Jerusha's uncle adds, "Mr. J. might have favored me with a line from his own pen as a mark of regard...." • From mother, Dec. 18-20, 1837: "(Cousin) Eliza was much surprised when I told her you was married but was pleased to have a brother, and says she wants to come and see the baskets you bought from the Indians. Your friends that know of your marriage was surprised but wish you a great deal of happiness...I feel unsettled since you left me...Tell me how you like the place and whether it would be a good place for me...." • Letter, Nov. 16, 1838, from her mother: "[Cousin Eliza] has often said she was afraid you was killed by the Indians...."

• Tragic letter from cousin Eliza, May 14, 1840, upon the sudden passing of Jerusha's child: "...You have lost your little boy so unexpectedly but no doubt God intends it for good...It may be the means of the conversion of your husband...Try to remember He that strikes will support you under it...." Jerusha's mother will leave for Dubuque in the next day or two, arriving in June. She apparently stayed. (By June 1842, a letter notes that Jerusha now has three children. "...Well, you are happy no doubt....") • Letter, July 5, 1846, to Jerusha, in Delhi (west of Dubuque), Delaware County, Iowa Territory, from her cousin Mrs. Abigail W. Whittaker. Letter-writers sound concerned about the remoteness of Jerusha's locale; indeed, Delhi is no longer on the map. • From cousin A.E. Wade in Williamsburgh, mentioning the "California Excitement," and asking if Jerusha's neighbors have gone to get gold. "...It is very convenient to have a little gold or silver at our command, but there is danger of our setting our affections upon the gift instead of the giver...." Interestingly dated May 12, 1847, her missive predates Marshall's discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in Jan. 1848. (Iowa was now a State.) • From E. Wright, Greenport, Long Island, to Jerusha, Rockville, Delaware County, Iowa, Mar. 28, 1848. • Letters from Jerusha's sister, E.S. Newton, in Lowell, Mass., asking for money as she is too sick to work in the mill; in another, she asks for money again to become a teacher, since her health doesn't permit working in the mills. • From her mother, 1850, suggesting soothing a sore throat with "smoked hog jaw" or steeping hops in vinegar. • From her husband's nephew, Richard J. Lambreth, Muhlenburg Co., Ky.,1850, on state of tobacco crops. • Undated letter on having to walk to work in six inches of snow to engage in coffee business. • Letter to Mrs. Mary Dillon, Dubuque, from husband G.D. Dillon in Cleveland, mentioning buying baskets from Indians, tasting elk meat, someone married to a missionary in the West Indies, and another engaged in organ building. Much more. Some with postal markings. Varied fold and handling wear, some with edge tears or defects, one (only) with three large mousechews at fold affecting some text, else about good to about very good. Majority of letters with old typewritten transcriptions.

• O.J. Mattison's childhood "Leaves of Friendship" autograph book, Oskaloosa, Iowa, 1880-81, with numerous entries evidently of schoolmates; the autograph collector likely of the W. Mattison's groceries and provisions store family in Oskaloosa. Ornately tooled and gilt-decorated full calf, 6 ¹/4 x 8, all edges gilt, several copperplate engravings bound in. Much worn, hinges loose but holding, else satisfactory and charming. • 20 pale ivory, blue, pink, and yellow leaves disbound in incomplete autograph book, each with a poem "To Emma," signed by a different friend in Buena Vista, Camden, and Haddonfield, N.J., 1849-55. One leaf wrinkled, else good and better. $475-675 (25 letters, 1 autograph book, and leaves from another)

1-10. The Real House of Usher - The Richest Man in the North Woods.

Highly interesting, varied archive of letters reflecting the rise and fall of "the wealthiest man in Northern New York," Luke Usher (1830-1902), of Potsdam, in the Adirondack Mountain region. About 215 letters and documents, all to him, 1882-98, but mainly 1890-98, manuscript and typed, many multiple pages, plus about 10 billheads (some with fancy mastheads). From lawyers, insurance companies, naval stations, dignitaries, businessmen, the U.S. Receiving Ship Vermont, and Flagship Philadelphia - Pacific Station, variously in Albany, Canton, Gouverneur, Malone, N.Y.C., Ogdensburg, Potsdam, Syracuse, naval bases, and elsewhere. Usher's multifaceted empire was interrupted by his Federal indictment, during the time span of this archive, in 1897, while Pres. of National Bank of Potsdam. A man of great accomplishment, active in lumber, paper mills, lime, and pyrite mining, "his first posting was as a civil engineer on the Erie Canal. In 1861 he came to Potsdam, (as) cashier of the old Frontier Bank...(which) was succeeded by the National Bank of Potsdam...In 1890 he was elected president of the bank..."--The St. Lawrence Herald, Jan. 17, 1902. Including: On elaborately ornate letterhead of Fidelity and Casualty Co., N.Y., 1897, "We note by press despatch the suspension of the National Bank of Potsdam [of which Usher was Pres. and would be indicted later that year]...Will you kindly let us know by return mail the amount of such funds on deposit at the time of ceasing business...." • Pleas for money from a wayward nephew of Usher, employed in the Auditor's Office of the N.Y. Custom House. He also writes, in Oct. 1896, "McKinley flags are all over the City...." • An attorney at 194 Broadway in Manhattan writes, "I have this day recd. a letter from a prominent London syndicate who will investigate the Cal. lumber project. As soon as I receive the option, I will mail them description of yours...." • From a Canton, N.Y. lawyer: "I notice upon the list of lands advertised at Albany...that some if not all of your wild lands are included...."

• Letter from attorney Fred Small, Little Falls, N.Y. - but his name printed in enormous formal script, evidently a touch of humor. "...Of course you have heard of the death of Wm. Smith (Blinky Bill)...." • From a Malone, N.Y. lawyer: "How does the pulp mill scheme progress? I was informed on the cars a few days ago that it was not going through...." • Several letters of Vasco Abbott, the Gouverneur attorney who was with Usher when he died in 1902, according to obituary. • Post-indictment letters from attorney: "...I have received this morning...a letter of...U.S. Attorney for the Northern District...I suggest that you go to the General [Slocum] and talk the matter over carefully with him. It will not do to be found napping...." "You and I do not understand your case alike...." "...I mailed your letter...to Gov. Flower this morning...." "...I have an impression that Legacy and LaDuke are in a conspiracy to blackmail you, and that the indictment against them is a fake." "...Your wife was most cruelly wronged in the transaction...Neither Mr. Lefebvre [in whose tailor shop Usher demised] nor any of the parties who conspired to gobble up her stock are entitled to any consideration...." • Copy of letter of Sen. Platt, introducing Usher's lawyer to a state legislator, to influence his client's plight. • Earlier letter from Supt. of Insurance: "The General has an abundance of money, and he will be just the sort of a man to embark in such an enterprise...." • Letters from Usher's salesman who has just obtained an order for 100 tons of paper. "Mr. Webster would not give away the secret as to how to make the particular kind of paper that they are making ...We must arrange to put sufficient logs into the river...." • On ornate letterhead of Office of Factory Inspector, State of N.Y., to Usher's Piercefield Paper & Mining Co.: "Information has been received by me that your company...is violating... the laws...You do not pay to your employees their wages once a week, in cash...." • T.L.S. of N.Y. Superintendent of Insurance, just months before Usher's indictment: "...It was only a question of time when you would be positively the richest man in Northern New York...." • A carbon copy of a 5-pp. letter of the Superintendent - an investor in Usher's paper mill, to a London businessman, may unwittingly set the stage for the diversion of funds for which Usher would be indicted. • Letter of U.S. Attorney, on indictment. • Bill of stenographer for "reporting U.S. v. Luke Usher, 7 days, $35."

• A.L.S. of N.Y. Gov. Roswell P. Flower, July 6, 1897, 1 ¹/2 pp., on ornate letterhead of Flower & Co. A shareholder in Usher's mill, he writes: "I cannot concur of a better plan than the creditors have adopted to get into shape...I will put no more money into it than I am obligated for...You must remember that I am not in the paper business...I am very much in doubt now if we can ever get out what we are putting in." Some soiling. Flower was defeated by Grover Cleveland in New York primary; Flower Hospital in N.Y.C. named for him; said by The New York Times (obituary accompanies) to have been the leading figure on Wall Street after the Maine explosion panic. "Close to $100,000,000 were added to the current values of the Flower stocks...." Friend of Tilden. Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, Morgan, and "the Standard Oil crowd." Much, much more. A fascinating view of great success - and setbacks - in a rugged area in the Gay Nineties, worthy of further research. The archive contains a wealth of examples of early typewriting, on a range of machines and in a variety of colors. Some occasional, minor defects, but generally good to very fine. With modern copies of N.Y. Times articles. $600-900 (about 225 pcs.)

1-11. Early Lumbering in New York.

Letter from Henry Tallmadge, Ithaca (N.Y.), Nov. 1829, 7 ³/4 x 12. To Jacob Willsey, Postmaster, Willseyville, Tioga Co(unty), N.Y. "My time in this place is nearby expired and may laugh when I tell you I have gently walked back to Dryden and hired a Saw Mill again for six months with a partner. We have bout [sic] a lot of Timber and have a quantity of Customers logs sufficient to keep her a going. We are establishing a Potash in addition as an extra branch and we intend to give one harty kick on a death struggle. I...shall not come out until I get fairly settled. I wish you to Cull and Count the Spokes...and be so good as to Carefully pack up the Culls so they are not wasted." Dark pink Ithaca c.d.s., "Free." Browned from heat, breaks but no separation at some folds, but with enormous patina and visual appeal. $75-100

1-12. Before Unions: Striking for higher wages - 1835.

Unusual, early letter on labor strife, from George Proctor, Philadelphia, June 10, 1835, 8 x 10, 3 pp. "There have been some great doings here for the past week in the shape of turnouts by the mechanics. They struck for higher wages and for ten hours. The Schuylkill laborers struck first, the masons and bricklayers next, carpenters, shoemakers, hod carriers, blacksmiths, street scavengers, wood sawyers & finally the seamen. They have (been) marching and countermarching through the streets for a weeks past with drums & fife, flags a flying with mottoes of ‘from 7 to 6' or ‘from VII to VI.' They keep it up til eleven o'clock at night with brilliant transparencies. I believe they have carried the point...It behooves us to make a good use of our time, as it passes for 10 or 20 years to look at in the perspective seems a long time, but once gone how short it seems...There are great inducements held out here...to go a frolicking or steamboating. A person can go 80 miles on the Delaware for the sum of 37 ¹/2 cts...I contemplate going to Wilmington next Sunday, the distance going & returning is about 100 miles, fare $1, dog cheap...." Integral address-leaf, curiously endorsed by sender, "By the politeness of Miss Garritt." Dampstain at seam affecting some words, else good plus. The first recorded strike of factory operators had occurred in Paterson, N.J. seven years before. $80-110

1-13. Adventure in the Old Midwest: "We started out for Iowa...in a covered wagon...."

Splendid assemblage of six antebellum letters from Leaming M. Rice, originally from Cape May, N.J., traveling through the Midwest, with glowing commentary on Illinois and Iowa. July 27, 1850-Oct. 17, 1852, from Richland (Sangamon County, Ill.) (two letters), Raccoon River (Iowa) (one), and Davenport (Iowa) (three), most about 7 ³/4 x 10, 23 pp. in all, penned in a florid clear hand. A well written, detailed account of travels and of life itself, the letters revealing a fairly complex personality. Has taken "the land route" from Cincinnati to Springfield, "about 300 miles of stage riding...The people here [in Richland] are very clever...I like the country very much around in this section, in some parts of Indiana it is horrible...." Refers to a contingent of "Cape May people" who have evidently moved to Illinois, "highly delighted with the country...I think Enoch is mightily in the notion of getting a wife...I find the country [Richland] very different from what I had been led to expect...Instead of an ignorant and degraded community living in miserable huts, and wallowing in filth, with children growing up in ignorance and rags, I find that all the farmers...have beautiful houses...The people live a great deal better here than in the East. I have been among some of the poorest of them...and I find every man's table spread with abundance, and indications of comfort and contentment everywhere evident. Nearly everyone is within the reach of good common schools, and there is quite as much intelligence among the people as there is in New Jersey, and more sociability and frankness I never met with among any people...All who are anxious for a change turn their attention to the vast unsettled valleys of Oregon, Iowa, and Wisconsin...The emigration to Oregon and Iowa from this and the adjacent states is immense; nearly every day I see or hear of families who are taking up the line of march, to seek a home west of the Rocky Mountains. As for myself, though, I have fallen very much in love with this country, and think I could spend the balance of my life very agreeably here...." The preceding from the first two letters only! Much more: "We started out for Iowa, on a wild goose chase, four of us in company in a covered wagon. We have now got beyond the settled country, and have to cook for ourselves. We live on corn cake, coffee, and bacon, with now and then a slice of venison, or a wild turkey...We make our beds around our fire, when far from any settlements...Sometimes we can obtain shelter and a warm supper among the settlers, for although rough in general, and unsophisticated in their manners, yet we find as warm hearts and as accommodating people inside of the rough log cabin, as in the houses of the rich and fashionable...The boys have got our grub ready...I am writing on a log...." A strange passage, writing from Davenport: "...Ever since the secret has been revealed to me, I have hugged it to my bosom, and it has eaten like a canker worm into my soul. It is as yet known to none save my self...." Mentions Fort Des Moines. The last letter says he will be returning home via N.Y., but "may be detained by the uncertain navigation of the rivers...." Some toning and wear at folds, one letter lighter but entirely legible; varied handling, else generally very good. Fascinating reflection of the American spirit and settlement of the West. $275-375 (6 pcs.)

1-14. The Great Chicago Fire: "Our copy of inventory was burned...."

Letter signed "The Singer Manfg. Co.," Chicago, Nov. 10, 1871, 8 x 10, to home office in N.Y. "We are sorry you misapprehended us in the matter of the Jan. settlement last. We want the inventory entire. The other figures our books show, but our copy of inventory was burned. It will be of service in showing to Insurance Cos. the amount of stock we usually carried...." Light toning at left where mounted in company letterbook with paper strip, purple office notations, else fine. An "early" Chicago item: essentially no public records survive prior to October. $60-85

1-15. Lower East Side: From Barnum to "noisy, dirty and very clannish."

Fascinating letter of proprietor Jos. H. Tooker of Metropolitan Job Printing Establishment, 38 Vesey St. (probably facing the future World Trade Center's Tower 5), N.Y., Apr. 9, 1884, 5 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/4, 2 pp. To cousin Joseph Chadwick, offering to buy a house at 16 Norfolk St. (in the core of the Lower East Side) from him. "The house was bought in 1826 by Grandma Tooker...I remember when three sea captains lived there, Latham, Cobb, and my father. They fancied that they were living in style. I had my wedding reception there 30 years ago...I had a son born in the same room in which I was born in the old house. P.T. Barnum lived there with his wife's mother, Mrs. Ammerman. The roof was burned off in 1839...The neighborhood is swarming with Polish Jews now and their colony is one of the sights of the metropolis. Noisy, dirty and very clannish. The last year that I lived in Norfolk Street I was the oldest living native resident of the 13th Ward. Your grandfather Chadwick at one time lived at No. 47 Norfolk St...People have just begun to find out that real estate can run up into the air as well as back, and some buildings are nine and even ten stories high, but breathing space in the rear is necessary...." Ornate typography, "Railroad Printing... Theatrical Printing, Wood Engraving...." Because of irregular fold for mailing, portion of last four characters of signature lacking, else fine. With envelope, printed cornercard, sound 2¢ Scott #210. Norfolk Street was in the heart of the Jewish quarter of the Lower East Side. $80-110 (2 pcs.)

1-16. Prison Libraries and Disease Transmission in New York.

Group of four letters, New York City, 1912-13, between Dept. of Corrections Commissioner Patrick A. Whitney and benefactors, on creating libraries in N.Y.C prisons: A.L. (unsigned draft) of F. Maurice Newton, East Hampton, to Whitney, 2 pp., on "installation and supervision by the Burrows League of Libraries in several of the institutions under your Dept. (Work Houses, Penitentiaries & Reformatory)...Our plan is to gain what assistance we can from the N.Y. Public Library...to buy books, according to a list now made...to arrange the proper shelving...& the training of ‘husties'...to act as Librarians...." • T.L.S. of Whitney, on ornate N.Y.C. Dept. of Correction letterhead, to Newton. "...The proposal of the League...is gratefully accepted by me, in behalf of the inmates of the Dept." Signature smudged by blotter, else very good. • A.L.S. of Newton, 1 p., hoping that new library will be operated "by men and women each of whom knows both prisoners and books, and by a procedure of sense & humanity...The establishment of decent libraries, properly managed, in our N.Y. penal institutions can be, even under the best auspices, but a beginning in a still experimental study...." • A.L.S. of Robert Bachman, Grace Clergy House, 417 E. 13 St., 3 pp. "...I would like to suggest that the N.Y.C. Reformatory on Hart's Island will probably repay investigation, especially as to the social conditions wh(ich) obtain there, and the transmission and treatment of disease. I have been out of touch with the place for some 17 years, but have no reason to thinking it is any better than it was at that time...Knowledge of actual conditions must be secured, of course, from released boys themselves. Mr. Whitney is rather touchy...." • Also, T.L.S. from Parole Board Commissioner Quinn, N.Y.C., 1968. Minor wear, else very good. $55-75 (5 pcs.)

1-17. The Sewing Machine Business at the End of the Civil War.

Group of 16 letters received at Singer Sewing Machine's N.Y. headquarters, most from their dealers in other cities, in the fateful months of Mar. and Apr. 1865. Dated Mar. 13, 31, Apr. 13, 15 (three letters), 16, 18, 20, 21 (five), 27, and 28 (two). Including complaints, shipping, orders, and more. Few moderately ornate Singer dealers' letterheads. Complaint from a dealer in Fergusonville, Delaware County, N.Y., Apr. 15, 4 pp.: "...The plain (Model) A will not work. There was not any cloth under the primer foot...It could not sew any. The needle was also turned the wrong way. The short groove was nearest the operator, but after making that matter right, I found...the shuttle passed through the loop too soon. I will explain...I have examined the machine all through & there is no way that I can remedy the matter not having the necessary tools. Thus you see I shall lose the sale of this machine, for I have no prospect of selling the other machine to this customer & he will also lose his journey of several miles. He had refused to purchase a machine of several different agents because he believed that I would not sell him a machine that was not perfect...If I was in your place, I would not allow a machine to go out of the manufactory until it had been thoroughly tested...It is also a loss & perplexity to me. This matter if continued will soon bring your machines into bad repute among agents & they will not want to sell them...I want to sell a machine that I can say with truth to the purchaser, ‘I believe it to be the best kind made.' Of the 12 machines I have had of you...about 6 of them I had to file the hole in the spooler nearly ¹/2 inch before I could keep the band on. One would not carry the cloth through...It will not take a stitch without breaking the thread...." • Letter from new Wheeling, W.V. agent, ordering sample machine "inlaid with Pearl with Folding Cover, finished in Oil...Am awaiting an answer...before advertising and opening the business..." • Plus two undated internal lists of items to be shipped by Adams Express. Usual Singer mounting strips on verso, several letters a bit light, else generally V.G. By the turn of the 20th century, Singer would boast one of America's most beautiful skyscrapers, on lower Broadway. $70-90 (18 pcs.)

1-18. Letter from a Shaker, mentioning Osage Orange Wood.

Scarce letter from J.S. Poler, Medina (N.Y.?), Mar. 6, 1854, 8 x 10, 2 pp. To "Friend Perin." "...Let me know what E. Garter is doing...Report says he has become a drunken Blout...I learn that the Osage Orange abounds in that region [the wood originally native to Ark., Okla., and Texas], and I want about two quarts of the Seed...I learn also that the Mexican Potato grows in that land...And I do hope you can procure the seeds of many plants, flowers & shrubs, &...a small bundle of the slips of a host of annuals and perennials, which here will be a rarity...." Short edge tear, minor ink erosion, else fine. Osage Orange is one of the hardest and more exotic American woods, prized to this day for bows and musical instruments. Early references to it are seldom encountered. $120-150

1-19. An American Cutlery Pioneer straddling the Panic of 1837: "...eating themselves up with interest...."

Group of 12 letters to Collins Mfg. Co., Hartford, Conn., 1834-48, maker of the first ready-to-use axes in America. Enduring for 140 years, by 1870 the firm made some 1,200 different edged tools; during World Wars I and II, Collins produced Bowie and fighting knives for the military. 18 pp. in all. All from N.Y., each with integral address-leaf. Concerning orders, samples, deliveries, coal orders - and business difficulties. Including: May 22, 1837, just twelve days after the Panic began, 3 pp. "...(I) do have now full confidence in the stability of your Company...The Iron ordered for you is...only wanted in any quantity for one purpose. Had it been an assortment, I could have disposed of it readily, but I have still on hand the lot of upwards of 20 tons unsold...Things are decidedly improving...I never claimed...that the loss of the lot...released me from replacing it...When Business revives, I shall be glad to make another arrangement with you for Axe Iron...." Iron was imported then from Liverpool. • "We have deliver'd Sampson & Tisdale 12 doz. Georgia Long Bite Axes, instead of 24, as we found we had only 16 doz...." • May 24, 1837: On a check not being paid by bank. "...The protest for non-payment duly notes. It is still unpaid. The Bank has requested its daily presentation as they expect daily to be in funds...In the meantime we shall...have the note privately presented for payment & protested...We should prefer the security of Layton & Co...." • "We can furnish you with 50 tons of axe iron...to be made for you at $110 per ton, del(ivere)d in N.Y. on 6 months credit...We cannot make the Iron wider than 3 in. to have a square edge, but it could be made thicker & pass'd thro(ugh) the plane Rolls which would make it wider but would round the edge like the edge of a nail plate or a Hoop...We understand that Bonman Johnston & Co. have in their hands unsold a large amount of Collins & Co. axes & which would be for the interest of the creditors...As they must soon be eating themselves up with Interest, a friend of ours from the West wishes to purchase 100 or 200 doz. of axes...Should it not be better instead of selling or consigning any axes to the market until their stock is chased off...We have no wish to interfere with your business, but being on the Spot here we can see the Bad effects it has...." • "Will you now name the quantity of Coal you wish me to deliver...as it is now coming soon from the mines...." • "I have sent you the above 3 packages of Borax (by) Steam Boat Splendid via New Haven...." • "Our capital would not justify our engaging to give city trade notes for out (of) town notes...We don't want our customers to go elsewhere for axes & in that way lose the sale of other goods...We wish to make an arrangement with you that will promote our interests...." Some 618 banks would fail by the end of the year. Usual edge tear near wax seal, two letters with soiling and old dampstains, else most darkly penned and V.G. and better. "Prior to the firm's establishment, consumers either purchased unground axes imported from Europe or looked to a local blacksmith who, along with his other activities, might also make axe heads. Throughout its 140-year history, the company produced and sold axes, machetes, and other edge tools to most of the world."--connecticuthistory.org. $140-180 (12 pcs.)

1-20. Paying a Debt with Butter in Cherry Valley.

Letter from S. Frink, Cherry Valley (N.Y.), 1826, 7 ³/4 x 12, with unrecorded stampless usage. "The times has bin so Bad with me that it han't bin in my Power to settle with you. I know that you ought to had your Pay before now. But I mean to Pay all of my deats [sic]...I have a tub of Butter at Mr. Mancin's. If you will be so good as to call there and git the Butter or the money if it is sold...It wayed About 80 Pounds and (is) the Best of Butter...." Note at bottom to Mancin to release the Butter "or money, if it is sold." Integral address-leaf, with raspberry-red Cherry Valley straight-line cancel, very light, with manuscript "Jan 26" in rich brown. Unrecorded usage in American Stampless Cover Catalog, 3rd ed., 1978. Tan marginal stain where opened at seal, else very good. The writer may be Stephen Frink, son-in-law of Revolutionary War Capt. Low. $50-70

1-21. "The art, trade, and mystery of the Jewellery Business...."

Indenture, 1831, partly printed, 8 ¹/4 x 13, for 19-year-old Franklin Davenport Harris to become an apprentice "to learn the art, trade, and mystery of the Jewellery Business..." in Philadelphia, from Lewis Brechemin and Lewis Percheron. To be given "time for two quarters of night schooling," and stipulating conduct of the young man: "He shall not commit fornication...At cards, dice, or any unlawful game, he shall not play...nor haunt ale-houses, taverns, or play-houses...." Coffee-tan mottling, some manuscript text lightened by waterstaining, wear at one fold, else very satisfactory. $40-60

1-22. Manuscript Poetry.

Two dreamy manuscript poems, 1836 and 1840, penned in different hands, within extravagantly ornate Gothic border on lemon yellow, and Baroque shells and vinery on buff, exquisitely printed by De la Rue, London. Each 8 ¹/2 x 11. Entitled "Lines" by Bernard Barton, and "The Moss Rose," F.F. Howe, Parsonstown, in a tiny period hand at bottom. "Oh there are hours! moments that contain / Feelings, that years might pass, and never bring / Which, whether fraught with pleasure or with pain / Can hardly be forgot...." Edges uniformly toned, one poem a trifle light, one blank corner lacking, else good, and interesting decorative conversation pieces. $35-45 (2 pcs.)

1-23. Broadsheet Advertising 60 Ornate Printing Designs.

Charming and rare large selling sheet illustrating "Our Leading Styles of Fine Beveled Edge Calling Cards," M.A. Rose & Co., Mount Vernon, N.Y., n.d. but c. 1880-90. 12 x 19, printed both sides. 48 diecut outlines on one side, 12 elaborately artistic "Hidden Name and Fringed Cards" on others, with one actual, embossed chromolithographed card mounted over its printed specimen as an actual sample. 15¢ per dozen and up. Variety of doves, shaking hands, flowers, and cherubs, within fancy shapes. Typefaces in center, a different name set in each, including "Genl. U.S. Grant" and "Rev. Henry Ward Beecher." "We warrant the bevel to be of pure gold leaf." Imprinted "Society or Emblematic Cards" offered for Sons of Veterans, American Mechanics, Bicycle, G.A.R., Railroad Men, Red Men, Firemen, "Base Ball," and others. On thin paper; several fragments lacking at blank right margin, one blank tip torn but present; uniform toning, light mailing fold wear, else very good and splendid for display in a double-glass frame. $90-120

1-24. "One of the most healthy in the Union."

Printed circular for summer resort Forest House, Budd's Lake, N.J., "a large and beautiful sheet of pure cold water, abounding with fish of various kinds." Announcing the 1878 season. "The location is one of the most healthy in the Union...a delightful play ground for children, croquet grounds, bowling alley, billiard rooms, &c...Wild and picturesque rambles...There are no mosquitoes...3 ¹/2 miles from the Flanders Station on the High Bridge & German Valley Rail Road...First class cooks...." V.F. • With mustard-colored envelope, printed cornercard. To Capt. Lewis Van Blascom, Newton, N.J. Very fine Scott 1¢ aquamarine Franklin stamp intact, apparently #145 (no grill detected), one wide and three nice margins; lightly cancelled in darkest green, triple circle. Blind paper clip impression at bottom, light dust-toning, else about fine. $50-70 (2 pcs.)

1-25. Superb Colorful Mt. Washington Lettersheet.

Breathtakingly beautiful full-color letterhead on palest pink, "Mt. Washington Summit House," N.H. Large pictorial masthead depicting engine pushing rail car up incline to the hotel, clouds brushing the peak; delightful depiction of young boy climbing vines bordering the design. Penned below, a charming 3 pp. letter of S. Lasar describing his stay and local travels, written from nearby Highland House, Bethlehem, N.H., Aug. 18, 1880, 5 ¹/2 x 8 ³/4. "...I will give you a brief acct. of a mountain excursion which we undertook, returning...at midnight... stopping on our way...leaving my card for the Rev. H.W. Beecher, who was expected the next day. We took the R.R. train at Febyan's for...Mount Washington, at which we took the R.R. for the Tip Top... in just enough time to see the sun set...Terribly cold evening...5° below freezing...After breakfast we took the Coach with its 6 horses descending the Mountain...Our mountain wagon was awaiting us to carry us to Mt. Willard, which gave us the finest view of the Crawford Notch and the grand surroundings...I am not capable of being descriptive and leave that sort of thing for Mark Twain...The life here is so dreadfully kaleidoscopical and so is all human life...." Printed description of Mt. Washington Summit House on last panel: "...Trains leave ‘Base' for ‘Summit' at 10 and 5:15...." Outline of a pressed flower in sky area of masthead, with one petal remaining. Light toning, else very good. With old photocopy of envelope (whereabouts unknown). Ex-noted philatelist Richard Frajola, 1992. $65-85

1-26. Poem on the Doomed Steamer of the Great Lakes.

Lengthy, stirring manuscript poem entitled "John Maynard," the brave sailor on the ill-fated Great Lakes steamer Ocean Queen. A contemporary copy by Lavinia M. Beard, Huntington, Conn., of the work of Kate Weaver. N.d. but c. 1870, in dark pencil, 7 ³/4 x 12 ¹/4, 3 full pp. on two leaves. "‘Twas on lake Erie's broad expanse, One bright midsummers day, The gallant steamer Ocean Queen swept proudly on her way. Bright faces clustered on the desk, Or, leaning o'er the side, Watched carelessly the feathery foam, That flecked the rippling tide. Ah, who beneath that cloudless sky, That smiling bends serene, Could dream that danger, awful, vast, Impended on the scene. Could dream that ere an hour had sped, That frame of sturdy oak, Would sink beneath the lake's blue waves, Blackened with fire and smoke...." Dramatic, well written, on the fire and helmsman Maynard who gave his life manning the wheel to run the ship ashore, each of its 12 long verses conveying the scene. Original folds, else fine and unusual. The poem was taught in schools for some years afterward, both as part of the literature of Great Lakes history, and in elocution classes, the verses demanding both drama and phrasing. $65-90

1-27. Burning of the Steamer "City of New London."

Three received copies of telegrams on burning of the famed Long Island Sound steamboat, with letter. Comprising: Telegram on partly printed Western Union form, Norwich, Conn., Nov. 21, 1871, 5 ¹/4 x 7 ³/4. From P.St.M. Andrews, to Wm. T. Hart, one of the Boston, Hartford & Erie Railroad's two trustees, at main office, 40 State St., Boston. "Shall you come to Norwich this week...." • Telegram, Nov. 22, 1871, written both sides. "The Steamer New London was burned four miles below Norwich. Her Hull is ashore. A Steamer fire engine has gone to the Wreck to endeavor to save freight as she is yet on fire. Three prominent Citizens of Norwich supposed lost. Fire originated in Cook's gallery and was since subdued but when off, Drawbridge broke out again and although they had two streams from Donkey engine playing on the fire it was to no effect as it had got in the cutter. She had a full freight." In fact, seventeen aboard were lost. • Telegram, Norwich, Nov. 24, to C.P. Clarke, in same office. "Shall be engaged in Norwich on Sat. Please telegraph me on what day to expect Mr. Hart." • A.L.S. of Andrews, (Supt. of) "B(oston) H(artford) and E(rie) R.R., Nor(wich) & Wor(cester) Div.," Norwich, Nov. 25, 1871, 7 ¹/2 x 9 ³/4. To Clarke. "Do the Trustees require that we should put a value on the Locomotives, Cars, Tools &c. inventoried...or do they simply want a list and description of the property?..." Carrying a heavy load of cotton, rags, groceries, and leather, the fire was speculated to have begun when the cook, preparing breakfast, rested a hot poker against a wood partition. "The fire extinguishing apparatus and life saving appliances were ample and in perfect order, but the rapid spread of the flames cut off approach to the boats and saloon where the life preservers were...The officers of the boat, particularly the Captain and engineer, receive great praise for coolness and bravery...The former escaping by lowering himself...when all avenues of escape were closed by the flames, and clinging to the paddles until rescued in an exhausted condition, and the latter losing his life after giving a life preserver which he got from his room...to the only lady passenger, who by its aid was saved..."--New York Times, Nov. 22, 1871. Second telegram penned with fine nib but easily legible, all with handling, else good; letter with blind clip depression, two short fold tears, crease, else floridly penned and about fine. All from archives of N.Y. & New England, the successor railroad. $90-120 (4 pcs.)

1-28. Ice Skating on Christmas - 1841.

Lettersheet containing separately penned holiday messages from father and son S. West and Henry S. West, Binghamton (N.Y.), Dec. 28-29, 1841, 8 x 10 ¹/4, 2 ¹/2 pp., to "Master Henry C. Nash," Pittsfield, Mass. "...I spent Christmas very pleasantly skating and skated about, all day. There were a great many young men and boys on the ice. The canal furnishes a fine place for skating...It is fine for sleigh-riding and sliding down hill also...Father wants to add a few lines to your father...." Naming several other students at Mr. Doubleday's school. The father writes, "...Our academy is progressing well, that is, the building is up, and will be finished early in the spring. I wish you were here to take charge of it...." Integral address-leaf with manuscript "18 ³/4" and pink Binghamton c.d.s. Some edge tattering but affecting no text, toning of right edge, short tears at several folds, light foxing, else satisfactory. $55-70

1-29. Russia's "jewels belonging to the Imperial family...."

Lengthy letter from Bostonian businessman Wm. Putnam Kuhn traveling in St. Petersburg (Russia), June 9/21, 1863, 8 ¹/2 x 10 ¹/4, 4 pp., neatly penned on thin blue paper. "...The mates are both clever men & we did not hear either of them use profane expression when addressing the sailors...I never express an opinion that he does not contradict & we rarely think alike on any subject...On our return to Elsineur we went to a tea party where we met several young ladies who had been invited to meet us, some of whom talked English...We were ordered to come to anchor by a boat...They told us the Emperor [probably of Denmark] was there on board of a man of war...As soon as the ship touched the pier the Am(erican) consul clerk came on board to help us...They obliged us to open our trunks but did not disturb the contents...On Sat. I took a Commissioner who spoke English & with him visited the Hermitage, where are cabinets of curiosities... We then went to the Palace...One room is devoted to the jewels belonging to the Imperial family...This morning...to St. Isaac's Church which is the finest in the world next to St. Peter's at Rome...Took a stroll through the Louse(?) market where all sorts of second hand and stolen articles are offered for sale...I am afraid the prospect is not very good for our sail cloth. I understand Browne has ordered his lot resold if at a loss of not more than 10%...." • With contemporary copy of invoice for "2 Baskets cont(ainin)g 86 Moscow Robes at $2.70 ea.," shipped to Boston on the Wanderer. Minor soiling and creasing of letter, blank left portion of invoice torn but with no loss of text. With transcript. $75-100 (2 pcs.)

1-30. Birthplace of the U.S. Navy - and Member of the Anti-Improvement Party.

Significant, early letter of Michael Hoffman, a fascinating, conflicted character. Sandy Hill (N.Y.), June 13, 1834, 7 ¹/2 x 9 ³/4, 1 ¹/2 pp. To Azariah C. Flagg, Comptroller, Albany. Reporting on repairs to the Erie Canal: "I have settled the accounts of Thomas A. Sherwood, Supt. of Canal repairs [listing payments of over $20,000]...He must now provide stone and cement to perfect the repair and grouting of the White Hall Lock. It is believed that by this course the necessity for taking it down will be obviated...He has several Bridges to build...To carry on these repairs I feel that Mr. Sherwood's expenses for June and July will probably amount to $7,000...The Locks on the Glens Falls feeder are...quite old; some have been seriously repaired...A wood lock should be regarded as a treacherous structure. So far it is true, the feeder has been maintained navigable without any one entire days' interruption...." Some toning, lending pleasing patina, lacking 1 ¹/2 x 1 ³/4 blank piece on address-leaf, else very good. Manuscript "Fort Edward, N.Y. 10" marking. Settled 1759, Whitehall, N.Y., at the southern end of Lake Champlain, is considered the birthplace of the U.S. Navy; the locks referred to in this letter are still in service to this day. Hoffman is closely associated with the success of the Canal, notwithstanding his leadership of Radical Democrats in the New York Legislature, and member of the Anti-Improvement Party, also known as the Barnburners! His "genius, character, and ability" are praised in Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of the State of N.Y. (with modern copy of page). Rare. $125-175

1-31. Billheads of a Quaker Horse- and Mule-Shoe Dealer.

Group of 28 of Croyden, Carpenter & Co., "Importers and Dealers - Iron and Steel...," Providence, R.I., 1874-76. 6 x 8 ¹/4 and larger. Each with superbly detailed vignette of their building, with Magnus-like microminiature detail. All with Quaker style dating. All describing hardware, with prices: "1 Keg #5 Front R.I. [Horse] Shoes, 100, 5 ³/4¢," "4 Boxes #6 Vulcan Nails...," "2 doz. 12 in. Tanged Rasps...," "25 kegs City Shoes...5 Hind [Shoes]...," "3 kegs...Mule Shoes, 5 ³/4¢...," "2 Boxes #5 Ausable Nails...," "20 kegs Med(ium) Pat(tern) Shoes...." Two with tea(?) stains, few with file fray at bottom, one with mousechew, else fine, clean, and attractive. As ubiquitous as horse shoes (and horses) once were, billheads for them are surprisingly uncommon. $90-110 (28 pcs.)

1-32. Kissing Cousins - 1859.

Ardent love letter from Lozan Hurst, Deep Creek (possibly Maryland), Jan. 23, 1859, 2 ¹/2 pp., with numerous words underlined by the romantic writer. 7 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/2. "To my sweet cousin." "...One possessing all the attributes of a fine and lovely being, and I the opposite...You possess my affection without a single reservation. My present and future happiness depends upon the knowledge of a reciprocation on your part. I think that you are the only woman that will ever hold my destiny in her hands...You will confer a favor by giving the subject a serious consideration & say who loves you better than life, friends, fortune...If you have one single spark of affection for your cousin Lozan, don't say no...Allow me to hope...Your sincere admirer." Darkly penned on blue. Some yellow pocket toning along some original folds, lacking blank upper right tip, one short internal tear, much handling - the letter evidently read many times, and carried in her pocket for some time, else satisfactory and unusual thus. $55-75

1-33. Unpublished Manuscript of a Future, Prolific Man of Letters.

Entitled "Compensation," by Alvin F. Harlow, a novelette taking place "in those good old days just before the big war," edited to "first World War." Judged c. 1920s-30s, 8 ¹/2 x 11, 52 pp., bound with four staples. Original typewritten working copy submitted to his "authors' representative" Willis Kingsley Wing, 205 E. 42 St., N.Y. Numerous changes in pencil by author or agent. It is likely that this is the same prolific Alvin F. Harlow who authored biographies of Andrew Carnegie, Joel Chandler Harris, and Teddy Roosevelt, Bret Harte of the Old West, The Ringlings - Wizards of the Circus, and other works from the 1940s onward, and co-authored the wonderful book, A Treasury of Railroad Folklore. "...Jule was not to take part in the actual robbery. She did some of the scouting and planning, and she held the fall dough and was to look after the defense if anybody was yaffled...Wanting an airtight alibi, Harry and I went up to Doncaster in September...at the races...." One of the story's villains was sentenced to fifteen years hard labor in Guiana's dreaded Cayenne penal colony. About fine, and fascinating insight into the writers' craft, by this published historian, this work never published. The gritty true-crime nature of the novelete suggests it was an early literary effort by Harlow, before finding his footing in historical non-fiction and biography. $70-90

1-34. First Fire Insurance Company in N.Y.C.

Legal manuscript of Eagle Fire Co., the first fire insurance company in N.Y.C.--Nelson's Encyclopaedia, 1940 ed. Circa 1831, 10 pp., 8 x 12 ¹/2, old pin at top. "To the Chancellor of State of N.Y.," complaining in detail of their troubled $1,700 loan to Henry Dodez, a Manhattan inn keeper, secured by a note payable "in gold or silver coin," and his mortgage for land at 3rd St., recorded at "four minutes past 12 O'Clock P.M...Pretences of the said Confederates [Dodez' named partners] are contrary to Equity and good conscience...." Waterstaining, especially of outer leaves, else good plus. $50-70

1-35. "Everything is disconnected and crazy...."

A rather rattled letter from "Aunt Lydia," Southbury, Conn., Aug. 28, (18)81, 5 x 8, 6 pp., to a friend in Detroit. Discussing smashed china, caring for a relative who had "a fit," another whose fiance works in an insane asylum, and more. "The smashup of china was the last feather on the camel's back to me...Two weeks ago Sherman went as far as Brewster's Station to try the new Rail Road and stopped in Danbury...I have had no clothes made in an age and it is something to get ready to go out in the world. Irene has been engaged to a physician, a fine young man. He graduated this spring at 23rd St., N.Y., and is now a salaried physician in Kings County Insane Asylum at Flatbush...Aunt Maria is very nervous & old...Marietta is getting queer like the rest of us, absentmindedness or something worse...We cannot sell any real estate or hardly give it away. Real estate was never as low as it is now in Old Southbury. Half of the town is for sale but no buyers. There is no one left and I don't see as the new Rail Road wakes us up at all. It is a benefit to Woodbury... Everything is disconnected and crazy. It is almost impossible for me to even write my name...." Break at one fold, else very good. • With envelope postmarked Southbury, stamp defective, old glue stains. $70-90 (2 pcs.)

1-36. An Antebellum "K.K.K." Broadside.

Small dramatic handbill, "Expose of a Secret Society Den / Motto K.K.K. / Ker, Kai, Kephele..," "No. 1, Butterfield Row," July 14, 1858, 7 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/4. No place, but evidently for freshman initiation into a collegiate fraternity, "Pres., A.S. Marshal." "These will be led into the ante-room and announced by three raps upon the door...Promise to keep mum if they choose to withdraw...This Society was founded in 1849, and destroyed by the delegation from the class of ‘58...." Deckled two edges. Some ghosting of type, from stacking while ink still wet, lending a subtle third dimension, uniform toning, mousechew along 5" of blank left vertical edge, else about very fine. Certainly unimaginable to these collegians, a decade thence their initials would represent a very different secret society. Very rare and ephemeral, research locating only one example, at Princeton. American broadsides and ephemera, First Series: no. 10116. $90-120

2-1. No Bail Reform in a Birthplace of America: An Order to Arrest a Violent Criminal, 1741.

A colonial manuscript order to Plymouth County sheriff, to apprehend and set bail for a felon, Pembrooke (today Pembroke), (Massachusetts Bay Colony), July 28, 1741, 1 ¹/4 pp., 8 x 12. Small red wax seal. In hand of Edward Winslow, (Justice of the Peace, and likely descendant of Mayflower leader of the same name, thrice Gov. of Plymouth Colony, who in 1621 recorded the first Thanksgiving--Smithsonian Magazine, Nov. 2016). To arrest Isaac Barker, Yeoman, "and then Come before Some One of Our Justices of the Peace...with Sufficient Sureties to us in a Suitable Sum for their personal Appearance before our Court of General Sessions...." Barker is accused of attacking Isaac Keen, "pulled sd. Keen's hair, turning his Neck, and with a hedge stake Struck him...He was much afraid & Terryfied & they then there in a violent...and forcible manner Cutt and pulled down some of sd. Keen's fence, and Other Enormities ... Committed Contrary to ye peace, Crown and Dignity, Our sd. Lord ye King...& for want of such Bail... Committ the body of the sd. Isaac Barker, Berner & John Lawson to the Common Goal [Gaol] of Our County...Fail not at your Perill & make timely Returne...." On verso, endorsement of deputy sheriff Nehemiah Riply bringing the defendants Berner and Lawson before the Court - some seven weeks thence - but "Barker not to be found...." Research finds that the principal assailant, Isaac Barker, was non compos (not of sound mind). Possibly a member of the noted family of Plymouth Colony, in 1744 his wife petitioned the Province of Mass. to remove their sons, Prince and Peleg Barker, from guardianship of their father, for neglect in caring for him, and doing "every thing to perplex and embarras(s) his affairs...." Sheriff Riply was also a Plymouth constable, County treasurer, and one of its "tything men," and hogreve (or high-reeve, an Old English title combining functions of a deputy, judge, and provincial army leader, dating to the 10th century)--Records of the Town of Plymouth, Vol. 2, 1705-43. In very defective condition, having evidently been carried in the sheriff's pocket through the Summer of 1741, as he pursued the three fugitives: dampstain thinning along right margin, heavily worn along center horizontal fold, with near separation; old waterstain greying mostly on verso; some loss of text, but fairly darkly penned, and still collectible. Documents in any condition with content of violent crime (and mental health) in colonial America are elusive. Request image. $150-180

2-2. To a Sheriff in Colonial Dutch New York: "Wee Comand You...."

Attractive A.D.S. of James Livingston, Jr., Kingston, (N.Y.), Nov. 8, 1744, 6 x 12 oblong. Floral paper seal. A writ as Ulster County Court Clerk, to Sheriff. "...Wee Com(m)and You that You Take John Byard If he shall be found...have his body before our Judge and Justice at our next Inferior Court of Com(m)on Pleas...to Satisfie unto Casparis Steynmits 7 pounds 3 shillings and six pence...by occasion of the non performance of a Certain Promise...." Witnessed within text by Judge Abraham Gaasbook Chambers. Signed on verso by Sheriff Johannes Schepmoes, "I have taken the Body & have him (in) Custody." Docketed by Alsop, "Att(orn)ey / Ret(urne)d May 1745...." Light toning of one folded panel on verso only, else penned in rich brown, and very fine. A fascinating example of law in a colonial milieu retaining Dutch customs under King George II. Established as a Dutch trading post c. 1615, Kingston passed into English hands in 1667. During the Revolution, it would be the meeting place of the first New York State government, court, and legislature. With a 160,000-acre manor, Livingston family members included a Signer. $80-110

2-3. An Impoverished Colonial Farmer begs for Land to Grow "Bread-Corn."

A.L.S. of "humble petitioner" Nathaniel Hunton, Kingston (N.Y.), Aug. 14, 1744, 7 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/2. "To the Commoners of Kingston." "Your Peti(ti)oner has with considerable Peril, & with great Loss of Time & Labour endeavored ...to defend the Rights of the Town & being cutt off from all hope from raising any Thing for present Support at the Place we are now striving to defend: He would not humbly request the Favour of a Small Piece of common Land, on which he may for the Present raise his Bread-Corn...." Interesting crowned "CR" watermark. Smudged "John..." at lower left, suggesting that paper salvaged from another sheet already written upon. Old folds, considerable blind wrinkles, but very satisfactory and charming for display. • With old partly printed dealer's description form, "Autograph of...," with pencil description, intended for typesetter, and "120/40," possibly the catalogue/lot number of Thomas F. Madigan, celebrated N.Y. dealer, and author of the 1930 classic, Word Shadows of the Great - The Lure of Autograph Collecting. If this attribution is correct, then this item was last on the market about ninety years ago! $120-160

2-4. Two "Bouweries" in Olde New York State.

Very scarce A.D.S. of Nich(olas) Schuyler, manuscript survey, May 17, 1714, 7 ¹/4 x 12 oblong. Describing division line between lots 3 and 4 in "Schonaghtady" (today's Schenectady) "in the County of Albany in the provence of New York...Surveyed by Mr. Nicholas Schuyler At the Request of Rijer Schmerhorn and Claess Van Patten...." (Very) simple drawing on facing panel by Schuyler, noted in old pencil based on "a map by Verplanck." Docketing in several old hands, also referring to the lots as "Bouweries No. 3 & 4...." One short reinforcement with modern archival tape on verso, moderate foxing and toning, light wear along deckled edges and at folds, but about very good. Uncommon from this early period. The Schuyler name is an ancient one in New York history; scion Peter Schuyler, born in Albany in 1657, was its first Mayor. The Schuylers "played a critical role in the formation of the (country)...," with family ties to the Delancey, Hamilton (who married Elizabeth Schuyler), Livingston, Roosevelt, Van Cortlandt, Van Rensselaer, and other families--wikipedia. $250-300

2-5. Signed by a Colleague of Button Gwinett and Member of Georgia's Council of Safety - 1776.

Partly printed document headed "Georgia," Nov. 7, 1776, 12 x 15. An estate bond signed by Mary Ann McNight (McKnight in other sources) of Little Oge(e)chee, Thomas Ross of Savannah, and Benjamin Andrew, a Magistrate of St. John's Parish - whose Judge was Button Gwinnett--Historical Collections of Georgia: containing the most interesting facts..., 1855, p. 39. Andrew was one of the eight members of the Georgia Council of Safety at all of its July 1776 meetings, on the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 11th, and onward, together with Gov. Bulloch--Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, Vol. 5, various pp. Printed text: "Firmly bound unto his Excellency, Archibald Bulloch, Esq., Gov. and Commander in Chief in and over the said province of Georgia," for £2,000, as administrators of estate of Robert McNight. Also signed by James Whitefield, "Quarter Master of the first troop of Rangers"--Historical Collections....

Andrew's service with the Governor and six others is dramatically characterized in the Georgia Historical Society work cited above:

"During that stormy period of American revolutionary history which intervened between the renouncement and overthrow of British authority in the Provinces, and the firm establishment of self-government by the newly organized states, a condition of affairs arose that was marked by the greatest solicitude and danger. Unwilling to submit (any) longer to British oppression, and conscious of the desperate struggle that must ensue in the resort to arms, the people of the several Provinces in turn called together their wisest men to take counsel for the public good. These organizations were generally known as Councils of Safety. They were composed of the wisest and most prudent men in the community, and to them were entrusted at times the entire welfare of the cause of Liberty."--Preface.

Three small paper seals. Once separated at center horizontal fold, backed with polished index sheet, probably c. 1900; slender, even gap between top and bottom halves, as mounted, some old chipping, but miraculously lacking only parts of three words. Additional period flap where tipped into record book. Uniform cream toning, probably from substrate, else darkly penned, and displayable. Georgia documents with rich 1776 and Gwinnett association, especially of this size, are very scarce. $250-325

2-6. Signed by Engrosser of the Original Declaration - and by its Last Signer.

Ornate D.S., June 20, 1806, combining the signatures of the first whose pen touched the Declaration - as its scribe, Timothy Matlack - and of the man believed the last to sign it, Thomas McKean, said not to have added his name til 1781. Here signing as Gov. of Penna., McKean was technically a President of the U.S. under 1777 Constitution. On thick, buttery vellum, 12 x 20, splendid 5 ¹/2" eight-petaled seal, one petal loosely extending over "ea" of McKean's signature, intended to deter counterfeiting. Land patent for "a certain tract...called Soter" in Tioga County, to Alexander and Henry Baring, Robert Gilmore, and Thomas M. Willing, its bounds interestingly described as "192 perches to a post...." Property formerly William Bingham's - once the richest man in America - with "a fifth part of all Gold and Silver Ore...to be delivered at the pitt's mouth, clear of all charges...." On July 3, 1776, Bingham left America aboard a frigate, capturing several British ships, and returning with loads of guns and supplies. Bingham owned millions of acres, and brokered the Louisiana Purchase; a "smaller" block of only two million acres in Maine became known as the Bingham Purchase! Printed State Seal. Also signed by James Trimble, Deputy Sec. On verso, two additional large diamond paper seals, each with different, finely blind-embossed impressions, one beside the signature of T(imothy) Matlack, who had engrossed the Declaration in 1776. On July 12, 1776, Matlack had been elected a member of the Provincial Congress, representing Philadelphia with Ben Franklin et al. Minor old spotting at blank top margin, McKean and Matlack signatures in mid-brown; parchment with characteristically strong memory at folds, having been undisturbed for over two centuries, but flattenable over time, for framing, if desired; else excellent.

Perhaps unique among Signers, on that same day, July 4, 1776, McKean's name is recorded in proceedings of a parallel declaration to the one in Philadelphia. Some sixty miles away, "...there was a declaration of the same general spirit and import being issued at Lancaster, Pa., wholly without the knowledge of the other..."--Journal of American History, 1910; modern copy of article accompanies. The Lancaster assemblage had been foretold, "The present campaign will probably decide the fate of America. It is now in your power to immortalize your names by mingling your achievements with the events of the year to the end of time, for establishing upon a lasting foundation, the liberties of one quarter of the globe...." Records of that meeting show that McKean received eight votes to serve as Brig. Gen., though other candidates garnered more. A superb item. $450-575

2-7. Colonial and Revolutionary War Clock Maker.

Very rare D.S. of early American master clock and watch maker Daniel Balch, (Sr.) (c. 1735-90). Newbury Port (Mass.), Feb. 26, 1783, 4 ³/4 x 8. Receipt for payment for "taking Care of the Town Clock for the Year 1782, £3; To mending the Hammer & Spring...£1.10; To a new Line for the Guide, 6...." Docketed. "...perhaps best known for his exquisite workmanship, high quantity of extant (examples), and a particular (clock) sold at Sotheby's...for over $55,000...Some of his work can be seen at Cushing House Museum & Garden..."--wikipedia. Making chime clocks and eight-day clocks and watches, Balch is considered one of the pioneers of American mantel or shelf clocks. "Introduced between 1750 and 1760, American shelf clocks were a result out of necessity, especially with the cost of tall clocks and scarcity of metal supplies...The clocks became an instant hit in the market mainly because of their affordability..."--clocksinfo.com. Internal tear well away from signature, evidently caused by a thin spot from papermaking; minor handling, dust-toning on verso, else very good and suitable for display. The first Balch item we recall handling. RareBookHub reports only listings in Evans and Sabin which mention Balch as a bookseller as at 1767; nothing signed by him or relating to his clockmaking is located at auction, 1860-present. Exceedingly rare, certainly with a Revolutionary War date. $275-375

2-8. Muster Roll Signed by a Key Boston Tea Party Participant.

Tall folio manuscript "Pay Roll of Capt. David Cook's Comp(an)y of [3rd] Art(iller)y in A Battalion Command(ed) by Colo. John Crane in the Service of the United States...," [2nd Mass. Regt.], attributed to Warren, Worcester County, Mass. (modern research accompanies), Mar. 1779, 6 ¹/4 x 15 ¹/4. Signed at bottom and noted "exam(ine)d" by its 1st Lt. Edward Procter, apparently the first Captain of the Watch on the tense nights before the Boston Tea Party, and on the first published list of participants in the event itself. Coffee-and-cream ink. Charming deckle at long right edge. Neatly penned within horizontal and vertical rules, with name, rank, pay per month, subsistence allowance, time of service, amount, and casualties. Soldiers grouped by Officers (Capt. Cook earned $50 per month, officers $33 ³⁰/90 each, "Serjants" $10, "Corporalls" $9, "Bomb(ar)d(ier)s" $9, "Gunners" $8 ²/3, and "Matrosses" $8 ¹/3). Troops include 2nd Lts. Samuel Jefferds, David Putnam, and Isaac Morey; Nathaniel, Moses, and Benson(?) Morey; Matrosses John Letherbee, Barny McCormick, et al. Cook's tombstone records that the previous year he "fell at the battle of Monmouth, being shot through the body: but rose a living witness for 45 years...." Cook recovered sufficiently to resume command here, also serving under Gen. Horatio Gates, for whom he named his son. ¹/2" sliver lacking along fold at edge, some toning, else about very good.

The participation in the Boston Tea Party by Edward Procter, by his commander in the offered document, John Crane - and by fellow Mason Paul Revere - was considered treasonous. Two weeks before, Procter had been appointed "Captain of the Watch" on the night of a massive meeting in Boston, overseen by Sam Adams and John Hancock, to determine "the most proper and effectual method to prevent the unl(o)ading, receiving, or vending the detestable tea...just arrived in this harbor." Procter was to head 25 nocturnal volunteers, to ensure that no tea be brought ashore. Upon reading of the Royal Governor's letter to "surcease all further unlawful proceedings, at your utmost peril," the crowd responded with "a loud and very general hiss"--Broadside in Library of Congress, Printed Ephemera Collection, Portfolio 37, Folder 23. Unlike many participants who concealed their Tea Party involvement for the rest of their lives, Procter's prominence at that fateful meeting, together with his participation in the subsequent Tea Party with fellow Lodge member Paul Revere, was significant. "...The implication and impact of (the Tea Party) were enormous, ultimately leading to the start of the Revolution"--bostonteapartyship.com. Dr. Joseph Warren had been a member of the same Lodge; upon Warren's untimely death in 1776, Procter and Revere spoke at his funeral. Rare thus, and suitable for display. $700-900

2-9. Muster Roll of 2nd Alarm Company - 1777.

Pair of manuscript documents, with a fascinating combination of Revolutionary War stories: A.L.S. of Simeon Huntington, Norwich (Conn.), Aug. 15, 1777, 6 ³/4 x 7 ³/4. To Elijah Backus, "Capt. of the 2d Alarm Company in Ye 20th Regt." in Norwich. "Pursant to Orders from Col. S(amuel) Abbott you are Ordered forthwith to convey me a True Return of the Company under your Command...." Also bearing notation and signature of Col. Abbott. Sender Simeon Huntington was "a man of bold, adventurous spirit, and had taken a conspicuous part in resistance to the Stamp Act."--History of New London County, p. 289. He commanded a company in the regiment of noted Norwich native Col. Jedidiah Huntington - doubtless a relation - marching to N.Y. in 1776 under Washington. Surrounded by the British in Brooklyn, many men were taken prisoner. "Hardly another family in the state or country can excel this Norwich family [the Huntingtons] in its contribution of distinguished members of successive generations to the military service"--The Leading Business Men of Norwich and Vicinity..., Beckford, 1890, p. 9. • In addition to recipient Elijah Backus' command of a company of Minute Men who rushed to defend New London against Benedict Arnold, he played an even more vital role: During the Revolution, Backus forged ships' anchors (weighing up to 1,200 pounds!) and cannon, for Connecticut's armed vessels. "Backus' Iron Works, with its lurid fires, was quite an institution...and quite an important factor in the growth and development of the country..."--A Genealogical Memoir of the Backus Family...[Including] Papers and Correspondence of Elijah Backus, 1889, p. 315. • The previous year, in 1776, signator Abbott and two other officers, had been arrested for disobeying the Governor, and refusing to muster and march their companies. Brought before the State Assembly, the other two "declared they were sorry for their imprudence and fault" and forgiven; Abbott's fate is not immediately known, but here he is clearly trying to cover himself by demanding a muster roll in this letter. • Internal tear at blank top where red wax seal opened, else fine. • With, manuscript list of some 25 members of 2nd Alarm Co., with wages due; arithmetic on verso. 4 x 10 ¹/4. Some listed likely at the Fort Griswold massacre. Including multiple members of local Fargo, Hyde, Post, and Starr families. This regiment was noted for its multiracial roster, including Indians and blacks (though none of those listed here have been identified thusly). Numerous ink droplets from a dripping quill, else very good, and an uncommon format. $275-375 (2 pcs.)

2-10. Delivering the Mail during the Revolution.

Attractive manuscript pay order to Ithamer Pelton "for riding Express and Charge the same to the State of Connecticut." Middletown, Conn., Jan. 15, 1777. 4 ³/4 x 8. Carrying letters, folded newspapers and broadsides in a satchel, Pelton was doubtless astride a fabled Narragansett pacer. Known for their sure grip on rocky paths and even temperament, the horses, in their own way, helped win the war, earning their place in folklore. Boldly signed on verso by express rider Pelton. Member of the noted eponymous family, he marched to Boston upon the 1775 Alarm, serving a total of five days. However, an article about his descendant - the editor of the nineteenth-century Eclectic Magazine - notes that Ithamer "was employed in the public service, in some hazardous and responsible duties, during the war of the Revolution. Both branches of the family lost heavily by the depreciation of Continental money at the close of the war." Signed on front by Ez. Williams and Wm. Pitkin, the latter son of the colonial Gov. of Conn., a member of Council of Safety, friend of Signers Roger Sherman and Oliver Wolcott; later Chief Justice of Conn. Supreme Court, and listed in Americans of Royal Descent (1891). One of the oldest families in the Nutmeg State, Pitkin's great-grandfather helped lay out the streets of Hartford. Some ink blots at blank lower margin, else fresh, clean, excellent, and attractive. Splendid as a postal history association item. $180-220

2-11. Signer Robert Morris approves "...Also two Negroes - Horses & 3 Cows."

Interesting manuscript document signed on verso by Rob(er)t Morris, financier of the American Revolution, here as a Judge. One of only two Founding Fathers to sign all three key documents, the Declaration of Independence (though first voting against it, on July 1, 1776!), Constitution, and Articles of Confederation. Apr. 2, 1791, 4 x 8 ³/4, on vellum. Headed, "...The president of the United States of America To the Marshall of New Jersey District...You are hereby com(m)anded that of the Goods & Chattels & Tenements of Richard Stevens in your bailiwick you cause to be made the Sum of 219 pounds...which Joseph Carson...recovered for his damages...whereof the s(ai)d Richard is convicted...Witness John Jay Esq., Chief Justice of the sd. Court...." Stevens was evidently the delegate to the Provincial Congress of N.J. in 1775, together with founder of Cincinnati (and flat-Earther) John Cleves Symmes, and Signers Abraham Clark, John Hart, and John Witherspoon. Opposing the Stamp Act in New York City, Stevens chaired meetings of the N.J. legislature from 1776-82. His father-in-law had been Peter Zenger's counsel.

Morris signs boldly beneath an endorsement in another hand, "I have inspected this process & no Error is therein apparent to me." Morris' signature with some crawl on vellum under magnification, else entirely satisfactory. • Lengthy docketing of Thomas Lowrey, Marshal, and Revolutionary War Col.: "...R(ichar)d Stevens now lives in Amboy and on the Tavern House...three Beds & bedding, 3...Tables, one Round Table, one Marble Slab Table, 22...Chairs...An iron Shovell...&c. &c. &c. Also two Negroes - Horses & 3 Cows...." Lowrey's ink variable, from light to moderate, due to crawling on parchment, but nearly all legible, including the key passage at conclusion. • On center panel, endorsement of noted attorney (Aaron) Woodruff, influential in selecting Trenton as state capital, and defense counsel - with Signer Richard Stockton - in another high-profile case in 1791. Interestingly, Woodruff named two of his sons Thomas Lowrey Woodruff and Aaron Ogden Woodruff.

As the foremost private personage in Revolutionary America, Morris' power and influence was surpassed only by George Washington. Morris was the first to use the dollar sign in official documents. Morris' ship The Black Prince became the first vessel of the new Continental Navy. He was among the investors backing the first American ship to visit the Chinese mainland. When Philadelphia was the nation's capital during the administrations of Washington and Adams, Morris' home was the actual Executive Mansion. Though he owned more land than anyone in the United States, the Panic later in that decade led to his financial ruin, and his incarceration for several years in the Prune Street prison for debt. Morris' endorsement of "Also two Negroes..." is ironic: The very first reference to the Underground Railroad is attributed to a 1786 letter to Morris, from George Washington. An uncommon form of Morris' signature, free of the ink erosion usually seen on his stock certificates, with fascinating coalescence of other personalities. Overall, some light patination from handling, weak impression of seal from 4 to 6 o'clock, else good plus. Ex-business records of Nicholas Low, becoming the stock of famed dealer Thomas Madigan, in business from the 1880s to 1936, then auctioned by Harmer Rooke long ago. Low was agent and business manager of the Livingston, Morris, and Schuyler families, and Alexander Hamilton. Low is known to have done business with Stevens as well. $800-1000

2-12. Prosecutor of Benedict Arnold.

Very scarce A.L.S. with legal content of John Laurance, Continental Army Judge Advocate Gen. on Washington's staff for five years, winning commendation from Congress for his "great uprightness..." in prosecuting traitors Benedict Arnold and John Andre. Here writing as the first Congressman from N.Y.C. under the Constitution. N.Y., July 26, 1798, 1 p., 8 ¹/4 x 10 ¹/2. To noted merchant Nicholas Low, who began his career as a clerk to Jewish colonial merchant Hayman Levy, then founded his own firm during the Revolution; director of Bank of N.Y., 1785; member N.Y. Constitutional Convention, and major property owner in N.Y.C. "The Counterpart of the inclosed lease to John Nicholls made by William Cooper for me, with a right to have a conveyance in Fee on payment of £499.10.0, is now in possession of George Bowne and Robert Bowne of the City of N.Y. They have paid me the interest annually. I shall leave it with you as attorney for R. King, and as Collateral Security for my Bond to him. You will therefore be pleased hereafter to receive the Interest and apply the same to my Credit on the Bond...." Dating to the colonial period, the Bowne printing firm remained in business for some two centuries; in the 1980s their 24-hour Manhattan bindery produced much work for Cohasco. Interesting "J. Smy(th) / 1796" watermark. Marginal dust-toning, fine fraying at two edges, some insect spots and tear at blank bottom, else very satisfactory. $100-130

2-13. Builder of Defenses at West Point.

A.L.S. of Henry Champion, (Jr.), Continental Army officer, fighting at Bunker Hill, participated in retreat from Long Island, and served under Kosciusko in constructing defenses at West Point. Champion and his father - at one point the principal Commissary General for Eastern Division of the Continental Army - supplied Washington's men with fish, cattle, pigs, and other provisions. In 1779, Henry, Jr. was appointed Acting Major of the elite First Battalion Light Brigade, organized by and under the direct command of Washington. New Haven, Nov. 1, 1799, 7 ¹/2 x 11 ¹/2. Signed with paraph. To Neh(emia)h Hubbard. Promising to pay notes given to Richard Harrison and Josiah Ogden Hoffman. "If you will take up s(ai)d notes, amounting to about 1551 Dollars, I will pay you the money on them on Demand." By this time, dollars were among the generally-accepted currencies in the new America. "Bound out" to a merchant at age 14, by early 1776 Hubbard was serving as a paymaster for Conn. troops, traveling through upstate N.Y. disbursing money. A confidante of Washington, Trumbull, and Hamilton, Hubbard helped supply French troops, accompanying them to Yorktown for the siege and Britain's surrender. Break but no separation at center fold, margins considerably chipped, uniform caramel toning, stains at upper right, old tan paper strip on verso for tipping in recipient's letter-book, but very satisfactory. Scarce. $110-140

3-1. $1/6 Continental Currency.

"According to a Resolution of Congress, passed at Philadelphia, Feb. 17, 1776." Friedberg CC-19. Signature in brown of J. Kelso. With Ben Franklin's woodcut, "Mind Your Business," on front, and Fugio-style circular links on verso. No. 448727. Pane A. A bright, fairly fresh example, upper right tip sharp. Few interesting mica inclusions. Three-step cut along bottom, perhaps from progressive trim by printer's scissors as they moved across the large press-sheet to cut the notes into singles. PMG Choice Very Fine 35. $750-1050

3-2. $1/3 Continental Currency.

Feb. 17, 1776. Friedberg CC-20. With Ben Franklin's woodcut, "Mind Your Business," on front, and Fugio-style circular links on verso. No. 468770, very light. Pane C. Never folded. Minor wear, but only minimally circulated. PMG Choice Extremely Fine 45. $750-950

3-3. $1/2 Continental Currency.

Feb. 17, 1776. Friedberg CC-21. With Ben Franklin's woodcut, "Mind Your Business," on front, and Fugio-style circular links on verso. No. and signature faded to illegibility, though signer probably recognizable based on remaining vestiges (there were nearly three hundred people sharing the arduous task of signing these notes!). Pane A. Half fold, some handling, else judged VG10. $130-170

3-4. $2 Continental Currency.

Feb. 17, 1776. Friedberg CC-24. Circular woodcut, "Tribulatio Ditat," showing printer's hand holding a composing stick, arranging type on bed of an ancient press. The tri-leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 86485. Signed by C. Barnes in maroon, and J.B. Smyth in variable coffee-and-cream. A strong impression, the obverse retaining most of its lampblack intensity; reverse presentable but much lighter, vertical half fold, less conspicuous on obverse, else judged at least F15, and a fairly pleasing example for the grade. $220-270

3-5. $3 Continental Currency.

Nov. 29, 1775. Friedberg CC-13. Circular woodcut, "Exitus in Dubio Est," depicting griffin combatting a coiled serpent. The leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 23635. Signed by Isaac Howell in salmon-pink, and Rob. Roberts in brown. Unusually wide margin at left (even wider on reverse), generous at top and right, and clear at bottom. Especially lengthy ⁵/8" blue fiber strand, a telltale signature of Ivy Mills, the Chester, Pa. maker of paper for Continental and some Penna. currency. Pleasing 80% black impression on obverse, slightly lighter on reverse, never folded, sound tips, and judged EF45. $325-425

3-6. $4 Continental Currency.

Feb. 26, 1777. Friedberg CC-57. Circular woodcut, "Aut Mors Aut Vita Decora," showing a boar challenging the tip of a spear. Fern motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 37052. Signed by D. Carroll in oak brown, and L. MacKulin in terra cotta. Trace of vertical fold, only discernable at reverse. Attractive mica inclusions. A small semicircular fragment lacking at 3 o'clock, more suggestive of a punch than a fiber pull. Very light wear at upper right tip, else a bright, clean, fresh-looking example, with only brief circulation. PMG Very Fine 30. $240-300

3-7. $5 Continental Currency.

Sept. 26, 1778. Friedberg CC-79. Circular woodcut, "Sustine Vel Abstine," showing hand tending a young tree. Two-leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 291019. Signed by J. Dundas in pinkish red, and Jno. Read in brown. Half fold, corners with only a hint of wear, some rub on obverse from sliding against other sheets on press, else a very satisfactory example. PMG Choice Extremely Fine 45. $350-400

3-8. $6 Continental Currency.

Nov. 29, 1775. Friedberg CC-16. Circular woodcut, "Preseverando," showing palmettos. Leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 38263(?), very faded. One signature identifiable with research, the other very faded. Likely once wet, toned to uniform tan, else surprisingly with four square corners, ample margins (generous on reverse), and in all, judged about VF20. $70-90

3-9. $7 Continental Currency.

Sept. 26, 1778. Friedberg CC-80. Circular woodcut, "Serenabit," depicting small village amidst rolling hills. Tree motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 109312. Signed by W. Gray and S. Lyons, in light brown. Moderately hard center fold, wedge stain at lower right quarter, tiny fragment lacking at upper left tip, other tips rounded, else judged VG6. $40-60

3-10. $8 Continental Currency.

Sept. 26, 1778. Friedberg CC-81. Circular woodcut, "Majora Minoribus Consonant," showing woman in elegant eighteenth-century dress and bouffant hairstyle, playing harp with angel-wing scrollwork. The tri-leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 175384. Signed by N. Roberts in raspberry pink, and S. Lyons in dark brown. Bend at lower right corner, minor wear only at others, light tortoise-shell mottling, vertical fold; interesting printer's trim oddity, with very wide right margin, and graceful arc across top margin, indicating notes were cut with scissors, not on a guillotine. Judged F12. $60-85

3-11. $20 Continental Currency.

Sept. 26, 1778. Friedberg CC-82. Circular woodcut, "Vi Concitatae," showing rows of crops on a farm. The tri-leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 79397. Signed by R. Cather in mid-brown, and J.L. Knowlton(?). Wear along all edges, two corners rounded, one indented, and the fourth thinned with a small nick; quarter folds, tea (or perhaps rum?) stains at top and bottom right quarters, more generalized on reverse, but still a satisfactory example, and judged G4 or a point higher. $45-65

3-12. $50 Continental Currency.

Sept. 26, 1778. Friedberg CC-85. Circular woodcut, "Perennis," depicting pyramid. The tri-leaf motif on verso was among the "nature print designs popularized by Ben Franklin"--Friedberg. No. 323719. Signed by R. Cather in brown, and D. Wister in claret. Apparently never folded. Trivial tip and edge wear, else retaining most crispness, and clean. PMG AU 50. $190-240

3-13. Twenty Shillings Connecticut Currency.

June 1, 1775. Friedberg CT-192. Circular type within square woodcut, "Connecticencis [note variant spelling] Sigillum Colon," enclosing three stylized Charter Trees. Printed by Timo(thy) Green, New London, whose press was regaled in over a century of scholarship as the first printing press in America, until a single letter was found in archives in the 1960s with a fleeting, contrary statement. No. 6180. Signed by Benjn. Payne, George Wyllys, and Thos. Seymour, all in delicate pink. Wyllys' family was closely associated with the Charter Oak: The family was "the leading family in Hartford, if not in the colony...Five generations lived in the fine mansion built in 1636 on Wyllys Hill...the finest of [the] very early Connecticut houses...." The famous Charter Oak, in a hollow of which the actual charter of Connecticut was hidden from the English colonial Governor Sir Edmund Andros, c. 1686, was in front of the Wyllys house. Some light stains, one on "George" and part of Seymour's signatures; very gently rounded corners, else retaining some crispness, evidently never folded, and judged a technical F15, rather higher if not for the stains. Rare in high condition. $80-110

3-14. 40 Shillings Connecticut Currency.

May 10, 1775. Friedberg CT-182. Circular type within square woodcut, "Connecticensis Sigillum Colon," enclosing three stylized Charter Trees. Printed by Timo(thy) Green, New London, whose press was regaled in over a century of scholarship as the first printing press in America, until a single letter was found in archives in the 1960s with a fleeting, contrary statement. No. 18375. Signed by Thos. Seymour and two others, all in pale pink. Half fold, reinforcement on reverse with short piece of archival-style tape, some pocket toning, corners gently rounded, else judged VG10. $45-60

3-15. Five Shillings Delaware Currency.

Jan. 1, 1776. "Five Shill." Friedberg DE-77. "To Counterfeit is Death" on reverse. Printed by James Adams. Interesting, complex woodcut of horse and rampant lion with human face, flanking crest. No. 91159. Signed by Jno. McKinly and James Sykes in dark brown. Superior example, never folded, square corners, with nearly perfect centering on obverse, excepting slight arc in printer's cutting at left; design interestingly printed off-center on reverse, just clearing border at top, just in at upper right vertical, the other two sides ample. Trace of crease at upper left tip, detectable only under magnification, else a rich impression. PMG About Unc. 55. $200-250

3-16. Collection of Maryland Notes, all from a Single Series - Co-Printed by a Woman.

Apr. 10, 1774. Eight different notes: $1/9, $2/9, $1/6, $1/3, $2/3, $1, $6, and $8. All printed by A(nne) C(atherine) and F. Green, Annapolis. Each with Ben Franklin-inspired leaf design on reverse, first printed on Maryland notes by Jonas Green. All signed by J(ohn) Clapham and Wm. Eddis in coffee-and-cream to rich brown, variously.

Comprising:

• $1/9 Maryland Currency. Apr. 10, 1774 all notes this lot. Friedberg MD-60. "This Indented Bill of One Third of a Dollar, shall entitle the Bearer hereof to receive Bills of Exchange payable in London, or Gold and Silver, at the Rate of 4 Shilling and Six-pence Sterling per Dollar...Tis Death to Counterfeit." No. 8942. One corner clipped uphill, probably by printers of these notably uniquely-trimmed notes; one corner dogeared, but the other two miraculously square; horizontal fold, and traces of multiple verticals, else a rich impression, and judged F15.

• $2/9 Maryland. Friedberg MD-62. The Green's imprint in larger, variant Caslon and Old English. Moderately low no. 1243. Short tears at top and bottom of heavy vertical fold, but no separation; crumpling and fraying at left, circulation wear, signatures somewhat light but clear, and in all, judged G4. One of the more unusual denominations in colonial currency; curiously, the use of ninths carried forward well into the twentieth century, in fractional-share stock certificates and warrants.

• $1/6 Maryland. Friedberg MD-61. No. 9233. Interesting off-center imprint on reverse: generous at left and top, very wide ⁵/8" margin at bottom and ³/8" at right. Heavy vertical fold, broken at about half its height but not separated; nicks along edges, two top corners with irregular bulb projections, but still a collectible note, with fairly good detail in front impression, and judged just G4.

• $1/3 Maryland. Friedberg MD-63. No. 8942. Three corners dogeared, four parallel vertical folds, circulation toning to uniform dark cream, else judged about F15.

• $2/3 Maryland. Friedberg MD-65. No. 22095. Interesting off-center imprint on reverse, just clear at top, very wide 3/4" margin at bottom and nearly ¹/2" at right; angled trim at left, into design, by printer. Wear but no separation at vertical half fold, second angled vertical crease, creases at two right corners, some circulation scuffing, about a dozen insect or ink spots in obverse margin, but judged VG8.

• $1 Maryland. Friedberg MD-66. No. 5685. Vertical half fold. Tan iron-gall spot at bottom, creases at two tips, handling evidence, else retaining traces of crispness, moderately bright, with an especially lean impression on reverse, without the usual infill. Judged about VF20.

• $6 Maryland. Friedberg MD-69. No. 2927. Vertical half fold. Three manuscript lines of addition in margin on reverse, in neat contemporary hand. Large but light waterstain, masked by dense woodcut, and only seen on reverse; three corners dogeared but complete, considerable handling but retaining strong black impression, and judged VG10.

• $8 Maryland. Friedberg MD-70. No. 11421. Light, soft vertical half fold. Interesting off-center imprint on reverse, good at top, generous at left, very wide ⁷/8" margin at bottom and ¹/2" at right; angled trim at left, into design, by printer. Trivial wear at three tips, else warm cream patina. and a visually pleasing example. PMG AU 55 EPQ.

All with so-called "secret marks" to deter and detect counterfeits, though their details were discovered. By 1780, inflation was severe; holders of Maryland notes dated before 1776 were given five months in which to exchange forty old dollars represented by these notes for one new dollar - after which time these notes became void and worthless. Signer John Clapham was a Maryland landowner, sheriff, and tax collector. His co-signer William Eddis was "a cultivated young Englishman loyal to the Crown," who had traveled to America to work for Maryland's Governor. Remaining til 1777, he later self-published his letters, which presented "an unparalleled commentary on the political crisis unfolding...social life...the races, prevalence of the latest British fashions among the elite..." - and the dangers he experienced by declining to take an oath of allegiance to the newly independent country--A.N.B. Online. A delightful assemblage for display; because these were almost certainly acquired en bloc nearly half a century ago, their offer as a group allows them to remain together. $950-1200 (8 pcs.)

3-17. Engraved by Paul Revere: "Three Shilling and six-pence" Massachusetts State Currency.

(Dec. 1,) 1779. Friedberg MA-271. With rising sun woodcut on obverse, pine tree on reverse. No. 1937. Signed by J. Brown. On obverse, two good margins, one close but clear, and bottom mostly clear; printing rotated on reverse, with two generous and two very wide margins. Blind linear impression at top third, dark tortoise-shell mottling, dark stain at top margin, but still collectible. PMG Choice Fine 15, "stained." With eye appeal, the reverse especially suitable for display with its broad margins. A key item for a currency or Revolutionary War collection. $275-350

3-18. One Shilling New-Jersey Currency.

Mar. 25, 1776. Friedberg NJ-175. Strong orange-red and black. Printed by Isaac Collins, Burlington. No. 4273. Signed by Jno. Johnston, Rob. Smith, and Jos. Smith, all in rich brown. Amber stains at four tips on reverse where once mounted, margins hairline to barely in (at bottom left horizontal), generous on reverse, but in all, a superior example, with splendid eye appeal, boasting finely detailed impression, rich second color, creamy toning, and crispness. PMG Choice About Unc. 58, "Previously mounted." $200-250

3-19. Eighteen Pence New-Jersey Currency.

Mar. 25, 1776. Friedberg NJ-176. "One Shilling and Six-Pence" within text. Ice-cream-pink and black. Printed by Isaac Collins, Burlington. No. 31416. Signed by Rob. Smith, Jno. Johnston, and John Smythe, all in light caramel. Quarter folds plus second vertical fold; wear along one vertical half fold, ³/4" break at top; four good margins on obverse, four wide on reverse; generally quite attractive for the grade, judged a technical G6 but presents better. $55-75

3-20. Three Shillings New-Jersey Currency.

Mar. 25, 1776. Friedberg NJ-177. Pinkish-red and black. Printed by Isaac Collins, Burlington. No. 38518. Signed by Rob. Smith, Jno. Johnston, and John Smythe, all in walnut brown. Apparently used as a blotter when numbered by one of the signers, probably Smith, with mirror image of five digits on reverse at bottom, together with "£15.15" penned in margin, in a larger hand. Very minor wear, four good corners, and judged VF30. $110-140

3-21. $1/4 Dollar New-York Currency.

Mar. 5, 1776. Friedberg NY-187. "Two Shillings" at top. Printed by Samuel Loudon. No. and both signatures nearly faded, though probably identifiable with research (one possibly Macomb). Prominent half fold at angle. Frayed at top half of left vertical margin, into border. Soiling at left of fold, else an affordable example, judged nominal G4, with exceptionally rich black imprint on reverse. $65-85

3-22. Two Pounds New-York Currency.

Feb. 16, 1771. Friedberg NY-164. No. 47135. Printed one side only. Signed by W. Franklin in brown, and another much lighter. Once separated into two halves, with ancient homespun repair, sewn together with matching cream-white thread! Frayed and worn at edges, but retaining nearly all ample margins; else fairly clean, and cosmetically about good. (It is judged inaccurate here to assign a single numerical numismatic grade.) $55-75

3-23. $5 New-York Currency.

Sept. 2, 1775. Friedberg NY-180. Printed by John Holt (who would print a Declaration of Independence broadside the following July, an example of which recently sold for $1.8 million, the highest price to date for a non-John Dunlap imprint). No. 4704. One signature nearly completely faded, the second dark but requiring research. Half fold. Fine edge pocket wear, loss of fragment at upper right margin, corners with dogearing, but still judged G4. $90-120

3-24. $10 North Carolina Currency - Thick and Thin Paper Varieties.

Two items: Aug. 8, 1778. Both Friedberg NC-177b. Printed by J. Davis. Uncommonly thick paper for any state's issue, unmentioned in Friedberg, actually as thick as an index card. "...passed at Hillsborough...." No. 37798. Signed by J. Cobb and another, identifiable with research, both in pale tea-brown. "Persecution the Ruin of Empires." Half fold, especially pronounced on reverse. Corners gently rounded, average circulation wear, else judged F12. • Interesting thin-paper companion to above for study and display. $10, Aug. 8, 1778. Printed by J. Davis. "...passed at Hillsborough...." No. 11646. Signed by J. Cobb in light tea-brown and another nearly faded but identifiable with research. "Persecution the Ruin of Empires." Light half fold, neatly reinforced on reverse with sheer tape, perhaps archival, and barely noticeable. Corners gently rounded, rusty outline of paper clip, else judged VG10. $150-200 (2 pcs.)

3-25. Two Shillings & Six Pence Rhode-Island Currency.

1786. Friedberg RI-293. The final series of Rhode Island currency. Printed one side. No. 1092. Signed by N. Knight and J. Hazard, in rich brown and crimson, respectively. Elaborate border with two phoenix-like birds at top, embellished with vinery and scrolls; central motif featuring ship's anchor. Four adequate margins. Horizontal fold, minor edge overfold and incidental wallet wear, light tortoise-shell toning, else cosmetically judged VF30, but clean and a fine impression, appearing rather better. $65-85

3-26. Ten Shillings Rhode-Island Currency.

1786. Friedberg RI-297. The final series of Rhode Island currency. Printed both sides, by Southwick and Barber. "Death to Counterfeit." No. 8641. Signed by N. Knight and S(amuel A.) Allen, in milk chocolate and crimson, respectively. Elaborate border with two phoenix-like birds at top, embellished with vinery and scrolls; central motif featuring ship's anchor. Lacking upper left portion, about ¹/2 x ⁵/8, irregular. else evidently never folded, four adequate margins, and judged at least a technical AU53. $65-90

3-27. Thirty Shillings Rhode-Island Currency.

1786. Friedberg RI-299, the only denomination seen in any series of any colony or state to receive his asterisk, but it is unexplained. The final series of Rhode Island currency. Printed both sides, by Southwick and Barber. "Death to Counterfeit." No. 10,332. Signed by N. Knight, Samuel A. Allen, and Elijah Cobb, in coffee brown, crimson, and dark chocolate, respectively. Superior impression of elaborate border with two phoenix-like birds at top, embellished with vinery and scrolls; central motif featuring ship's anchor. Four ample margins on obverse; on reverse, one partly into design, two ample, and one very wide. Two blank bottom corners diced (cut at angles), possibly an added anti-counterfeiting measure, to supplement the intricate eclecticism of the borders and text. Faint horizontal fold, barely detectable; scattered light foxing, else judged EF45. $100-125

3-28. Eighteen Pence Pennsylvania Currency - Signed by Chas. Thomson.

Date perished at folds, but reliably believed Mar. 10, 1769, and therefore Friedberg PA-139. A heavily worn example, all edges tattered and chipped, once separated at all quarter folds and remounted on old piece of plain matching-brown paper (but printed one side only). Signed by Chas. Thomson (Secretary of Continental Congress, and with John Hancock, the only two who actually signed the original Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776), and by Saml. Rhoads, in coffee-and-cream brown and milk chocolate, respectively. Called "the Sam Adams of Philadelphia," Thomson's signed notes are more frequently encountered in 1 Shilling denominations. In all, perhaps the most "seasoned" colonial note we recall handling in years, AG2 or 3, but with a desirable signature, on leathery-calfskin-toned paper. $170-220

3-29. One Shilling Pennsylvania Currency - Series A and B of the Same Note.

Interesting pair, both Friedberg PA-154: Apr. 3, 1772. Series A: Printed by David Hall and William Sellers. No. 25152. Signed by Sam. Howell, Junr., and J. Pemberton, both moderately dark reddish-brown. Quarter folds. Fine creases at four corners, three slightly rounded. Toast-toned patination from circulation, but quite presentable, the relative darkness of the number and signatures rendering it suitable for display. Judged about VG10. • Another, same date, but Series B: Printed by David Hall and William Sellers. No. nearly faded. Signed by Sam. Howell, Junr., and J. Pemberton, light and medium brown, respectively. Quarter folds. Minute pull at upper left tip, other three corners with only trivial wear, though the note is uniformly darkened to light oak. Judged about VG8. $70-100 (2 pcs.)

3-30. Two Shillings and Six-pence Pennsylvania Currency.

Apr. 3, 1772. Friedberg PA-157. Series A. "Half-a-Crown." Printed by D. Hall and W. Sellers. No. 16507. Signed by Saml. Coutetz, Jos. Dean, and another, identifiable with research, from light to dark browns, variously. Prominent half fold. Folds at corners, some creases at bottom, but four ample to good margins, else judged about VG10. $35-50

3-31. Five Consecutive Denominations of Pennsylvania Currency - all the Same War Date.

Comprising:

• Eighteen Pence Pennsylvania ("One Shilling and Six Pence"). Apr. 10, 1777. Friedberg PA-214a. Black ink. Printed by John Dunlap. No. and signature nearly faded, the latter possibly identifiable with research. Pronounced half fold. An especially large mica flake at top, lending a decorative effect within the word "Eighteen," and another at bottom. Three corners dogeared, the fourth gently rounded, some oatmeal-tan patina, else judged up to F12.

• Two Shillings. Apr. 10, 1777. Friedberg PA-215a. Black ink. Printed by John Dunlap. No. 7145. Signed by C. Davis in light brown. Quarter folds, the vertical at an angle. Quarter-size oval stain at left-center, brown mottling at left and right portions, three corners with single creases, else judged about VG10.

• Three Shillings. Apr. 10, 1777. Friedberg PA-216a. Black ink. Printed by John Dunlap. No. 26442. Signed by Levi Budd in maroon. Half fold. Minor tip wear, surface mottling from wallet, else a fairly attractive example, and F15.

• Four Shillings. Apr. 10, 1777. Friedberg PA-217a. Black ink. Printed by John Dunlap. No. nearly faded. Signed by M. Shubart. Half fold. Two short edge tears at left edge, three tips dogeared, circulation scuffing, else judged G7, but presenting better.

• Six Shillings. Apr. 10, 1777. Friedberg PA-218a. Black ink variant. Printed by John Dunlap. No. 26981. Signed by C. Davis, and another much faded but probably identifiable. Inconspicuous quarter folds, probably pressed. Corners gently rounded, moderate pocket wear, else clean and judged about VF20.

Acquired as a group prior to 1975. $275-375 (5 pcs.)

3-32. $60 Virginia Currency.

July 14, 1780. "Eighteen Pounds." Friedberg VA-188. Only the denominations printed on reverse. On sheer, translucent paper. Very low no. 155. Signed by John Lyne, J. Hopkins, and another, identifiable with research, all in light but legible tan. Very wide left margin, ample at bottom, but other two distressed and incomplete, understandable as the paper is the lightest we have seen among eighteenth-century notes. Some darkening from two old glassine strip reinforcements on verso, judged about G4, but still a presentable survivor. $50-70

4-2. "Jefferson Davis" - by Varina.

Choice signature in Confederate-grey on lightly toned ivory card, believed in hand of Varina, who was highly adept at imitating his hand. 2 x 3 ¹/4. With telltale period following signature, and old light pencil on verso, "By his wife." At lower corner, "Dec. 4, (18)86." Excellent. Raised in the South and educated in Philadelphia, she was 17 when she met Davis, then 35. Little remembered today is that Davis and the young Varina served, at Pres. Pierce's request after his family losses, as official White House hosts. She did not support the Confederacy's pro-slavery and -states' rights positions, and was ambivalent about the war. Moving to New York with her daughter to address their financial hardships after her husband's death, both became correspondents for Pulitzer's New York World. "In the postwar years of reconciliation, Davis became friends with Julia Dent Grant, widow of former general Grant, who had been among the most hated men in the South. She attended a reception where she met Booker T. Washington...In her old age, Davis published some of her observations and ‘declared in print that the right side had won the Civil War.'"--wikipedia. $80-110

4-3. Jefferson Davis - by himself.

Attractive genuine signature, "Respectfully...Beauvoir, Missi. [note usage], 5th April 1881," in purple, on checkerboard-watermarked slip, 3 ¹/4 x 4 ¹/2. 1 ¹/2" diagonal tear from upper right corner, passing between last two letters of "Davis," repaired on verso with short piece of tape, several decades old but possibly acid-free, very light marginal toning, else very good plus. $300-450

4-4. "If no contagious disease attacks us...."

Superior, lengthy letter of a Confederate officer who would be killed in action. (Lt.) A.N. Steele [of 11th Alabama Infantry], Lynchburg, Va., July 2, 1861, 4 x 6 ³/4, 6 full pp., neatly pencilled on ivory quadrille-ruled paper. Mentioning some 25 men applying for post of Asst. Regimental Surgeon. "...Our Regiment is all mustered into service. No appointments have been made yet...Col. Moore has gone to Richmond...There seems to be but little excitement here about the War. I don't know what is going on as I have not had an opportunity of reading the papers...I have a squad to drill six hours in the day but I have several so well drilled that I give them over to a sub-officer and sit down in the shade...I am standing the campaign finely so far and I think I can come if no contagious disease attacks us. This is quite a healthy country. I am popular with the Regiment and the Company as an officer...We are now encamped in a beautiful grove about 1 ¹/2 miles from Lynchburg...None passes the line without a furlough and it is difficult to get one...I have a very easy time. There is no drunkenness at all...I hear the drum and I must close...I hope to be home some time this Fall...If Mr. Richards' house will be to rent next year, I suggest that you try and engage it. Tell my little boys I think of them often. Jr. must be good." Minor handling toning, else very fine. The country-club living described at this early date came to an abrupt end. Just less than a year later, on June 30, 1862, Lt. Steele was mortally wounded at the Battle of Frayser's Farm, as he and his men charged with bayonets across an open field. With transcript and modern research. $550-700

4-5. A Controversial Confederate General orders Wallpaper.

Antebellum A.L.S. of future Confederate Gen. Gid(eon) J. Pillow, "...Hotel," July 20, (18)48, 4 ³/4 x 7 ¹/2, 1 p. To Carey & Hart, stationers and printers. "You will please send down to the House of which I purchased the wall paper & get two more pieces of the paper & one piece of bordering & have it packed with my books. I send you the money to pay for it. I fear that without these additional pieces, there might not be enough for the rooms." A criminal lawyer, Pillow was appointed Maj. Gen. in the Mexican War by his partner James L. Polk. A Douglas Democrat, Pillow "took a moderate course and hoped to solve the secession problem by compromise..."--Boatner. Passing off his command at Fort Donelson, Pillow and Floyd escaped, leaving their junior to negotiate with Grant. Pillow was reprimanded, suspended, and never given another important command. Addressed in Pillow's hand on integral address-leaf, hand-delivered. Smudge on few words by Pillow's hand, handling evidence, old pencil notation "Gen. Mex. War / Reb," else very satisfactory. $375-475

4-6. A Confederate Army Veterinarian - in a Legion memorialized in "Gone With the Wind."

Highly unusual D.S. of (Surgeon) H(arrison) Pettis, Camp Rapidan, (Va.), Dec. 22, 1862, 8 ¹/4 x 10 ³/4, on form headed "The Confederate States," printed on cocoa-brown adversity paper. Assigned to the infantry battalion of Cobb's celebrated Georgia Legion, Pettis' comrades fought widely, including at Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Knoxville, Cold Harbor, the siege of Petersburg, and were present at Appomattox. Listing "8 lbs. Lard 4.00, 1 qt. Arnica 1.50, 1 lb. Alum 1.50, 1 qt. Turpentine 1.00, 1 lb. Rosin .10. Used on public horses." Also signed by Capt. & Q.M. Z.J. Anderson, certifying that Pettis' itemization is correct. Docketed. Triangular fragment lacking at blank right fold, some soft creases at upper right, else very good. The Legion's co-namesake, Brig. Gen. Thomas Cobb, was killed nine days before this document was penned, while leading his men at Fredericksburg. It is possible that the equine medicines used here were for horses on the Fredericksburg battlefield, where Lee's entire army of 78,500 clashed with the Union. Cobb's Legion also featured a famed fictional member - Ashley Wilkes of Gone With the Wind, wounded at Gettysburg in the movie's story line. Confederate veterinary documents are understandably very scarce. $175-250

4-7. Manuscript Confederate Special Orders: Lost Guns.

Scarce manuscript Special Orders, H.Q., Dept. No. 2, Tupelo, Miss., July 3, 1862, 7 ³/4 x 12, boldly signed by A.A.G. T(homas) B. Roy, who would be promoted to Capt. two days later. Joining the Warren Rifles days after Fort Sumter, Roy served as a clerk in Beauregard's headquarters. "...Boards of three Officers each will be appointed in the Several Brigades by Division Commanders, to determine...all instances...in which arms and accoutrements have been lost by the men thereof, through neglect or any fault...or from an unavoidable casualty...The cost of all arms and accoutrements have been charged on...the final statement of men discharged...By Com(man)d of Gen. Bragg, F.H. Jordan, A.A.G." Countersigned by Roy, with "Official" and "For Brig. Gen. Chalmers, Comdg. Cavalry" in another hand in violet. Two short tape repairs on verso, at ends of center fold; text in coffee-and-cream, Roy's signature in chocolate, and very fine. Roy went on to fight at Perryville, Stones River, Jonesboro, and the Atlanta campaign, and was postwar editor of Selma Messenger. $65-85

4-8. A Cryptic Confederate Message.

Manuscript unnumbered field order, on small sheet of blue-lined adversity paper, hastily penned by (Engineer) C. Erwin, "Eng(ineers) Office, Amelia C.H.," Oct. 14, 1864, 3 x 6. "Mr. B.C.D. will report to Maj. T(homas) G. Peyton, Comdr. Camp Lee, by 10 o'c. tomorrow. Forwd. under Genl. Orders No. 76, A(djt.) & I(nspector) G(en.)...." Peyton served in 1st and 15th Va. Infantries; resigning in 1862, he returned to the staffs of Gens. John Shields and Richard Ewell, and commanded Camp Lee in Richmond. Some handling creases, smudged drop from quill, else good plus. Intriguing: four days from Appomattox, Robert E. Lee was thought retreating from Amelia C.H. $120-150

4-9. One of "the Thinking Confederates" orders Coffee and Prunes.

Delightful antebellum A.N.S. of B(asil) L. Gildersleeve, called "the greatest Grecian of the English-speaking world" and one of "the thinking Confederates"--"Glimpses of the Confederate Army," in American Review of Reviews, Apr. 1911. Shot in the leg in the Shenandoah, while an aide to Gen. John B. Gordon, returned to serve as Chairman of Latin at University of Virginia; author of the 1915 work, Creed of the Old South. Penned from University of Va., Oct. 22, 1860, 4 ¹/2 x 7 ¹/4. To W.D. Blair. Requesting "20 lbs. mocha coffee, 5 lbs. black tea, 2 jars prunes, 2 bottles currant jelly, 1 doz. claret from $6 to $7." Old-fashioned filing spear hole at blank top, three folds, else good. • With curious turn-of-century fragment of lecture notes of a student named Benjamin, possibly taken in Gildersleeve's class. "...Benjamin's Class 4 - Sent me by R.F. Walker." • With filing envelope of an early 20th-century autograph dealer. The finding aid for the extensive Gildersleeve Papers at University of Virginia does not show any correspondence before 1865; an antebellum letter is rare. Subject of a modern biography, Soldier and Scholar: Basil Gildersleeve and the Civil War, ed. by Ward W. Briggs. Not in Sanders or Seagrave. $200-250 (3 pcs.)

4-10. Confederate Brothers - Captured Apart.

Antebellum letter of J.W. Jenkins, Peola Mills, Madison County, Va., Sept. 10, 1858, 4 ³/4 x 8, 3 pp., in uncommonly rich midnight-blue ink. To his brother R(euben) W(estley) Jenkins. Both served in the 7th Virginia Regt.: writer J.W. was taken prisoner at Frazer's Farm in 1862, exchanged, then wounded at Drewry's Bluff, and - two weeks before the end of the war - taken prisoner again at Five Forks, Va. His brother Reuben was wounded at Williamsburg; even though their regiment was mustered out at Appomattox on Apr. 9, 1865, he had been taken prisoner three days before. Both brothers spent the Spring of 1865 in confinement at Point Lookout, Maryland. J.W. writes, "...Jake is still calling his hogs...(in) Sta(u)nton...You wrote in your letter to know when Johnson would be hung. His Trial comes on the first Mon. in Oct...The ground is so hard that the people can't plough. The corn is so sorry. Scarcely can see a good field of corn...I shall make a rather better crop of wheat this year...." • With envelope to Reuben in Belfast, Ohio, "Please forward," manuscript "Peola Mills, Va...Paid 3" (town unlisted in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th editions of American Stampless Cover Catalog, and in the forerunner by Konwiser, 1952 ed.). Evidently very rare. The brown and rich blue inks on buttercup-yellow make the cover attractive. Letter with one internal tear, average fold wear, else both about very good. With modern research. $140-180 (2 pcs.)

4-11. Confederate Cousins - Captured Together.

Civil War-date letter from R(ichard) H(eart) Revercomb, to cousin R(euben) W(estley) Jenkins, both in Co. G, 7th Virginia Regt. (see also preceding lot). (Criglersville, Va.), June 4, 1864, 7 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/2, 1 ¹/4 pp. "...I got home the 2(nd) day of this month. I have had the mumps very bad since I left Richmond...Pete Jenkins and some others that joined our Company are doing nothing and I wish the Capt. would send me the Authority to fetch them when I come. I would be glad to get Pete in the army...Give my love to all the boys and keep a portion for yourself...." Joining soon after Fort Sumter, on May 1, 1861, Rivercomb (as he is spelled in the source consulted) was also taken prisoner - on the very same day, at the same place - as his cousin and correspondent, Reuben Jenkins. Both captured at Sailor's Creek, Va. on Apr. 6, 1865, they were split up, however, Rivercomb being held at Old Capitol Prison, then Johnson's Island. On lined lightweight blue paper. Some edge tears at blank top, wrinkling at lower left, probably from folding for mailing, toning at folds, but about very good. • With interesting large fragment of Virginia newspaper article mentioning R.W. Jenkins four times, c. 1940, "Old Paper Gives Familiar Names," describing discovery of "an old, old paper, brown with age," a Morning Report of Jenkins' Company G (not present), which fought in the battles around Richmond, and Seven Pines. Terming Jenkins "one of the most prominent citizens of (Nethers, Va.)." Mounted below, an obituary for local 116-year-old gentleman. On 7 ¹/2 x 10 ¹/4 album leaf. Incomplete but useful. With modern research. $275-375 (2 pcs.)

4-12. A Future Confederate Writes from Gettysburg: "Life seems as but a dream."

Superb antebellum letter from J(ames) W. Shuey, a future Confederate physician, as a student at "Penna. College," Gettysburg, Pa., penning "life seems as but a dream..." to his friend James M. Schreckhise, Mt. Sydney, Va., who would become a prominent Civil War correspondent reporting from the South, quoted in the modern work Valley of the Shadows: Two Communities in the American Civil War. Apr. 18, 1855, 5 x 8, 4 full pp. Written soon before graduation, Shuey went on to medical school at the University of Virginia, and Medical University of N.Y., practicing in Amsterdam, Va. Upon outbreak of the war, he joined Burks' Regt. of Virginia Volunteers, an obscure local defense unit, as a Private (notwithstanding his medical degree). "...I thought you had settled down in country retirement, and ceased the pursuit of literary attainments, but it seems you are still aspiring after glory's laurels...Go on then, draw out the latent powers of the youth, if it is by the frequent use of the lash. As for the Seminary, I am a little bit like yourself - undecided - and perhaps may remain so til I get home. I tell you Schreck, I am not the Know Nothing I once was. There is ‘something rotten in Denmark'...Abolitionism seems to flourish in the congenial soil of Know Nothings...After a long, long session of hard study we are (a)gain hurled forward to another vacation, and life seems as but a dream. Today the students are nearly all gone... None will be here during vacation...I believe the Rail Road is let out from this to Hanover. No great changes taking place in Gettysburg...Tomorrow Jacob Rinehard and I will start for Niagara. I anticipate a pleasant time...." Trivial fold wear, else very fine. • With envelope, choice blue-green Gettysburg c.d.s. on buff entire. Back flap separated but present, clean breaks but no separation at edges of envelope, tear at blank top margin, some dust toning, else about very good. In the coming storm, the writer's view of Gettysburg would change. $180-240 (2 pcs.)

4-13. Ben Hur versus the Swamp Rats.

Confederate telegram, in field hand, from noted (Brig. Gen.) M. Jeff Thompson, on partly printed form of South-Western Telegraph Co., Senatobia (Miss.), June 20, 1862, 5 ¹/2 x 8 ¹/4. To Gen. Ruggles at Grenada. That month, Ruggles was named commander of Louisiana east of the Mississippi, headquartered in Jackson. Canton and Grenada, Miss. were both on key rail lines; here Thompson warns of an audacious attack by the Union on a key Confederate communications point: "A courier from Memphis reports [Union Gen. Lew] Wallace's division as having gone by river to Yazoo river to cross to Canton to cut off rail road communications. Six thousand men. I have written the particulars." Docketed "R(eceived) 10 A.M." A Confederate partisan fighter, Thompson was a "colorful Virginian with Yankee mechanical ingenuity and a love of deadly weapons" (Monaghan). His "swamp rats" became part of the lexicon of the Civil War. Around the time this telegram was sent, Thompson was tasked with mustering Mississippi's new Partisan Rangers, at Senatobia. Still in Senatobia three weeks later, Thompson wrote a letter (not present) to U.S. Grant: "...While to ‘threaten' (is) unsoldierly...I would tell you to beware of the curses and oaths of vengeance, which the Fifty Thousand brave Tennesseans, who are still in our Army, will register in Heaven, against the persecutor of helpless old men, women, and children, and the General who cannot guard his own lines..."--The Papers of Ulysses S. Grant, Vol. 5, p. 193. Lew Wallace saw lively service, befitting his authorship of Ben Hur; after the war he served on the court-martial of Lincoln's assassins, and was president of the trial convicting the commandant of Andersonville. Toned at vertical center fold and lower portion, else about fine. A superior item, linking three enduring figures of the war. $375-475

4-14. A Confederate Cavalryman commands the Horse Hospital.

Confederate Quartermaster's Dept. receipt, marked "signed duplicate," "Camp, Clarke[?] Mountain," n.d. but after Oct. 18, 1864, 6 ¹/2 x 8 ¹/2. Partly printed, with bold "Confederate States of America" heading, on mocha adversity paper. Boldly signed by Capt. & A(sst.) Q.M. W(illiam) L. Powell, "Duplicate" penned at angle, possibly in his hand. Received from Capt. F. Saunders(?), "8 horses, 1 four-horse wagon, 1 two-horse wagon...2 sets hand harness." Serving in 5th and 11th Va. Cavalry, Powell fought at Gettysburg in J.E.B. Stuart's Cavalry Div., later commanding the Confederate Horse Hospital at Cedar Keys, Va. Signature in rich brown, but text very light, the ink perhaps watered down to conserve, the South's hardships intensifying late in the war; one horizontal fold, few soft wrinkles, else fine. J.E.B. Stuart had implored the Confederate Congress to formally assign a veterinarian to each brigade of cavalry. Asserting that "the amount of saving in horse flesh to the Confederacy...would be incredible," Stuart's pleas to care for horses wounded or rendered unserviceable apparently died in committee of the Congress in 1863; the present document suggests that it was impossible to find sufficient veterinarians to fill the positions. $90-120

4-16. J.E.B. Stuart's monument - "in the hearts of the men he commanded."

Touching postwar A.L.S. of J.E.B. Stuart's Adj. Gen., Maj. H.B. McClellan, Lexington, Ky., Apr. 1, 1898, 5 ¹/4 x 6 ³/4, 2 pp. To Mrs. J.Q.A. Holloway, Baltimore." "I am more gratified that I can well express that you should have visited the grave of my well loved chief, and that you should have remembered me. I shall place the beautiful memento...in my own copy of my own book, where it will ever remind me of your kind heart. It was on one occasion my sad pleasure to visit Stuart's grave. He has a more fitting monument in the hearts of the men he commanded, and in the untarnished reputation he achieved than in the marble which marks his resting place...." Uniform warm golden toning, light graduated cockling of lower left quadrant, remnants of brown mounting paper on verso of lettersheet, else clean and fine. $110-140

5-1. Sheet of 200 Confederate Stamps, #11c.

Mint, never hinged, complete sheet of two panes of 100 each, Scott #11c, "greenish-blue" 10¢, Dietz Type I. The shade here almost jadelike, with little perceptible blue, the impressions generally crisp, delicate, and visually satisfying. Some nuanced variation in hue, the left half of the sheet generally a touch richer than the right. Later state "Archer ["& Daly" removed] / Bank Note Engravers, Richmond, Va. / No. 1" (baselines of "No. 1" off sheet at its two appearances). One old half fold, almost certainly by a Confederate Post Office, through central vertical margin between panes. Gum mint, never hinged, but with original, brushed-on, "elephant skin" appearance, and tortoise shell toning, lighter on front, with fine but profuse cockling on recto, all characteristic for this issue. Gum thin or escaping some stamps at top, bottom, or ends, especially at positions 1-6. Onion-skin effects vary depending upon how heavily (or not) gum applied; lighter application at selvage has broadened the visual texture. In all, offering considerable study and display interest, the gum, presswork, cockling, and toning with fairly sophisticated patination. In his classic work on Confederate philately, Dietz recounted, "...A well-authenticated story has it that an officious character in the President's [Davis'] entourage called the attention of Mrs. Davis to the stamp and the strong resemblance of the portrait to...Lincoln. As a result, further printing ceased and the stamp was withdrawn from circulation...The disappearance of the ‘Ten' was not noticed by the public."--Dietz Confederate States Catalog and Hand-Book, 1945 ed., p. 140.

A pretty shade, and increasingly elusive in large multiples, let alone a sheet of two panes. (In his 1959 edition, Dietz remarked of #11, "As far as known, no complete sheets or panes exist [in any of the shades]. The limited period of its use and the cause of its retirement marks the ‘Ten' as one of the most interesting stamps of the General Issues."--Dietz..., 1959 ed., p. 147. Siegel's PowerSearch archive reports only one appearance of a complete uncut two-pane sheet of 11c, theirs with blemishes, a hole, and a tear into imprint, in 2013. They report just one single-pane sheet of 11c, in nice condition, realizing 2100.00 in 2011. Of all the other shades of #11, Siegel records three double panes of blue - all from one collection, plus two single panes of blue, and one defective single pane of deep blue.)

Of the range of shades found on Confederate stamps, Dietz wrote, "...uniformity of color was impossible...The green was a mixture of blue and yellow, and the separate mixtures - made daily - were rarely of the same proportions..."--Dietz..., 1959 ed., p. 131. A quality item, fresh to the market, from collection of a Confederate Stamp Alliance member, joining around 1959. (Older Scott C.V., based on blue plate blocks and gutter pairs, plus greenish blue singles, about 6,800.00.) Shade of website image will vary depending on monitor. $3100-4200

5-2. Counterfeit Confederate Pane.

An interesting philatelic curiosity: a full sheet of 100 "stamps" of the sometimes-misattributed New York Counterfeit of Confederate #6, based on De La Rue 5¢, light greenish-blue, wide margins, ungummed. Printed by pioneer philatelic dealer and publisher J. Walter Scott of N.Y., for use in the eponymous Scott albums some time between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Expertly produced by letterpress on thin manifold paper, these were arguably the best of the C.S.A. #6 counterfeits, notwithstanding Jefferson Davis' sleepy countenance on some, and the color, which while an attractive seafoam green, was never used on any genuine Confederate issue. Uniform marginal pale honey toning, few inconspicuous fine light press wrinkles, bottom horizontal fore-edge slightly coarse, perhaps from file storage, with one small flake at tip, else about very fine. A conversation piece, and useful for study. Full sheets now uncommon. $90-140

5-3. Writing to Raleigh.

Confederate #11 , four margins, tied to cover with indistinct Orange C.H. Va. c.d.s. To Mrs. Bryna(?) Grimes, Raleigh, N.C. "May 1864" in period pencil. Column of figures at left. Edges tattered and worn, but flap present; lacking lower right tip, crease in stamp at blank lower right margin, but satisfactory. $35-50

5-5. To Catawba Station, N.C.

Confederate #11b, light blue, four ample margins and very sharp impression, tied to pale sulphur cover with partial black "Orange C.H. / Va." c.d.s. Very lightly addressed in water blue to "Miss L.M.B. Oakley(?), Catawba Station, N.C." Light waterstain at left, honey-toned halo around stamp, perhaps molasses, sometimes used for adhesion, stamp with two softly rounded corners, as applied; fine wrinkling from postal handling, else good plus. $55-70

5-6. With Link to the Expatriate Confederate Colony - of Paris.

Two covers, both to "Miss Kate S. Hammond, Care Gen. M.C.M. Hammond, Hamburg, South Carolina": Confederate #11, 10¢ greenish blue, tied to unusually thin and translucent homemade toast-brown cover. With complete "Wilmington, N.C. / Jan. 29 / 5 Paid" c.d.s., Dietz Type IV. Stamp cut closely all around, with edge faults; cover lacking upper left tip and back flap, stain at blank upper center, not unattractive mottled toning, fine creases, else about very good. • #11d, 10¢ green, fine to very fine, with small edge faults at bottom. Tied to thin and translucent homemade toast-brown cover, from same sender as preceding lot. With complete "Wilmington, N.C. / Jan. 26" c.d.s. Halo of molasses(?) toning around stamp, light tattering at upper right corner, not affecting stamp, else fine and clean. Kate Hammond is intriguingly mentioned in Women in the Civil War, Massey, p. 296, in a passage about the overseas colony of Southerners in Paris. Gen. Marcus Claudius Marcellus Hammond appears in a plethora of books about South Carolina and Southern history, most auspiciously in The Hammonds of Redcliffe, ed. by Carol Bleser, University of S.C. Press. A West Point graduate, he fought in the Indian and Mexican Wars, becoming a cotton planter, serving in the S.C. legislature in the fateful term leading to secession. Moving to Georgia, he raised thirty companies for the Confederacy. Hammond is also mentioned in South Carolina Goes to War by Cauthen, Planting a Capitalist South: Masters, Merchants, and Manufacturers by Downey, and many others. Selected research accompanies. Image on website. $220-280 (2 pcs.)

5-7. Fought at Fort Sumter.

Confederate stampless, to "Mr. John F. McElmurr(a)y, Alexander, Burke Co., Georgia." Black c.d.s. "Richmond Va. / Aug. 30, 1861," with small circular "Paid 10," both handstamps about one-third off cover. McElmurray was Capt. in the 32nd Georgia, having fought at Fort Sumter, John's Island, River's Bridge, Ocean Pond, Fla., and other battles, serving through Appomattox. Elected to the Georgia State Legislature in 1894, he owned "a nice farm of 2,000 acres near Alexander, and is a citizen highly esteemed not only for his public usefulness, but for his character"--Memoirs of Georgia. Some uniform dust-toning, old vertical pocket fold through address and "...10" handstamp, else good plus. Image on website. $65-85

5-8. A Bugle and Bacon.

Confederate #12e, 10¢ green, extremely fine with four large margins. To "Mr. D.A. Scott, Wilson, N.C. / In haste." With extensive notations cross-written in contemporary pencil, concluding on stamp: "A letter authorizing B. Scott to Recd. money for Z.M. Scott. Aby Z. Scott was born Dec. 22, 1840 and Recd. part of her Mother's Estate Jan. 26, 1864." This estate sale, handled by addressee D.A. Scott, included "garden vegetables, a spinning wheel, 1 bugle, a brandy still...(and) 788 lbs. of bacon..."--accompanying 6-pp. biographical sketch of D.A. Scott, linking all of the four Scotts mentioned on this cover. As of 1860, Scott had a 7-year-old male slave, and a 10-year-old female. Some handling toning, few small stains, else very good and unusual. Image on website. $140-180

5-9. To the Tiny Town of Coleman's P.O.

Confederate #12c, 10¢ greenish blue, fine to very fine, pulled upper right corner just touching design. Tied to lovely burnt orange-brown cover with Army of Northern Virginia target cancel, Dietz ANV1T. To "Miss M.L. Ketner, Coleman's P.O., Rowan County, N.C." Coleman's was a station on the N.C. Railroad near Charlotte. About a dozen members of the Ketner family served in the Confederate Army; the only one from Rowan County was evidently 43-year-old farmer G.M. Ketner, who enlisted in Oct. 1864. Interesting blind-embossed crest on flap. Minor wear at three tips, fine creases, else about fine and pleasing to the eye. Image on website. $120-160

5-10. Clean Milky Blue on Amber.

Confederate #12a, 10¢ clean milky blue, very good with lower right corner pulled, presumed as sold by postmaster. Manuscript cancel "Flint Hill / June 15" (Rappahannock else Pittsylvania County, Va.; the former Flint Hill lies on what was once the main road from the mountains to Richmond). To "Miss Mollie E. Brady, Scottsville, Albemarle Co., Va." Opened roughly at top, cleverly and expertly repaired using part of back flap, some dust toning and fingerprints, else about very good and suitable for display, the warm brown ink on amber cover pleasing. Image on website. $70-100

5-11. With an Octagonal Stamp.

Interestingly trimmed #11, 10¢ blue, each corner angled by sender (else postmaster) for artistic octagonal effect. On sulfur-yellow cover, black Penfield, Va. c.d.s., 1864, off cover from about 11 to 1 o'clock. To "Mrs. Louisa Y. Jones, Care Gen. T.F. Jones, Laurens C.H., So. Carolina." Lacking part of blank back flap, crinkle at left vertical edge, dust toning, else good. At the time this was sent, the addressee's husband, Thomas F. Jones of the 16th Battalion Georgia Cavalry, a partisan ranger unit, was a P.O.W. Captured at Blountsville, Tenn. in 1863, he was imprisoned at Johnson's Island til Mar. 1865. The letter may have been from Dr. R.M. Young in Penfield, Ga., in whose care Mrs. Jones also received mail. Image on website. $80-110

5-12. Produced with a Worn Printing Plate.

Horizontal pair #7 var., 5¢ blue, extremely fine. Left stamp with left frameline merged into stamp (filled in border), probably the result of a worn printing plate. On cover homemade of ledger paper, buff ruled lines at left. Black double-circle cancel "Camden S.C. / Aug 4." To "Miss Floride Bee, Care of Jas. M. Bee, Esq., State Bank, Charleston, S.C." Contemporary irregular full-height tear at left where mended by sender on verso before paper made into an envelope, waterstains, else very satisfactory, with a good address and stamp variety. James M. Bee served as the Bank's "Outdoor Clerk & Porter"--History of the Banking Institutions Organized in S.C. Prior to 1860, Clark, p. 190. A young family member, James L., possibly a brother, served in the Charleston Dragoon Cavalry; wounded and captured at Cold Harbor, he died in 1864. Image on website. $90-130

5-13. To a Confederate Confectioner.

Exceptionally clean and attractive brown kraft adversity cover, with horizontal pair #7, 5¢ light blue, extremely fine. Black "Atlanta Ga. / Mar 7" c.d.s. To "Mr. M. Strenna & Co., Montgomery, Ala." Characteristic light cockling, right stamp lifting, else very fine overall. Likely to Matthew Strenna, the antebellum confectioner and fruit merchant-turned-Corporal in Alabama Local Defense, assigned to special service to guard U.S. prisoners-of-war at Montgomery County Jail. (Strenna issued its own scrip in a single denomination, 10¢, which is excessively rare.) Image on website. $120-150

5-14. Supporting the Troops.

Confederate #12, 10¢ blue, very fine with four nice margins, affixed at upper left corner. Tied to ivory cover with black "Savannah, Ga." c.d.s. To "Miss Annie L. Drake, Anderson Court House, So. Ca. / Care of Rev. A. Rice." Cover opened roughly at left and partially at top, short tear at blank right edge, soiling, else satisfactory. Born 1842, one of nine siblings, Anna "did her part to keep the morale of the troops high by writing to them"; a portfolio of letters to her, one such possibly carried in this envelope, resides in the University of Georgia Libraries (copy of citation accompanies). Though she passed away in 1890, her siblings lived to as late as 1955. Her custodian was probably Rev. Amaziah Rice, "a noted Baptist preacher of early times...Col. of the 4th S.C. Regt...For six years he served the state in the legislature, from 1826 to 1832...shar(ing) in the honor of granting a charter to the first railroad in America built for steam cars alone, the old South Carolina road..."--Tradition and History of Anderson County, Vandiver, 1928, pp. 47-38. Also with lengthy biographical sketch of Rice, and photograph of gravesite of Anna. Miss Drake was evidently in a hurry to open her letter! Image on website. $80-110

6-1. "Stolen from his mother, In Afric's Sunny Land...."

Pocket-sized book of vivid patriotic and anti-slavery lyrics, The Soldier's Songster, or; National Hymns for the Army and Loyal Citizens Of the United States of America, by Amos J. Ferguson. Jamestown, N.Y., 1863, 2 ³/4 x 4 ¹/2, 88 pp. including supplement, original string tie. Locally printed, with words to "Alabama Conscript," "Bombardment of Sumpter" (sic), "Freeman's Ditty (Humorous)," "Jeff, Mongrel Coon," "Old Abe's Call for Volunteers," "Slave's Farewell to his Wife," "Christmas Hymn," "The Woes of Intemperance," "To Col. (Edward) Baker" - memorializing the former Oregon Sen., killed in 1861 at Balls Bluff, and for whom Lincoln named his son, and other songs. Three-pp. "Negro Boy and the Slave Trade": "He was stolen from his mother, In Afric's sunny land! And put on board a slaver, By a vile wicked band! And crowded in between the decks, With several hundred more, Who bade adieu to friends and home, Upon the Guinea Shore...'Twas then that mother cursed the land, Far famed for liberty, And wished the slavocratic band, Was sunk far in the sea...." Light waterstains, some wear and rounding of tips, else tight, and internally about fine. An eloquent display of Civil War sentiment. Very rare. WorldCat locates only two copies. $170-220

6-2. Health Care for "Negro boy" and "Negro girl."

Manuscript bill of physician G.L. Hutchinson, to estate of slaveowner Henry McMillian, Jan. 1, 1856, 4 ³/4 x 7 ³/4. For medical services provided in seven visits, Dec. 1854-1855. "To visit...medicine negro boy 5.00, Vial digitalis .50, Medicine negro girl .50, Opening negro girl's finger 1.00...." His first patient may have been quite ill: the doctor visited on three consecutive days, from New Year's Eve through the following Jan. 2. In brown on slate, ruled in pink and aqua. Wax(?) stain at blank right margin, old folds, some handling, else very good, and displayable. Bills for medical treatment of slaves are uncommon. $160-200

6-3. Slaves of a Teenage Girl.

Somewhat unusual manuscript document detailing slaves inherited by a teenage girl, spanning antebellum to Reconstruction years. "Ann E. Talbert, a minor, In Account Current...Final Settlement 1866." Wilcox County, Ala., Apr. 20, 1866, 7 ³/4 x 12 ¹/4, 2 ¹/2 pp., signed by guardian William Stockman, and Judge Jos. Cook. Reconstructing the affairs of John Talbert, presumed her father, from 1857-1866, including numerous war-date entries. Commencing with Ann's board at $8 per month, and continuing through 1864, plus "shoes, tuition &c., 1858, $7.32 ¹/2...Amt. of Confederate Money on hand, $179.45...Annual allowance to Guard(ian) and expenses, $100.00...Negro hire for 1857, (18)58 & 1859, $338.72," and continuing each year to 1864 - after slavery had technically been abolished by the Emancipation Proclamation. By the time the Confederate money was counted - one year after surrender of the South - only a fraction of its value remained. Small, light waterstain in center fold, some handling evidence, else darkly penned in rich brown on blue-lined cream, and V.G. $140-170

6-4. "Abram Lincoln" and Blacks in Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Highly interesting, lengthy manuscript document, "List of inrol(l)ed men," Caernarvon Township, then in Lancaster County, today in Berks, Pa., c. 1861, 7 ¹/2 x 12, about 6 ¹/4 written pp. on four leaves, removed from old ledger. Comprising bounty tax records, listing over 250 men by name, together with amounts assessed each, between $10 to $60. Likely including Amish, Hutterites, Mennonites, Moravians, or other pacifists, who opposed war and violence on religious grounds, together with a Creek Indian, at least three blacks - and "Abram Lincoln." To finance the enrollment bonuses given to Union volunteers, these men paid a Civil War bounty tax. Including: John Ammon, Lewis Buckwalter, Christian Burckhard, Levi Dehaven, John Hertzler, John Hollinger, Joseph Good, "Samuel Green, Colored," Lehigh Gruber, Abram Lincoln, Solomon Schnader, Martin Sensenich, Isaac Shirk, "John Thomas, Collerd [sic]," et al. Together with a slip, 4 x 7 ¹/2, "Men Yet to be enrol(l)ed in Caernarvon township," listing another six men, and evidently signed in ink by each, including "John Kurtz / Creek [Indian]" and "Harrison London Negro," signed "John Kurtz Crick" and "Hares London," respectively. Comparing the totals levied and actually collected, the unpaid shortfall was substantial: one page totals $482, of which only $35 was paid. In light coffee-and-cream ink, but legible with varying ease, some handling fingerprints, else fine. Needless to say, Civil War manuscripts combining Amish, blacks, and Indians are seldom encountered. $225-325 (2 pcs.)

6-5. The Union runs "City Colored Schools" for Newly-Freed Slaves.

Manuscript "Abstract of monies received from tuition in City Colored Schools...," Nov. 30, 1864, 1 p., 7 ¹/2 x 9 ³/4, ruled in pink and powder blue. Signed by Capt. T.A. Walker, 63rd U.S. C(olored) T(roops) & Supt. Freedmen, West Tenn. Showing $437.25 received from "S.H. Cobb, Supt. Colored Schools." Docketed. Walker also served as Provost Marshal of Freedmen, District of West Tenn., and Acting Mayor of Natchez, supervising freedmen activities in the city that once had more millionaires than Manhattan. Light toning, else very fine and suitable for display. With the war still raging, these schools were part of the Union's educational and jobs programs for just-liberated slaves. $110-140

6-7. Prison Break in Alabama - including a Murderer and "a little Negro boy" on a Chain Gang!

Unusual, lengthy A.L.S. of Warden W.H. King, on letterhead of State of Ala. Convict Dept., Speigners, (Ala.), Mar. 17, 1909, 8 ¹/2 x 11, 3 full pp., on individual leaves, each with full masthead and State seal. To Hon. J. Freeman Suttle, Felix, (Ala.). "...You ask me how I am getting on holding Convicts. You are right about the worry of the thing. I am always expecting something will happen - & something does happen right after. A short time back I had three to escape in about 10 days. A fellow by name of Sorrell, a life man for Murder...He is of very good family & for the last five months was hospital steward...After the count one night he slipped out of the yard by pulling off a plank. The planks are nearly rotten & we did not miss him until next morning. He caught a freight train...& went to Clanton in Chilton County. We traced him to that place. He had relatives there & of course protected him & we made a failure. The next man('s) name is Millstead. He was a 12 year man for Burglary...He was a general utility fellow. Could do most anything that was wanted on the place...We have built an addition of 50 by 100 feet to the Cotton Factory & we had to saw all the lumber - and he was the sawyer & a good one, but I had no confidence in him...(Guard Browning) left him at the saw mill to do some repairs without a guard & when we returned... he was gone & we have never heard of him since. The next fellow was a little negro boy. He with a gang was cleaning up an old fence row & had left an ax behind & the guard sent him back after it - & he never came back. Our dog man had sent a boy for a sham race & they crossed tracks...The dogs swap(p)ed tracks & run off...The boy kept the R.R. however & the guard telephoned to Montgomery to watch out & he was caught early next morning...in the city. So you see we have some bad luck. I am going to send Bob Coleman's dogs...I have bred the bitch to the best dog we have...They are however good guard dogs ...don't seem to take much interest in a race...The two young fellows do very well...This place is so low & marshy that I can't do anything in the field...." Uniform ivory toning, short break at right horizontal fold all leaves, small fragment chipped at edge of p. 3, else good plus. Content letters of prison wardens from the Deep South are understandably rare. Namesake of Suttle, Ala., remnants of the Suttle's planting, "Mercantile and Residential Complex" are on the American Historic Buildings Survey. $160-200

6-8. Hiring Slaves "Big Sam" and "Little Sam."

Slender manuscript fragment, recording hiring out of "Big Sam" and "Little Sam," presumably father and son, 1837-39, about 1-3/4 x 7 ¹/2. Possibly prepared for an estate file. "Wm. Withers hire Big Sam for the year 1837, $65; James Hanigan Little Sam for the year 1838, $75; Mrs. Widow Margaret Harris, Little Sam for the year 1839, $80; Capt. E. Withers Hire Big Sam for the year 1837, $65." Place probably identifiable by locating hirers in census. Foxing, cream toning, light dust toning at blank right edge, one corner mousechewed, suggesting this may have been nested in an account book, possibly summarized for estate purposes. Satisfactory, and suitable for display. $80-110

6-9. Riches to Ruin: The Triangle Trade - and Aaron Lopez, Jewish-American Patriot.

Highly important draft letter of attorney for merchants S. & W. Vernon, Newp(or)t, R.I., operating the slave ship Royal Charlotte - owned by important Jewish-American patriot Aaron Lopez. Aug. 24, 1768, both sides of 4 ¹/2 x 7 ¹/2 leaf. To St. Croix merchants Alex. Home and Robert French, requesting assistance in rescuing Vernon's triangular trade gone awry: the slaves were sold through an unwanted dealer, one slave was unsold, and no "rum or ye best sugars" have been received in payment. Exemplifying all three legs of the infamous triangle trade, here including Africa, the West Indies, and New England (Rhode Island in particular came to supplant Europe as one of the three points of the triangle).

The ship discussed here, the Brig Royal Charlotte, was owned by Aaron Lopez, "the wealthiest Jew, if not citizen, in Newport at the time of the American Revolution...Given at first to Loyal proclivities...he abandoned his home, ships, and warehouses in 1776, and joined the rebels [Americans] in Leicester, Mass. for the duration of the war. (Lopez is believed the first Jew to become a naturalized citizen of Mass.) As Jacob Marcus declares, ‘There can be no question of his readiness to sacrifice in this matter or of his ultimate devotion to the Continental cause.'"--Jews and the American Slave Trade, Prof. Saul S. Friedman, p. 123. Based on Lopez' memoranda, account books, and sailor's invoices, historians have ascertained that he did own this ship, among about thirty other oceangoing, and one hundred coastal vessels. Called the "Merchant-Prince of Newport," Lopez' tax assessment was twice that of any other Newport resident, his fortune founded on a wide range of interests, including whale oil, ships, barrels, rum, and chocolate.

In full:

"You are sensible our Brigg(an)t(ine) Royal Charlotte Wm. Taylor, Last Master from Affrica with a cargo of slaves, arrived at St. Croix last Decr. under ye care of the chief mate Wm. Pinnegar, who contrary to our expectations, put his cargo (in) the hands of Mr. Cornelius Durant for sale, who hath remitted us ye n(e)tt proceeds all to £737:9: and a negro unsold as appears by his letters w(hi)ch we now enclose you and saith shall ship us ye same in good sugars and notwithstanding there has been many vessels arrived from thence w(hi)ch would gladly have taken freight, we have not even had a single line from him which alarms us very much as we do not know that he has any great bottom or stock. Therefore thought it best to lodge a letter of attorney with you gentlemen in order to serve our interest upon a crisis that may be necessary as we are of opinion if he can be prevailed upon to ship us the ballance either in rum or good sugars at reasonable prices it's best not even to make him a(c)quainted with our having lodged a power, as we are fearful the charges of a lawsuit will be expensive & tedious, altho(ugh) we beg leave to observe that all ye security, for slaves sold, were taken in the Capt. Wm. Pinnegar name, w(hi)ch we are informed makes ye debtor subject to a court merchant and immediate execution is dued? But how far we can avail ourselves of this advantage, if he is sued? We know not. But if you are apprehensive of any risque by our money, being in his hands, we beg every necessary step may be taken to secure it. Capt. Storer(?) the bearer of this l(ette)re will be glad of the fr(eigh)t of the ball(an)ce due to us whether in rum or sugars and if the goods are to be purchased he will not ship them by him, we then beg you to make use of the power we now send you - Ship us the proceeds in rum or ye best sugars."

On this, the ship's final round, most of its slaves were placed aboard the Royal Charlotte in Anomabu, Ghana, beginning its trading on July 12, 1767. Anomabu had become the center of British slave trading along the Gold Coast; the local Anomabu blacks were noted for astute trading skills. (In addition to slaves, rum, and sugar, the Vernons also traded in molasses (liquid sugar), wine, cheese, indigo, nails, glass bottles and flasks, wigs, cotton, cloth, candles, flour, chocolate, coffee, dry goods, and kitchenware. It is likely that at least some of these items were carried on the Royal Charlotte at some point in its voyages.) On Oct. 29, 1767, the ship then departed Africa with 105 slaves, arriving in the Danish West Indies on Dec. 22 with only 95. In all, about 52% were adult men, 33% adult women, 10% boys, and 5% girls. Indeed, the historical record (modern copies accompany) seems to show that one of the 95 slaves is unaccounted for, as alleged in this letter. A 1926 article in Journal of Negro History recounts, "The African slaves in greatest demand came from the Gold Coast...There the warlike Ashanti Negroes in the eighteenth century conquered neighboring tribes; thousands of prisoners of war were sold by that tribe to native traders...Gold Coast Negroes were...distinguished above all other slaves by their superior physique, courage, firmness, and impatience of control. Mutinies in the ‘crossing' and rebellions in the West Indies...were often started by [them]...the most dangerous slaves to handle. (Snelgrave) describes two mutinies aboard slavers, one at Anamabo [Anomabu], which were planned and executed by [Gold Coast Negroes]..."--"Slavery on British West Indies Plantations in the Eighteenth Century," by Frank Wesley Pitman, Journal of Negro History, Vol. 11, No. 4, October 1926, pp. 584-668.

Five years earlier, the Royal Charlotte was the scene of such a slave revolt, while still in African waters. It was not unusual for blacks to be among the crews transporting slaves on the Middle Passage: "...About sixty of the captives on board rebelled after having been allowed on deck while the ship was in the Gabon River delta. Capt. Frost was thrown overboard and then killed by a lance ‘which penetrated his Body' as he tried to climb back aboard. The first mate...had his throat cut, while an African ‘who belonged to the ship' was thrown overboard...Like most slave revolts this one did not end happily from the rebels' point of view. Around thirty of them were killed when the gunpowder on the ship caught fire and exploded. It was several days later before the surviving crewmembers and their African allies could retake the ship"--Slave Ship Sailors and their Captive Cargoes 1730-1807, Emma Christopher, p. 153. It remains to be researched whether Cape Lopez in Gabon is associated with the owner of this ship.

By 1774, Lopez seems to have reduced his involvement in the slave trade. Two years later, in 1776, he would go further, albeit under great duress from the British - abandoning his home, warehouses, and many of his ships themselves, to devote himself to the cause of American independence. Indeed, Lopez played an indispensible role in supplying the Continental Army. His fortunes fell, in future Yale Pres. Stiles' words, from a titan whose "extent of commerce probably surpassed by no merchant in America," to ruin. Indeed, one is hard pressed to identify more than a relative handful of other patriots who had more to lose - and few who actually lost more than Lopez, in their personal sacrifices for America. The role of Lopez, and of some other colonial Jews, has been skewed by some modern observers, choosing to ignore the entirety of the story. Some show-through, pleasant toning to light golden amber, else fine plus. No St. Croix correspondence, nor any to or from these addressees, is shown in the Vernon Family Records at Winterthur. A key document in black history, and excessively rare thus. This was the last completed voyage of the Royal Charlotte; it was shipwrecked or destroyed by natural hazard in April of the following year. The trading book of the ship resides in the New-York Historical Society, further detailing this and other voyages. $3200-4800

6-10. British Printing of Uncle Tom's Cabin.

Rare variant: The Uncle Tom's Cabin Almanack or Abolitionist Memento for 1853, London: John Cassell. 6 x 9 ¹/2, 64 pp., in contemporary plain brown boards with linen gauze spine, in lieu of printed wrappers. The first and only almanac illustrated by George Cruikshank, with numerous dramatic woodcuts intended to inflame the reader's anti-slavery sentiments. Including frontispiece, "Scene on the Coast of Africa - Sale of Slaves by Native Chiefs"; title page motif of white woman sheltering three black children; "Flight of Fugitives to Canada, guided by the North Star"; "Slaves proceeding to the South to be Sold," and numerous others. Lengthy introductory remarks by British printer: "...We have reason to believe that, if slavery were exterminated in America, it would immediately cease. Hence we have given prominence to that worst form of slavery - that which prevails in America, which caricatures its institutions, which turns its boast of religion and liberty into a lie...." Including music, "Poor Uncle Tom, the Christian Slave." Pencil notation that pp. 65-70 at conclusion plus 2 pp. ads lacking, however text ends conclusively, and original cotton thread undisturbed; this may have been a printer's variant; perhaps his supply of the final 8-pp. signature had been exhausted (or not yet printed). Edge chipping and soiling of covers, first two leaves separated at spine due to brittleness, else about good. The previous year, Cassell had printed the book itself, of which a modest number of examples survive, fetching high prices. The first of this printing we have handled, and evidently of considerable rarity on the market: no copies found on A.B.E., vialibri, or Library of Congress Online Catalogue. WorldCat locates 22 copies. Page 51 of this item featured on website of New York Public Library's Schomburg Center--abolition.nypl.org/images/ suppression/6/143. A significant variant of one of the most influential - and best-selling books of the nineteenth century. Important handstamp on endleaf, "Harry Birdoff Collection"; Birdoff was a foremost collector of Uncle Tom's Cabin material, and authored the 1947 tome, The World's Greatest Hit - Uncle Tom's Cabin. "No one would dispute Birdoff's right to the title of the greatest collector of material related to the long theatrical history of Stowe's story on stage..."--utc.iath.virginia.edu/onstage/performin/birdhp.html. Cohn: Cruikshank 816. $2000-2500

6-11. In the Early Years of Abolition, "The Moral Rights of the Slave."

Issue of The Analectic Magazine, July 1817, 5 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/2, 88 pp., in later marbled wrappers. Lead article, 24 pp., "book reviews" of "A Portraiture of Domestic Slavery in the U.S: with Reflections on the Practicability of restoring the moral Rights of the Slave, without impairing the legal Privileges of the Possessor; and a Project of a colonial Assylum [sic] for free Persons of Colour: including Memoirs on the interior Traffic of Slaves, and on Kidnapping...," and "A brief View of the actual Condition and Treatment of the Negro Slaves, in the British Colonies...." The reviewer describes the author of the first book as "a very well-intentioned personage...who...has no more right to publish books, than we have to administer catharticks." States that gradual abolition of slavery has decreased the number of African wars. "We shall be told...that negroes are constitutionally indolent...that there is an abundant experience of their incapability to do anything, in America, unless they have the fear of the cartwhip before their eyes...In their own land, the perpetual wars between the petty tribes keep the whole country in alarm. No property is secure for two days together...." Much provocative discussion of the intelligence and habits of slaves. Also, article on America by James Buchanan. Tear at corner of wrapper, uniform toning, else very good. $70-100

6-12. Target of College Rioting - against Abolition.

A.L.S. of A(lva) Woods, Vermont-born first President of then-new University of Alabama (1831-37); amidst student rioting aroused in part by his abolitionist views, he resigned. Ship Manchester, July 20-22, 1822, 8 x 9 ¹/2, 1 ¹/2 pp. To Br(other) Anderson. "...Letters directed to me at Washington...who do not know that I am out of the country, I wish you to put into the hands of Br. Chase...Before leaving Philada. I went out to see your friend Mr. May[? ...I was much pleased with him but less so with his lady...I think I committed to your care my breech of kegs...July 22 finds me safely arrived & hospitably entertained in Liverpool. I hope you will be able hereafter to hear not only of the hospitality, but of the liberality of the English...." It was on this trip that Woods collected funds, books, and apparatus for what would become George Washington University in D.C. Conspicous dark stain at left margin, likely from spilled tea (from the ship's motion!), toning half of his signature; edge tear, else good plus. A colorful but elusive figure in the annals of the anti-slavery movement, all the more unusual because of his abolitionist activism in the antebellum South. Rare. $110-140

6-13. Circus Songster, including "When Sousa Comes to Coontown."

"The Barnum and Bailey Songster - Greatest Show on Earth," printed by Wm. W. Delaney, 117 Park Row, N.Y., c. 1907. 7 ³/4 x 11, (20) pp., bluetone cover, black text on pulp. On cover, portraits of Barnum and Bailey, surrounded by tiger, elephant, clown, and woman standing on a white stallion. Lyrics include "In the Heart of the City that Has No Heart," "Never Introduce Your Bloke to Your Lady Friend," "Kitty Burke's Great Hit, Sullivan's Afraid of Me," "The Songs of the Ragtime Boy," "Deutschland" ("fill up a stein, drink to the Rhine..."), "In My Harem" by Irving Berlin, "When Sousa Comes to Coontown" ("...All you coons must dress up in red or near it as you can, Turkey red...will make the scene look gran', I wants de coons dat has de coin to cook some chicken pie, So the odor will float through the air when Sousa marches by"), and many more. Ads for pulp novels, joke and song books. Uniform browning, mousechew at bottom of last leaf affecting some ad copy, chipping at several upper right corners, else good plus. An everyman's counterpoint to the end of the Gilded Age. Rare; no copied listed on abebooks. Unrecorded on WorldCat. $90-120

6-14. The Abolitionist Poet.

Expressive cabinet photo of poet Ralph Waldo Emerson, 4 ¹/4 x 6 ¹/2, no imprint but dated 1874 in pencil on verso. Warm mocha tones, on custard-cream mount. Pale mottling, some finger-handling, but very satisfactory, and suitable for display. Uncommon. $35-50

6-15. From Slavery to Triumph.

Oversize matte bronze medal issued on golden anniversary of Tuskegee Institute's founding by Booker T. Washington. 2 ³/4" diam., picturing Washington, Lincoln, and Gen. Samuel C. Armstrong. By sculptor J. Juszko. Edge-lettered Medallic Art Co., N.Y. Obverse: "Hampton Salutes Tuskegee, 1881-1931." Reverse: "I learned at Hampton that those who are happiest are those who do the most for others," with facsimile signature of Booker T. Washington, and blacksmith's hammer and anvil. Born a slave, Washington was educated at Hampton Institute, then recommended - by Samuel Armstrong - to lead Tuskegee, a new school training blacks for trades and professions. In his lifetime, his school would grow to over a hundred buildings and 1,500 students; its campus was later used as training ground for the Tuskegee Airmen. In his epic Up From Slavery, Washington called Armstrong "the noblest, rarest human being that it has ever been my privilege to meet...One might have removed from Hampton all the buildings, classrooms, teachers, and industries, and given the men and women there the opportunity of coming into daily contact with Gen. Armstrong, and that alone would have been a liberal education." Helping repel Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg, Armstrong volunteered to lead Colored Troops. His 8th Regt. was one of the first to enter Petersburg. Joining the new Freedmen's Bureau after the war, he was the first principal of Hampton University, and founder of the school's museum, the oldest black museum in America. Warm coffee finish, rim edges nearly flawless, the few trivial microscopic imperfections possibly from casting, else Mint. Issued in limited numbers, now rare. Booker T. Washington's autobiography will be reissued shortly. $140-170

6-16. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Partner.

Fine signature of Ralph David Abernathy, civil rights leader, mentor of King, becoming his partner in nonviolent protests; they were jailed together seventeen times. On that fateful day in 1968, Abernathy was inside the Memphis hotel room when King stepped onto its balcony - where he was shot. Inscription to noted collector, with "...Best Wishes & Sincere Regards...6/28/(19)71" in his hand, with signature on 3 x 5 slip. Excellent. $45-65

7-1. E(vander) M. Law.

Of S.C. Confederate Maj. Gen. A graduate of The Citadel, Law formed his own military high school in Tuskegee, recruiting his students to form the Ala. Zouaves. Severely wounded at 1st Bull Run, then fighting at 2nd Bull Run and Antietam, Law led in the attack on Little Round Top and the Devil's Den at Gettysburg. When Gen. Hood was wounded early in the battle, Law took over the division. Commanding two brigades at Cold Harbor, Law was shot, fracturing his skull. Superb presentation signature in warm brown, with "Maj. Gen. C.S.A." also in his hand. Law had been promoted to Maj. Gen. on Mar. 20, 1865, too late to be confirmed by the Confederate Congress. Hence, Boatner shows Law's highest rank as Brig. Gen. On verso of Shaw's tan business card, "...J.B. Shaw & Sons, Dry Goods...." Light toning from envelope seams, else excellent. A fascinating, embattled personage, becoming the longest surviving Confederate Maj. Gen., living til 1920. $130-160

7-2. Amos A(dams) Lawrence.

Of Lawrence, Mass. textile manufacturing family. A foremost abolitionist, giving money to John Brown, employing his defense counsel after Harpers Ferry raid, and financing colonization in Liberia. In rich brown on ivory, "Bost(o)n, Mar. 16, (18)70" in his hand. Five lines biographical information neatly pencilled on verso, old soft fold, few blind creases, else very fine. Scarce. Added to Shaw Collection in 1970s. $30-40

7-3. Fitzhugh Lee.

Of Va. Confederate Maj. Gen. Nearly ejected from West Point while his uncle, Robert E. Lee, was Supt., Fitzhugh fought with J.E.B. Stuart and Stonewall Jackson with distinction. Early in the war, he arrived late at a rendezvous, allowing Union cavalry to capture J.E.B. Stuart's famous plumed hat and cape from his headquarters. Grandson of "Light Horse Harry" Lee, and cousin of George Washington Custis Lee, Fitzhugh was complemented by Freeman as a "laughing cavalier." Lee personally led the last charge of the Confederacy, on Apr. 9, at Farmville, Va. Florid presentation signature, on pleasing ivory card. Mounting evidence on verso, possibly from Shaw's card; few trivial marginal spots, else very fine. $120-150

7-4. Signed Carte of Robert E. Lee.

Of Va. Confederate Commander-in-Chief. Charismatic postwar carte, boldly signed at lower portion in deep brown, as President of Washington & Lee University. Dark pink imprint on verso of warm cream mount, "Boude & Miley, Lexington, Va.," likely the foremost studio of that city, known for photographing every Confederate personage of prominence who passed through. Elongated waterstain in blank field above head, corners unequally hand-trimmed, not infringing upon tips of image, two tiny nicks at left edge of emulsion, few spots of incidental foxing, coffee-and-cream image (almost certainly as developed), light toning, else good plus with a superb signature. Found papers of a Tennessee family; apart from Shaw Collection. $4800-6200

7-5. S(idney) S(mith) Lee.

N.J.-born. Confederate Navy Capt. Brother of R.E. Lee. A Commodore in the U.S. Navy, Lee had commanded Perry's flagship in the historic 1853 trip to Japan, one of the rarified number of Confederates who served in East Asia! Sidney Lee "fought for the Confederacy reluctantly. As late as 1863 he denounced S.C. for ‘getting us into this snarl' of secession, complaining that Robert and his family had persuaded him to act against his love of the U.S. Navy"--"Robert E. Lee's Severest Struggle," Elizabeth Brown Pryor, American Heritage, 2008. Presentation signature, "Com(mo)dore S.S. Lee, U.S.N.," on small ecru card. Considerable light mocha staining suggestive of spilled coffee or tea, else satisfactory, and very scarce. Unlisted in Boatner and Sanders. $150-200

7-6. Stephen D. Lee.

Of S.C. Confederate Lt. Gen. A West Pointer, unrelated to Robert, this Lee joined the Confederacy in Feb. 1861. Beauregard's aide-de-camp at Fort Sumter, Lee personally delivered the ultimatum to Anderson, triggering the Civil War. Anderson replied that he would be starved out within three days, and would evacuate Sumter then, to "avoid the useless effusion of blood." It is unclear whether or how Lee transmitted Anderson's offer to Beauregard. Captured at Vicksburg, and wounded at Nashville, Lee became the Confederacy's youngest Lt. Gen. Postwar Commander of the U.C.V. A novelty in the Shaw Collection: Shaw's T.L.S., Sherman, Texas, Jan. 27, (19)08, 5 ¹/4 x 8, bearing Lee's signature at top, with his manuscript notations beside names of other Confederate generals sought by Shaw. Shaw asks, "...Please send me the names and address of...the following Brigadiers of the Confederate Army...I wish to correct my list of living Generals of the C.S.A...." Beside Brig. Gen. William Kirkland's name, Lee has penned, "address Washington, D.C."; beside Gen. Daniel C. Govan, "Magnolia, Miss."; beside Gen. William McComb, "South Boston, Va."; beside Gen. Thomas Allen [sic] of La., "Allen Thomas is dead." At top, Lee pens, "Have filled out as far as I know." Interestingly, Shaw has typed number "954" in a corner, this an indication of how many letters he had sent! Uniform cream toning, else about fine. • With Shaw's reply envelope used by Lee, red 2¢ entire, postmarked Columbus, Miss. On verso, Shaw has typed Lee's name, "954" and other filing codes. Old half-fold by Shaw, some marginal toning, else good plus. A nice pair for display; actual correspondence within the Shaw Collection is sparse. $300-375 (2 pcs.)

7-7. Stephen D. Lee.

Signature in his trademark purple, with "Ex-Lieut. Genl. C.S. Army" also in his hand. Minor exposed bead of glue at one edge, and light creases of mount (only) where Shaw evidently tried to reposition card perfectly; slight balk in "Stephen" as his quill gathered color, characteristic edge toning, else fine. $90-120

7-8. (Stephen D. Lee).

Mourning card sent to Shaw, upon Lee's passing later in 1908. 3 ¹/2 x 4 ¹/4, steel-engraved, black border. "The family of the late Gen. Stephen Dill Lee desire to express their gratitude for your kind sympathy...." Excellent. • With black-bordered envelope to Shaw, sound 2¢ red Washington postage stamp, Series of 1902, postmarked Chicago; wide flag cancel, Sherman, Texas across flap. Small interruption of black border on verso where gently opened, dark cream toning, very light foxing, else good. Showing Shaw's labor-of-love dedication to his hobby. $55-75 (2 pcs.)

7-9. W(illiam) Raymond Lee, (Jr.).

Of Mass. Union Col., 20th Mass. Vol. Infantry. A key figure in the dramatic Enchantress Affair, Lee was among thirteen high-ranking officers - including the aptly named Paul Joseph Revere - drawn by Judah P. Benjamin to be held hostage, in retaliation for taking of Confederate privateers. The Confederates were subsequently ruled to be prisoners of war, not pirates. Captured at Balls Bluff in 1861, Lee was later severely wounded at Nelson's Farm, Va., when his horse fell on him. Close of A.L.S. to Gen. W.S. Tilton, "God bless you all, very truly...," with date in his hand on separate cutting, "Roxbury, Dec. 16, (18)65," neatly mounted above on Shaw's card. Some toning of mount, else fine. Quite rare. $160-200

7-10. M(ortimer) D. Leggett.

Of N.Y. Union Maj. Gen. Studying both medicine and law, and law partner of Jacob D. Cox, Leggett served as aide-de-camp to McClellan. Commanded at Fort Donelson and Shiloh, through March to the Sea. Later founder of Brush Electric Co., absorbed by General Electric. Signature from a printed form, Natchez, July 18, 1864 - three days before his command captured Bald Hill in the Battle of Atlanta, the site today called Leggett's Hill. 1 x 4, text on verso, "...(am)ount due to Ordinance, for Horse equipments, for Clothing, &c...." Closely cropped at bottom, affecting descenders of "gg," two old short folds, double red ruled border by 19th-century collector, else very good. Uncommon. $55-75

7-11. John Letcher.

Of Va. Civil War Gov. of Va. 1860-64, succeeded by "Extra Billy" Smith. Antebellum Congressman, known as "Honest John," Letcher had earlier signed the Ruffner Pamphlet of 1847, supporting abolition in Va. west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. An organizer of the ill-fated Feb. 1861 Washington peace convention, it was Letcher who appointed the new commander-in-chief of Va.'s Army and Navy - Robert E. Lee. Letcher's Lexington home was burned by the Union in 1864. To an autograph collector (presumed Shaw), on blue-lined slip, 2 ¹/2 x 4 ³/4. Also in his hand, "Note received and request cheerfully complied with...." Tear and loss of triangular wedge at top where removed from mount, just touching part of first letter of "received," remnant of russet brown paper suggestive of Shaw's, glue stains and edge wear, else satisfactory. $50-70

7-12. W(illiam) G. Lewis.

Of N.C. Confederate Brig. Gen. An antebellum member of the Edgecombe Guards, fought at Big Bethel, the first major land battle of the war. Serving at Gettysburg, taking command of 43rd N.C. Infantry when its commander was wounded and captured, Lewis was himself wounded and captured at Farmville, Va. just a week before Appomattox. In all, he saw action in 37 battles and skirmishes. Also in his hand, "Brig. Gen. C.S.A. Army of Northern Virginia." In delicate blue. Considerable browning at left and right of card, and its mount, else fine. $150-190

7-13. John A. Logan.

Of Ill. Union Maj. Gen. Marched to 1st Bull Run - though he was not yet in the Army - with a Mich. regiment. Relieved by Lincoln in 1864; "while feeling that Logan was a first-rate combat soldier...he expressed deep contempt for the necessary though tedious logistical preparation of an army"--Boatner. Logan was Grover Cleveland's running mate in 1884, one of the organizers of G.A.R., and the originator of Memorial Day. Bold signature in pencil, on cream card. Below, in early 20th century hand, possibly Shaw's, "Vicksburg & Atlanta, march to sea...." Mounting evidence on verso, some handling, else about very good. While Logan signed liberally, this is the first example we recall in pencil. Perhaps it was obtained in person. $55-75

7-14. T(homas) M(uldrup) Logan.

Of S.C. Confederate Brig. Gen. First in his class of 1860 at S.C. College, volunteered for the Washington Light Infantry, present at Fort Sumter on Apr. 12-13, 1861. Wounded at Gaines's Mill, and cited for "great bravery" at Antietam, he was appointed Brig. Gen. in Feb. 1865, leading the last charge at Bentonville, N.C. "At the surrender Sherman had expressed astonishment that this ‘slight, fair-haired boy,' only 25 years of age, had commanded a brigade"--Boatner. Postwar, "principal organizer" of the Southern Railway; Logan's businesses were often associated with John D. Rockefeller. Shaw's typewritten caption on verso of mount states, "the youngest Gen. in the Confederate Army..."; this stemmed from a ten-week period in 1864-65 when he was appointed a temporary Brig. Gen., but not confirmed by the Confederate Congress, reverting to Col., before being reappointed Brig. Gen. in Feb. 1865. With "Brig. Gen. P(rovisional) A(rmy) C.S." in his hand, an infrequently-seen usage, especially on a postwar autograph. Toning of linen mount, else V.F. Scarce. • With Shaw's reply envelope, N.Y.C. flag cancel over 2¢ carmine postal stationery, Washington bust, Scott U385-395, 1903-04. Shaw's filing codes typewritten on verso. Postal handling, else very good. $180-230 (2 pcs.)

7-15. L(unsford) L. Lomax.

Of R.I. Confederate Maj. Gen. Classmate and close friend of Fitzhugh Lee (see Lot 7-3), Lomax supervised intelligence operations of Mosby's Rangers, bringing information to Robert E. Lee. Leading Virginia Cavalry at Gettysburg, Wilderness, and Petersburg, Lomax was captured in the Shenandoahs, escaping within a few hours. "When Richmond fell, he removed his troops to Lynchburg in a vain effort..."--Boatner. Postwar, Lomax moved to Washington to help compile the Official Records. In 1920, Mosby gave recollections to the Baltimore Sun, shedding light on the opacity and secrecy surrounding Lomax's special missions. Mosby stated that he could only have given such an interview after Lomax's death, in order to protect him. An interesting example: Autograph Endorsement Signed thrice (in a manner of speaking; read details), in oak brown on Confederate-grey paper, from a document, ink running lean as he first signed "Lomax"; he has then signed again on top of the first. 2 ¹/4 x 3. "Hd. Qrs. Lomax Brig(a)d(e), Feb. 9, 1864. Resp(ecfull)y forward for information of the Maj. Gen. Comd'g. L.L. Lomax, Brig. Gen. Comd'g." Double red ruled border by 19th-century collector; floated on onion skin when added to Shaw Collection in 1970s, else good plus. A conversation piece. $140-180

7-16. Alexander Long.

Of Ohio. Wartime 38th Congress, a leading Copperhead, member of Democratic peace movement, and vociferous opponent of the war. Supporting independence for the Confederacy, Long's 1864 "states' rights" speech was so inflammatory that Speaker of the House Colfax sought his expulsion for "treasonable utterances" - and came close to succeeding. Once a Free Soiler, voting to repeal the "Black Laws of Ohio," Long later recanted, opposing both emancipation and suffrage for blacks. Long refused to vote in any Presidential election from 1860 to 1872, because the candidates had all supported the war. Handsome bold signature, with "Cincinnati, Ohio" in his hand. Very light toning from envelope seams, else very fine. $45-65

7-17. James Longstreet.

Of S.C. Confederate Maj. Gen. by Oct. 1861. Lee's "Old War Horse," winning his commander's confidence at Seven Days', given a wing with over half of Lee's infantry. "Appalled by the audacity of the plan to invade the North," Longstreet went into the fray at Gettysburg mistakenly thinking that his own defensive, rather than offensive strategy met with Lee's approval. "His lethargy in organizing Pickett's Charge...exposed him to the most vindictive criticism by Southerners...as it became more evident that Gettysburg had been the turning point of the war, and that he might be considered largely responsible for the Confederate defeat"--Boatner. Signature on ivory card, "Yours Truly...," in coffee-and-cream, the ink slightly variable but as penned, and very fine. $300-375

7-18. Chas. G. Loring, Jr.

Of Mass. Union Maj. Gen. Breveted for the Wilderness and its aftermath, where over a quarter of his 9th Corps were killed or disabled. At the Petersburg Mine Assault, "accounts of the desperate assault on Cemetery Hill, made by the 9th Corps at great loss on July 30, 1864, show that Lt. Col. Loring was at the scene of the explosion of the mine which preceded the attack, and with the attacking division in the bloody ‘battle of the crater' which followed. An officer in the Confederate service afterward related that before explosion of the mine, a Federal leader found to be Loring was seen from their position exploring the ground upon which the troops were to enter, and walking about in the rain of bullets as if totally unconscious of them, until the commander of the Confederates, saying it was a shame to kill so brave a man, gave the order to cease firing..."--Annual Report, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, 1902. Close of A.L.S., "How stand our affairs? Any sign of fielding a part of the Theatre people?...," the text more suggestive of his role as first director of Boston's Museum of Fine Arts, than the battlefield. Butterscotch toning of glue on Shaw's card, mount with patination, else very good plus. Not in Seagrave. $90-120

7-19. M(ark) P. Lowrey.

Of Tenn. Confederate Brig. Gen. - the "Preacher General." Self-taught and a Baptist minister by age 24, he raised and organized the 32nd Miss. Wounded at Perryville, he led the 45th Miss. and his own regiment. Resigning three weeks before Appomattox, Lowrey returned to Miss., reviving the war-torn churches, and eventually founding a women's college. Maj. Gen. Cleburne called Lowrey "the bravest man in the Confederate Army." Lowrey family lore held that his great-grandfather had left $6 million to his descendants; the documents were lost or destroyed in the Civil War, and the dream of wealth vanished. Signature on tan slip vertically ruled in blue, mounted on cream enamel. Some glazing of glue at blank left and right of mount, diagonal crease and some wrinkles on blank portion, biographical notes neatly pencilled on verso, else satisfactory. Very scarce. $140-180

7-20. Robert Lowry.

Of S.C. Confederate Brig. Gen. Joining the Rankin Grays as a private, twice wounded at Shiloh, he quickly rose to Col., commanding both his regiment and Featherston's brigade in Atlanta campaign. Postwar "Bourbon Democrat" Gov. of Miss., his terms tainted by racial violence. Darkly penned in rich brown on ivory card, "Brig. Gen., C.S.A., Jackson, Miss., Nov. 1, 1904." Blotter feathering on parts of four words, including "C.S.A.," colorless semicircular debossed creasing of old clip, else fine and clean. $80-110

7-21. H(ylan) B(enton) Lyon.

Of Ky. Confederate Brig. Gen. Commanding at Ft. Donelson, he was captured after three attacks by Union troops, and confined for seven months. Later leading a daring 400-cavalryman raid into Kentucky, Lyon's men burned seven county courthouses. Captured in 1865 while sleeping, by a Pa. sgt. with the same surname, Lyon shot his captor with a hidden pistol, and escaped in his nightgown. At war's end, he traveled to Mexico to offer his services to King Maximilian, spending a year there as civil engineer. Five-line inscription on card, in mahogany brown: "...Brig. Gen., Comdr. Kentucky Brigade, For(r)est Cavalry, C.S.A." Soft center crease, evidently predating mounting, light grey fingerprint at upper left, else fine. Very scarce. $180-240

7-22. W(illiam) W. MacKall.

Of D.C. Confederate Brig. Gen. A West Point classmate of Bragg, MacKall was ambushed and severely wounded at River Inlet, Fla. in Seminole War. Served as Gen. A.S. Johnston's Adjt. Gen., and later, by a quirk, as Chief of Staff to the "other" Gen. Johnston - Joseph E. Captured in Battle of Island Number 10, no record of MacKall's parole has ever been found. In all, in both Union and Confederate service, he saw action in one of the widest geographic areas noted, from Dept. of the Pacific, to the frontier, to the Deep South. Signature with rank plus parts of three lines in his hand, "(Respe)ctfully forwar(ded) / (By) order of Genl. John(ston)...." 1 ¹/2 x 1 ³/4. Light uniform toning, else a pleasing example. Fine. $325-425

7-23. Wayne MacVeagh.

Of Pa. Emergency militia. Member of emergency militia guarding against threat of Confederate invasion of Pa. in 1862-63; raised independent cavalry, and later Maj., 29th Emergency Militia Regt. Postwar Republican leader, opposing his father-in-law Simon Cameron in an intra-party fight. Chairman, MacVeagh Commission, sent by Pres. Hayes to Louisiana in 1877, securing "settlement of the contest between two existing state governments," enabling withdrawal of Federal troops--wikipedia. Ambassador to Ottoman Empire; Attorney Gen. under Garfield and Arthur. Signature with date on ivory card. Fine and attractive. $30-40

7-24. B(eriah) Magoffin.

Gov. of Ky., 1859-62, during secession crisis. A proponent of neutrality, his plan to save the Union unsuccessful, including protection for Southern states from oppressive slavery legislation. On Apr. 15, 1861, Magoffin telegraphed Lincoln, "I will not send a man nor a dollar for the wicked purpose of subduing my sister Southern States." After the war Magoffin supported passage of the 13th Amendment. Marrying the granddaughter of Ky.'s first Gov., he was a delegate at the 1848, 1856, 1860, and 1872 Democratic Conventions. Signature, with "1860" in an old hand. Glue toning at left, right, and where printed "Gov. of Ky." from a document mounted below, else good. Uncommon. $45-65

7-25. J(ohn) B. Magruder.

Of Va. Maj. Gen. in both Confederacy and under Maximilian in Mexico. Nicknamed "Prince John," for his "courtly manner and reputation for lavish entertainment" (Boatner), Magruder won immediate fame at Big Bethel, the first major land battle of the war. Showing ability to bluff an adversary, he was later deemed "cautious and bumbling." Commanding District of Texas, including N.M. and Ariz., Magruder captured Galveston in 1863. Refusing parole at war's end, he moved south of the border, later returning to lecture on his experiences. Concluding portion of A.D.S., ³/4 x 2 ¹/2, with "Major Gen. Comd(g)." and parts of three words in his hand. In brown, on slate-blue. Neatly mounted on small card. Very fine. $400-475

7-26. A(lfred) T(hayer) Mahan.

Of N.Y. Union Navy officer; future Rear Adm. Newly graduated from Annapolis in 1859, Mahan served during the war aboard ship, and as an instructor at his alma mater. Though a number of vessels he commanded early in his career collided with both moving and fixed objects, his genius emerged as a naval theoretician. Pres. of the Naval War College, striking up a friendship with a young visiting lecturer named - Theodore Roosevelt. In 1890, Mahan prepared a secret plan for war with Great Britain, advocating focus of the U.S. Navy on New York, with torpedo boats defending other American harbors. Though Mahan's antagonist was incorrect, his writings were translated by future adversaries Germany and Japan, and adopted as their naval doctrines. Mahan is credited with popularizing the term "Middle East," first used by him in 1902. Lovely presentation signature in mocha on tan card, "Very Faithfully Yours...." Choice. $70-90

7-27. R(obert) Mallory.

Of Ky. War-era Congressman, 1859-65. Member of the Unionist - later the Unconditional Union Party - a melange of men opposing secessionists. Its noted members included Stephen A. Douglas and 1860 Presidential candidate John Bell, dedicated to the singular cause of preserving the Union. In all, some 37 Senators and Congressmen were elected on the Unionist platform - plus Lincoln himself, who ran on the National Union ticket in 1864, comprised of Republicans, War Democrats, and Unionists. On cream card, with "Ky." also in his hand. Excellent. $25-35

7-28. S(tephen) R. Mallory.

Trinidad-born. Confederate Secretary of Navy. Inspector of Customs at Key West by age 19, Mallory replaced "Fire-Eater" Yulee as antebellum Sen. from Florida. Serving as Navy Secretary from Feb. 1861 til the Confederacy was dissolved, "some of his ideas, such as the incorporation of armor into warship construction, were quite successful and became standard in navies around the world"--wikipedia. (On learning that an ironclad - complete with ram - was about to sail from its English shipyard to its Confederate buyer, the American ambassador reminded Britain's Foreign Minister that if it did, "this means war.") The first ship sunk by a submarine was the Union's Housatonic, vanquished by one of Mallory's innovations, a newly developed torpedo. Highly attractive signature, with paraph, inlaid on white slip. Excellent. $140-180

7-29. John S. Marmaduke.

Of Mo. Confederate Maj. Gen. A student at Yale, Harvard, and West Point, his father - former Gov. of Mo. - was a Unionist, but counseled his son to choose his own path. Leading at Shiloh, with two horses shot from under him at Little Blue, Mo., he was captured at the battles of Marais des Cygnes - the last major violent saga of "Bleeding Kansas" - including "one of the largest, if not the largest cavalry engagement of the entire Civil War..."--wikipedia. The Confederate losses in that single day, a week from election day in 1864, ended the South's hope of damaging Lincoln's chances for a second term. Held til the Summer of ‘65. Marmaduke's date of promotion to Maj. Gen. varies in three sources from 1863 to 1865, though he was promoted while still in prison. "...He sat on his horse with consummate grace...Unmarried, he was the ‘catch' of the river towns..."--Monaghan. In his hand on blue lined slip, "5th Ave. Hotel, N.Y., Aug. 19, 1885, Yours truly...." Some darkening at left and right from glue mount, else very good. • With old printed photo, clipped by Shaw and mounted on matching linen card. Uniform pale apricot toning, else very good. $120-150 (2 pcs.)

7-30. Humphrey Marshall.

Of Ky. Confederate Brig. Gen. A fascinating personage - and kin to Chief Justice John Marshall; an antebellum Whig Congressman, Minister Resident to China 1853-54, then reelected as a Know-Nothing. "After trying unsuccessfully to hold the border states on a peaceful course through the secession crisis" (Boatner), Marshall fought at Big Sandy River, on the Ky.-W. Va. border, against future Pres. James A. Garfield. Resigning in 1862, rejoining, then leaving again the next year, Marshall served in the Confederate Congress, fleeing to Mexico at war's end. "A portly, democratic man...so well known was his leniency, that an officer of his staff made a standing offer to eat the first man the general should shoot for any crime." A.L.S., Hotel de Russie, Mar. 27 (no year, but perhaps while traveling as Minister to China), 1 full p., 5 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/2. To "His Excellency" P. Vroom, Minister to Prussia, and N.J. Congressman. "...Yesterday your valet left an invitation for me to dine with you tomorrow at 5 P.M. I am very thankful for your courtesy, but my engagements will compel me to proceed ...on my journey homeward, and will therefore deprive me of the pleasure I should have derived...." Some glue toning where tipped at top to blank sheet, dealer's notes neatly pencilled at top and on verso, small semicircular fragment lacking at bottom affecting no text, else about fine. Darkly penned. Not part of Shaw Collection. $300-375

7-31. Humphrey Marshall.

Bold signature, with "Newcastle, Ky." in his hand. On Shaw's eggshell card. Some marginal dust-toning, else fine plus. $130-160

7-32. W(illia)m R. Marshall.

Of Mo. Union Col., Bvt. Brig. Gen. Serving in Minnesota regiments, Marshall was wounded at Spanish Fort in Mobile campaign. Chairman of the Convention that founded the Republican Party in Minn., he served as Gov. 1865-69. L.S. on ornate Minnesota Executive Dept. letterhead, with vignette of farmer at work, St. Paul, Dec. 18, 1868. To autograph collector G.A. Lewis, Peabody, Mass. Mounted on album leaf, with colorful variant State Seal affixed. Last "l" of signature slightly smudged by Marshall's hand, very light glue evidence at corners, margins toned, else about very good, and attractive. $45-65

7-33. Will(iam) T. Martin.

Of Ky. Confederate Maj. Gen. Though opposing secession, he raised the Adams County, Miss. cavalry in early 1861, taking his men to Richmond following Fort Sumter. Commanding during Jeb Stuart's raid around McClellan, Martin led the Jeff Davis Legion at Antietam, also serving as Lee's aide-de-camp. Four days after Christmas 1863, Martin led the attack at the obscure Battle of Mossy Creek, Tenn., losing 400 of his men in seven hours. Signature with "Late Maj. Genl., C.S.A." also in his hand. In light coffee-and-cream, on cream card. Straight crease at blank right vertical, probably when mailed back to Shaw; light marginal toning, mount with characteristic warm honey patination, else about very fine. • With Shaw's reply envelope, attractive Natchez flag cancel over 2¢ carmine postal stationery, Washington bust, Scott U385-395, 1903-04. Shaw's filing codes typewritten on verso. Postal handling, else very good. $100-130 (2 pcs.)

7-34. J(ohn) H(enry) Martindale.

Of N.Y. Union Maj. Gen. Martindale resigned in 1836 - at age 21 - disappointed that he could not enter the Corps of Engineers. Investigated on charges, brought by Porter, that he influenced his men to surrender at Malvern Hill, he was exonerated. Breveted Maj. Gen. for his service at that same battle, Martindale was Military Gov. of Washington, D.C. 1862-64, resigning a second time, because of ill health. Signature from a document, with "Brig. Gen. and Mil. Gov." (of D.C.) in field hand. Dated Washington, Mar. 13, 1864 in hand of late 19th century collector, with portions of red ruled border. Crop at top removing top loop of "J.," and barely touching "H.," else very good. Martindale material is moderately scarce. $65-85

7-35. Dabney H. Maury.

Of Va. Confederate Maj. Gen. A West Pointer, then teaching there for five years, Maury served on the frontier before dismissal in June 1861 for "treasonable designs." Joining the Confederate Army, he served with Army of the West, then commanded District of the Gulf til war's end. "Penniless, he returned to Richmond...In 1868, organized the Southern Historical Society. As Chairman for 20 years, he saw that its papers were available to the U.S. War Records Office; the latter reciprocated...A sense of duty and honor worthy of the best of the traditional Virginia gentlemen officers"--Boatner. Signature in mahogany brown, irregularly cut, perhaps from a hotel or club register, the descender of the final "y" trifle trimmed; two rust lines of old clip just touching initial "D," else V.G. • With Shaw's reply envelope, his filing codes typewritten on verso, indicating signature supplied by Col. Richard L. Maury. Richmond flag cancel over 2¢ carmine postal stationery, Washington bust, Scott U385-395, 1903-04. Postal handling, else satisfactory. $60-80 (2 pcs.)

7-36. Sam Bell Maxey and Thomas Ewing.

Confederate and Union, on each side of album leaf: Maxey of Ky. Confederate Brig. (or Maj.) Gen. (varying sources), and Union Maj. Gen., respectively. Strongly pro-secession, Maxey commanded Indian Territory for the Confederacy. "He organized three brigades of Indians and through respect for tribal loyalties, impassioned orations at council fires, and printed propaganda, gained their confidence as no one had since Sam Houston..."--Boatner. Two sources state Maxey was Maj. Gen.; three others only mention Brig. Gen. "Texas" in his hand, in brown, on autograph album leaf, with pale blue checkerboard design. Light golden halo around periphery, probably from fore-edges of book painted yellow; shadow of two clips, soft crease at blank edge, else fine. • On verso, signature of Thomas Ewing, (Jr.), "Lancaster" (possibly Ohio), Union Maj. Gen. Secretary to Pres. Zachary Taylor (while his father was Secretary of Interior), Ewing was the foster brother of fellow Lancaster, Ohio native William Tecumseh Sherman. "An ardent opponent of slavery, (Ewing) had been largely instrumental in stopping Kansas from being admitted as a slave state in 1858..."--Boatner. Commanding on the frontier and Border District, he issued the famous Order No. 11, depopulating Missouri counties to combat rebel guerrillas. Pencil "X" through Ewing's signature, evidently thought less interesting than Maxey's on verso, an old price of 2.50 lowered to 2.00. A seldom-seen curiosity: pro-secession, pro-Indian Confederate, and anti-slavery Union generals on flip sides of an autograph album leaf. $275-325

7-37. Sam Bell Maxey.

Of Ky. Confederate Brig. (or Maj.) Gen. (varying sources). Cut signature from letter, with "Texas" in his hand, presumed from period between his move there around the 1850s, and 1861, when he raised the 9th Texas Infantry. Rounded lower trim, perhaps to remove addressee's name when mounted by Shaw. Card with marginal honey toning, else fine. $100-130

7-38. J(ohn) McArthur.

Scotland-born. Union Maj. Gen. Joining the 12th Ill. soon after Fort Sumter and serving til Summer 1865, he fought at Nashville. Leading at Shiloh, where he was wounded on the first day, his Highland Brigade wore Scottish caps into battle. Postwar, Commissioner of Chicago Public Works at time of the great Fire. In coffee-and-cream on cream, lined in palest blue. "Brevet Maj. Gen., U.S. Vols." also in his hand. Some portions light, his quill varying; brown staining from glue and Shaw's linen mount, else very satisfactory. Uncommon. $50-70

7-39. Jno. R. McBride.

Of Oregon. Wartime 38th Congress. Appointed by Lincoln as Chief Justice of Idaho Territory, 1865. Highly attractive presentation signature with paraph and "Oregon" in his hand, on cream card. Choice. $25-35

7-40. George McClellan.

Of Pa. Union Maj. Gen. Starting the war as Maj. Gen., at just 35 years of age, he quickly became conspicuous. Undertaking "with marked success the complex task of organizing and training the Union armies...the administration became increasingly dissatisfied with his reluctance to march against the enemy...‘Sending reinforcements to McClellan is like shoveling flies across a barn,'" said Lincoln--Boatner. In one of political history's more high-wire campaigns, McClellan lost his 1864 Presidential bid to his old friend Lincoln. Postwar presentation signature in Waterman blue on cream card, "Very truly yours...." One tiny mocha spot at upper left, a papermaking blem; pleasing mottled toning, else fine plus. $170-220

7-41. John A. McClernand.

Of Ky. Union Brig. Gen. Before the war, an Indian fighter in Black Hawk War, and Mississippi River trader, he would become highly controversial. Marrying a close friend of Mary Lincoln, McClernand became a campaign manager for Stephen Douglas at the 1860 Democratic Convention in Charleston. Commanding at Forts Henry and Donelson, McClernand failed to block the retreat, but credited his own troops with the victory. After assaults on Vicksburg, "he supplied the press with congratulatory stories of his victory. Grant, already unsympathetic with McClernand's attitude and dubious fighting ability, ordered him to Illinois...He resented dictation, disliked West Pointers, and never forgot his political fences in Illinois."--Boatner. Despite his spreading rumors of Grant's drinking, and gossip on other officers, Lincoln indulged McClernand because of his ties to Illinois War Democrats. Pres. of 1876 Democratic National Convention, which led to a contested election threatening to plunge the nation into another civil war. Bold signature with paraph, "Springfield, Ill." also in his hand. Some toning of mount, else fine. $65-85

7-42. J(oseph) W(ashington) McClurg.

Of Mo. Union Cavalry Col. A fascinating personage, orphaned at 7, he built McClurg's Old Salt Road in Missouri, to ensure salt deliveries to his customers. Going West in 1850 for the Gold Rush, McClurg opened a miner's store near Sutter's Creek. A slaveowner, he signed the 13th Amendment as Missouri Congressman. Later Radical Republican Gov., opposing re-enfranchisement of former Confederates. In rich brown on ivory card, with "Linn Creek, Camden County, Missouri" also in his hand. Light toning, else very fine. $35-45

7-43. Wm. McComb.

Pa.-born Confederate Brig. Gen. Enlisting as a Pvt. in 14th Tenn., he rose quickly, fighting at Cheat Mountain, with Stonewall Jackson in the Shenandoah, and at 2nd Bull Run. Wounded at Chancellorsville, McComb commanded at Petersburg. With "Brig. Genl., C.S.A." also in his hand. Walnut brown on ivory. Soft vertical crease at blank left, just brushing outermost flourish of "W(m).," apparently from postal handling to Shaw, light marginal toning; mount with honey patination, else about fine. • With Shaw's reply envelope, Waldrop and Lindsay, Va. handstamps, 2¢ carmine postal stationery, Washington bust, Scott U385-395, 1903-04. Shaw's filing codes typewritten on verso. Postal handling, toning, else good. $130-160 (2 pcs.)

7-44. A(lexander) McD(owell) McCook.

Of Ohio. Union Maj. Gen. One of the Fighting McCooks, led the 1st Ohio at 1st Bull Run, then commanding at Shiloh, Corinth, and Stones River. Blamed for the Union fiasco at Chickamauga, McCook was exonerated; after the war, he was Sherman's aide-de-camp during the Indian War period. Significant endorsement from document, 1 ¹/2 x 3 ¹/4, entirely in his hand, dated in his first post of the Civil War, "Hd. Qrs., 1(st) Regt. O(hio) Vol. Militia, June 25, 1861, Approved...Col. 1(st) Regt. Ohio Volunteers." Added below in an old-time collector's hand, "Maj. Gen. Vols." Double-ruled brown border. Floated on onion skin, some toning, else very good and a desirable example. $70-100

7-45. Anson G. McCook.

Of Ohio. Union Brig. Gen. Another of the Fighting McCooks, fighting at Perryville, Lookout Mountain, and Missionary Ridge. Three-term N.Y. Congressman after the war, and editor of the Daily Register, forerunner of N.Y. Law Journal. In olive brown on eggshell card, with "Yours very truly...Sec(re)t(ar)y U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C., Dec. 8, 1890" also in his hand. Browntoning of Shaw's mount, else fine. Uncommon. Unlisted in Seagrave. $45-65

7-46. E(dward) M(oody) McCook.

Of Ohio. Union Maj. Gen. Still another of the Fighting McCooks, joining the Pike's Peak Gold Rush, then a volunteer secret agent at beginning of the war. A cavalry commander, McCook was given the mission of releasing the 32,000 P.O.W.s in the notorious Andersonville Prison. McCook personally read the Emancipation Proclamation aloud at a Tallahassee ceremony on May 20, 1865, officially ending slavery in Florida. Postwar Minister to Hawaii, he was twice Gov. of Colorado Territory. Endorsement on verso of clipping from muster roll, 2 x 4. In field clerk's hand, "Head Qrs. Cav. Div. 21[?] / Cleveland, Tenn., May 27, (18)64 / Respectfully forwarded...Comdg. Div.," with "Major Genl." added by turn-of-century collector. Double ruled border in red and brown, variously, on blue-lined tan. On verso, names of six privates, a farrier, and wagoner. Soft vertical score at right, passing through final "k" of signature, uniform glue toning on verso, light rippling and toning on front, else about very good. An interesting example, with prominent signature. $70-100

7-47. James B. McCreary.

Of Ky. Confederate Col. In 11th Ky. Cavalry, fighting bushwhackers. Joining with Morgan's Raiders, McCreary led his unit when its commander was killed in the July 4, 1863 Battle of Tebbs Bend. Captured and held in three Union prisons, on his release he led scouting missions. Rep. in six consecutive postwar Congresses, then Sen., and Gov. of Ky., nicknamed "Bothsides" McCreary and "Oily Jeams" (James), for his unwillingness to commit to a point of view. On large, palest pink slip, with "Richmond, Ky." also in his hand. Period notations in pencil, though not in Shaw's hand. Fine and attractive. $50-70

7-48. Henry E. McCulloch.

Of Tenn. Confederate Brig. Gen. Brother of hero Ben McCulloch and a descendant of Washington, Henry was a childhood neighbor of Davy Crockett. An antebellum sheriff, Texas Ranger, and U.S. Marshal, McCulloch fought a rifle duel with a rival candidate for the Texas Republic's House, receiving a permanent wound in his arm. The dispute resumed a year later, with McCulloch killing his antagonist. One day after the fall of Fort Sumter, McCulloch was commissioned in 1st Texas Mounted Rifles. Commanding Dept. of Texas for the Confederacy, his pursuit of deserters was so relentless that he required an armed escort to return home after the war. Close of A.L.S., 2 ¹/4 x 4, "Your Friend...," with parts of seven lines in his hand on verso, "I suggest if you...for services... and Mexican Rail...When at Aust(in)...Walsh to have the...." Multiple folds, light foxing, toned bands at left and bottom margins, else very satisfactory. Uncommon, and a remarkable character. $200-250

7-49. J(ames) A. McDougall.

Of N.Y., Ill., and Calif. A brilliant but tragic figure, friend of fellow prairie attorneys Lincoln and Douglas, and "one of the most noted speakers of the West"--Reminiscences..., by Shuck, 1889; a Gold Rush ‘49er, and Civil War Sen. from Calif. With "U.S. Senate" in his hand, 1 x 3 ¹/4, evidently a franking signature from envelope. On laid peach. Minor postal handling, else about very good. $30-40

7-50. Irvin McDowell.

Of Ohio. Union Maj. Gen. Attending college in France, McDowell later graduated from West Point. In Army headquarters before outbreak of Civil War, "it was then, through Gen. Scott, that he became well acquainted with the officials of Lincoln's administration..."--Boatner. Promptly defeated at 1st Bull Run - by his old West Point classmate Beauregard - then severely criticized for 2nd Bull Run, McDowell was relieved of command. Exonerated, he finished the war as commander of Dept. of the Pacific, far from the fighting. Nearly complete Autograph Endorsement Signed, 3 x 3 ¹/4, as aide-de-camp to Gen. Winfield Scott. "Head Qrs. of the Army, N.Y., Oct. 27, 1858. Heartily approved by the General-in-chief, and respectfully forwarded. By command: Irwin McDowell, A.D.C." In rich brown on eggshell. Old 50¢ price in pencil, lightest edge patina, else excellent. Superior example, and perhaps the first time we've seen the term "heartily" in such military context. $275-375

7-51. Irvin McDowell.

Highly attractive presentation signature, in rich brown on mocha card, with "Major General" also in his hand. 2 ¹/4 x 3 ¹/2. Appealing toning, and V.F. A superior example. $140-180

7-52. Peter Alex Selkirk McGlashan.

Scotland-born, son of a Napoleonic veteran; living in Thomasville, Ga. in 1861. First serving on Georgia coast, he was commanding Bryan's Brigade when captured - on Apr. 5, 1865. "His Brig. Gen. appointment was the last one signed by Davis before he left Richmond, but McGlashan never received it."--Boatner. Prisoner on Johnson's Island, McGlashan later served under Walker in Nicaragua. "C.M.H. and Lonn in Foreigners in the Confederacy say he was a general, but he is not listed by Wright, Miller, or Wood."--Boatner. Unlisted in Sanders, Seagrave, or Reese, one of the very, very few lacking in the latter. However, signature here includes, "Maj. Gen. Comdg. / Geo(rgia) Division U.C.V." in McGlashan's hand. Few soft bends, likely from mailing, else fine plus. Rare. $325-400

7-53. S(amuel) McGowan.

Of S.C. Confederate Brig. Gen. Commanded S.C. brigade at Fort Sumter. Wounded four times, at Cold Harbor, 2nd Bull Run, while leading his eponymous McGowan's Brigade at Chancellorsville, and in Spotsylvania's "Bloody Angle." "McGowan's career and reputation were not excelled by any other brigade commander in the Army of Northern Virginia"--Generals in Gray. Close of A.L.S., 1 x 5, "Truly yours...," with parts of three lines in his hand on verso, likely with legal content. Two old folds, two filing pinholes at blank left, light toning at right, else about fine. Uncommon. $110-140

7-54. John B. McIntosh.

Of Fla. Union Maj. Gen. A midshipman in Mexican War, McIntosh considered his brother's switch to the Confederacy "a blot on his family honor" (D.A.B.); (sibling Brig. Gen. James McIntosh would be killed in action at Pea Ridge in 1862). This signer, John, led cavalry at Oak Swamp, Antietam, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg, noted in his clash with J.E.B. Stuart on July 3, 1863. Badly injured later in a fall from his horse, he returned to fight at Winchester, there losing a leg. A "born fighter...dashing leader, and a polished gentleman..."--D.A.B. Signature from document, closely cut "Maj. Gen." below in an old hand. Attribution on twentieth-century window envelope, Washington, D.C., Aug. 6, 1864. Floated on onion skin, some toning, else about very good. $55-80

7-55. Evander McNair.

Of Ark. Confederate Brig. Gen. Serving under Col. Jefferson Davis in the Mexican War's 1st Miss. Rifles, McNair later led at Stones River, the relief of Vicksburg, and Jackson, Miss. Wounded at Chickamauga while exploiting a break in Union lines that turned the battle in the South's favor, he spent the balance of the war in Trans-Miss. Dept. Interesting card with signature and four lines in his hand: "1846 / 1 Sergt. Co. E, 1st Mississippi Regt., Miss. Vol. in Mexico, Col. Jefferson Davis comdg." In coffee-and-cream ink on ivory. 1-1/4" hard crease through "1 Sergt." from postal handling, edge toning; Shaw's mount with usual honey patination, else very good. Unusual content, curiously omitting his Civil War service. $180-220

7-56. J(ames) B. McPherson.

Of Ohio. Union Maj. Gen. Grant's Chief Engineer, commander at Vicksburg, killed at age 35 while leading Army of the Tennessee at the one-day Battle of Atlanta. Facing the forces of his old West Point classmate, now-Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood, McPherson became the second highest-ranking Union officer killed in action. Questioned by the Confederates who the downed officer was, a Union soldier replied, "Sir, it is Gen. McPherson. You have killed the best man in our Army." Closely cut signature, rich brown on blue-lined cream. Contemporary "Mansfield [or Mansford], Tenn.(?), Feb. 12, 1863" visible through mount on verso. "Vicksburg, Miss." pencilled c. 1970s. Floated on grey imitation parchment. First swirl of "J" cropped, two vertical bands, perhaps from old string-tie, else very good. Scarce. In a work of historical fiction by noted writer McKinlay Kantor, If the South Had Won the Civil War describes the leader of the United States in the 1880s, pursuing reconciliation. His name: Pres. James McPherson. $375-450

7-57. Geo(rge) G. Meade.

Born in Spain. Union Maj. Gen. It is not widely known that Meade was considered as a Presidential candidate, however his foreign birth - in Spain, to American parents - disqualified him from running for office. Instead, he was selected to replace Gen. Hooker, finding himself immersed in the Battle of Gettysburg just two days after assuming command of the army. Credited with defeat of Lee, "his irascible disposition, the strain of the heavy fighting, and his difficult command situation conspired to make him so unpopular...that Grant considered replacing him..."--Boatner. In his hand, "Hd. Qrs. A(rmy of the) P(otomac), Dec. 21, (18)64...Maj. Gen. U.S.A., Comdr. A.P." In rich brown, on tan. Two small scuffs, one on double-ruled lines, the other just above "Dec."; closely cropped through "Hd. Qrs. A.P." and atop, and just clearing last title; floated on Strathmore cream in 1970s, and about fine. Attractive: such full endorsements in his hand are uncommon. $525-650

7-58. T(homas) F. Meagher.

Irish-born. Union Brig. Gen. Leader of the Young Irelanders in Rebellion of 1848, sentenced to death, then exiled to "the other side of the world." Escaping to America, he raised and commanded N.Y.'s famed Irish Brigade, iconified by Currier & Ives' lithograph showing him leading a bayonet charge. Commanding at 2nd Bull Run, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, Meagher resigned a week after Chancellorsville where "his brigade was decimated and ineffective" (Boatner). Given a new command, he fought with Sherman at Atlanta. After surviving the war, in 1867 Meagher drowned while temporary Gov. of Montana Territory, falling from a steamer while on reconnaissance near Ft. Benton. In 1963, J.F.K. presented the battle flag of Meagher's Irish Brigade to the people of Ireland; it still hangs in the Irish Parliament. Close of letter, "Yours ever sincerely and cordially...," 1 ³/4 x 3 ¹/4. Show-through of four lines in Meagher's hand on verso, but mounted by Shaw on card; quarter-size ink blot on parts of "sincerely" and "cordially," his signature unaffected, and else fine. Desirable. $90-120

7-59. Gilbert S. Meem.

Of Va. Brig. Gen. in Va. Militia. Supporting Stonewall Jackson's attacks on today's W. Va., Meem's brigade was part of the garrison at Harpers Ferry. Guarding Winchester, Va., he resigned in Feb. 1862, apparently under pressure, when Lee received reports of Meem's "habit," said to be alcohol. Thence serving in Shenandoah County government, he was a noted livestock breeder. Marrying into the Garland and Longstreet families, Meem was later a leading light of Seattle, appointed Postmaster by Pres. Cleveland. Close of letter in his hand, "With great respect, Your ob(ie)d(ent) ser(van)t...Brig. Gen., 7th Brigade V(a.) M(ilitia)." Double red ruled border and header "Rebellion in the Southern States in 1861-1865" in hand of 19th-century collector; floated on onion skin when added to Shaw Collection in 1970s, else very good plus. Lacking in Boatner, Sanders, and Seagrave. Not in Reese's Autographs of the Confederacy. Rare. $325-400

7-60. M(ontgomery) C(unningham) Meigs.

Of Ga. Union Maj. Gen. A Southern-born West Pointer, Meigs was Quartermaster Gen., dispensing some $1.5 billion (in old money), all accounted for to the last cent. Father and designer of Arlington National Cemetery, its first location around Robert E. Lee's flower garden at his Arlington House estate, intended to humiliate Lee for leaving the Union. Meigs had served under then-U.S. Lt. Lee in the antebellum Corps of Engineers, later supervising construction of the wings and dome of the Capitol Building. On hearing that Lincoln had been shot, it was Meigs who stood at the door of Petersen House, opposite Ford's Theatre, deciding who to admit. Designing the Pension Building in 1882 - with its extraordinary 1,300-figure sculpted frieze - it was quipped that Meigs personally counted all of the structure's 15 million bricks. Sprawling signature from letter, with "(Yo)ur obedient servant" and "Q.M." in clerical hand; "Major Gen. and (Q.M.) Gen. / Washington, D.C., Jan. 1, (18)62..." added by turn-of-century collector, with double-rule border in red. Mounted on old card. Some ink spatter from Meigs' quill, else about fine, and attractive. $75-100

7-61. H(ugh) W. Mercer.

Of Va. Confederate Brig. Gen. Expelled from West Point for taking part in the Eggnog Riot of 1826 - but pardoned by Pres. John Quincy Adams. Gen. Winfield Scott's aide-de-camp 1832-34. Commanded Savannah - his adopted home town - for most of the war. "In Aug. 1862, he played a major role in impressing the first group of slaves and free blacks into service for the Confederacy" --wikipedia. Dark signature, 1 x 2 ¹/4, from partly printed form, with "Brig. Gen. Comdg." in another hand. Double red rule at right. Minor toning from old glue mount, else about fine. Scarce. • With A.L.S. of son Geo(rge) A. Mercer, on his legal letterhead, Savannah, Aug. 12, 1905. To Shaw. "...I regret to say that I am unable to supply you with the signature of my father, the late Brig. Gen. Hugh W. Mercer. I was never able to find more than two or three of his signatures, and these I gave away long since. Several close searches made at the request of other parties failed of success. His few personal letters to me were all unsigned. Gen. Mercer, while temporarily residing in Germany for the benefit of his health, died at Baden-Baden, on June 9, 1877, in his 70th year." Excellent. Mercer's great-grandson was the incomparable lyricist Johnny Mercer. • With Shaw's reply envelope, Savannah flag cancel over 2¢ carmine postal stationery, Washington bust, Scott U385-395, 1903-04. Shaw's filing codes typewritten on verso. Postal handling, dust-toning, else satisfactory. $240-300 (3 pcs.)

7-62. D(ixon) S(tansbury) Miles.

Of Md. Union Col. West Point class of 1824, distinguished for defense of Ft. Brown, Texas in Mexican War. Instituted famous "Miles Court of Inquiry," to rebut allegations that he had been drunk at 1st Bull Run. It emerged that Miles had been ill at the time, and his Army surgeon prescribed "small quantities of brandy." The tribunal, including Gens. W.B. Franklin and "Uncle John" Sedgwick, concluded that convening a court would "not be for the interests of the service." Miles was mortally wounded before his white flag could be raised, surrendering Harpers Ferry, 1862. "The resulting surrender of 12,419 men was the largest number of U.S. soldiers surrendered until the Battle of Bataan in World War II. The court of inquiry into the surrender denounced Miles for ‘incapacity, amounting to almost imbecility'"--A Matter of Hours: Treason at Harpers Ferry, Teetor (1982). Signature, with "Col. 2d Inf." also in his hand. "June 9, (18)61" in a later hand, this in pencil. In very light coffee-and-cream, on pale cream slip, small remnants of brown paper at blank bottom edge, perhaps from an envelope, else fine, clean, and very rare. Unlisted in multiple editions of Sanders or Seagrave. $425-550

7-63. Nelson A. Miles.

Of Mass. Union Maj. Gen., and the last Commanding Gen. of Army before the office was discontinued. Wounded four times, Miles received the Medal of Honor for Chancellorsville, in 1892. Jefferson Davis' custodian at postwar Fortress Monroe, Miles was "criticized unjustly for his treatment..."--Boatner. Miles later commanded troops who pursued and captured Geronimo. Still on active duty in 1903, Miles completed the longest horseback ride ever made by a Commanding Gen. of the Army - 90 miles, in just over ten hours. He received a handful of nominations for Pres. at the 1904 Democratic Convention. Signature on printed slip, "This is the autographed statement of...," 1 x 3 ¹/4, with "Lt. Gen. U.S. Army" also in his hand, dateable to 1900-03. Old glue on verso, one minor brushstroke at blank edge, else fine. $120-150

7-64. R(obert) H. Milroy.

Of Ind. Union Maj. Gen. Milroy's suppression of guerrillas in West Va. was so vigorous that the Confederates put a price on his head. In the Battle of Winchester, Va. - two weeks before Gettysburg - he opposed a large part of Lee's army, contending that his detention of Lee enabled Meade to fight at Gettysburg, instead of further north. "Milroy believed that eradicating slavery was God's will and that secessionists needed to be punished in an Old Testament fashion...(He) gained a reputation for his harsh treatment of civilians and frequent banishments and public executions of those who expressed pro-Confederate sympathies."--wikipedia. With "Maj. Gnl. / U.S.V." also in his hand. Palest file rub, mostly across blank upper portion, perhaps from carbon paper, else V.F. $60-80

7-65. Henry R(utgers) Mizner.

Of N.Y. Union Brig. Gen. Nephew of founder of Rutgers University; in 14th Mich., fighting at Murfreesboro, Atlanta, and Jonesboro; postwar commander of Fort Union, New Mexico, in the area where Confederate incursions into the Southwest had been stopped some two decades before. His florid signature from postwar document, with "Maj. 12th Inf., Bvt. Lt. Col. U.S.A..." in another hand, imprinted "Commanding the Regt." below, dateable thusly to 1869-77. In that period, the 12th occupied eleven different posts in remote Arizona, California, and Nevada. Some 700 miles separated the most distant camps, taking at least six weeks to travel from one to the other! Blind file wrinkles at lower portion, not affecting signature, else fine and attractive. Very scarce, by virtue of obscurity. Unlisted in Sanders or Seagrave. $80-110

7-66. R.L. Montague.

Of Va. Wartime politician. T.L.S. on steel-engraved letterhead, "Law Offices of Montague & Montague," Richmond, Aug. 20, 1906. To Shaw. "The Gov. [A.J. Montague, to whom Shaw had written] is now absent in South America as a Delegate to the Pan-American Conference...hence he cannot comply with your request." Choice. On the morning of Lincoln's assassination, The N.Y. Times had reported that writer R.L. Montague was called back to Richmond with fellow legislators R.M.T. Hunter, William C. Rives, and other Virginians. Headlined, "Important Movement: The Legislature of Va. Called to Richmond - They Have Safe Conduct and Protection - The Object a Return of the State to the Union." Shaw's younger addressee A.J. Montague wasn't born til 1862, but as a postwar Gov. he established the first Dept. of Confederate Military Records, tasked with compiling a complete roster of Virginia's soldiers. The enterprise, filling some 68 cubic feet, remains the Library of Virginia's "largest collection of Civil War-related materials"--virginiamemory.com. • With Shaw's reply envelope, Richmond flag cancel. Shaw's filing codes on verso. Postal handling, else good. Very scarce. $50-70 (2 pcs.)

7-67. Y(oung) M. Moody.

Of Va. Confederate Brig. Gen. Leading the 11th Ala. early in the war, later wounded in the ankle at Drewry's Bluff. Appointed Brig. Gen. on Mar. 4, 1865, in time to fight in siege of Petersburg. Captured the day before Appomattox, Moody died less than a year later of yellow fever while in New Orleans on business. Signature in watery blue on pale pistachio. Inlaid on tan slip, within neatly ruled border. Waterstain in blank area, else about very good. Scarce. $170-220

7-68. E(dwin) D. Morgan.

Of N.Y. Union Maj. Gen. While a Whig State Sen., Morgan introduced the original bill establishing N.Y.'s Central Park. Disagreeing with Whig views on abolition, he became a Republican, their National Chairman, and Gov. of N.Y., 1858-62. Commanding Dept. of N.Y., Morgan resigned in 1863 to enter the U.S. Senate. Appealing presentation signature on eggshell card, with "New York" also in his hand. Old robin's-egg blue mount on verso, else very fine. $40-60

7-69. Henry A. Morrow.

Of Va. Union Maj. Gen. Wounded at each of Gettysburg, the Wilderness, and Dabney's Mills, Morrow was breveted for Richmond, Petersburg, and Hatcher's Run. In all, he served from the Mexican War til 1891. Signature from postwar document, with "Lt. Col. 13th Infantry" in another hand, imprinted "Commanding the Regt." below. Old fold through middle initial, edge nicks at bottom and right edges, else about fine. Unlisted in Sanders or Seagrave. $80-110

7-70. G(ershom) Mott.

Of N.J. Union Maj. Gen. Wounded at 2nd Bull Run and Chancellorsville, Mott commanded in Mine Run campaign, and was present at Battle of the Crater. From document, with "Bvt. Maj. Genl." also in his hand. 1 ¹/4 x 3 ¹/2. Old-time collector's red rule at bottom, ancient 75¢ price in pencil on verso. In very light pencil, "July (18)64 / Washington, D.C." (though Mott was not breveted Maj. Gen. til Aug. 1 of that year according to Boatner). Glue toning at margins, else good. Uncommon. $65-90

7-71. Thomas T. Munford.

Of Va. Confederate Brig. Gen. Fighting in Stonewall Jackson's cavalry, Munford was twice wounded at 2nd Bull Run. Leading at Antietam, Gettysburg, and Appomattox, he carried on a feud with Gen. Thomas Rosser - "Saviour of the Valley" - which continued til the latter's death in 1910. Also in Munford's hand, "Brig. Gen. 2nd Brigade, Cav. Fitz Lee's Div., A.N.V." Conflicting with Boatner, Seagrave states, "He was photographed wearing a Brig. Gen. (uniform). Though often recommended for brigadiership, he never got one"--p. 280. Nearly colorless outline of Shaw's white mounting paste around three margins, with a short remnant on "Mun"; light edge toning of card, else good plus. Scarce. Lacking in Reese. $220-270

7-72. Albert J. Myer.

Of N.Y. Union Brig. Gen. Trained as a physician, Myer devised a telegraphic alphabet using only two elements - a dot and a dash - to form letters, improving on Morse's four. In 1860, Myer became first signal officer of the Army, a post specially created for him by Congress. Dragging an inflated observation balloon to the battlefield at 1st Bull Run, he arranged the terms of surrender at Fort Gaines. Losing favor, his appointment as Chief Signal Officer was revoked by Stanton in 1864, though reinstated two years thence. Myer was breveted for work of his signalmen at Allatoona, Ga. (see Lot 10-6, soldiers letter referring to Allatoona). Nicknamed "Old Probabilities" for his persistent, scientific approach to technical problems. Bold signature from 1872 document, with "Brig. Gen. & Chief Signal Officer of the Army" in another hand. Ink drop on "t" of "Albert," and smudge by his hand on "M" of "Myer," else V.F. and attractive. Not in Sanders or Seagrave. $110-140

7-73. A(mos) Myers.

Of Pa. Congressman, Mar. 1863-Mar. 1865. Chairman, House Committee on Treasury Expenditures. Myers' correspondence appears in the Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress. Postwar Baptist minister in Ky., Pa., and N.Y. On ivory card, with "Clarion, Pa." also in his hand. Light edge toning, else very fine. $20-30

7-74. Jas. S. Negley.

Of Pa. Union Maj. Gen. A controversial figure, while leading at Chickamauga "he was swept back by the enemy with all the other commanders on the Union right. Relieved of command, he was cleared...of cowardice and desertion, but given no more field commands and resigned Jan. 1865... He bitterly resented this treatment, blaming it on the West Pointer's distrust of ‘civilian' soldiers ...Affable and urbane, but of an independent spirit"--Boatner and D.A.B. Flamboyant signature, with "Late Maj. Gen. U.S.A., Pittsburgh, Pa." also in his hand. Some white bleaching of center vertical portion from Shaw's mount; light dust-toning, but about very good, and striking for display. $50-75

7-75. John Newton.

Of Va. Union Maj. Gen. Serving on future Confederate Gen. A.S. Johnston's Utah Expedition, Newton commanded at Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg. His 1864 appointment to Maj. Gen. was revoked, but made Brig. Gen. the same day. Going on to lead in the Atlanta campaign, including Rocky Face Ridge, Peach Tree Creek, and Lovejoy, Newton later commanded District of Key West. Retiring 21 years after war's end as Chief of Engineers, "his greatest achievement was blasting...at Hell Gate in N.Y. Harbor with over 250,000 pounds of explosives"--Boatner. His engraved calling card, "Gen. John Newton, U.S. Army," signed on verso in midnight-blue, "Compliments of...Brig. Gen., Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army," thus dateable 1884-86. Two patches of grey album paper on printed side where once mounted; written side choice. Very scarce thusly. $60-85

7-76. Francis (Reddin) T. Nicholls.

Of La. Confederate Brig. Gen. Fighting under Stonewall Jackson in the Shenandoah, June 1861, and wounded near Winchester. Commanding District of Lynchburg, he led at Chancellorsville, wounded again, losing a foot. Unable to serve further in the field, Nicholls spent the rest of the war in the Trans-Miss. Dept. Twice postwar Gov. of La., he served on West Point's Board of Visitors, and was Chief Justice of La. Supreme Court 1892-1904. Appealing presentation signature, with "Brig. Genl. C.S.A." also in his hand. Coffee-and-cream ink on ivory card, in turn mounted by Shaw on linen, this with usual marginal toning, else very fine. $90-120

7-77. W(illiam) A. Nichols.

Of Pa. Union Maj. Gen. Captured when Twiggs surrendered Texas, he was released Summer of 1861, becoming Adj. Gen. of Dept. of the East, then Dept. of N.Y. Nichols later served as Chief of Staff to Sherman and Sheridan. With "Asst. Adjt. Genl., Aug. 25, 1865" also in his hand, on cream slip. "War Dept." in older pencil on verso, probably first half twentieth century. Some darker banding at left from envelope, just escaping signature, else fine. Uncommon. $50-75

8-1. 60% Commission for a Small-Town Postmaster!

Three interesting partly printed quarterly reports of Postmaster Chauncey Thomas of Shohola, Pike County, Pa., 1874 and 1875. Each opening to 14 ¹/2 x 18. Itemizing expenses and sales, and remitting to government - after deducting his 60% commission! Printed line-items include "Postage undercharged...Unpaid postage of ship letters... Steamboat letters...Unpaid postage on printed matter...which matter still lies dead in the office... Amount of stamps and stamped envelopes sold during the quarter...." One with breaks but no separations at folds, one with old wrinkling at one fold, light toning, else about very good. • With three ornately printed receipts corresponding to above, signed by Auditor of the Treasury for P.O. Dept., and by Treasurer of Contractor: the Erie Railway Co.! Highly attractive. Scarce financial and postal ephemera. $70-90 (6 pcs.)

8-2. Theft of Stamps from a Rural Texas Post Office.

Highly interesting group of items on theft of postage stamps from a Post Office in Maginnis, Bowie County, Texas, 1893, evidently within a general store: Affidavit of Postmaster F.M. Jay, in pencil, his retained draft, on verso of a leaf from his ruled account book, 6 ¹/4 x 7 ³/4. "In the early days of Apr. 1893 the door to my office was found open. The stamps stolen were in a Stock Box with good fitting cover to protect from mice, but were protected only by the lock on the outside front door. This Box...was in the back part of the office room on a high shelf, and was supposed by me to be in quite a secure place, no one knowing they were there except myself...(In) my opinion the party who stole the stamps supposed they were getting something more valuable...." On verso, "Sack Salt 90¢...Sugar 40¢, P(ai)d Jones for Wagon 1.00...." Fold and edge wear, satisfactory. • Yellow slip, 4 x 4, with itemization "4¢ stamps, 26, $1.04; 2¢, 175, $3.50; 10¢, 18, $1.80; Postals [postcards], 11, 11¢...." In pencil and ink. Curiously folded origami-style to 32 panels, imparting an impression of oddity. Worn. • Reply on partly printed form of Post Office Dept., Office of Assistant Attorney Gen., Washington, Sept. 4, 1893, 7 ³/4 x 10 ¹/2. Lengthy manuscript message penned: "Please inform this office...the date of burglary; also furnish evidence of fact of burglary. State whether the P.O. was broken open, whether stamps &c. stolen were under lock & key, or how they are protected against loss, & how & where kept. Also any other evidence showing that a burglary really occurred. No action can be taken on matter...until such evidence is furnished." • Official envelope, "in regard to stamps stolen" penned beneath cornercard, probably by recipient. Tear through printed franking, marginal defects, but satisfactory. • Pencil draft of Postmaster's reply, on verso of letterhead of Sherman, Shreveport & Southern Railway Co., Greenville, Texas, 8 ¹/4 x 11. "The Stamps belonging to my office had formerly been kept in an Iron Safe, but after the saw mill was burned the safe was moved away, and not much mail matter coming to or going from our office. We had no extra lock to protect the stamps...The only evidence of a Burglary having been committed, the Back Window was pried open and the Box...was missing...." The writer had first written that "a double door, one side of which was pried open," then changed it to "Back Window." Much wrinkled, some stains. The crime evidently remained unsolved. $55-75 (5 pcs.)

8-3. With very rare Michigan Territorial Stampless Markings.

"Fort Gratiot / Mic. Terty. / July 8th" bold manuscript postal marking, and matching "Paid 25" and franking "A.B. E(aton)," on 1834 stampless letter to Canaan, N.Y. Inside, highly interesting 3 pp. letter of A(mos) B(eebe) Eaton, the future Union General, here a Lt. of Infantry, writing to his blind grandmother Tryphena Cady. Serving as Chief Commissary under Zachary Taylor in the Mexican War, Eaton became one of the unsung but crucial behind-the-scenes men actually running the Civil War machine. Made Purchasing Commissioner for armies in the field 1861-64, Eaton advanced to Commissary Gen. of the entire Army, til 1874. "I have made it a practice...to write to you whenever I have been ordered to a new station...I left Fort Niagara, which is the northwest corner of N.Y. State...and arrived at this place [Fort Gratiot, Mich. Terr.]...situated on the [word affected here] bank of St. Clair river, about 70 miles north of...Detroit...My family all came with me, including Sarah, who is growing up a very fine woman. There is nothing unreal and foolish about her, no attempt at show-off...She is sensible and looks at things in a sober common sense way. She can make a good loaf of bread or a shirt, an apple dumpling, or a frock...My little daughter is now two...and of course is a complete nonesuch...I should be very glad to have you see her and hear her foolish prattle...Many of my friends are dissatisfied with me because I do not strive harder after a great name in the world. But to tell the plain truth I hardly dare trust myself in such a chase. I wish to be useful, but I fear to lose my soul in the eager strife for renown...To be over-tempted in a course always dazzling, would, I fear, be more than I could successfully endure...With some of my nearest relatives I pass for one almost as good as lost...It seems so contented with being nobody, but I must differ with many as to what things are deserving attention, and best adopted to promote permanent happiness...." Flower-and-stem-shaped worming at margin, affecting parts of near words on six lines on each page, but far from signature, postal markings not affected, else about very good. Very rare Territorial marking, here used three years later than stated in American Stampless Cover Catalog. Ex-Robert A. Siegel Galleries; 1995 catalogue clipping accompanies, their old estimate 750.00-1000.00. $800-1100

8-4. "...Considerable excitement about the postage law...."

Two witty letters from Williams College senior B.M. Beals. Apr. 2 and Oct. 16, 1847, 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4, 11 pp. in all, to friend David B. McCreary, Erie, Pa. A particularly adept writer, he begins, "Yours of the 19(th) arrived in due season clothed in the habiliments of spring and spiced with many a pleasing thought. Though the day in which it came was the most blustering of the season...closely reefed were all our coat-tails and still we reeled like drunken men...Light after light from windows round have disappeared...Forget the past, no, not if all must be forgotten...College requires much writing during the Junior & Senior years...There is considerable excitement about the postage law. Throwing aside the fact that gents and ladies are deprived of casual paper correspondence which is the only correspondence allowed...it looks to me unjust that a man cannot send to whom he will in an envelope when he is willing to pay for it without being subject to imprisonment and fine. The next act that Polk and his auxilliaries will do will be to dictate what each man shall write and how and when truly democracy is progressive...I am glad to hear that you do your duty to the women and that you derive pleasure in so doing...I have not had a dish of mush since I left Pa. I am heartily sick of cakes and pies and pies and cakes & cakes and pies together...." Apologizing for a "half sheet" omitted from his last letter (and enclosed here), "a young lady and brother were waiting in a buggy for it to carry to the P.O...." With much more on life as a senior. The very first adhesive postage stamps had been approved by Act of Congress on Mar. 3, 1847. The earlier letter here bears integral address-leaf; his later letter bears orange-red "10" and Williamstown c.d.s. on the accompanying envelope. Few words in description of April Fools Day antics burned away(!), else fine; envelope soiled but satisfactory. Rare postal history association. $125-175 (3 pcs.)

8-5. Complete Sheet of 40 Gold Rush "Poker Chips."

Adams & Co.'s Express, 25¢, mint. 1853 printed at frame, issued 1854. Scott 1L3. Black on ice-cream-pink bristol. Rumored to have been used as money during the Gold Rush, circulating as a chit in California saloons. A strikingly attractive complete pane of 40, unused and uncut, with full margins. Black engraving on pale pink glazed board. Each 1 x 1 ¹/8, with portrait of Adams manager D.H. Haskell. A local post operating only in California, Adams began service in 1849; this variety "probably never placed in use as a postage stamp" (--Scott Specialized), and came to be known as a "poker chip," likely used as cash. One stamp, at position 30, showing telltale retouched marks over bottom right "25" (carrying a premium in Scott); three large margins and one extra-wide at bottom, colorless crease at upper right corner with minute peel of pink ply, tiny peel at bottom right tip, slight taps at other two tips; several marginal pale amber partial fingerprints, old $125 pencil price erased at lower margin (not later than early 1970s), light uniform dust-toning, but in all, about fine, and pretty. Surfaces of bristol (a glazed board popular for high-grade printing in the mid-nineteenth century) is characteristically sensitive to handling. An iconic item in Old Western history. $950-1200 (complete pane of 40)

8-6. An Unusual Purple Cover used for Official Business.

Early "Reg(ular) Bus(iness) / Official Business" imprint on plum-purple laid cover, black c.d.s. "Fitzwilliam, N.H., May 11. Free-franked P.S. Batcheller, P(ost) M(aster), serving between at least 1877-1893. Preprinted address line "Postmaster," with manuscript "Winchester, N.H." Broad brushstroke of gum on verso, perhaps to seal a large quantity of outgoing mail; not judged applied by a later collector for album mounting. Central vertical portion of front retains the original vibrant purple color, probably preserved by a paper wrapper; left and right portions trifle light-toned to a floral lilac, else fine. $75-100

8-7. Scarce "Sawtooth" Postmark.

Charming folded cover bearing black "Bardstown / Kentucky / July 5" postmark, used 1810-24. To "Jos. Dariess, Esqr., Lexington, Ky. / Mail." Bold manuscript "10." Petit 2 ³/4 x 4. Old vertical fold just missing cancel, else pleasing ivory patination, and fine plus. American Stampless Cover Catalog C-28, 3rd ed., 1978; value code "Scarcity Scale A": "Such covers are known in very small numbers, and their appearance on the market often produces intensive interest...." $200-275 F

8-8. Federal-period "Franklin" Postmark.

A.L.S. of shipping magnate J. B(owne), (Philadelphia), Apr. 21, docketed 1794, 7 ³/4 x 10 ¹/4. To "Mr. William Taylor, Merchant, Baltimore." Brown "Free" straightline, manuscript "Free / J. Bowne." With brown "Franklin"-style postmark (unrecorded in American Stampless Cover Catalog, 3rd ed., 1978), circle with month and day "Ap(ril) 21," without town mark; this style in use since 1784. "Yesterday arrivd. from London Capt. Truxton 80 days passage, the Ship Commodore & also here has arrivd. at Boston. Stormy severe weather all the time, which probably has impeded the other Spring Ships. I now hear of no difficulty in London attending the Trade & that the merchants are forwarding their goods on board our Ships...The West India Captains had not reached London when Capt. Truxton sailed." Addressee Taylor was "a leading merchant of Baltimore and a man of wealth..."--Maryland Historical Magazine, Vol. 25, No. 4, 1930. Large roughly-triangular fragment 1 x 1 ³/4 lacking at blank right where letter opened, affecting neither letter nor address panel. Six old hinge stains on blank flaps, dust-toning on distant blank panel, cream toning, and very good, penned (and struck) in rich brown. Desirable, and scarce thus. $110-150

8-9. Scarce Antebellum Virginia Railroad Cancel.

Greenish blue c.d.s. "Richmond & Danville R.R. / Dec. 23" and matching "5" rate on powder-blue front-only. Manuscript "Way...Paid 3" crossed out. Gerrymander-style trimming of letter still appended at one original fold. Granville, (N.C.?), Dec. 19, (18)53. Attractive blind-embossed "O&H" stationer's crest, with potted tulips. To "Dr. James L. Waltham, Smytheville, Brunswick Co., N.C." (today Smithville). Postmark complete as applied; the missing slice was struck on the postal clerk's table - not on the mail, the fold of the address panel having wrapped behind. Postal wear along top and bottom horizontal edges, light toning, else very satisfactory, displaying nicely, and scarce. Old ASCC value 150.00. $180-240

8-10. South Carolina Town Cancel Predating the Earliest in Stampless Catalog.

Folded lettersheet with richly struck black c.d.s. "Robertville / S.C. / Jan 28" (1846), manuscript "Paid 5." To "Messrs. N.B. Knapp & Co., Savannah... / Mail." Knapp was a saddle and harness dealer. An N.B. Knapp served as a Confederate Pvt., and appears in Savannah's Roll of Honor--Historical Record of the City of Savannah, Lee and Agnew, 1868. Inside, note of R.H. Tison, Robertville: "...send me to Tison's Landing...one of your $8 Saddles rig(g)ed off in the same stile [sic] as the one I got of you on Sat. last. Also one snaffer bit bridle and one plain Martingale...." The earliest "Robertville" usage recorded in American Stampless Cover Catalog is 1849--3rd ed., 1978. (A "Robertville Black Swamp [Plantation]" marking of 1812 appears in the addendum to the 4th ed. of 1993. The Black Swamp Plantation lies in ruins.) Robertville was birthplace of Henry Robert, founder of Robert's Rules of Order. Original folds, light wear along vertical fold through address panel but not affecting the extra-bold cancel; uniform warm cream toning, and fine plus. A splendid item, with rich South Carolina history. Suitable for display. $100-140

8-11. From the City which once Boasted More Millionaires than New York.

Pleasing fire-engine red c.d.s. "Natchez + / Nov 3," wide spaced variety, on folded cover to "Revd. Benjn. Chase, Monticello, Lawrence Co., Mississippi." Bold "25"(?) scrawled in light caramel. From an important New Hampshire family, Chase had another claim to fame - as a collector of rare fish, reptiles, and wildlife. Literature described his 3-foot preserved alligator, an "undescribed species...not yet seen by Prof. Agassiz"--Report on the Agriculture and Geology of Mississippi..., 1854. Chase's two-volume diary, recording the events of his life from 1863 to 1865, was the basis for an unpublished 1963 manuscript, which includes Chase's account of the Civil War's effects on Natchez. Old wide hinge on blank verso, light edge wear, uniform toning complementing the postmark and rate shades, and about fine. Appealing for display. $55-75

8-12. Brownsville, Tennessee Letter: Land "for your Lady."

Folded lettersheet bearing black c.d.s. "Brownsville Te(nn.) / Nov 6" with matching uphill italic "10." To "Mr. L.L. Smith, New Orleans, Care of R. Sand Tucker & Co...." Inside, lengthy letter of J.P. Gause, Brownsville, Nov. 5, 1850, 3 full pp. "I have had the Land I purchased at tax sale in Tipton County [Tenn.] in 1848 for your wife, surveyed. The surveyor has not yet furnished me with a plat and certificate...The survey shows that there is 2,963 acres in the portion I purchased for your Lady...This land lies on both sides of the Big Hatchee River, a part in Tipton County and a part in Lauderdale County, Tenn., a larger portion of which is bottom...I am now on my Circuit, & cannot say when I shall see the surveyor again...Now is a very suitable time to sell said Land. I have put a tenant on that portion...adjoining the tract Doctr. Henning now sets up(on)...to keep off squatters, & have made him an agreement to sell him a portion of it at $2.25 per acre, one-half cash...and balance in 1 & 2 years, interest on the last payment. There is about 4 or 500 acres in that portion...75 or 80 acres of which is upland, the balance bottom Land...Your Lady must be examined by the Judge or officer who takes the probate...as to her free consent...You had best give me plenary power to sell said Land to the best advantage, whether that be in small or large tracts...If the entire tract can be sold for $3,000 in 1 & 2 years it would be a good sale...." 1 ¹/2" tear at two margins where opened, shorter tear, and about three words lost; some edge overfolds, else very good, the pastel-grey sheet complementing the storm-grey postal markings. $50-70

8-13. Tragic News from New Orleans, Cancelled "Ship 6."

Folded lettersheet with curved ribbon "Ship / 6" handstamp in pink, (Jan. 19, 1822), to "Miss Sarah Ann Clark, Boston." From her brother John (Clark), New Orleans, 2 ¹/4 pp. "I cannot express to you the deep Sorrow I feel for the death of our dear little Brother William...A Letter from Mr. Bailey...gives me the Melancholy account...It is only a few days since I received a very interesting Letter from William dated 28 Nov...He was then in fine Spirits & in good health, & on the 14th Dec., dear little fellow, he died. The Capt. of the Sch(ooner) Francis that brought me the Letter from Mr. Bailey informed me that he carried out some things from Boston for William, but that he was so sick he could not receive them...They were no doubt sent out by your dear Sarah & your affliction will be severe at this distressing event, as well as that of our dear Mother & Father. You will no doubt do all your power to comfort & console them...They have other living who are ever ready to acknowledge the obligation they owe to them, & whose love for them is no less than his. Benjamin...has left by this time for St. Thomas...It is a long time since we have heard from him...A small present of some Cider & Cordial & her grandmother a small pot (of) sweetmeats & some nuts. I intended sending Mother & you some oranges...." Breaks at fold junctions, two internal holes where opened at seal, with no loss of text, else about fine, with a perfectly positioned postal marking. $80-110

8-14. R.F.D. Cancel on Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Expo.

Cover with excellent strike "Chester, N.H. / R.F.D. No. 3 / Sep 28, 1909," nicely tying margin of #370, 2¢ Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition to cover; postmarked while Expo still open. With 4-ring concentric fancy. One good and three nice margins. To "Clarence H. Wood, 86 Myrtle St., Boston." Several ink strokes on blank portions of cover, as sender tested other pens; one spot, some tenting creases and postal edge wear (the envelope was evidently stuffed to capacity), two soft creases at upper tips of stamp, else very good. $45-65

8-15. Parker Shotgun Pictorial Cover.

Advertising cover of Parker Brothers, Meridan, Conn., 1891, with large simulated-color woodcut of double-barreled shotgun, the barrels, rims at break-open, filigree, and trigger hardware all dusted in lustrous silver flake, giving a subtle and unusual metallic effect. 2¢ Washington Second Plimpton, postmarked Meridan, and backstamped N.Y. and Bridgeville, Del. Reduced at right into indicia, light-oil toned soiling (the recipient perhaps pausing lubrication of his old shotgun to open this envelope!), handling and several conspicuous creases, but still attractive. The silver flake effect is both appealing and seldom-seen in this manner; the artistic differences in its sheen suggest it was hand-painted. Parker Brothers "are widely considered the finest and most collectible American shotgun"--wikipedia. Parker was the gun of choice of Annie Oakley et al. $45-60

8-16. Savannah Tobacco and Cigar Cover.

Advertising cover with Gothic banner, black on pink, "Goodman & Myers / Wholesale Tobacco and Cigars / Savannah, Ga." Blue c.d.s. Savannah, c. 1880, 3¢ Washington Banknote, affixed upside-down, lending visual interest. At upper left and right, "Tobacco Factory No. 40, Richmond...Cigar Factory No. 616, N.Y." To "C. Litschgi, Cashier, Germania Savings Bank, Charleston, S.C." Uniform cream toning, light handling, else fine. Request scan. $30-40

8-17. The Sound of Music.

Advertising cover with detailed woodcut cornercard of old-fashioned, elaborately carved grand piano, "Vose & Sons...Boston." Black c.d.s. Boston. 3¢ Washington Banknote, c. 1876, with square fancy negative "2" cancel. To W.E. Moody, S. Windsor, Maine. Computations and numerous names in fine quill on both sides, evidently penmanship practice in the Moody household. Some edge toning, else very good. Request scan. $25-35

8-18. Utah Advertising Cover, Guns...Miners & Plumbers Supplies."

Attention-getting cover, "Salt Lake Hardware Co...Cutlery, Stoves, Ranges, Guns, Sporting Goods, Miners & Plumbers Supplies / Salt Lake City." All-over bright red both sides, elaborate typography. 2¢ Washington First Bureau, 1898, six-bar Salt Lake City cancel. To Southington, Conn. Some edge wear, else about very good, and splendid for display. Utah advertising covers are uncommon. Request scan. $30-45

8-19. San Francisco Wells Fargo Cover - Used in New York City.

Attractive all-over almond background, vertical black "Paid / Wells, Fargo & Co. / Over our California and Coast Routes" imprint at left. 1871 in later pencil. Bold curved-type cornercard, "W.W. Dodge & Co., Importers & Wholesale Dealers in / Groceries, Provisions &c. / Corner of Front & Clay Sts. / San Francisco" - but used in and bearing two different styles N.Y. postmarks, applied on same day, one on front, another on verso. Green U82 entire, with Wells Fargo Type "E" frank. To C.W. Van Doren, 610 Sixth Ave., N.Y. Some handling, two white paper hinges on flap, else about very good. Splendid display and conversation piece. $90-130

8-20. Album of Oddball Local Posts.

Delightful collection of multitude of local post usages and themes: parachute mail, model rocket mail, model railway mail, "transported from headwaters," "landlocked seaman post," local posts, new stations, and more. Comprising 55 #10 and larger envelopes, plus 36 smaller covers, 4 postcards, and 1 aerogramme, 1970-94. Themes including Apollo, U.S. and Russian space, Skylab, balloons, Christmas, and more. Each cover a labor of love, embellished with variety of colorful cachets, decorative handstamps and labels, unofficial "postage" stamps, some older U.S. stamps (as early as 1949 issues), some plate blocks, and other creative arrangements. Including 14 different "Transported from Headwaters of Du Page River / Creekside Post." • "7th Army Parachute Team - Sky Dive Parachute Mail...." • Christmas cover of Davis Local Post, Tiverton, R.I., with orange 25¢ "stamp," and genuine stamp. • Doc's Local Post "Model Rocket Mail," with pictorial cachet. • "District of Columbia Local Post," 7¢ blue pictorial "stamp," with genuine stamp. • Doc's "1st Manned Lunar Landing - Apollo 11 / Sixth Anniversary," postmarked Cape Canaveral and Patrick A.F.B., June 20/24, 1975. • "Inaugurating Independent Postal System of America...," 1971. • Landlocked Seaman Post, "Iwo Jima - 40th Anniversary / The Marines have Landed...." • First Day, McAuliffe Ranch Local Post, "Via T.W.A., Albuquerque - N.Y.," 1972. • "New Haven Model Railway P.O.," oversize 5¢ label-stamp showing olde-time tender car. • Polar Bear Local Post, Deadhorse, Alaska. • First Day, Whaling City Local Post, New Bedford, Mass., "Whale Deltiology" cornercard. Serially-numbered 22¢ label. • "The End of U.S. Involvement in the Viet Nam War...," Doc's Local Post, with 7 U.S. and 2 "Silent Nights - MIA-POW" label-stamps, each cancelled on a different, historic day between Mar. 28, 1972-Mar. 28, 1973. • Including 10 varied foreign collector's covers and postcards: 3 from Germany, 1 Bermuda, 1 Cayman Islands, 1 French Polynesia, 1 Peru, and 3 Pitcairn. Few fine, balance excellent. A delightful assortment for the topical collector or young philatelist. In attractive, older red Showgard album. $450-700 (96 pcs.)

8-21. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Alabama.

Collection of 22 government postcards and 2 envelopes, 1936-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Blalock, Novico, Coxey, Central Mills, Chelsea (with manuscript notation that its predecessor post office in Simmsville was destroyed by fire several months earlier), Silvercross, Maxwell, Forney, Grays Chapel, Collirene, Scranage, Lomax, Hobson. Blanche, etc. Including First Day of Service cancel of Scottsboro Skyline Rural Station. A labor-of-love project of Clarence E. Reid, well-known philatelist and cachet artist, whose family founded the Charms Co., Newark, the famous makers of lollipops and hard candy; during World War II he became one of the most decorated Quartermasters in the Pacific Theater. Such a collection could never be assembled today. Small number of First Day of Service cancels included. All lots: ordinary postal handling, some toning, upper right tips tapped, else generally good to fine. $150-250 (24 pcs.)

8-22. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Alaska.

Collection of 8 government postcards, 1936-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." Two signed by Postmaster. Including several First Day of Service cancels, as noted. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Sumdum, Lawing (signed by Postmaster of same name), Shakan (two), Ohogamute (marked by Postmaster "too late..." and postmarked town of Flat twelve days later), Alatna, First Day cancel of successor town Allakaket, and Hamilton (First Day cancel, backstamped Saint Michael almost two months later). Ordinary postal handling, upper right tips tapped, some toning, else generally good to fine. Rare. Selection shown above left. $70-110 (8 pcs.)

8-23. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Arizona.

Collection of 15 government postcards, 1936-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." One (Plenty, Ariz.) signed by Postmaster. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Dugas, Wide Ruin, Canon (reopened as Rock Springs), Plenty, Metcalf (2), Garden Canyon, Tusayan, Navajo Agency, Cascabel, Hot Springs (to Castle Hot Springs), etc. A labor-of-love project of a prominent philatelist. Such a collection could never be assembled today. Small number of First Day of Service cancels included. Ordinary postal handling, upper right tips tapped, some toning, else generally good to fine. $110-150 (15 pcs.)

8-24. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Arkansas.

Collection of 32 government postcards, 1936-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Retta, Mineola, Waters, Pine Ridge, Greenridge, De Roche, Grider, Simco, Truth, McJester, Beaty (2), Monterey, Avant, Tulip, etc. Small number of First Day of Service cancels included. Ordinary postal handling, upper right tips tapped, some toning, else generally good to fine. $225-300 (32 pcs.)

8-25. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of California.

Collection of 45 government postcards, 1935-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. A number of related First Day of Service cancels included. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Lyonsville, Bryson, Pedley, Oildale (with Postmaster's pencilled note on verso, "Oil Center destroyed by fire...No post marks available"), Point Loma, Big Flat, Mills College, Pattiway, Lake Mountain, Adelaida, Montpellier (with Postmaster's handmade cartoon rubber stamp, "Last Day - That's All Folks"), Pacific, Emerald Bay, Pine Knot (with successor name Big Bear Lake), etc. Such a collection could never be assembled today. Ordinary postal handling, upper right tips tapped, some toning, else generally good to fine. $325-425 (45 pcs.)

8-26. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Colorado.

Collection of 27 government postcards, 1 envelope, and 2 postmaster's business cards, 1935-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. Some related First Day of Service cancels included. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Caisson, Gordon, Thornburg, Rodley, Cheney Center (signed by Postmistress Pansy Diskin), Kings Canyon, Amity, Gould, Peneold, Avalo, Lily, River Bend, Grandlake, Officer, Alamo, Bonanza, etc. Such a collection could never be assembled today. Ordinary postal handling, upper right tips tapped, some toning, else generally good to fine. $225-300 (30 pcs.)

8-27. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Connecticut.

Collection of 9 government postcards and 3 envelopes, 1934-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. Some related First Day of Service cancels included, these apparently for seasonal resort towns. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Torrington (First Day, 2, different styles), Westford (2), Black Point Beach Club (First), Twin Lakes ( Last, 1934; First and Last, 1935, with note from Postmistress), Grove Beach (First and Last for 1935 season), North Hartland, and Pine Orchard (First). Ordinary postal handling, upper right tips tapped, some toning, else generally good to fine. $80-110 (12 pcs.)

8-28. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Florida.

Collection of 20 government postcards and 3 envelopes, 1935-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. Some related First Day of Service cancels included. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Ceromi, Shelton, Crescent Beach, Samsula, Lily, Cody, Benson Springs, Garniers, Santa Maria, Wilbur-by-the-Sea, Nittaw, Tampa Shores, Horseshoe, Jena, Steinhatchee, Willow, etc. Such a collection could never be assembled today. Ordinary postal handling, some toning, else generally good to fine. $170-220 (23 pcs.)

8-29. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Georgia.

Collection of 15 government postcards and 1 envelope, 1935-38, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster. Some related First Day of Service cancels included. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Huching, Madola, Blaokwells (note spelling), Natal, Saint Simons Island, Lagrange, Arcola, Porter Springs, Bladen, Warsaw, Flintside, etc. Such a collection could never be assembled today. Ordinary postal handling, some toning, else generally good to fine. Selection shown p. 63, right. $110-150 (16 pcs.)

8-30. Last Day of Service - Lost Towns of Iowa.

Collection of 2 envelopes and 13 government postcards (one duplicate), 1933-37, each bearing hand-stamped postmark, and cachet "Last Day Cancel / Effective...." A few signed by Postmaster, some with double hand-stamp on message side. Most with contemporary pencil notation on message side showing date received. Towns include: Anamosa, Bolan, Coal City, DeKalb, Elkader (two), Gladstone, Irving, Lima, Lorah, Nashville, Norwich, Pekin, Petersville, and Rexfield. Plus First Day of Service cancel for The Inn, Iowa - and its Last Day, just twenty days later! Ordinary postal handling, some toning, else generally good to fine. $120-160 (17 pcs.)

9-1. Including Lessons in Adding the New Gold and Silver Coins - 1797.

A New and Complete System of Arithmetic. "Composed for the Use of the Citizens of the United States," by Nicolas Pike. Worcester, Mass.: "At the Press of Isaiah Thomas, by Leonard Worcester, for said Thomas," 1797. "Second ed., enlarged." Original tree sheep and red spine label. 5 x 8, 516 pp. Preface by Thomas: "...Dollars and Cents are coming gradually into use; but pounds, shilling and pence will continue to be in practice...." Endorsements by Yale Pres. Ezra Stiles, Dartmouth Pres. J. Wheelock, Benjamin West, et al. Fascinating lesson on "Federal Money," with values and weights of coinage set by Congress in 1786, though the "Dollar, the highest silver coin," would not commence til 1794. Including fineness of the "Double Dime," Cent, Half Cent, and two gold coins, the Half Eagle and Eagle, this containing 123 ¹³⁴/1000 grains of fine gold. Head and tail shelf wear of spine, average cover and tip wear, but still retaining charm of its original binding; pp. 17-24 loose but holding; first and last sections browned, moderate to no foxing elsewhere, else very satisfactory. Evans 21394. Sabin 62830. $90-120

9-2. Saint-Gaudens declines to break "the rule."

T.L.S. of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, with close also in his hand. On his lettersheet, "Aspet, Windsor, Vermont" in dark blue on aqua, Sept. 1, 1905, 4 ³/4 x 7 ¹/4, Crane's watermark. To Mrs. J.W. Oest, 215 W. 120 St., N.Y. Typewritten in purple: "...I should be more than glad to do your wish, but I have held steadily for many years to the rule and if I were to break it now I should certainly offend others, among them friends who have wished to do the same as you and to whom I have said no. You will I am certain understand why I cannot do differently now." This Vermont address seldom seen on his writings, Saint-Gaudens' studio had been in Cornish, N.H. since 1885. Known for his monumental public sculptures, including Lincoln in Chicago, Farragut in N.Y., and The Puritan in Springfield, Mass., perhaps his widest acclaim arose from his design for the $20 gold coin, which popularly retains his name. A member of the Hall of Fame, Saint-Gaudens is depicted on a postage stamp in that series, Scott 886. Original light folds, else fine and attractive. Perfect for display with one of his double eagles (see following lot). A splendid adjunct for the gold specialist. $300-375

9-3. 1908 $20 Gold, St. Gaudens.

2012 ANACS MS 64. No motto. A premium-grade but affordable example of "the most beautiful United States coin"(--Red Book). Trivial characteristic superfine marks under magnification, fewer than we have seen in other examples of this grade, darker touches at ends of about six of eagle's feathers though not visible to unassisted eye, else a rewarding coin, with strong sunrise-gold impact. Estimate using Jan. 2021 spot price. $1950-2100

9-4. July 4, 1876 Pendant.

Superbly detailed medal made of wood, commemorating Independence Day, July 4, 1876. George Washington in profile on obverse, in glossy, strikingly high bas relief probably unattainable in metal at the time. Field with fine vertical ridges reflecting light, creating a subdued cartwheel normally only seen on high grade coins and medals. On reverse, in contrasting full matte finish, perhaps simulating "frosting" on a proof coin: "Great International Exhibition, Fairmount Park, 4th of July, 1876 Phila. / The 100th Anniversary of American Independence." "Triple size," 2 ³/8" diam., with original wood loop for suspension at top. Rich brown with royal purplish hue. Minute tap at 7 o'clock on reverse rim, else choice, and a splendid conversation piece. $150-200

9-5. "These United Colonies."

1876 medal, authorized by Congress, and engraved by William Barber. Silvered (perhaps the very rare white metal?), 1 ⁷/16" diam. On obverse, "1776 / These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent states," with Miss Columbia (termed "Genius of American Independence" in So-Called Dollars) reaching upward to sunburst of 13 stars. The latter text formed part of the Lee Resolution of July 2, 1776, reported in a handful of newspapers at the time as a single sentence. It had been forecast by John Adams at the time that July 2 - not the 4th - would be celebrated in future years. Reverse: "1876 / In commemoration of the hundredth anniversary of American independence...." Small scratch on obverse, curious small, soft crater at billowing end of upper toga, presumed a bit of foreign matter when medal was being struck; several dot-dash interruptions of plating on rim, else lustrous and judged AU 58. So-Called Dollar HK-20. $100-150

9-6. Private-Issue American Liberty Coin and Currency.

Specimen American Liberty Dollar $1000 Gold Certificate signed by Bernard von Nothaus, creator of American Liberty Currency, a libertarian private-issue "receipt" entitling bearer to "One Ounce Gold .9999 Fine," stored in an Idaho warehouse. Series 2006. "Specimen only" penned beside flamboyant signature. 2 ³/4 x 6 ¹/2. Obverse with spectacular gold-foil border and imprint, on lenticular security pattern, with red seal. On reverse, golden orange with grey overprint, and two hologram devices. One blind handling crease, else Crisp Unc. Now uncommon on the market. • Packet of 6 "proof" Liberty Dollar Silver Certificates, "1998-2003," containing green $50, blue $10, lavender $5, and three brown $1. Each stamped in bright silver foil. Lengthy text on verso, "Warehouse Receipt...One Oz. Silver .999 Fine / Proof / Fifth Year Anniversary / No Silver / Limited Edition 5,000...." (Silver then valued at 10.00 per oz.) With promotional card and envelope bearing Indiana address. "...Return America to value - one Liberty Dollar at a time." • Liberty Dollar marked "$10" silver round. Very high relief, 1 ¹/2" diam., issued by "Norfed / 2000." Microfine production marks, else judged at least MS 63. $110-140 (10 pcs.)

9-7. Old Copy of the Iconic Elephant Token.

Later replica of the London Elephant halfpenny, c. 1672-94. Probably made late 19th-early 20th century, cast copper, with deepest coffee patina by time acquired in 1960s. The original tokens, included in the Red Book of U.S. coins, but "were not struck for the colonies, although a few may have been carried there by colonists." Their rarity here created a small market for replicas, as space-fillers. "Very fine" detail; the coin from which this was made had considerable dentille wear. An original, especially of this "sword in second quarter of shield" variety, would cost five figures. An educational conversation piece; every collection should contain a (well-marked) replica, for instructional purposes. $25-45

9-8. 3¢ Set of Both Varieties.

Friedberg 1226. Washington portrait, leaner background variety. Green-black over currency-green. Third Issue. Old quarter-folds, some orange-brown speckles along upper right margin, perhaps spatter from a quill, trivial tip wear, four ample margins, else judged about VF20. • Darker background variety. Plate no. 52. Neatly penned in miniature contemporary hand in margin on verso, "Issued Jan. 1865." Four good margins on obverse (one running uphill); on verso, trace of green border of adjacent note, hence the distant margin tight. Else an interesting example, appearing at least CU61. All from an old collection, fresh to the market. $250-290 (set)

9-9. 5¢ First Issue Postage Currency.

Friedberg 1230. So-called for the exquisitely engraved replica of the then-current Thomas Jefferson postage stamp at its center, Scott 67. 1862-63. Early in the Civil War, "banks suspended specie payments...Coins of all denominations were jealously guarded and hoarded and soon all but disappeared from circulation...It became impossible for merchants to give small change...Demands were made on the Treasury Dept. to remedy this chaotic state of affairs...." Hence postage and fractional currency - these curious and ornate bills in denominations as small as 3¢.--Paper money of the United States, Friedberg & Friedberg, 21st ed. Straight edges. American Banknote Co. monogram on verso. Warm brown over black. Interesting inclusions of wood flakes, and part of frameline of adjacent note. One corner toned from old slip-on album mount, else no circulation wear, and judged about CU60. Because of their artistry and philatelic references, fractional currency is found in both coin and stamp collections. $90-110

9-10. 5¢ First Issue Postage Currency Pair.

Friedberg 1230. Vertical pair, hand-trimmed from sheet with dull scissors, once folded along interesting double score between the notes, suggesting they may have been intended for sale in a packet. Additional vertical pocket fold. Some handling evidence, else bright detail, and judged about VF30. Multiples unpriced in Friedberg. $100-120

9-11. 5¢ First Issue Straight Edge, with an Interesting Printing Transfer.

Friedberg 1231. Without monogram. Outer framelines on three edges present. Soft diagonal crease and vertical fold, only revealed under magnification; some curious brownish spots on verso, these believed a triple wet transfer from plate, else judged AU50. $150-190

9-12. 10¢ Washington in Lustrous Bronze Oval Border.

Friedberg 1244. Washington in lustrous bronze oval. Mint-green verso, with bronze "25" surprint. Without small surcharged figures. Second Issue. Some cockling along upper half, light handling evidence, else judged VF20. $25-35

9-13. 10¢ Miss Columbia, with Unrecorded Fiber Variant.

Friedberg 1258 variant. Black over holly green, large red seal. With violet fibers, unrecorded in the plain-right-end type. Uniform pinkish-white paper. Minor pale tan stain at upper right, slight soft crease at bottom edge, perhaps when top or bottom of a banded stack, else CU60. $180-220

9-14. 10¢ Miss Columbia, with Recorded Fiber Variant - but Unrecorded Printed Numeral.

Friedberg 1261. Black over holly green, large red seal. With violet fibers, as listed in Friedberg with this blue tinted right end on obverse. Lighter oyster-white paper. Red "8" printed at upper right corner. Trivial fold one tip, two soft creases at bottom edge, perhaps when top or bottom of a banded stack, else judged CU61. $160-200

9-15. 10¢ with Wartime Purse Wear.

Friedberg 1266. Bust of William Meredith, Sec. of Treasury 1849-50. Black over currency green. Red seal. Two margins generous, two ample. Once folded into eighths, perhaps in a lady's purse, with some crumpling; minor tip and edge wear, else clean, further improveable with placement in a stamp press, and appears at least F15. $25-35

9-16. 15¢ - Perhaps Displayed in a Bank or Store during Civil War.

Friedberg 1269. Bust of Miss Columbia in black on white, large red seal, green verso. Intricate American Bank Note anti-counter-feiting devices, including violet fibers and tinted blue portion of obverse. Total of eight fine pinholes at three corners, only discerned when held to light; ¹/16" cut into upper left, but believed a clean tear when note pulled from board on which mounted with similar pins. Perhaps used for a Civil War-period display at a bank or store to instruct the public. Judged AU58. A curiosity. $140-170

9-17. 25¢, with Steamboat and Locomotive.

Friedberg 1283 variant. Washington in coal-black oval frame, not mentioned in Friedberg. Grape-purple verso, with black "25" surprint. Without small surcharged figures. Some soft wrinkles upper left quadrant, few pale tan (tea?) spots at three margins, else judged about VF30. $45-65

9-18. 25¢ Washington, with Traces of Treasury Workroom.

Friedberg 1286 variant. Washington in darker oval frame. Lilac verso, with Old English "S" and "63" surcharge - but not the "18." Good margins obverse, into left frame on verso, this due to imprecise backing up by Treasury Dept. printer. Light fold at one tip, soft rippling along one margin, full-height crease along one edge, but the slight color imparted suggests from clamp of Treasury's cutting machine. Old "1286" in pencil on verso. In all, judged about VF30, with some interesting features for the specialist. $65-85

9-19. 50¢ "Receivable for Postage Stamps at any Post Office."

Friedberg 1312. Postage currency, so-called for the exquisitely engraved replica of an overlapped quintet of the then-current Washington postage stamp at its center, Scott 68. Emerald green over black. Straight edges. American Banknote Co. monogram on verso. Full-length outer frameline on two edges. Two folds at upper left corner, several small folds at lower right, some handling patina, else judged F15. $45-55

9-20. 50¢ with Blue Tint dissolving to Pale Green on Verso.

Friedberg 1376. Green-black over mint green. Small red seal. Violet fibers, robin's-egg-blue tinted right end on obverse, interestingly showing as a green tint on verso. (Green is mixed from blue and yellow.) Portrait of Stanton. Vertical half fold only noted from verso, tiny overfold at one corner, horizontal centering 85/15, else AU50 or slightly better. Spinner's fanciful (printed) signature came to be one of the most-recognized American autographs of the nineteenth century. A fairly pleasing example. $200-270

9-21. 50¢ Uncirculated.

Friedberg 1379. Bust of Samuel Dexter, Secretary of both War and Treasury Depts., 1800-01, in green-black, light green seal, evergreen verso. Light violet fibers and pale aqua tint at right portion. Three ample margins, downhill into framelines at left top horizontal, with two tiny bites, probably a combination of a guillotine blade needing honing and sharpening, and slight movement of stack of notes as they were trimmed at Treasury. Because of the relatively small denomination of these fractional notes, and the hectic conditions of wartime Washington, quality control was sometimes imperfect. Still judged CU60. $180-210

10-1. Rare Factory Literature for the Parrott Guns.

Unusual Parrott-printed factory sheet with test results of their 20-Pounder Rifled Gun, 30-Pounder Rifled Seige Gun, 100-Pounder Rifle, and 100-Pounder Gun. 11 ¹/4 x 14, blue on eggshell, printed one side, possibly to promote sales, following the Parrott guns' conspicuous service in the early salvos of the war. Including printed text of letter from R.P. Parrott, "West Point Foundry, Cold Spring, Putnam Co., N.Y.," Apr. 12, 1862, to Commander Ganesvoort (presumed misspelled). "With this you will receive a box containing the following fuzes for the two hundred 100-pounder projectiles for the Galena...." Tables of ranges of four guns listed, with type of powder, charge, weight of projectile, range, and time of flight, variously. For example, a 100 lb. shell could travel up to 6,490 yards - over three miles! Parrott guns were used by both the North and South; "the larger ones were particularly effective in knocking down masonry fortifications"--Boatner. Indeed, pieces of Parrott bolts and shells remain embedded in Sumter's formidable brick walls. Original quarter folds, some wrinkles, else very good and clean. The Parrott Foundry is now an archaeological and historic site. Intriguing. $100-130

10-2. The First Floridian Cadet at West Point - and Supervisor of Parrott Gun Development.

A.L.S. of S(tephen) V(incent) Benet [Sr.], "Brig. Gen., Chief of Ordnance" in his hand, on stationery with pale plum "Ordnance Dept. U.S.A." emblem, Washington City, Apr. 23, 1874, 5 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/4, 2 full pp. To Mrs. (James A.) Hardie. "I owe you an apology for not having sooner acknowledged the receipt...of the excellent memorial of your lamented Husband. My first recollection of him dates back to 1845, when I was a plebe at West Point, & he was my Instructor; & the impression he then made upon me was more than confirmed in after-years; for which I then, as a boy, respected him for his kind & gentlemanly consideration, & for marked literary ability...his after service proved the possession of all the higher virtues that characterize the Christian gentleman & accomplished soldier. I am sure that the Army at large will receive with pride & gratification, the publication of so richly deserved tribute to his memory, & the younger officers will find, in this record of his career, a life worthy of study & imitation...." Hardie himself had just graduated from West Point two years before Benet was his student. On McClellan's staff, and Asst. Adj. Gen. of Army of the Potomac, "his faithfulness and accuracy were so dependable that Burnside and Wm. B. Franklin agreed to accept his field dispatches as correct records of the failure and responsibility of (Fredericksburg)..."--Boatner. Promoted to Judge Advocate Gen. in the Sec. of War's office, he was entrusted to deliver the secret order transferring command from Hooker to Meade before the Battle of Gettysburg. Benet, father of the author of the same name, was the first Floridian admitted to West Point; becoming an instructor there in 1861, he was commandant of Frankford Arsenal from 1864. During his long tenure in ordnance, he oversaw the Parrott gun experiments at Cold Spring, N.Y., and establishment of Sandy Hook, with work on seacoast guns, armor plate, high explosives, machine guns, and dynamite guns. Old collector's and dealers' markings in at least three hands, some handling wrinkles, else very good and attractive. Such letters with West Point content are now elusive. $140-180

10-3. "I like soldier business..." --then he Deserted.

Letter of Union Pvt. John Fogg, Co. E, "1st N.H. Cavalry," in pencil, from New Orleans, Dec. 18, 1863, 3 pp., 4 ³/4 x 8. To "Friend Fannie" (Fannie E. Lowd), Plymouth, N.H. "...I have got nothing but this old pencil to write with...I can't send my picture just now for I can't get it taken where I am...I like soldier business for I can go out and get a hen once and a while. It is as warm as summer and the birds are singing all around. The drum is beating and I can't stop to write any more...." With pencil addition on p. 4, "Forget me not, Thomas," attributed to Thomas C. Prescott, Adj. in same N.H. Cavalry. Prescott had been wounded at Port Hudson that June. Evidently, their regiment was the 2nd N.H., not the 1st: in the month of this letter, its designation was changed from its original 8th to the 2nd. In Fogg's confusion, he wrote the "1st." In all events, his confusion returned: in July 1864, he deserted, at Carrollton, La. Interesting blind-embossed stationer's crest, with rampant lion and fleurs de lis, suggestive of New Orleans' French past. Original folds, pencil somewhat variable but readily legible, and about good. $80-110

10-4. "It is a bad place for a young man in the army...."

Letter of Union Pvt. William W. Perry, Jr. of Co. H, 8th Vermont Infantry, Algears (sic), La., July 6, 1862, 5 x 8, 4 full pp. To uncle, probably in Brookline, Vt. "...The wounded men of our Co. are agetting along well. That was a hard blow for our Co...the skirmish that we had the 22 of June. It was a hard one, the car that we was in had not far from 150 ball holes in it. They came in like a shower of hail stones. We was lucky getting out of it as we did. You stated in your letter that father was agetting his barn about ready to raise and that he had to work very hard ...I am adoing about all that I can to help him, for he has $19 a month from my wages, and I told him that he might have the use of my sheep...." On visiting Vermont later that Summer, "I should want to sleep on the floor...We are agetting used to the hardships of a soldiers life...I hope that six months more will carry us back to old Vermont safe and well...It is a bad place for a young man in the army, and it seems bad to have so many young men spoiled by this war, but I suppose that it is all for the best...." Research indicates his June 22 action occurred while guarding the Opelousas Railroad at Bayou des Allemands. The regimental history records, "...a detachment of thirty men were sent up the road to Raceland Station, where it was reported the track was being torn up. The detachment proceeded cautiously, being pushed in a passenger car [in which Pvt. Perry was riding] with engine in the rear and having skirmishers in front, but owing to an almost impassable swamp, the skirmishers had all been forced to take to the road-bed, and while in this condition the party was ambushed by a large party, and a volley fired on them at the distance of only a few paces, killing five and wounding nine..."--Regimental history, by Capt. S.E. Howard. The following April, Perry's 8th Vt. was leading the column at Bisland, La.; he was wounded in "a sharp engagement" in the evening. Very minor break at one fold, light marginal toning, else about fine. $90-120

10-5. Coming Home to New Hampshire.

Letter of Union Sgt. John (C.) French, (1st and 8th N.H. Infantry), Camp Colby (N.H.), Sept. 4, 1862, 5 ¹/4 x 8, 1 p. In very light pencil. To "Sister Mary," Meriden, N.H. "...home Sun. morning. I have written to N.Y. If you want anything from the Store go and get it and we will pay for it when we get home...." Mentioning Mary Cady. Old folds, minor nibbles at blank upper left, else satisfactory. The following month, French saw fighting at Georgia Landing, then action with the Steamer Cotton. Missing in action at the siege of Port Hudson, he resurfaced; reenlisting in the new 2nd N.H. Cavalry in 1864, he fought at Red River. • With cream envelope, Concord c.d.s. in center of cover, 7-bar black cancel on sound Scott #65 precisely affixed at upper left. Stamp interestingly off-center, the design remaining on the precipices of right perfs by literally a hair, with a precision that could never be duplicated intentionally! Fine, and something of a conversation piece. $30-45 (2 pcs.)

10-6. Visiting the Scene of the Expression "Hold the Fort...."

Splendid letter of Union soldier George S. Young in Sherman's Georgia campaign, earlier of 33th N.Y. On two lettersheets, one imprinted "Ordnance Office, District of the Etowah," the other with elaborate blind-embossed sunflower. Chattanooga, Tenn., Oct. 12, 1864, 4 ³/4 x 8, 5 ¹/2 pp. Courting Lettie, his new correspondent who answered his ad, subsequently meeting - and singing for him. "...Instead of writing I will talk to you...I came to the Battery on Fri...I had started for Centersville, Ga., with a car load of ammunition, to replace that which had been exploded on the 4th...When I arrived at Reseca, I found the bridge gone. Had to get my ammunition on an old barge and ferry it across the river (I have forgotten the name of the river. It is an Indian name and a jaw-breaker). I worked all night, got off about 10 A.M., arrived in Cartersville a little before dark. On Sun. morning turned over the ammunition to the Ordnance Office of that place. In the afternoon got a horse from an accommodating Capt. and went to Allatoona to see the battle ground. Found the place...and talked with the Reb wounded...On Mon. I had the pleasure of seeing Gen. Sherman and Gen. Stoneman. Sherman looks hale and hearty, Stoneman looks worn and rough, the penalty of being taken prisoner...I'll soon make the acquaintance of Miss Polly Parrott...Polly will soon learn my footstep and learn to cry out, ‘Lettie, George is coming!'...Excuse me from singing. I would like very much to hear you sing...I cannot sing but still I love music...Nothing pleases me more than to hear you sing some patriotic air...The power of attraction is great, as to what induced you to write to me ...I thank you for the pleasure already experienced and humbly beg for a continuance...I enjoyed the chase after Wheeler highly...I had begun to get weary of chasing after him when he was always just ahead of us. I would much prefer him to stand and give battle...The next time I write I will send my Photo...if one of Uncle Sam's servants, called by us soldiers Paymasters, comes around and dispenses the much needed ‘Greenbacks'...Hurrah for Sheridan!...another glorious victory by his army. He is the right man in the right place. Will be pretty apt to keep the Shenandoah Valley clear of the ‘Johnnies'...." A week earlier, Allatoona, Ga., referred to above, was the scene of "a number of dramatic incidents...This important Federal supply depot, (contained) a million rations of bread for Sherman's Army in Atlanta..."--Boatner. Surrounded on Oct. 5, the faint glimpse of a Union signal flag was spotted over the heads of the enemy. The cryptic letters were inaccurately reported by journalists as "‘Hold the fort; I am coming.' The episode inspired the revival hymn ‘Hold the Fort' - and so the pages of history were embellished with another indelible myth." Original folds, minor handling, else about fine. $160-200

10-7. Vintage Glass Paperweight.

C. 1900, with sepia photograph "Gen. Meade's Headquarters, Taneytown Road" affixed to bottom, the underlying image likely taken during the war. 2 ¹/2 x 3 ³/4. Depicting a small house behind white picket fence, probably in Maryland. Some peeling of blank protective paper on underside, numerous fine scratches on glass from desktop use, image a lightish milk chocolate, but displayable and good plus. One of several kinds of souvenirs commemorating Meade's Headquarters, sold at Gettysburg reunions, including a plate, tray, and even canes made from the building's wood. $30-40

10-8. Later Wounded at Gettysburg - Writing to a Lost Town on Long Island.

Letter of Union Pvt. George W. Fernald, (82nd N.Y. Infantry), Camp near Harrison's Landing, Va., Aug. 12, (18)62, 7 x 9 ¹/2, 2 pp., in pencil on blue-lined lettersheet. To cousin. "Wee are about leaving heare [sic]...every minute. Wee have two days cooked rations in our haversacks & four days raw in the wagons, but where wee are bound for is more than I can tell, but I think our whole army is agoing to leave heare. Yesterday wee made a reconnaissance to Malvern Hill & would have captured a Brigade if it had not been for a blunder of one of our Ge(n)ls...Were wee ever verry tiard as wee had to march about 15 miles around to the back of Malvern Hill...It is very hot & the flys are enough to eat one up...I wrote it in a hurry & wee are all ready to march." Some orange spots migrated from spilled coffee(?) on envelope, folds, handling evidence, else entirely legible and good. Malvern Hill, fought about six weeks before, was Robert E. Lee's final attempt at attacking McClellan's retreating army in the Seven Days' Battles. Stonewall Jackson was poised for attack, when Magruder was misinformed by locals, marching away from the battlefield to an obscure country lane. Boatner writes, "When [Confederate Gen.] D.H. Hill heard Magruder's advance, he construed it as being the signal prescribed earlier for a general assault... (Hill) led a suicidal attack...‘It was not war - it was murder,' said Hill later...Ripley's brigade was shot to pieces...McClellan withdrew that night to his new base at Harrison's Landing and entrenched...."--Civil War Dictionary. This letter was written thence. Less than a year later, Fernald was wounded in the chest on the first day of Gettysburg. • With envelope, to George H. Fernald, "West Neck, L.I., To the care of Mr. O.S. Sammis, Huntington, L.I." On verso, red and blue seams; blind-embossed eagle on shield, "Union & Constitution." Pink 3¢ stamp, lightly cancelled, black New-York c.d.s. Toned, coffee-colored spots at left, perfs on parts of two sides defective, but satisfactory, and linking the letter to a lost town of Long Island, not far from Queens. West Neck Farm would, in 1912, become site of an astonishing 40,000-square-foot chateau built by a pharmaceutical magnate. $80-110 (2 pcs.)

10-9. A Loyalty Organization for New Yorkers "determined to sustain the government."

Homefront letter of Wm. Morris, Utica, N.Y., May 7, 1863, 5 x 8, 1 ¹/2 pp. To Henry Hout. "I write you to urge you to come up here on the 26th. We are to have a mass meeting here...to organize a Loyal League for this city and surrounding country. Do come up without fail, as every one helps, and besides your influence is needed & all your neighbors who are determined to sustain the government...." Some foxing, else very good. Even in upstate N.Y., allegiance to the South was a worry. $55-75

10-10. A Noted Abolitionist and Future Union Gen. orders Butter - and Hemlock.

Curious antebellum A.L.S. of Neal Dow, future Union Maj. Gen. Portland (Maine), Nov. 3, 1856, 7 ¹/4 x 9 ¹/4. To "My Friend Boothley." "I am much obliged to you for remembering about the butter. I should like the [_?] you speak of...Real good butter is not to (be) found in great plenty here. If any of your neighbors have any hemlock bark to bring to market, I should like to have it." Banished by the Quakers for his war service, wounded twice at Port Hudson, and held P.O.W. in Mobile and Libby Prison for eight months, Dow was exchanged for Robert E. Lee's son, Gen. "Rooney" Lee. Abolition and temperance crusader - his Maine home a station on the Underground Railroad - and 1880 Presidential candidate of Prohibition Party. Marginal remnants on verso of mounting in recipient's letter-book, much wrinkling of thin paper, several small tea-colored stains at left center, one-line description from early dealer's mimeographed list mounted at top, else very satisfactory. $170-220

10-11. "We must...transmit this heritage to the on-coming generations. Are we ready?"

Stirring pamphlet upon 25th anniversary of Gettysburg, "Society of the Army of the Potomac - 19th Annual Reunion / Held at Gettysburg, Pa., July 1, 2, & 3, 1888 - Report of Proceedings," 5 ³/4 x 9-1/4, 88 pp. + 68 pp. list of members + 6 pp. advertising. Ornate cover, red and blue, Gothic cable border embellished in gold leaf. Beginning with resolution proffered at previous year's Reunion, "to tender to the survivors of the Army of Northern Virginia our cordial invitation to take part with us in the battlefield reunion of July, 1888, so that the survivors of both armies may...record in friendship and fraternity the sentiments of good will, loyalty and patriotism which now happily unite us all...." Mentioning dedication of 9th Regt. monument, "on the line of the first day's bloody resistance...On Cemetery Hill a thousand tents accommodated nearly 5,000 members of G.A.R...The warlike appearance of the field recalled the scenes of 25 years ago. But smiling peace and joy reigned supreme...The number in attendance during the three days was not less than 30,000...." Mentioning Gens. Longstreet, Sickles, Butterfield, Chamberlain - Pres. of the Society, Sheridan, and many more; "representing the Confederate side were Gens. Longstreet and Gordon of Ga., and Hooker of Miss...The rays of the afternoon sun slanted through the arbor, covering the heads of the former foes with its light...Beyond the listening multitude lay the smooth sod above the graves of the slain, and it was easy to imagine that they were listening also to the words of peace waft above their bones. Here and there one could see an old Confederate uniform...." The Gov. of Pa., himself wounded at Gettysburg "though then but a boy," addressed the Southerners in the audience: "...So far as we were concerned there was nothing of personal animosity or bitterness or hate involved in the contest...Your property rights and private interests were directly involved; and hence the more intense feeling and ardor which you displayed...The questions involved are now no longer at issue...settled forever...You shall not be called upon to admit more...You are our equals in courage...You are Americans, and so are we...We together must enter in and possess this future and transmit this heritage to the on-coming generations. Are we ready? Are you ready?..." Replete with moving, eloquent speeches and sentiment. Primary source materials such as this offer immutable evidence to counter modern-day aspersions, seeking to dismantle history. Front cover separated and lacking irregular ³/4"-high bottom strip; fragment lacking at lower left, dust-toning, but still highly attractive; dust stain at lower left of title page, internally with gentle cream toning, very soft vertical fold from coat (or uniform) pocket, else very good. As much a social document as a Civil War item. $75-90

10-12. Rare Reference to Attack of Irish Brigade on fellow Union Soldiers.

Letter of Union Lt. Col. Virgil P. Wardwell, 6th Maine, "Camp at Vanderberg's House," Oct. 2, 1861, 5 x 7 ³/4, 4 pp. "...Monday morning we were ordered to strike tents and advance to the famous Vanderberg House...about 3 miles from Fort Baker...The sad collision of our troops of Saturday night. You have seen the accounts in the papers but they have failed to mention our Regt. among the number deployed as skirmishers. I can't see what excuse the ‘Irish Brigade' can have for mistaking our troops for the rebles [sic]. It was in my opinion a reckless affair. The number killed must be about 8, wounded 25. These skirmishes have so accustomed me to see dead men with blood stained clothes, that I can look on a dead man with the greatest coolness imaginable. This war business hardens a fellow's nerves so much so that he don't care for the very devil...This house has been an object of the rebles vengeance. One side has 4 musket ball holes...Four cannon of Mo. Battery command the hill in front of the house, and a Wisconsin Regt. is encamped on our left, and if the Secesh see fit to pay us a visit we shall see that they have a warm reception...." Darkly penned and suitable for display. Light wear, else about fine. $220-270

10-13. Wife accompanying her Husband to War.

Unusual letter of Mrs. D.D. Brown, traveling with her husband, who at time of this letter was on provost and guard duty with Co. F, 21st Conn. Vols., at Norfolk and Newport News, Va. From Norfolk, Nov. 25, 1863, 5 x 8, 4 pp. To Julia Pickett, Naugatuck, Conn. "I was at home but about four weeks before Mr. Brown wished me to return. His sister and husband came on with me, & Lt. Fowler's wife. We are all living in a house together, & we have gay times here. We first came to Portsmouth, and stayed there about three weeks, and then the Reg(t). was ordered over to Norfolk where we have been ever since...If there is nothing that happens to prevent it I shall stay as long as the Reg(t). does and that may be all winter and they may leave next week. I do not like Norfolk as well as I do Portsmouth. We live in a very pretty house...We have an old Piano so we have music...They all say give me old Conn(ecticut) to the sunny south and I say the same. The people here at the south are not near as neat as the people at the north. It is enough to make anyone sick to look into a kitchen here...Not so long ago Mr. Brown had a present from his company - a beautiful sword, sash, and belt...." Very fine. • With envelope, few perfs of 3¢ stamp minutely trimmed when opened, else about fine, with rich blue Norfolk c.d.s. and bullseye cancel. The vacation resort life described would soon change dramatically: the 21st Conn. served at Bermuda Hundred, Cold Harbor, in the sieges of Petersburg and Richmond, and occupied Richmond in the last month of the war. $85-115 (2 pcs.)

10-14. A Songwriter at Bull Run.

Clever manuscript song lyrics, in moderately dark pencil, unsigned but attributed on older transcript as "written by (Union) Pvt. Isaac Ellis of Springfield, Vt., while on picket duty ‘by the side of Bull Run, a little more than a mile from camp,' May 12, 1862." (A letter or envelope must have once been present.) 4 ³/4 x 7 ³/4, 1 ¹/2 pp. In a florid, clear hand. Entitled "Double Quick":

"Since I have become a soldier, things have went rather queer,

Some say I'm a three months, others a three year volunteer.

With plenty of likes and dislikes to all I have to stick,

It's nothing but pork salt horse, and plenty of double quick.

Chorus - Oh! I'm miserable, I'm miserable, To all I'll have to stick,

The old salt horse is passable, But d--n the double quick...

Once upon every Sunday to church you must always go,

Your bayonet by your side in case you should meet a foe.

And when the service ended it was called a moral trick,

To drive you back to your camp at a pleasant double quick...

Now all of you chaps that would enlist, don't leap before you look,

If you wish to fight for the Union, go on your own hook.

For if a soldier you become it will be your last kick,

To the devil you surely will be drove headlong double quick."

Ellis' other regiment, the 16th Vt. Infantry, served at Gettysburg, in Maj. Gen. Abner Doubleday's Division. Ellis' commanding officer of the 16th Vt., Col. Wheelock Veazy, was awarded the Medal of Honor for Gettysburg. Doubleday later wrote of Veazy and the Vermonters, "I can only say that they performed perhaps the most brilliant feat during the war. For they broke the desperate charge of Pickett, saved the day and with it, the whole North from invasion and devastation"--The Generals of Gettysburg: The Leaders of America's Greatest Battle, Larry Tagg, 2003, p. 31. Notwithstanding his complaints in his verse, Ellis served roughly a year. The 16th's last action was the pursuit of Robert E. Lee in July 1863, returning to Vermont that same month. Several brown stains at top, probably foxing, light toning elsewhere, else very good. $140-180

10-15. Killed at the Battle of Irish Bend, La.

Very scarce Civil War signature of G(ilbert) A. Draper, "Major 159 N.Y.S. Vols.," on large album leaf, 5 x 7 ¹/2. Killed at the Battle of Irish Bend, near Franklin, La., Apr. 1863. An assistant foreman of the Brooklyn Fire Dept. at outbreak of the war, Draper opened a recruiting office. Filling a company in John Cockrane's Regt. of Chasseurs, forming in N.Y.C., he then joined himself. Wounded in the Peninsular campaign, Draper returned to Brooklyn; while recovering, he began recruiting a new regiment - the 159th N.Y. - as an officer of which he signs here. In the 159th's first serious engagement, seeking to clear the Confederates from the west bank of the Mississippi, the three-day clash ended in Union victory, but not without heavy losses. As his brigade charged across an open field, the Confederates sheltered by the Louisiana woods, Draper was shot through the heart. Material relating to the Battle of Irish Bend, also known as Bayou Teche, Centreville, Fort Bisland, Indian Ridge, Bend or Village, and Nerson's Woods, is elusive under any of its names. Light uniform warm cream edge toning, imparting a halo effect, very minor edge tear at blank lower margin, else flamboyant and fine. $150-180

11-1. A Heartfelt Letter of Helen Keller, on Loss of her Longtime Male Companion.

A beautiful A.L.S. - both in content and condition - of the blind, deaf and once-mute author whose life achievements remain an inspiration (she learned to speak in 1890). On her imprinted letterhead, Arcan Ridge, Westport, Conn., Sept. 30, 1950, 4 ¹/4 pp., to her friend, stage actress Katharine Cornell. Signed on verso of fourth leaf, in bold purple pencil, beneath closing words of letter. "What a beautiful heart prompted you to break into your vacation and travel all the way from Martha's Vineyard down to Arcan Ridge for just a few hours! We are moved beyond words that you, a great Woman, devoted to elevating the stage to the highest qualities of drama and beloved by the American people, should grace with your presence the funeral of our dear friend Herbert, and pay your tribute to him as a great simple man. You have done lovely things for us in many different ways, but your last visit brought you closer to us than ever in its intimate tenderness and understanding...Oh, Katharine, how swiftly Herbert was taken from us! The last morning I saw him on earth, we were at breakfast, and he was bright and full of life. The weather was autumnal, and he joked about it, exaggerating his chilliness to make me laugh. At half-past eight he came into my study to consult me about putting shelves into a cubby-hole for my over-flowing magazines - just one of the endless dear kindnesses he was always doing to make my work easier. The next thing I knew, Polly, speechless with sorrow, was taking me into his room, and I touched his lifeless body lying on the floor. Not once did it seem to me that Herbert himself was dead, but I was stunned, and did not realize our immeasurable loss until a short time before you arrived. Your coming was a blessing...Teacher [Anne Sullivan] said to him before she died, ‘I leave Helen and Polly in your hands,' and right nobly he fulfilled his trust...After his seventeen years of unremitting service we feel like a ship without a rudder. But I am sure he has found Teacher and carried to her a triumphant record of us, and we will try to justify his confidence in our strength for renewed accomplishment...." Keller concludes with news of her pending speech before the United Nations. A moving tribute to her long-time friend and companion. Some blind crumpling at blank top edges, else very fine. Ex-Paul C. Richards, 1987. • With envelope to Cornell at "Chip Chop, Martha's Vineyard," postal notation in pencil "Try Vineyard Haven." • Small pamphlet on Keller. • Her slender 1929 book We Bereaved, and original stamped envelope to Miss Cornell in hand of Polly Thompson, Keller's companion who succeeded Miss Sullivan. • Extensive collector's file of photocopies of other old-time dealers' offers of Keller letters. $1200-1600 (4 pcs. + file)

11-2. The Man behind the Tiffany Lamp.

Rare A.L.S. of Louis C(omfort) Tiffany, Irvington on Hudson (N.Y.), July 26, (18)77, 5 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/4, 1 full p., in violet ink on cream. On his unusual lettersheet, ornate inline blind-embossed "T," with all-over checkerboard watermark. To Rodney A. Mercer. "Your note was received some time ago, but owing to my intended trip to Africa I have been so busy that it is only now, just before my departure, I can find time to respond. Hoping you will excuse me for being so dilatory...." First letter of "you" retraced by Tiffany from capital "y" to lower case, one old vertical fold, else very fine. Son of founder of the Tiffany jewelry empire, Louis' stained glass creations came to cast their spell over an entire era of American decorative arts and architecture. Developing an "original process by which he manufactured peculiarly beautiful opalescent glass" (Webster's), Tiffany's work commands premium prices. Letters in his hand are seldom seen. Unpriced in Sanders. $600-800

11-3. Pearl Buck, Paramount Novelist.

T.N.S. of Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Pearl S. Buck, on her Perkasie, Pa. letterhead, May 21, 1962, 7 ¹/4 x 10 ³/4. To Ralph Mortensen, American Bible Society, N.Y. "Thank you very much for your letter...with its kind invitation. I wish I could accept but I am not able to do so because of my crowded schedule...." Mortensen's initialed "Recd. May 24..." at upper right. Internal fragment lacking at blank upper left, where pulled from stapled sheets, reinforced schoolbook-style with older tape, sun toned band along left vertical margin, else signature dark, and very satisfactory. The West Virginia-born writer's best known work is The Good Earth, (presumably) still on the reading list of many schools. $60-85

11-4. A Labor Leader implores "...justice, freedom and humanity."

Highly attractive Autograph Sentiment Signed of Sam(ue)l Gompers, noted labor leader. "In the cause of justice, freedom and humanity, I am yours Faithfully...Washington, D.C., Oct. 21, 1916." 4 ¹/2 x 5 ¹/4. In milk chocolate on cream leaf. Beginning as a thirteen-year-old cigarmaker during the Civil War, Gompers became Pres. of the American Federation of Labor, heavily influencing the union movement. His other affiliations included the Immigration Restriction League, Friends of Russian Freedom, Peace Society of City of N.Y., Mothers' Day International Association, National Committee on Prison Labor, and National Board of Censorship of Motion Pictures' Advisory Committee. Trivial wear, else very fine. A superior example. $180-220

11-5. K(enesaw) M(ountain) Landis as First Commissioner of Baseball.

T.L.S. on his Old English-style engraved letterhead, "Judge's Chambers, United States Courts, Northern District of Ill., Chicago," dated in his first year as baseball's first Commissioner. Dec. 8, 1920, folding lettersheet 6 ¹/2 x 8 ¹/2. To Ellis Robb, Waterloo, Iowa. "I have no authority to release a prisoner after the imposition of a penalty. Control over the matter from that time on is with the President or Parole Board. Noting your hope that I will consider recommendation of a parole, I am obliged to say to you frankly that I never seek to influence any action by the Parole Board - this on the theory that they should handle the situation strictly on the merits." • With contemporary newspaper clipping, Waterloo, Iowa, showing "Johnny Evers, new Chicago National League manager, and Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis, the new appointee in baseball court, arriving in Chicago from the East ready to take their respective new jobs." An outspoken, fascinating character, Landis collaborated with Clarence Darrow to found the Chicago Civic Centre Club. When Theodore Roosevelt later nominated Landis to the District Court position shown on this letterhead, he was confirmed the very same afternoon, with no committee hearing. A reporter for the Chicago Herald-American would write, "The Judge was always headline news. He was a great showman, theatrical in appearance, with his sharp jaw and shock of white hair, and people always crowded into his courtroom, knowing there would be something going on. There were few dull moments." Landis presided over the Standard Oil of Indiana case, exacting $29 million in fines. Wresting baseball from the grip of gamblers, and restoring its reputation, Landis was an early member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, elected by special vote in 1944. (Landis' expulsion of players of the 1919 "Black Sox" technically remains in force to this day.) Straight-line filing stain of clip at blank top, some handling stains, toning of inside panel where newspaper clipping once nested; signature grey-black, else good. Superb content, showing integrity, in short supply in the Chicago of Al Capone. Very scarce. $375-500 (2 pcs.)

11-6. Navy SEAL.

Envelope boldly signed by Medal of Honor recipient Michael E. Thornton, with blind-embossed seal of tank landing ship USS Saginaw over typewritten "SEAL Team One / Vietnam 31 Oct. 1972...." Cancelled 1991 aboard the Saginaw. Manuscript "Free." With modern description of his astonishing act of valor, towing his unconscious superior for two hours, until picked up by a support craft. Handling wrinkles, one vertical fold through blank portion, else very satisfactory and clean. $40-50

11-7. St. Cyr the Equal of Napoleon Himself.

L.S. of (Marquis Laurent de) Gouvion St. Cyr, as Napoleon's War Minister. Paris, June 29, 1818, on lettersheet with swash typography, "Ministère de la Guerre...." 8 x 12. In French. To Col. Trobriand, advising that the King [Louis XVIII] has named him one of the 30 Colonels for whom Louis has reserved half of the vacant positions in the Royal Corps of the General Staff. "...You should see in this special dispensation a sign of the confidence of His Majesty in your zeal for his service...." Original quarter folds, minor handling, light staining at bottom portion, else fine and suitable for display. Fighting under Napoleon in Germany, Italy, and Russia, St. Cyr was created Marshal for his 1812 victory at Polotsk, once a powerful principality of some 100,000 people, the region once again under strain in today's news. Though "Napoleon commented that St. Cyr had no match in all of the marshalate and was the equal of Napoleon himself in defence," St. Cyr resigned his post in Nov. of the year of this document--wikipedia. He is mentioned in Joseph Conrad's "The Duel." $150-225

11-8. A Second Horse for Napoleon's Police.

Moderately ornate document from "the 3rd year of the French Republic" under Napoleon (1795), 2 pp., 8 ¹/2 x 12 ¹/2. Report to the Committee of Public Safety, ordering Citizen Dupont of Committee of War to make a survey of warehouses of the police in the parishes, to determine if a second horse is needed. The Committee will judge if an exception should be made. At top of letterhead, "Liberty - Fraternity - Equality - ou la Mort" (or death). Edge wear, one letter with ink erosion, else a fine hand, with multiple signatures. $45-55

11-9. Fun and Adventure in Switzerland and France in the Gilded Age.

Two observant and quite funny letters from daughter Bess, to her mother, about a Summer trip to Europe in 1894 with her aunt and uncle, 21 pp. in all, 5 x 8 ¹/2, Chur. From Switzerland, and Chamonix, France, describing in detail their sights and adventures there, and around Neuchatel and Zurich. First page on beautifully illustrated lettersheet of her Hotel Steinbock; she has marked windows of "my room" and "Aunt & Uncle's Room" on detailed view of the building. Including local transportation episodes, a town parade, crossing the ice of a glacier, a waterfall, mountains, a double rainbow, and more. In Neuchatel, "...we were caught in a fine rain storm, sun shining all the time & the most beautiful rainbow I ever saw. It was a double one on the water...We passed one clear lake which the Guide Book told us was 9 miles long & 400 ft. deep. Even in spite of the leaden clouds, the water was a deep greenish blue...." Recounts a funny episode of a neurotic English woman on a bus, counting and recounting her bags, parcels, umbrellas, and rugs (luggage was placed in a wagon, and caboosed behind the horse-drawn conveyance). "These Englishmen make me weary...The English always have so much to carry. It seems to give them a sort of wild appearance looking after it, but the climax came when the daughter produced a fish net bag & began to transfer bundle after bundle of fruit...I looked at our own modest luggage & rejoiced!...I was awakened this morning by the sound of drums & martial music. I jumped out of bed...a huge mountain right in front with snow-capped peaks...(An) open place around a fountain filled with marching soldiers, the bright sunshine glittering on the arms & brass instruments as they vanished through a queer old arch under a square clock...Hardly anybody speaks anything but German here...a sort of Patois combination of several tongues...Went to see the old old town within its old walls. The small cathedral has a history. The site was a heathen temple 1500 years before Christ...In 758 the present church was built...The old well is in one of the aisles...We were shown some very valuable antiquities of gold, silver, & precious stones, many of them dating 1,000 years...." Much more. Very fine. $80-110

11-10. A "Celebrity Trivia" Card Game of 1897.

Group of cards from the nineteenth-century historical trivia game entitled "Progressive Chautauqua," 1897, by W.M. Ford. Incomplete set of 27 (of about 70) illustrated cards + rules, 2 ³/4 x 4 ¹/2. Each with black on white portraits of two historical personalities, their names in highly stylized Gothic initials, with series of questions to be asked of other contestants; on versos, rather eruditely written biographical sketches in purple on pink. "The one having the highest number of cards has the honor of Chautauqua." Including Benjamin Franklin, Van Buren, Taylor, Margaret Fuller ("Who was called the Priestess of Transcendentalism?"), Geo. McClellan, Frederick Douglass, John Fremont, Mary Livermore, Black Hawk, (Stonewall) Jackson, Lew Wallace, Ben Butler, Benedict Arnold, Edgar Allan Poe, Beauregard, Santa Ana, Hernando Cortez, James A. Garfield, Stephen A. Douglas, Daniel Webster, John J. Audubon, et al. Although rules indicate it may be played in a school, the sophistication of the material suggests a student body far more versed than todays. Rubber stamp on rules card, "Educational Pub. House, Minneapolis." Generally excellent, showing little handling. Very scarce. $65-90 (28 pcs.)

12-1. Expressing Mercy to "that unfortunate Nation" following a key American victory in the Mexican War.

Excessively rare, historically significant A.L.S. of Texas hero J(ose) Antonio Navarro, Bexar [county seat of San Antonio], June 10, 1846, 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4, 1 ¹/2 pp., in lapis lazuli blue on warm cream. In Spanish. To Rufino Potter, Galveston. Just three weeks earlier, Matamoros had fallen to the Americans; here, Navarro wishes "for mercy to that unfortunate Nation" (of "Mejico"). At this writing, Navarro was a Texas Sen. in its first legislature, and in the spotlight because of his celebrity and personal sacrifices for Texas.

Navarro pens (in approximate translation; a few words and notations may be archaic, regional, or English-Spanish hybrids): "...I arrived at my house well; but my calesa [cart] overturned in the stream of Las Cevollas near the Colorado River and although all of it was broken, I was fortunate...I write from here because I came many days for some business and to put in order my other cart, then I will retire to my home at San Geronimo, near Seguin, Guadalupe County, where I wait and you write. I include an (ac)count for $7.95, and I have power of my friend Dr. Samuel Williams as a balance who held (for) me a hundred, and gave to pay me in New Orleans for the year...Our troops pass to Matamoros and there is no alternative for Mejico than succumbing...forever. I wish the first thing...for mercy to that unfortunate Nation...I await your answer on my ranch...Also, I have a promissory note in the proxy (of) Samuel Williams... of 15 pesos which revealed to me the government outside the Republic of Texas...."

Original folds to twelve panels, delivered by hand, pocket stains on blank outside panel, fold wear, handling wrinkles, else penned in Navarro's meticulous hand, and good. While still a teenager, Navarro was active in the 1812-13 political uprisings against the Spanish. Soon after meeting Stephen Austin - who would become a lifelong friend - Navarro served as a Texas representative in the Mexican legislature. "Despite the national laws of Mexico forbidding slavery, he championed the ownership of slaves in Texas..."--Texas Encyclopaedia. Receiving land grants in five counties, Navarro operated ranches, a general store, and his law office, becoming prominent in San Antonio. A delegate to the 1836 Convention at Washington-on-the-Brazos, he signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, and was on the committee of 21 drafting its constitution. Captured on the ill-fated expedition seeking to persuade Santa Fe to peacefully join Texas, Navarro was imprisoned in Mexico City. Tried by orders of Santa Anna, his death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. Placed in a notorious dungeon, Navarro escaped on a British ship bound for Cuba, eventually finding his way home to his ranch near Geronimo, Texas - mentioned in this letter - in early 1845. The only native Mexican among delegates to the 1845 Convention which voted to annex Texas, "Navarro received marked attention because of his long service to Texas and his unjustifiably long imprisonment in Mexico." Two months before penning this letter, Navarro County was named for him; its county seat, Corsicana, was named for his parents' birthplace, Corsica. In 1861, Navarro attended an Austin meeting urging secession; all four of his sons fought for the Confederacy. A splendid cornerstone of Texas history. The only Navarro letters recorded by RareBookHub comprised a group of the 1820s, sold in 1963 by celebrated Western Americana dealer Edward Eberstadt, for the then-substantial sum of 1200.00. $1900-2400

12-2. A Founding Father of Texas - popular in New York City.

Very scarce carte photograph of Sam Houston, seated in wide-brimmed hat and satin vest, holding ivory(?)-tipped walking stick, the stubs of its branches visible. Facsimile signature within emulsion. Imprint with scalloped border, "G.W. Thorne / Manufacturer of Photo. Albums & Photographs / 60 Nassau St., N.Y." Corners widely rounded, else pleasing chocolate tones, and very good. Reference numbers of noted carte collector on verso, c. 1960s. First Pres. of the Republic of Texas, then its Gov., Houston was deposed for refusing to take the oath of allegiance to the Confederacy. It is doubted that Houston visited New York City, but this photo may have been prepared for sale in 1863, upon his death. Houston Street in lower Manhattan was named for him (though New Yorkers pronounce it "Howston" St.). $80-110

12-3. Home Guards for Texas - the Second Amendment in Action.

T.L.S. of celebrated Texas Ranger Capt. J.J. Sanders, in purple pencil, with splendid content. Laredo, Apr. 29 (1914), in heat of Mexican Revolution, 6 x 8 ¹/4, to L.L. Willis, Carrizo Springs, Texas. "Call a meeting of the citizens there and organize a company of home guards, you to take charge and act as Captain. Have them elect a Sec. and Lieut...They will be used for home protection only, and must not go armed unless called for duty. Have a designated place to meet in case there is any trouble." • With working carbon copy of formation document, 8 ¹/2 x 14. "We the undersigned citizens of Carrizo Springs hereby band ourselves together under the name of Home Guard Company, for the purpose of protecting our homes, our city and our property...I solemnly promise to keep secret any signs, signals or orders...I will respond to any call for help...secure a reasonable amount of ammunition and a suitable firearm, and keep them in easy reach when needed...I will secure a horse and saddle should an emergency arise requiring mounts. This obligation shall remain in effect until such time as the threatening trouble shall have passed...." With names of 35 citizens typewritten, and three more signing at conclusion. 3" tear passing through signatures, two blank tips lacking. • Blank legal-size sheet, "Texas Transcript," with Lone Star emblem, Dallas imprint; the 3 leaves bound in worn, much-handled filing wrapper. Sanders appears in a number of books on the Texas Rangers and frontier lawmen. In one work, his territory is given as the Mexican border, from Del Rio to Brownsville--Texas Rangers and the Mexican Revolution: The Bloodiest Decade, 1910-20, Harris and Sadler, p. 134. Sanders is also mentioned in The Texas Rangers: A Century of Frontier Defense by Walter Prescott Webb, Lone Star Lawmen: The Second Century of the Texas Rangers by Robert Marshall Utley, The Men Who Wear the Star: The Story of the Texas Rangers by Charles M. Robinson III, and at least fourteen additional books (list accompanies)! Sanders was evidently a fearsome and daring Ranger, dealing with the lawlessness on the border; Utley writes, "One did not trifle with J.J. Sanders without risk to life and limb." Rare in any form. A wealth of Western lore and adventure awaits the researcher. $220-270 (3 leaves, in file wrapper)

12-4. Utah Territory Mining.

Dramatic, poster-like bond for "Comet (Copper and Silver) Mining Co. of Utah, U.S.A.," Frisco, Utah, June 12, 1883. 9 ³/4 x 12 ¹/4, plus all 50 coupons. Printed in France, in French, for European investors. Woodcuts of eagle at top, draped in "E Pluribus Unum" ribbon, Miss Columbia holding miner's pliers for lifting nuggets, and helmeted miner with pick, both flanking railroad train entering mining camp. Interesting interpretation by French artist A. Renard of these American design motifs, the eagle looking both sleek but scrawny. Half-dime-size edge fray at left and right blank areas, minor dust toning, else about fine. $50-70

12-5. "Yours for Liberty" - A Western Suffragette.

Very scarce signature of Abigail Scott Duniway, pioneer advocate of women's suffrage, on half-title leaf from her 1905 novel From The West To The West, based on her 2,500-mile transcontinental journey in 1852. 5 ¹/4 x 7 ³/4, with "Yours for Liberty" in her hand. Uniform cream toning, else very good. • With A.L.S. in pencil of husband B.C. Duniway, Albany, Oregon, Nov. 4, 1867, sending payment via Wells Fargo to prominent Portlander H.W. Corbett & Co., proprietor of a general store, asking to be "kept supplied with wringers from Portland." Handling wrinkles, else good plus. Abigail came over the Plains in 1852 with her mother, who died in route, and her father, and seven siblings. A decade later, now married with four children, she became her family's sole support when her husband suffered an accident. Teaching school in Oregon, she embarked on a forty-year campaign for equal rights for women. As editor of The New Northwest she pioneered women's suffrage, helping bring the vote to Idaho in 1896, and adoption of a suffrage amendment in Oregon in 1912. (Her brother Harvey Scott, editor of The Oregonian, the major Portland newspaper, opposed women's suffrage!) • Five modern, quality 8 x 10 photographic glossies of Abigail from Oregon Historical Society archives, including one at a polling tent, under the withering stare of a seated gentleman. $80-110 (7 pcs.)

12-6. Flamboyant Poet of the Old West.

Two A.Ls.S. of Joaquin Miller, the colorful poet who ran away from home in 1856, living in California mining camps, among Indians and horse thieves; his 1863 Oregon newspaper suppressed for its Confederate leanings; attracted attention in literary circles by dressing in Western garb, chaps, and sombrero. Jan. 22, (187)8, 1 full p., 4 ¹/4 x 7, in vivid royal purple ink, in an equally flamboyant hand. "...You are today a hero. I knew you could do it...." Light waterstain at upper right tip, lightening date, else fine and strikingly attractive. • Oct. 18, (18)79, 2 full pp., 4 ¹/4 x 6 ³/4, to the same correspondent, here in coffee-and-cream ink. "...I have set that date of departure...& hope to spend the summer and return time with my little girl...Give my love...." Light edge toning, else both fine. • Article from Munsey Magazine, Apr. 1896, "Literary Workers of the Pacific Coast," 8 pp., on "the remarkable outburst of creative genius that marked the early days of California - Bret Harte, Joaquin Miller...." Including portraits of Miller et al. Article (only) dampstained at bottom, else very good. $180-220 (3 pcs.)

12-7. Gold Rush California: "Sarah's prospect of getting rich is rather dark...."

Lengthy letter from "Clarissa," on hardships of gold-seekers in California, Mar. 11, (18)50, 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4, 3 full pp. Her city not stated, but crisp impression of distinctive "T.P." stationer's crest may help localize. To Elmira Squires. "...The winter season...has been uncommonly warm to now. We have most delightful weather & it seems much more like May than stormy blustering March, but the Doctors think we shall have another sickly season again this summer, & to many it seems dreadful even to think of the approaching season... So many were called so suddenly and unexpectedly to try the realities of another world...You said in your letter you would like to hear about the fashions, but there seems to be nothing new...but I suppose that it is rather too early to know about the spring fashions yet, but I rather think that waists will be made full as they were last summer...& wear under handkerchiefs as has been worn some this winter, but that fashion does not seem to suit very well...Sleeves will be about the same, with the exception of fringes, which you know are done away with...We have received a letter today from Sacramento River, from Mr. Streeter, for Frank. He is there & has to got to stay there for he has no money to get home, and most of them are sick. He says he has a settled cough on his lungs. He said he was taking care of the sick as well as he could, but he himself was not able to do a days work. They are going to stay there til they can go to the mines, where he says his chance is poor, & he says they are sick & dying all around him. He said he knew not how soon his time might come...I advised Frank as a friend not to go to California. He said he would regret it a thousand times. I think that Sarah's prospect of getting rich is rather dark. The name of the vessel he went in is the [Barque] Anna Reynolds...." Very light mottling and fold wear, else about fine. $80-100

12-8. Ode to Gold.

Manuscript notebook, presumed in another hand, of poetry and extracts by the mother of Oliver Wendell Holmes, Mary Stiles. Entries dated 1847-65; New Haven (as of 1847), Apr. 17, 1854 on flyleaf, 5 x 7 ¹/4, most of (88) pp. with entries, embossed black leather, flexible boards. Penned in a clear, delicate hand. Including: "A Psalm of Life...Life is real! Life is earnest!..."; poem, "To the Class of Fifty...We shall miss you ever, While last our College days..."; a 3-pp. poem, "To Minnesota I'm bound to go, To see what I can find; I'm going there, away out West, to train the youthful mind..."; tragic 3-pp. verse of a fortune-seeker in California who has met with failure, "...I never reached the haven, Where I sought the precious dust, But I've gained a port called heaven, Where the gold will never rust...." Her extracts include verse composed by "Thomas von Celano, a manuscript about the year 1250." Endleaves darkly browned, front endleaf loose, old staining of staples at front portion, average cover wear, internally very good. The quality of the original verse here suggests Oliver Wendell Holmes inherited his propensity for poetry. Unusual item. $150-250

12-9. Mr. and Mrs. Tom Thumb - in the Old West.

Rare oversize Old West photograph of two of showdom's most enduring personalities, Mrs. Tom Thumb and her second husband, Count Magri, who appeared for years with P.T. Barnum's traveling show. C. 1890, image 5 x 7 ¹/4, on original moss-green mount 6 ³/4 x 10, with ornate photographer's imprint, "The Dore Studio, 122 N. Main St., Butte, Mont." Captioned on verso, "Count and Countess Magri (Mrs. Gen. Tom Thumb) and Mrs. D.F. Haggerty." Mount fractionally trimmed at left (only), probably to fit an old album, some scuffing at rounded corners and at margins, not affecting image; hairline checkmark-shaped blemish on Mrs. Tom Thumb's face, two small stains in blank field of photo, else good plus. Just 2 ft. 8 in. tall - shorter than Tom Thumb - Count Magri, a.k.a. Count Rosebud, and Mrs. Tom Thumb traveled the world, even appearing before Queen Victoria. $150-225

12-10. Overland to Utah Territory before the Transcontinental Railroad.

Interesting letter of merchants Bassett & Roberts, Salt Lake City (Utah Territory), Feb. 13, 1868, 5 x 7 ³/4, 2 ¹/2 pp., to Singer Mfg. Co., N.Y., makers of sewing machines. "Enclosed find one dollar for needles for the ‘Letter A Machine' for one of our Customers. Send them assorted with more coarse than fine. We would like to get out several of your new machines the coming spring and summer, but we would like six months time instead of four. You see, we can't get our goods here under some three or four months owing to the overland freight being so slow. When the Rail Road reaches here, we shall be able to turn them over sooner...The freight to the end of the Rail Road has to be paid some two months...before we get the machines in store...Do you see we do business at a much greater disadvantage than your agents...in the States...Can you not send us some evidence of our agency, a certificate or something of the kind?..." The Golden Spike would be driven the following year, accelerating the pace of American expansion. In pencil at conclusion, notation by Singer's office, "Give the 6 mos." Utah merchant's blue datestamp at top. Usual paper strip on verso where mounted in Singer's letterbook, else fine. $65-85

12-11. From a Black Hawk, Colorado Territory Gold Miner.

A.L.S. of H.W. Lake, Black Hawk, Colorado Ter(ritory), noted gold miner and Western pioneer. Apr. 30, 1866, 7 ³/4 x 10, to Singer Mfg. Co., N.Y. Sending 50¢ for "Singer's genuine needels [sic] for A machine, assorted sizes but one very coarse." Usual brown paper strip on verso where mounted in company account book, edge tear affecting no text, toning one edge, else very good. Colorado's first white settlement was not established until 1858, the year of its own gold discovery. "Modern" amenities of every description would have been in short supply. The inaugural edition of The Rocky Mountain Directory and Colorado Gazeteer, 1871, lists Lake as proprietor of the locally important Bob Tail Mill, extracting gold and silver from the Burroughs lode. In 1876, Lake was a member of the new State of Colorado's first legislature, and later, Pres. of the Swastika Gold Mining Co., Sierra City, Calif. Wonderful Western Americana. Modern research accompanies. $130-160

12-12. The Most Distant Participants in the Civil War?: Washington Territory.

Postwar A.N.S. of Mark C. White, who had served in the 1st Washington Territorial Infantry Regt. - almost certainly the most distant American participants in the Civil War. Here as "Comrad(e) Gettysburg Post 191 [G.A.R.]," on stationery of Boston Police Dept., Dec. 31, 1888, 8 x 11. To his Commander, requesting "a transfer card from Gettysburg Post." In Jan. 1862, the Washington Territory Adjutant General's Office warned residents in a newspaper notice (modern copy accompanies): "To Arms - While our arms are being crowned with great success in the rebellious States, the late dispatches portend a War with England and France. The Storm is gathering: Let us then look well to it that it does not burst upon our heads while we are unprepared!! Let us not remain quietly at our firesides and permit the ruthless savage to be turned upon us..."--The Official History of the Washington National Guard..., Vol. 3, p. 20. Initial efforts at recruitment in the Territory were poor, due to "the peculiar severity" of that winter, with snow as high as twelve feet. Even band of toning at left margin along old album mount on verso, old folds, else very good. Items relating to Washington Territory in the Civil War are very scarce. $70-100

12-13. Extensive Geological Survey of Gold-Rush Alaska.

"Reconnaissances of the Cape Nome and Norton Bay Regions...in 1900," prepared by U.S. Dept. of Interior, G.P.O.: House of Representatives Document No. 547, 1901, 232 pp., 7 ¹/2 x 11 ¹/2. Color geological map of Seward Peninsula, plus one folding and four bound maps; photographic plates, index. The Alaskan Gold Rush - including Klondike - had begun just five years before. Numerous mentions of gold and its seekers: "Dorothy Creek...As high as $1 to the pan on bedrock has been reported. The gold is of a bright color and flat in form, and...very pure..." (p. 79). "The beach sand, from Cape Nome to Rodney Creek...nearly everywhere carried colors of gold...The pay streak measures from 6" to 3 ft...at nearly every locality that was examined..." (p. 86). "Willow Creek...One $8 nugget and another worth $4.35 have been found. The gold is coarse and dark..." (p. 109). "The second (gold) rush, in which about 300 persons took part, was almost as futile and far more ridiculous than the first...followed one another like sheep...This original method of looking for gold was naturally without results..." (p. 124). Disbound from larger volume, lacking cover (but probably removed upon binding, as was common), blank rear cover torn, else clean. Fascinating, perhaps containing a clue to one of the frozen cities of gold which fired the imaginations of countless adventurers. $110-140

13-1. Engineering Sketch for Designer of the First Locomotive to run in America.

Highly unusual mathematical A.L.S. of F.B. Jervis, Little Falls, N.Y., Sept. 30, 1836, to his famed brother John B. Jervis, Rome, N.Y., the latter "America's leading consulting engineer of the antebellum era...Designed and supervised the construction of five of America's earliest railroads, designed the first locomotive to run in America," and inventor of the railroad truck--wikipedia. 8 x 13, 1 full p., concluding on address leaf. Supplying "Formula for tracing curves," describing radii, angles, logarithms, and other math. An example drawn in pencil and ink at top. Message penned at conclusion: "The above investigation involves, I believe, all the principles necessary in the management of curves. Had I more time I would explain at more length, but I believe you will obtain a clear general idea, which in fact is all you care about." Good orange-red Little Falls c.d.s. Break but no separation at one fold, few edge tears, dust toning at top, else very good. A document of considerable importance in the history of technology: without the formula penned here, railroads and their routes could not have been refined, to negotiate the sweeping curves and hairpin turns that would be built throughout America. In their own ways, the Jervis' talents and contributions to technology in their day arguably rivaled Thomas Edison in lasting importance and sheer accomplishment. $375-450

13-2. With Miniature Woodcut of Primitive Train.

Group of three charming partly-printed bills of lading of New York and Erie Railroad Express Freight Line, 1855, 7 ¹/2 x 10, black on powder blue, ruled in aqua. Including two "received from Steamer [Commodore] Vanderbilt," Each with delightful, highly detailed miniature woodcut of primitive train. • Plus one receipt of Camden & Amboy Rail Road & Transportation Co., "for the conveyance of merchandise and freight of all kinds between New-York and Philadelphia," 1855, with miniature woodcuts of large steamboat and five-car train, in turn carrying a horse-drawn carriage. Old folds, else fine and suitable for display. $80-100 (4 pcs.)

13-3. Dawn of the Automobile Culture in California.

Very rare, substantial volume, The Automobile Club of Southern California Tour Book, 1911. An exhaustive, early reflection of the automobile culture in Southern California, only the second edition. Published by G.F. Beck, Los Angeles; printed in L.A. "A Careful Compilation of Maps and Touring Information Covering the Principal Tours of California from San Francisco on the North to Tia Juana, Mexico, on the South." This the more expensive leatherbound edition, 4 ³/4 x 10 ¹/2, 488 pp., spoked-wheel logo of "Auto Club of So. Cal. - A.A.A." gold-stamped on cover. With interesting ads of supply houses and local new-car dealers, including Parry ("Guaranteed for Life"), Hupmobile ("Best Little Car on Earth"), Firestone-Columbus, Columbus Electric, Warren-Detroit, an especially stylish Pierce-Arrow ad of their exclusive L.A. dealer, Lozier, Franklin, Studebaker, Isotta-Fraschini (with photo of L.A. dealership), Kissel Kar, Locomobile, National, Durocar, E.M.F., etc. Ads entirely gilt-stamped on outside back cover for "Packard Motor Cars and Trucks - California Motor Co., Earle C. Anthony..." and Chalmers' Western Motor Car Co. agency, the Packard with script and "Ask the Man Who Owns One" logos. Indices to garages, including makes represented, "gas and oil stations," maps to beaches and towns. City street map of Long Beach (but not Los Angeles, then still a "small town"!); map of "routes leaving Los Angeles"; text on "special county speed laws," state automobile law, taxicab rates, and much more. Many of the driving instructions are charming. The entry at Pacific Grove notes, "It is a perfect motorist's paradise of beautiful scenery, fine boulevard road and exhilarating ocean air...." Tear at pp. 197-198 affecting no text, top and bottom ³/4 of blank spine lacking, somewhat shaken, expected handling wear, but generally very good, clean, and a remarkable chronicle. Top of letterhead of Professional Chauffeurs Assn. of San Francisco nested, dated Oct. 17, (19)10. No copies any prewar edition on abebooks or WorldCat. RareBookHub records no copies at auction or in dealer catalogues. Perhaps a sole survivor. $325-400 (2 pcs.)

13-4. 1930 Buick-Marquette Sales Contest.

Unusual oversize baseball-themed catalogue showing hundreds of prizes from which top salesmen could choose. "The Great Buick World Series - Rules and Prizes." Factory-issued, (Fall 1929) - likely within weeks of the Crash of ‘29, 10 x 13 ¹/2, 96 pp., softbound, blue and white cover with batter in black, silhouetted in bright red, complementary-blue linen spine, photographs in brown on cream panels. Offering $25 bonus for sale of each 1930 Buick, and $50 for each Marquette, with $2,000 cash prizes for top new- and used-car salesmen. Tantalizing bounty, for men, women, boys and girls, of sporting goods, jewelry and watches, fur coats, fine furniture, silverware, portable phonograph, movie camera, silver coffee set, and much, much more (but no cars shown). Including Alaska and Russian red fox fur scarves, "a trip to Europe - planned by Buick for you...the chance of a life-time dream...," "gilt-edge bonds...6%...How would you like to have a reserve in your strong-box?," "A home of your own...What a simple matter it is to talk to the home builder when you have a big down payment," "A college education," and more. Soft upturned curls at upper right and left tips, light cover wear, some handling evidence, else very good. Introduced in June 1929, Marquette was offered as a smaller Buick, its herringbone radiator grille distinguishing it from other GM cars. Their sales contest was blunted by the Crash; notwithstanding some 4,000 Marquette service signs shipped to dealers and garages, the Marquette proved a one-year-only nameplate. Marquette items are uncommon; this dealer-only item, printed in limited quantity, is rare. $90-120

13-5. Last of the White Steamers.

Historically interesting dealer broadside illustrating, describing, and pricing 1911 National "40," "the magnificent White," and Everitt "30," and describing 1911 Lambert. Issued by More Brothers, Fargo and Wimbledon, N.D., 8 x 22. Also showing Hart-Parr tractor and Robinson separator. Three full-side-view renderings of cars. Eight models of National, "unsurpassed on the American market...," including Speedway Roadster and Limousine. "The Magnificient [sic] White for 1911," eight gas and six steam models, the latter including the $5,000 40 H.P., 7 passenger Limousine Body, and only slightly less costly "Presidential Pattern," certainly alluding to Pres. Taft's inclusion of a 1909 White Steam car in the first White House fleet. The last White Steam car of any model was built in Jan. 1911; this broadside may therefore have been prepared in late 1910, though five of White's eleven steam models are not listed here, and were perhaps already discontinued. Everitt's "originators are recognized as the greatest designers of cars in America...." Uniform toning, minor wear along one of original mailing folds, else about fine, and attractive for display. $110-140

13-6. "Father of the American Automobile."

Bold signature of Chas. E. Duryea, clipped from a check by his son M.J. Duryea. From Charles' Philadelphia period, c. 1925, essentially at the end of his auto-building career, by then making scale models and writing. With his brother J. Frank, the Duryea was the first "mass-produced" motor vehicle in America, building thirteen cars in their Springfield, Mass. shop. On canary paper. Excellent. $100-130

13-7. GMC "Truck Talk" - Gas and Electric.

Company magazine-catalogue, "No. Ten," c. 1915, 7 ³/4 x 10 ³/4, 16 pp., black and white. Profusely illustrated with large photographs of GMC Model 15 in service, with entertaining news of customers using their GMCs in interesting applications, and flattering accounts of dealers' service. (One in Connecticut is described as "a hustler (and) a jolly good fellow....") Among numerous crisp photos: fleet of GMC electric trucks in Utah, a GMC 5-ton bearing a 7-ton load of lumber, an ice truck decorated for a parade with frosting clinging to outside of truck, a "kitchen cabinet" body used by power utility, a bus in Canada, screen-sided mail truck, and many more. Some handling wear, else good plus. Scarce. $45-65

13-8. Early Fire Trucks.

Interesting group: 1922 GMC Truck factory newspaper for salesmen, "Sales Generator," Pontiac, Mich., opening to 22 x 34, 4 pp., black and white. Vol. I, no. 3 of this obscure Advertising Dept. internal publication. Full-p. illustrated articles on GMC fire trucks, new two-range transmission, how to finance GMC sales, and what character traits are needed to be a successful GMC Truck salesman. Nearly colorless stain at blank top edge, very minor fold wear, else fine. • With original GMC factory photograph, 8 x 10, sepia, of handsomely trimmed and fully outfitted (1923) GMC hook-and-ladder truck, intended to complement article on page 2. Light mailing creases, else excellent. • C. 1915 sales sheet for the obscure Obenchain-Boyer Co., Logansport, Ind., offering their "Double Tank Combination Chemical & Hose mounted on Ford Ton Truck," 8 x 11, red and black. Exhaustive specifications on verso. Some minor tears and wrinkles at top, else very good and clean. Attractive for display, and a very rare name. The only example of their literature we have seen. • C. 1972 American La France factory reprint of their 1923 catalogue, "Fire Fighting Apparatus," in tribute to a key employee, 8 ³/4 x 12, 48 pp., caramel Linweave cover, black and orange on cream enamel text. Profusely illustrated, with full side-view photos of every imaginable configuration, from small combination fire cars to 85-foot, rear-steer aerial truck, its ladders totaling 182 feet. In 1923, New York City had the largest fleet of American La France in the world, with 198 trucks. Soft file crease, flattenable, else as new. • Different American La France factory reprint, also c. 1972, of an even larger catalogue, 1920s, Types 10-40, 8 x 10 ¹/2 oblong, (96) pp., black and white on ivory enamel. Full-p. photos of complete line, plus specifications. Views of machine shops. As new. Both probably printed in limited numbers, for distribution within industry only; from personal library of a Mack senior engineer. $100-130 (5 pcs.)

13-9. "Greatest Value on the American Market."

Group of Lippard-Stewart and Stewart truck literature, Buffalo: Novel 1913 booklet, "Silent - Powerful," 3 ¹/4 x 5 ¹/4, Army-green card wrapper, with step-cut leaves, each containing a testimonial letter to their Des Moines dealer, from truck owners in different industries: "From a Grocer...a Paper Mill...a Department Store...The result - a purchase." Excellent. Rare ephemera. • Two illustrated sales sheets, 1916, 8 ¹/2 x 12, black and white on enamel: Model H (1 Ton) (5 photos of mechanical features, 2 of trucks). "Suitable for many lines of trade." • Model G (2 Ton) (5 photos of trucks, 1 bus, 1 bird's-eye of chassis). With eighth-folds, some wear, else satisfactory. • 1927 Stewart sales folder, "Buddy" ³/4 Ton Delivery Truck, opening to poster-style 17 x 22, olive and black on cream. Red and lilac handstamps of "Industry & Science...," believed Detroit Library. Three oversize full side views of the popular model. "It is all truck - not a converted passenger car...Greatest value on the American market." Precise old library repair with 4 ¹/2" tape, ex-lib markings on front and rear panels, else very fine. $75-100 (4 pcs.)

13-10. The Forgotten Name that once Controlled the Auto Industry.

Group of Selden Truck literature, Rochester, N.Y., namesake of one of the most important auto pioneers. George Selden, an inventor and patent lawyer, "was the man behind the famous patent which wreaked havoc in the American automobile industry" prior to World War II. Inventing a primitive internal- combustion vehicle in 1877, its patent would be used to gain a stranglehold on automakers in the early 20th century. Selden's lucrative patent was finally declared unenforceable in 1911. He began building trucks in 1913. Two folders, each illustrated, with handstamp of Lancaster, Pa. agent: 1920 folder, 1 ¹/2 Ton Worm Drive, 8 ¹/2 x 11, 4 pp., avocado and black. • 1920 folder, 3 ¹/2 Ton Worm Drive, 8 ¹/2 x 11, 4 pp., lemon and black. Lacking blank corner; some creases, dust-toning, else good. • Also with, 1921 folder, "Condensed Data on Selden Trucks for Confidential Use of...Selden Dealers," 8 ¹/2 x 11, 4 pp. Black on pistachio. Closely set with specifications of four models; on p. 4, net prices of body, cab, extra equipment, and painting. Folds, pocket wear, thin break but only affecting two words, else satisfactory. • 1922 folder, "Condensed Data...." Folds but very good. Selden died the following year; had his patent and legal luck been upheld, he would likely be a household name today. • 3 stylish magazine ads for Selden Truck, 1919-20, Literary Digest, one showing trio of their trucks at work in Texas. Very good. $65-90 (7 pcs.)

13-11. 1939 Buick.

Full-line color catalogue, 8 x 12 oblong, (32) pp. "See the lean chaste purity of its pattern, the look of action singing out of every line...." Featuring their flagship 140-in. wheelbase Model 90, 90 Limited, and 91, shown in midnight blue, green, and coal-black, the sister cars of Cadillac. Also the range of Roadmaster (the four-door convertible in pale gold strikingly attractive), Century, and Specials. Ex-National Automobile Chamber of Commerce, removed from their sewn binding; signatures for pp. 9-24 shaken but complete, corner file wear, else about very good. $45-65

13-12. The First Rockne.

Handsomely designed c. Feb. 1932 color folder, for Model 65, the short-lived marque's first car, made by Studebaker. Matte maroon with lustrous metallic silver cover and borders, opening to 13 x 29. Strikingly attractive chocolate over caramel four-door, and teal over turquoise two-door. Smaller mint over avocado coupe, and bright yellow convertible roadster with red pinstriping. Photo of Knute Rockne. In the same month that football coach Rockne was made sales promotion manager of Studebaker, he was lost in a plane crash. The marque thus began its brief 14-month run as a memorial, rather than the intended celebrity endorsement. Between the deepening Depression and Ford's introduction of its competitively priced V-8, Rockne's production was brief. Some handling and fold wear, else clean and about very good. Uncommon. $70-85

13-13. The Second Rockne.

Complementary-style early 1932 color folder, for Model 70, with a slightly larger engine. Nearly-fluorescent red on gold and black cover and borders, opening to 9 x 29. Large two-tone green sedan, smaller black over cherry coupe, and green over cream roadster. "...Unmistakably the finest car the world has ever known for the money." Old soft half-fold, some handling, gold ink on cover tarnished, else good plus. $70-85

13-14. The Third - and Final - Rockne.

(Early 1933) color catalogue, 7 ¹/4 x 10, (12) pp. "Sponsored and guaranteed by Studebaker." Featuring "closed bodies wired for radio" and "motor floated in rubber," the text notes that "Rockne seats are so designed that they conform scientifically to the person... Instrument panel is the no-glare Aeroplane type...." The lime green and daffodil yellow coachwork was especially bold for the period. Curious salesman's notations on stunning robin's-egg blue and sapphire sedan, "698.50 complete, F.O.B. Phoenix, net on Government bid"; Phoenix dealer's name and address penned on back cover. In an uncommon strategy at the time, they were seeking fleet sales. Time was short; the factory closed on Easter weekend 1933. Vertical folds and creases at right margin, perhaps from mailing; some dust-toning on cover, else good. $65-80

13-15. The Rise and Fall of Lexington.

Clever promotional booklet for (1921) Lexington Thorobred, issued by Lexington Motor Co. of Pa., Philadelphia, 3 ¹/4 x 6 ¹/4, (12) pp., red on grey cover, black and white text. Comparing their Pikes Peak-winning Thorobred car to a thoroughbred horse, its lamps with equine eyes, its motor with heart, its carburetion with lungs, wheels with legs, tires with hoofs, and frame with backbone. Photo of rolling chassis in center spread. Excellent. • Another in Lexington's series of petit, creative booklets, "The Personal Side of a Factory Family," 3 ³/4 x 5, (24) pp., black on solid-coverage gold leaf panel, with burgundy on tan ribbed cover, matching decorative endleaves, mocha and black text, remaining unusual spider-web glassine overwrap at back (lacking over front cover). Evidently 1921, the year in which E.W. Ansted formed a conglomerate to rival GM. Photographs of Lexington's executives, including four more Ansteds and five others; one Ansted was Pres. of Central Mfg., which would make bodies for Duesenberg. Very fine. • Factory-issued booklet, Connersville, Ind., (1922), 4 x 6, 20 pp., yellow and black text. "The Ansted Engine designed and built especially for Lexington Motor Cars." Series T. Technical drawings and cutaway. In this year, an Ansted patent dispute erupted, rapidly driving the firm into receivership; its factory was purchased by Auburn in 1927. Shaken at rusty staples, light- and dust-toning on cover, else fine. $80-110 (3 pcs.)

13-16. Studebaker in English and German - with "Schnelligkeit" (Power).

Unusual pair of sales catalogues for 1931 Studebaker's flagship President Eight, one in English, for the British market, dated handstamp "Olympia [England] Auto Show...," the other with matching art and design, but entirely in German, and stamped "Berlin Auto Show...." Each 8 ³/4 x 11, (12) pp., with lovely full-color plates. British catalogue with 1932 pricelist tipped, London concessionaire's address: "Royal Saloon £375, Royal 2-Seater (with Dickey) £345, Regular Foursome Coupe £575...Royal Limousine £895...." Magenta handstamp "Received by N(ational) A(utomobile) C(hamber of) C(ommerce) Library." File and auto show wear, removed from N.A.C.C.'s bound volume and shaken, else colorful and good plus. With interesting letter of provenance. (One wonders how Studebaker's lower-priced car - the Dictator - was received by German buyers.) $75-90 (2 pcs.)

13-17. Avanti!

Press kit for 1968 Avanti II, the hand-built, Corvette-powered, Raymond Loewy-designed fiberglass car. Comprising: press release, 4 pp., on their South Bend letterhead, to "All Editors." "Neither government regulations...or the continuous demise of custom auto makers has deterred Avanti from its appointed goal...production of their 1968 Avanti II...our third year in operation...Our customers have an opportunity to select seat covering and carpeting in virtually any color, fabric or style...more than 400 genuine leathers...." • Glossy, 8 x 10, showing the timeless car. Original staple, as mailed. • In black on mustard folder, Avanti II logo. • Cover letter, inviting visitors at the International Auto Show. Two margins of letter with file crease, else very fine. $65-85 (4 pcs.)

13-18. One of America's Top Three Most Powerful Cars.

Lovely mascot of c. 1925-31 Elcar, winged horse's head. 2 ¹/4" high plus 1 ¹/2" threaded base; 3 ¹/2" wide. Pot metal. Almost numismatic quality, with platinum-toned nickel, pronounced purple undertones on head, as sometimes seen on mint-state silver coins, finely detailed feathers and stylized mane. With polished brass radiator cap marked in later hand "1930 Elcar," and handsomely turned, stained and varnished wooden display base. Modern thick rubber washer fitted to stem for cushioning, easily replaceable. Small spot of manufacturing roughness where head meets wings on each side, plating 98% on head, about 80% and better on breast and wings, and generally very fine and striking for display. Used since 1925's debut of the Lycoming straight-engine, the 1930 Elcar's "top-of-the-line 140 h.p. eight was among the most puissant engines in America of the period, outpowered only by the Duesenberg and Cadillac V-16..."--Standard Catalog of American Cars. A very scarce item. Not in Williams. $675-875

13-19. Elcar Catalogue showing above Mascot.

(1925) Elcar catalogue, Elkhart, Ind., 6 x 9, 22 pp., silver and midnight blue on colonial-blue laid cover, blue and black text. Full-page photos of 12 models. "A Well Built Car...Elcar is built in conservative quantities and on a genuinely custom-made basis...It is what is known as a specialized car...Elcar bodies...are designed at the Elcar factory...." Purple handstamp of York, Pa. dealer on cover. Triangular dampstaining in gutter, some handling, but still about good, and elusive. $90-120

13-20. Spanning the Full Production of Marmon's Roosevelt - Two Years.

Two sales sheets of Marmon's Roosevelt, their tribute to Teddy: Dated "Mar. 1929-Jan. 1930" in old pen, 7 x 9 ³/4, desert-sunset-red coachwork with black roof and fenders. Small black-and-white views of three other models, plus eight other illustrations of features and "Roosevelt receiving gas on record-breaking non-stop run." • Another, dated "Jan. 1930" (the car's last year), black and salmon-tone. Large sedan, three small other models, including "Collapsible Coupe, Rumble Seat," and seven views of features. First item with very light uniform dust-toning; some handling, else good plus. • Promotional giveaway, (1930), small white card folder, both versions of Roosevelt's emblem on front (one with Teddy's likeness), with ornate, never-opened package of sewing needles mounted inside. List of Marmon "firsts"; details of their time-paymeny plan. Very fine. $80-100 (3 pcs.)

13-21. The Final Model of Harry Stutz's H.C.S.

(1924) H.C.S. sales catalogue, Series IV, Model 6, 7 ¹/2 x 10 ³/4, 8 pp., black on ivory. Built by Harry C. Stutz, namesake of one of America's most vaunted cars. "It was never his intention to make the H.C.S. a racing car, nor a heavy, cumbersome battleship of a car, for he believed that the ultimate motor car, like a fine piano, (or) a Swiss watch...must be built to give real service...." Full-page photos of the attractive Touring Car and Sedan; half-page views of motor. Standard equipment included solid black walnut instrument board and solid nickel silver headlights. Minor handling evidence, else very good. Late in 1924, Stutz announced they would discontinue passenger cars, making only taxicabs. This spelled the end of his return to auto manufacturing. • Stutz Blackhawk small folder, for the marque's return announced in 1968. 3 ¹/2 x 8 ¹/4, 4 pp., black and white. "A limited-production motor-car...built entirely by hand." Front and side views of the rakish revival, retaining a few styling cues of the 1930s; design here by Virgil Exner, the bodies built by Ghia. Available with 24-kt. gold trim and mink carpeting, prices were up to $75,000. Excellent. $75-100 (2 pcs.)

13-22. Stutz with Coachwork by Brewster.

1927 Stutz catalogue - in German, 6 ¹/4 x 10, 24 pp., black on pale grey hammertone cover, lovely full-page, simulated-color renderings of all models. Stutz's chassis "featured an underslung worm drive which allowed for low and intoxicatingly sensuous bodies..."--Standard Catalog.... Including black over tourmaline Sedan, black over grey Brougham, teal and turquoise Victoria Coupe, grey over olive and avocado Two-Passenger; two Speedsters, long-wheelbase Sedan, Chauffeur Limousine - all available with Brewster bodies. Eight views of engine and mechanical details; three of rolling chassis. Name of Berlin agent. Trivial marginal toning of covers, else a N.O.S. file copy in excellent condition. Very scarce thus, especially in this condition. $180-240

13-23. "The Jack-Rabbit Car."

Set of three factory sales folders for 1920 Apperson automobile, "A Manufactured Custom Made Car," Kokomo, Ind. Each 3 ¹/4 x 6 oblong, 4 pp., mint green, black, and orange. Each in matching style, for Sportster for Four, Four Passenger Sedanet, and Touring Car for Seven. "The Eight with Eighty Less Parts / The Apperson is the ‘Jack Rabbit' Car...Its body and equipment are by a New York designer, so in it is combined rugged Hoosier chassis construction with a style dress from the world's metropolis." Interestingly, two of the three models were offered in Thistle Green only; the Sedanet boasts imposing, locomotive-like coachwork. Minor wear, else very good. $90-120 (3 pcs.)

13-24. The Senior Packard 160.

Oversize 1941 Packard Super-8 color catalogue, largely the 160, 9 x 12, (16) pp. Blind-embossed cover. "An Invitation" tipped to inside front cover, to test drive the latest models. Custom 180 named on cover, but "All One-Eighty models were custom cars available on special order. Independent coachbuilders accounted for six of the eleven body styles..."--Standard Catalog. Six full-page renderings, in striking color schemes. These flagship Packards - now with air conditioning - occupied the zenith of the American auto market, sharing the rarified spotlight with the finest from Cadillac, Pierce-Arrow having demised three years before. Ex-N.A.C.C., Madison Ave., shaken where disbound from their volumes, tan paper tape spine reinforcement, lower right corner bent and worn, bottom edge with file fray, remnant of paper filing label on cover, still very satisfactory, brightly colorful, and at least twice our estimate if perfect. $50-70

13-25. The New White Eagle.

(1929) Kissel folder, Models 95 and 126. 7 ³/4 x 10 ³/4, opening to 15 x 21 ¹/2, powder blue and black on white. Hartford, Wis. "The New White Eagle Series...Custom Built by Kissel. A new chapter is inscribed in Kissel's 22 years of Custom-building." When fully open, halftones of 8 models of this striking, albeit doomed automobile. The White Eagle was slated to be produced together with the revolutionary Ruxton. By 1930 Kissel would be in receivership. Union City, N.J. distributor's handstamp inside; Grand Central Palace (N.Y.) Auto Show handstamp on front panel. Ex-National Automobile Chamber of Commerce library, also bearing their stamp, "Received Jan. 9, 1929." Two panels separated for reference rack rods by Chamber librarian, then neatly reinforced with white paper tape, else V.G. Probably the last important literature of this marque. Scarce. $60-80

13-26. First Year of the LaFayette.

1934 LaFayette folder. 4 ¹/4 x 7 ¹/2, opening to 17 x 18 ¹/2. Full color throughout, showcasing this new Nash-built marque. Minor insect holes along two folds, else very good. With bright green demonstration request card, with prices delivered in Omaha. Important provenance, in succession from two of the foremost collections of auto literature in America (Bonsall and Mathis); when possible, they had literature for every year and every make. $50-65

13-27. With Spectacularly Silver-Stamped Black Cover.

(1920) Maxwell catalogue, 6 x 9 ¹/4, 32 pp., lovely cover, with abstract art depicting Maxwell logo flowing from a genie's lamp; beige and black text. "A bigger percentage of the parts entering into (Maxwell) construction are actually built in the Maxwell factories than is true of any other make of car." Photos of factories in Dayton, Detroit, Windsor, and New Castle. Full-page photos of various models, together with engine and mechanical features. Among Maxwell speed records: "beating the fastest Southern Pacific train between San Francisco and Los Angeles seven nights in succession." In all, a delightful catalogue with respect to design, copywriting, and illustration. One inconspicuous crease lower right corner cover, very minor wear, light occasional internal foxing characteristic of clay-coated paper, else fine, the metallic silver on cover bright and striking for display. Ex-Henry Mathis Collection; when possible, he had literature for every year and every make. $60-80

13-28. "Car of a Thousand Speeds."

1921 Owen Magnetic automobile, its final year. Factory in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 4 x 9, (8) pp. booklet, simulated gold, red and black on ivory, two leaves cleverly diecut to progressively build up motor and transmission of this still-talked-about revolutionary car. "The ABC of The Car of a Thousand Speeds." "No clutch to operate, no gears to shift." Full-panel view of roadster on outside back cover. Costing up to $6300, and of enormous complexity, this would be the final year for this car favored by celebrities. Very light foxing back panel, light handling wear, else very good. An historically noteworthy catalogue. $65-85

13-29. An Avant Garde Auto Catalogue.

1915 Paige catalogue, 6 x 9, 12 pp., opaque currency-green and black on sandstone cover, green and black on matching text. Last year for their 4 cylinder engine, and first year for 6. Another of Paige's highly artistic catalogues, this is a singularly avant garde presentation, with line drawings silhouetted in rectangular blocks of solid green. The overall appearance is one of a small-press work of art, rather than an auto catalogue. Trivial marginal dust toning back cover, else a New Old Stock copy and excellent. Ex-Henry Mathis Collection. $75-100

14-1. Election Day 1864: Army Regulations for "Freedom and fairness...No political speeches, harangues...."

Significant printed General Orders, War Dept., Washington, Oct. 1, 1864, 1 full p., 4 ¹/4 x 7. Signed in ink by Asst. Adj. Gen. E.D. Townsend, Scott's Chief of Staff at outbreak of war, and future Adj. Gen of the Army. "Regulations in respect to the distribution of election tickets and proxies in the Army." Describing five rules "in order to secure a fair distribution of tickets among soldiers in the field who...are entitled to vote at the approaching elections...Civilian inspectors of each political party, not to exceed one for every Brigade...shall receive passes...to be present on the day of election to see that the elections are fairly conducted. No political speeches, harangues, or canvassing among the troops...Commanding officers are enjoined to take such measures as may be essential to secure freedom and fairness in the elections...Any officer or private who may wantonly destroy tickets, or prevent their proper distribution among legal voters, interfere with the freedom of election...will...be punished by summary dismissal or court martial...." Old collector's notation at top in pencil, one rice-size inclusion of brown pulp in paper at bottom, margins ample but somewhat less expansive than orders commonly found in bound format, one period vertical fold, else very fine. It is theorized that this order was among a special group intended for state committees of the political parties, who would normally not receive such General Orders; they may have been trimmed by the War Department's printer to fit in postal envelopes. The Lincoln-McClellan contest continues to be viewed as one of the most crucial in American history. Very scarce. $170-220

14-2. A Lincoln Mourning Oration: "The crime of murder lay folded in the crime of slavery...."

Pamphlet, "Proceedings of the City Council of Providence [R.I.] on the Death of Abraham Lincoln: with the Oration Delivered...June 1, 1865," by William Binney. Providence: Knowles, Anthony & Co., 1865, 5 ³/4 x 9 ³/4, 56 pp., black on robin's-egg blue clay-coated cover. Powerful prose lamenting, "History affords no parallel to this atrocious crime. Abraham Lincoln, called for the second term, by the free voice of the people...The power which has instigated and carried on this wicked rebellion is capable of any barbarity which will aid its infamous designs...If we desire his portrait, we can find it shrined in the grateful hearts of millions of freemen, both white and black...Slavery transformed from a hideous fact into a ghastly but harmless memory; a disintegrated Confederacy...In his murder, we behold the crowning infamy of our age...." With order of memorial services, including a chorus, hymn by Oliver Wendell Holmes, and a soaring oration on "the life and character and death of Abraham Lincoln." Binney's ornate address concludes, "The crime of murder lay folded in the crime of slavery...." Two soft vertical folds, very minor tip wear, else about very fine and scarce. While the countless sermons and speeches throughout America's history produced a wealth of eloquence, even brilliance, the aftermath of Lincoln's assassination brought, in the period of just a few weeks, an intense output whose power stands alone. $60-80

14-3. Mourning Lincoln in New Jersey.

Letter of H.V.D. Schenk, New Brunswick (N.J.), Apr. 20, 1865, 5 x 8, ¹/2 p. To "Friend Hopper." "...I would have called yesterday, but it being a day of mourning I knew I would not find you, and today being for Fasting and Prayer, I concluded to come as I have said above." Usual ³/4" vertical band of toning at left, from mounting in Singer Sewing Machine Co.'s letterbook, else fine. In this year, Schenk was a Singer agent. $55-75

14-4. An Unconventional Free-Frank of another Target in Lincoln's Assassination.

Interesting non-postal free-frank of William H. Seward, Lincoln's Secretary of State, on large cream cover, and apparently addressed in his hand, here uncommonly bold. In light but fully legible coffee-and-cream ink. To Hon. W.M. Meredith, Philad(elphia), delivered by hand. Extensive addition of dollar amounts on both sides, columns evidently labeled "I(nterest)," "C(redits)," and "D(ebits)," totalling 11,471.46. Some tears at back flap where opened, lower portion torn, smudge in address, perhaps Seward's attempt to erase "Jr.," edge toning, else about very good. $120-150

14-5. Lincoln's Five-Year Pursuit of $145.37 - a Case that Followed him into Congress.

Attractive early ledger entry, the signature "Logan & Lincoln" in Lincoln's hand. Signed following Lincoln's election as a rookie Congressman, but before his first session convened. Clipped from a manuscript roster of cases, perhaps a fee book. Sept. 4, 1847, concluding a suit begun 1842, and won the following year. 3 x 10, in dark chocolate brown on pale ivory, with cream rules. In full (all but "Logan & Lincoln" in a clerical hand): "Credit $145.37 by order of Ptffs. Attys. Nov. 25, 1843 and on file. Satisfied in full by Pay(men)ts. Sept. 4, 1847. Logan & Lincoln, Ptffs. Atty." In later pencil, "Bell & Co. vs. Hall, Tazewell Co(unty)." On verso, in another hand, entries of two other cases, also 1843: one "By default & cl(er)k's assessment - foreclosure...," the other "Decree for Divorce" of Anna Harper.

Lincoln's best friend Joshua Fry Speed had been manager and partner in James Bell & Co., his cousin's large Springfield country store. In 1837, a young Lincoln ventured into the store. Speed recounted that Lincoln was "‘a lawyer without a client, no money, all of his earthly wealth consisting of the clothes he wore and the contents of his saddle-bags'...For the next four years they were constant companions - personally, socially, and politically...They were young men beginning their careers and supporting each others' efforts in choosing a mate..."--"Abraham Lincoln and Joshua Speed, Attorney and Client," Susan Krause, in Illinois Historical Journal, Spring 1996. When Speed's customer, Hall, failed to pay his promissory note, he retained Lincoln - who won. (Lincoln would also represent Speed in a series of lawsuits lasting eighteen years!) After the Speed-Bell partnership ended in 1841, Lincoln brought the case to his new office shared with Logan. Curiously, old court records show the "end date" of the action as Sept. 1842--lawpracticeofabrahamlincoln.org. The 1843 date on this fragment evidently records the finding in Lincoln's client's favor - and 1847 the date of payment. Research suggests that Lincoln's fee for these years of work was a paltry $4.78 - which he may have forgone. No Speed-Lincoln ledgers are known. It is plausible that because of the scarcity of specie on the frontier, and the seasonal nature of agriculture, Hall had been given credit, and it simply took five years for him to cobble together the cash. By that time, the Logan-Lincoln partnership had ended, and the case again traveled with Lincoln to his new partnership with Herndon, previously a clerk in Speed's store, and law student in the Logan-Lincoln office. Ultimately, this case's timeline extended beyond his election to Congress.

Lincoln's life was also intertwined with Stephen Logan's: Considered by some the leading lawyer in Illinois, Logan polished Lincoln's legal skills, preparing him for politics. Notwithstanding their friendship, on at least one occasion, Lincoln ended up trying a case before then-Judge Logan - and, in another bizarre case with Logan representing the opposition, Lincoln served as both his own client's attorney and as the judge. In 1861, Lincoln asked his old friend to comment on his upcoming inaugural address. Logan suggested changing a phrase which might incite the South. Lincoln thanked him, replying, "...If there is patriotism enough in the American people, the union will be saved; if not, it will go down and I will go with it."

Wide margins three sides, penned to edge on fourth. Trivial toning right edge, else fresh and excellent, "Log(an)" exceptionally dark, Lincoln's quill revealed upon magnification to have been nearly dry; he then dipped and began signing again, achieving maximum darkness. Ex-renowned Philip and Elsie Sang Collection, Parke-Bernet, with lot label on their old sheet protector. A rich condensation of Lincoln lore in a relatively inexpensive document. $2900-3600

14-6. A Devilish Anti-Lincoln Caricature - by "the Thomas Nast of the South."

Pro-slavery etching, printed clandestinely by cartoonist and Southern sympathizer A.J. Volck of Baltimore, under the pseudonym V. Blada. Depicting a tormented Lincoln seated at his desk, writing the Emancipation Proclamation, a winged Devil clinging to his ink pot, ram-horned heads of blacks peering at him from corners of the table, its legs with cloven feet, as a spectral eye stares. On the wall, painting of a haloed John Brown, captioned "St. Ossawotamie"; another painting depicts the slave insurrection in "St. Domingo" (Haiti), a woman being carried off, amid a scene of mayhem. The curtain tie-back is the head of a glaring vulture; a woeful gargoyle supports a statue of liberty, her cap fallen over her face; Abe's shoe soils a bound volume "Constitution." 9 ¹/2 x 12 including wide margins. Number "25" printed at upper left of plate; issued individually 1861-65 under the title Sketches from the Civil War in North America, the title sheet (not present) of no. 25 dated July 30, 1864. In a postwar letter, now in the Museum of the Confederacy, describing at least some (and perhaps all) of his plates, Volck wrote, "...The drawings, etching and printing were all done by myself at night, after the day's unintermittent professional labor. Of course entire secrecy had to be observed...." Volck's records state that only 200 of each were printed. Moderate dust-toning of margins, rectangular toning over live area from tissue guard leaf once present, else about very good. Weitenkampf p. 139. Murrell, Graphic Humour, Vol. I, p. 203. A fascinating article, "Adalbert Volck: the South's answer to Thomas Nast," by Frederick S. Voss, appeared in Smithsonian Studies in American Art, Autumn 1988, pp. 67-87. Many of Volck's plates appear in a 1970 biography. The original copper plates survive at Brown University. (Description credit: Library Company of Philadelphia.) $225-275

14-8. Brady Photo of Lincoln, Sold by English Studio.

A rare Lincoln carte, posed with young son (remarkably resembling his mother). Attributed to Brady. Imprint of Bitton Studio, Teignmouth (Devonshire, England). On double-thick white card, glazed both sides, all edges gilt. Lincoln facing left, his son leaning toward him, both resting arms on round table in studio. Deep chocolate contrast. Old partial fingerprint on white at upper right, short delamination of white at upper left corner, several minor chips at two edges, residue of brown paper on blank verso where once mounted, else the image fine, and overall very satisfactory. With copy of invoice of renowned specialist dealer Abraham Lincoln Book Shop, 1996, for 225.00. WorldCat locates no institutional examples; Rare Book Hub finds none in auction or dealer records, late 19th century to present. $350-425

14-9. The Assassination and its Aftermath in "Harper's Weekly."

May 6, 1865, 11 x 16. (16) pp. An iconic issue of the premier illustrated newspaper of the era, in the aftermath of Lincoln's assassination. On p. 1, woodcut of "Pres. Lincoln at Home," from a Brady photograph. Centerfold of Lincoln funeral services at White House, Apr. 19. Other views of "Scene at the Death Bed of President Lincoln," "President Lincoln's Funeral - Citizens View the Body at the City Hall, New York," Lincoln's coffin on catafalque used in procession in N.Y., and smaller woodcuts showing "Secretary Seward's Attempted Assassination," "Ford's Theatre at Washington," and "View of a Portion of 10th St., Opposite Ford's Theatre." Uniform tanning and some small edge chipping of first leaf, affecting no text; internally, one leaf lacking upper right tip, two leaves with edge tears; leaf with woodcut of funeral procession in Washington with much wear near spine, where folded back and displayed at the time; else average handling, and good plus, exuding much character and gravitas. This issue said by a leading newspaper specialist to remain "one of the most desired of the Civil War era, if not the nineteenth century...." $275-375

15-2. Ship's Paper from the Age of Piracy - Owned by an important Jewish Merchant of New Orleans.

D.S. of Pres. James Madison, May 16, 1809 - the very day the ship was registered to famed Jewish merchant Judah Touro, 10 ¹/2 x 15. For "Ship Cabinet of New Orleans [very light], Robert R. Montgomery, master or commander...mounted with no guns, navigated with ten men, To Pass with her Company, Passengers, Goods and Merchandize without any hindrance, seizure or molestation...." Two large copperplate engravings at top, showing a ship in calm waters, and small sloops and schooners passing lighthouse on a rocky promontory. In lieu of signature preceding printed "Secretary of State" is the uncommon entry, "The office of (Secretary of State) at the Secretary of the President," probably done thusly to expedite the vessel's journey. In the same month as this document, the ship had been reregistered by its new owners, New Orleans merchants Judah Touro and William Thorn. Member of the famed Touro family of Newport, Judah opened a store in New Orleans at age 26. As the area boomed following the Louisiana Purchase, Touro began buying ships. Despite poor health, he enlisted in Andrew Jackson's army in the War of 1812, volunteering to carry ammunition in the Battle of New Orleans. Severely wounded, he was left for dead - but recovered. Devoting himself to philanthropy, Touro became a major contributor to Christian charities in New Orleans, to Christians suffering Muslim persecution in Jerusalem, and established New York's Mount Sinai Hospital. Blind-embossed seal at lower left slash-cancelled with multiple diagonal passes of a dull knife. Considerable fold wear, holes at four fold junctions, darkened on verso, likely from the commander's jacket pocket; ink generally very light, some words faded, but fortuitously the names of the ship and commander, and Madison's signature in orangy citrine brown, are easily seen. Such ship's papers were intended to navigate the ubiquitous piracy on the seas, especially by the Barbary States. In 1815, Commodore Decatur's treaties with Algiers brought an end to ransom and tribute, bringing piracy under control. It is estimated that about one million whites had been enslaved by the Muslims; few saw home again. In all, perhaps the least expensive example of a Madison ship's paper to be had, the estimate reduced accordingly. Old Sanders c.v. 1700.00. Fresh to the market, acquired not later than 1970. The only Presidential ship's paper we have encountered with direct and important Judaica association. Request photograph. $850-975

15-3. Land for a Quaker Preacher and Patent Medicine Man.

D.S. of Pres. James Monroe, Washington, Mar. 30, 1824, 9 ¹/2 x 15 ¹/2. Land grant to Horton Howard, for a "fractional section" of 370 acres in Delaware, Ohio. A Quaker preacher, arriving from England in 1796, Howard's first family settled in North Carolina, "however, they found slavery existing under conditions which made them look farther...A man of peace, when he settled in (Ohio)...the few wandering Indians became his friends..."--Centennial History of Belmont County, Ohio..., p. 369. An account of Harrison County, Ohio pioneers relates, "...After a tedious journey, (the writer) arrived safely at Fredericktown, Pa., where we stopped to await the opening of the land office at Steubenville, Ohio. Here, we found Horton Howard and family, who had come the season previous [in 1799]..."--Historical Collections of Harrison County... Ohio...," Hanna, p. 67. Publisher of Howard's Domestic Medicine, Being a Practical Treatise on Midwifery and the Diseases peculiar to Women..., and holder of at least five patents for medicines in 1832, his "inventions or discoveries" included "anti-spasmodic tincture," "astringent tonic," "bitter tonic," "compound tincture of myrrh," and "...sweating powders." In 1829, Howard published ...Fifteen Lectures on Medical Botany.... In compromised condition, ink rather light, but Monroe's signature just satisfactory; lacking 2 ³/4 x 5 ³/4 upper left section, affecting text, and two smaller corners at upper and lower right, the latter only affecting the printed word "Office." The upper left section and wafer seal may have been intentionally removed by Howard or his heirs in the nineteenth century, as a form of cancellation: among the several hats he wore, Howard was Receiver of Ohio Lands at Tiffin, and of public monies for the Tiffin Land Office. He would have been fastidious about the status of documents, and ensuring their non-negotiability when obsolete. His last residence - in Columbus, Ohio - was apparently different from the locale in this land grant. Usual wrinkles, some table soiling, but still exuding patination of a noted pioneer of what was still considered the Northwest Territory. Interesting modern research accompanies. $575-725

15-4. In the Hand of Old Hickory.

Large portion of hand-delivered address-leaf in Andrew Jackson's bold hand, "The Secretary of State / Mr. John S. Meercken," evidently as President. Docketed at right vertical margin in another hand, "Mr. Murckien [sic?], Consul - Valparaiso" (Chile). 6 ¹/2 x 7 ¹/2. In rich brown on warm cream. Interesting large "Philada." watermark. Attribution in pencil, "A. Jackson's hand," by H. Keith Thompson, Jr., Charles Hamilton's longtime business partner, cataloguer, co-host of the fabled Waldorf-Astoria auctions (and earlier, member of Adm. Byrd's 1947 Antarctic Expedition, on U.S.S. Mount Olympus). Two horizontal folds forming flap, 1 x 1 ³/4 semicircular portion lacking at blank top where opened at seal, some fine handling creases, else very good, and attractive. An inexpensive example of Old Hickory's hand. Previously sold in our auction, 1989. $225-300

15-5. Millard Fillmore Free Frank - to his Former Housekeeper in the Years of Tragedy.

Tan laid cover, "Free / M. Fillmore," also addressed in his hand to "Miss Rhoda Fuller, Care of A. Brinkerhoff Esq., 17 Park Place, New York City." Black "Free" straightline, interestingly stamped upside-down. Black c.d.s. "Buffalo N.Y. / Jan. 24," 1858 in old pencil on verso. Born 1830 in upstate N.Y., Rhoda A. Fuller, and her family, were "lifelong friends" of Fillmore. A dramatic story linking Rhoda and Fillmore unfurls in 1854: Fillmore's wife died in March 1853 - just a few weeks after he left office - and his daughter Abby stepped into the role of housekeeper and hostess. "But in July of 1854, Abby was stricken with cholera and died within twelve hours of its onset; she was just 22 years old. Fillmore sought to escape from Buffalo and his grief, and left by train on July 29 with his son. When he arrived in Auburn, N.Y., a waiting telegram informed him that his 36-year-old brother, Charles, had died in St. Paul, on July 27, also of cholera. On August 1, Fillmore went from Auburn to Moravia and New Hope, to revisit the scenes of his boyhood. One account notes that he stayed with longtime friend Mrs. Olive Fuller in Niles (N.Y.), and there it was decided that Rhoda Fuller, her daughter, should keep house for Fillmore in Buffalo (which she did until he remarried in 1858, just three weeks after sending this envelope). Fillmore returned to Buffalo, and in late August wrote to friend, writer and reformer Dorothea Dix: ‘I feel life has little left for me. My good son, only of all my little family remains. I have none other now to sympathize with me in grief or rejoice with me in prosperity; and my dwelling, once so cheerfully and happy, is now dark and desolate.'"--Millard Fillmore, by Robert J. Scarry, and The Lady and the President: The Letters of Dorothea Dix and Millard Fillmore, by Charles Snyder. In the year of Fillmore's remarriage, recipient Rhoda married a Michigan gentleman; she later appears in Journal of the General Convention of (Society of the) New Jerusalem, 1894. Quarter-size stain on "Rho(da)," almost suggestive that a coin or keepsake was enclosed as a gift; flap torn where opened on verso but complete, light dust-toning, else good plus. Fillmore free franks are uncommon on the market; Siegel's most recent offering of a complete example was in 2013, realizing 375.00. This present example presents potent human interest; in those years of Fillmore's losses, perhaps few knew him better than Rhoda Fuller. $400-475

15-7. A Telegram in Grover Cleveland's Hand - to a Vociferous Opponent of Women's Suffrage.

Autograph Telegram Signed, with initials, of G(rover) C(leveland), as Pres., Washington, Sept. 2, 1887, 5 ¹/2 x 9 oblong. Entirely in his hand, to his Secretary of Treasury, "Hon. Chas. S. Fairchild, Cazenovia, N.Y." "The gentleman from Kentucky is here and will stay next week. When can you come. G.C." In clerk's hand in pencil, large check mark on message, clear of Cleveland's initials, "25 pd..."; on verso, enormous "...10:05 A.M." Here about midway through his first administration, Cleveland had the distinction of serving two noncontinuous terms. Fairchild had begun under Cleveland as Assistant Treasury Secretary, overhauling the department, firing hundreds of clerks. Later a Gold Democrat, Fairchild was Pres. of the Men's Anti-Suffrage Association, vocally opposing womens' right to vote, contesting the new 19th Amendment all the way to the Supreme Court. Two folds, probably by Cleveland to fit in envelope for hand delivery to telegraph office, very light marginal toning, else fine, attractive, and very scarce thus. Ex-H. Keith Thompson, Jr. $450-550

15-8. Rough Rider Roosevelt to a Medal of Honor Warrior.

T.L.S. in full of Theodore Roosevelt, on White House blue-engraved lettersheet, Washington, Feb. 25, 1909, 7 x 8 ³/4, typewritten in turquoise. To Medal of Honor awardee Maj. Gen. J.F. Weston, Dept. of Calif., San Francisco. "...It was good to hear from you. You are one of the men whose friendship I value, and I prize the memory of our service together...," beside which Roosevelt has penned "at Santiago." Double watermark, "Whiting's (W)oven Linen." Quarter folds, some blind handling evidence, Roosevelt's expansive signature and annotation in unusual broad mocha with subtle hint of pink halo, four ink drops on blank verso, likely from his quill, else good plus. • With typescript from National Magazine article on Weston, Oct. 1909, 2 pp., prepared c. 1940: "Gen. Weston is one of the most widely known and popular officers in the U.S. Army...perhaps the only officer of distinction now in active service who links the memories of the Civil War with the military spirit of a later generation. While a mere youth, he participated in many of the great battles of the Rebellion...Eagerly enlisted in the 4th Ky. Cavalry...," recounting his Medal of Honor for Wetumpka, capturing Confederate steamboats after swimming a river and capturing two leaky canoes. "Before completion of the railroads to the Pacific, multitudes of immigrants and trains had to be guarded across the plains where the Cheyennes and Comanches were tomahawking and murdering the travelers in great numbers...He was in the Big Horn fight in Montana...complimented personally and officially by Custer...." Recounting a cinematic episode of "Dare-devil Jack Weston" riding to save Custer from the "circling, hideously painted redskins...." Breaks at folds, tear, yellowed, but very satisfactory. Old pencil on verso, "Art Ventura, 132 E. 17 (St.)." Relatively few fellow soldiers could match Teddy Roosevelt's escapades - and Weston was surely one of them. $1150-1400 (2 pcs.)

15-9. On the Eve of Ascension to Chief Justice.

Brief T.L.S. of Wm. H. Taft on scarce letterhead type, a plain sheet simply imprinted "William H. Taft, New Haven, Conn." Apr. 25, 1921, 7 x 9. To Hamilton Holt, Ed., The Independent, New York. Just two months before Taft's nomination as Chief Justice, he writes, "...I have written to Charley, and have enclosed your synopsis of Knecht's achievements. I am afraid it is a little late, but we shall see...." Taft would become the only President to administer the oath of office to another President (in fact, to two Presidents, Coolidge and Hoover). Original folds, few trivial spots, blind crease from mounting corners at two tips, curiously and almost imperceptibly trimmed, plausibly to fit an album page, but fine. $250-325

15-10. An Unusual Taft Autograph as Chief Justice.

Postcard, unmailed, with postage-stamp-sized newspaper photo of William Howard Taft, meticulously mounted by an autograph seeker. Below Taft has penned, "With pleasure - But I can never recall quotations when I need them, so that you will have to excuse me from making one. Wm. H. Taft. Aug. 18, 1922." In storm grey ink, on pale ivory. Very light uniform toning, else very good. Delightful for display. It seems unlikely that Taft, with one of the finest resumes of any President - and at this writing the Chief Justice - would be at a loss for words! "He considered his time as Chief Justice to be the highest point of his career; allegedly, he once remarked ‘I do not remember that I was ever President'"--biography by Judge Mark Painter. $275-375

15-11. Warren G. Harding signs his Wife's Name.

Paycheck of "Mrs. Florence K. Harding," Harding Publishing Co., publishers of The Marion Star, Jan. 20, 1914, signed by treasurer - but endorsed by the future President with his initials, for his wife, in dark pencil: "Florence K. Harding / per W.G.H." Numbered in orange, blue anti-alteration checkwriter imprint "Not over forty dollars," round lilac "Paid" stamp. 3 x 6 semicircular pale amber stain at right third, distant from Harding's endorsement; usual single pinhole from bank processing, else very good. A conversation piece: a Presidential signature (albeit with initials) as proxy for someone else. With Presidents, the opposite is almost always the case. $100-130

15-12. "The good things I know about you."

T.L.S. of Calvin Coolidge, Northampton, Mass., May 16, 1930, 8 ¹/2 x 11. To Barnard Morrison, Boston. "Ever since leaving the Governorship I have made a rule not to make recommendations about appointments voluntarily. Should the Governor, however, wish to inquire of me I should be delighted to relate to him the good things I know about you." Morrison was a noted Bostonian and alternate delegate to the 1920 Republican National Convention. Considerable wrinkling, evidently treasured by the recipient, few filing pinholes at blank top, some edge soiling, but very satisfactory, with a bold signature in dark brown. $225-275

15-13. To an Honorary N.Y.P.D. Commissioner - A Story of Rags to Riches.

Splendid T.L.S. of Calvin Coolidge, Northampton, Mass., Dec. 21, 1931, to Col. Walter Scott, New York, a real-life Horatio Alger character. As a child in Boston during the Civil War, he worked for 40¢ a day in a grocery business; by age 10, Scott was manager of a small fruit store near Harvard University! Making his fortune at Butler Brothers, he founded charities, helping crippled children, and endowing medals for police bravery around the world. Scott was made an Honorary Commissioner by N.Y.P.D. Here Coolidge writes, "Having learned that some of your friends and associates are giving you a luncheon on Dec. 22 in celebration of your 70th birthday, I wish to join them in offering you my congratulations...Your friendship extended over a long number of years is something that I prize with great satisfaction. All of us who have come in contact with you approve your fidelity to high business standards and admire the generous spirit of your charity...With those that you care for around you, I hope you will have a day of pleasure and good cheer...." In a different typewriter at lower margin, "Vice-Pres. with Harding." Imperceptibly trimmed, possibly to fit an album, old handling wrinkles (perhaps carried in the recipient's pocket to show friends at the luncheon), else about fine. Wonderful association. $325-375

15-14. First Stop on the Journey to the Waldorf-Astoria.

Realphoto postcard of Pres. Herbert Hoover's birthplace, West Branch, Iowa, signed in his trademark turquoise, here a rich shade, against light sky at top. Postally unused. Imprint on verso of L.L. Cook Co., Milwaukee, judged taken not later than 1940s. Blind impression of clip suggests blue-wash smudge above first three letters of "Herbert" caused by clipping card beneath another item before ink dried, else very good plus. Post-White House letters on Hoover's stationery bear dramatic contrast to the humble wood house shown here, not much bigger than a gardener's shack in more affluent settings: by the time he signed this postcard, his home would be the Waldorf-Astoria. $200-240

15-15. In Sight of the White House.

T.L.S. of Franklin D. Roosevelt, as Gov. of N.Y., on letterhead steel-engraved in blue, the State seal in gold in high relief, on warm cream. Albany, Nov. 12, 1931, 8 x 10 ¹/2. To Harry W. Aaron, Cleveland. "I am pleased to autograph the air mail covers and to comply with your request for my autographed photograph..." (these not present). Boldly signed in greenish grey. Wear at ends of two folds, evidently folded and unfolded many times by its delighted recipient; light smudging on blank verso at top, several stray pencil marks, perhaps by a child, else good plus. Less than a year later, Roosevelt would clinch his first term as President. $475-600

15-16. A White House Christmas.

Highly attractive T.L.S. of Harry S Truman on pale green White House letterhead, Jan. 9, 1951, marked "Personal," 7 x 8 ³/4. To Edward R. Mitton, Pres., Jordan Marsh Co., Boston. Evidently referring to a Christmas gift, "I can't tell you how very much I appreciated your sending me the Wedgwood Blue plates - they are certainly beautiful. I am also most happy to have the Tale of the Observer written by Mr. Edwards, Jr. John McCormack brought the plates and the book in and gave them to me yesterday morning. Mrs. Truman is most happy over receiving the plates." Speck of old clip rust at blank right margin, soft blind clip impression at blank top, else very fine. • With envelope, bearing two postage stamps. $450-525 (2 pcs.)

15-17. Lunch in Parlor C with Truman.

T.L.S. with bold initials of Harry S. Truman, Kansas City, Aug. 28, 1953, 7 ¹/4 x 10 ¹/2. To Edward D. McKim, Omaha. "I'll be glad to see you next Thursday and will be expecting you for lunch at the Muehlebach in Parlor ‘C' on the mezzanine. P.S. I appreciate the clipping about a Mess of Fish Eggs and Sen. Morrison. You know that story, of course." Both the steel engraved letterhead and his signature employ periods following his middle initial. Top of "T" of "Truman" two inches long. Minor filing wrinkle at blank top fore-edge, trivial discoloration of envelope seam (not present), else very fine. $375-450

15-18. Gerald Ford Turns Back the Hands of Time.

Unusual T.L.S. "Jerry Ford," on letterhead of Office of the Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Washington, May 8, 1967, 8 x 10 ¹/2. To a Rockford, Mich. constituent. "...I did not support the Uniform Daylight Savings Time bill when it was before the Congress. I opposed it because of the problems it would cause in Michigan. However, as you know, the state government has taken Michigan out from under the provisions of the law so that we will continue under the same time zone as heretofore." Bold signature in blue. Encircled "1" in red at upper left, some handling evidence, else fine. $190-240

15-19. Land Grant Signed by Pres. Van Buren's Son.

Presidential land grant with secretarial signature of Martin Van Buren, by his secretary and son R(obert), his own "Van Buren" signature a fair rendition of the President's. Washington, Aug. 8, 1837, 10 x 16, on vellum. To John A. Collins, Fairfield County, Ohio, for 39 ¹/2 acres "subject to sale at Chillicothe" - once capital of Northwest Territory, and of Ohio. Some characteristic wrinkles from shrinkage around blind-embossed wafer seal. Five vertical folds, moderate foxing, including in signature portions, some handling wear, but still satisfactory, and the most inexpensive form of Presidential document. $35-50 (Secretarial)

15-20. Land Grant Signed by Pres. Tyler's Son.

Presidential land grant with secretarial signature of John Tyler, an excellent rendition by his Secretary - and son - Ro(bert) Tyler. Washington, Nov. 10, 1841, 10 x 16, on vellum. Unillustrated. To Abraham C. and Meacon A. Shelton, Lincoln County, Mo., 80 acres "subject to sale at Palmyra, Mo." Characteristic crimping around blind-embossed wafer seal, else a rather fresh example, in excellent condition. At first (and perhaps second) glance, Robert Tyler's execution of the President's signature could be mistaken for the real thing. Both decorative and instructive. $70-100 (Secretarial)

15-21. Land for a North Carolina Soldier in the Cherokee War.

Pictorial Presidential land grant with secretarial signature of Franklin Pierce, an overly large and admirably good imitation by Secretary A.E. Baldwin. Washington, Oct. 19, 1854, 9 ¹/2 x 15 ¹/2, on vellum. With infrequently seen woodcut at upper left showing Miss Columbia standing with flag, eagle perched beside her, a train on arched bridge, two sailing ships in harbor, and a Monticello-like building in background. To Cpl. Abner Trible, "of Capt. Horton's Co., North Carolina Volunteers, Cherokee War," 40 acres in Clinton, Mo., assigned to Calvin Cowles. Blind-embossed wafer seal. Five vertical folds, one medium and two smaller mousechews at blank lower edge, some handling wear, else very satisfactory. The most inexpensive form of Presidential document. $40-60 (Secretarial)

15-22. Free Frank of the "Other" James Buchanan - to the Other "Harlem."

Official cover, with ornately printed franking "From the President of the United States," endorsed "Free" and signed by J(ames) Buchanan Henry, "Priv(ate) Sec." Buchanan's nephew and ward served as the first "Private Secretary at the White House" under the new law formally creating the post, granting the free frank to a President's secretary, and paying $2,500 yearly. Henry had been adopted at age 7 by Buchanan, who sent him to Princeton. Earlier Presidents had secretaries, but their salaries were paid out of pocket (Polk's secretary - his wife - likely toiled without pay). Somewhat blurred Washington c.d.s. Addressed in another White House clerk's hand to Th. H. Baird, Harlem, Washington Co., Pa. After leaving the White House, Henry served as an Assistant D.A. in Manhattan. Postal soiling, else good plus, and suitable for display. A scarce and interesting adjunct to a Presidential free frank collection. Highest value bracket "E" ("over $1,000") in American Stampless Cover Catalog, 1978 ed.: "It is practically impossible to collect all of the (Presidential) Secretaries." Not in 1993 ed. Ex-H. Keith Thompson, Jr., partner of famed dealer and auctioneer Charles Hamilton. $140-180 (Secretarial)

15-23. Another New Yorker Leaves - for Minnesota.

Presidential land grant with secretarial signature of U.S. Grant, a plausible example by clerk A. Wilhamson. Washington, Dec. 10, 1873, 10 x 16. "Modernized" postwar style, with up-to-date typography, on warm cream, with bright red seal. To James R. Park, Chemung County, N.Y., for "123 and ⁵⁰/100ths" acres for sale at Duluth, Minn. Blind-embossed seal over lilac rubber stamp on verso of St. Louis County (Minn.) Register of Deeds, 1881. Original sixth folds, one tooth of red paper seal torn by fold, attractive graduated cream marginal toning, else very good. $55-75 (Secretarial)

15-24. Red Roses for Mamie Doud Eisenhower - and the Cookie Recipe for the General.

Interesting collection of six Eisenhower-related items: A.L.S. of Mamie Eisenhower, 1951, 4 panels of steel-engraved notepaper of Villa St. Pierre, France, thanking Mr. Blackwell for "the beautiful Red Roses that you, as Pres. of Association of the Alumni of Columbia College sent me on my birthday. This thought on your part being so far from home made me very happy. I spent an hour at the President's house in our quick trip to U.S.A. and it all looked so good. Made me homesick. We do miss our good friends at Columbia and hope it will not be too long until we return to the campus...." (Dwight Eisenhower would assume a second Presidency, that of Columbia.) • Christmas card, Gettysburg, 1965, bearing color reproduction of oil painting of Lincoln by Eisenhower; on inside panel, miniature printed facsimile of manuscript of Gettysburg Address. Steel-engraved salutation, unsigned; evidently a sample retained by daughter-in-law Barbara Eisenhower. • Mailing envelope for same, bearing Eisenhower's printed franking signature in red, "Free." 30¢ R.E. Lee postage stamp, to family friend Caroline Gage Lent, then in France. • A.L.S. of daughter-in-law "Barbara E." (Mrs. John Eisenhower), n.d., American Embassy, 1 p., to imminent guest Mrs. Lent. "...Delighted you are coming so soon! Please, please don't risk your anatomy on caves - we need you! Sounds like an interesting trip though...." • Recipe in Barbara's hand for "President Eisenhower's Swedish ‘Spritz Kuchen' Cookies," 1 full p., 5 ³/4 x 8 ¹/4, entirely penned in Christmas green. "These bake very quickly and must be watched constantly." • Thick pamphlet, Selected Speeches of Dwight David Eisenhower, "Selected from the three principal periods of his life: As Supreme Allied Commander, as Supreme NATO Commander, (and) as Pres." 5 ³/4 x 9, 158 pp., G.P.O., 1970. Ex-lib. Some deaccession marks in margins of cover, else evidently unread. All items fine to very fine. $140-180 (6 pcs.)

15-25. Mailed by Eleanor Roosevelt on Election Day, 1932.

Splendid T.N.S. of Eleanor Roosevelt on petit silver-engraved Executive Mansion lettersheet, Albany, Nov. 2, 1932 - just days before F.D.R.'s first Presidential election victory (and mailed on Election Day). To Frances Trefethen, Brooklyn. 4 ³/4 x 6. "Will you come to our annual school birthday party at my house on Nov. the 15th? We will have dinner at seven thirty and afterwards go to a play...." Very fine. • With envelope, postmarked Albion, N.Y., Nov. 4 - the very day of Roosevelt's first White House victory, purple Washington postage stamp sufficiently off-center to nearly be an error, with perfs bearing up to all three frame lines of next stamp; torn open along top, not affecting stamp. $300-400 (2 pcs.)

15-26. Lou Henry Hoover and the under-construction National Cathedral.

T.L.S., July 3, 1933 (just post-White House), on Stanford University, Calif. letterhead, 7 ¹/4 x 10 ¹/2. A five-paragraph personal letter, inviting Mr. and Mrs. Ward to "join a group of friends here at my home...to hear a little talk about, and see some pictures of, the National Cathedral at Washington, during the various stages of its construction to date. Miss Prosser, the Executive Secretary of the National Women's Committee for Washington Cathedral, is spending a few days in Calif. at that time...and has these slides or motion pictures with her...This is in no sense a money raising occasion - no admission or collection...If you have any family or friends to bring with you, I shall be delighted to see them...." Signature in sapphire grey. Very fine. $75-90

15-27. Lucretia R. Garfield's Seamstress.

A.L.S. on her mourning lettersheet, Gothic "LRG" monograph steel-engraved in black, West Mentor, O(hio), Dec. 2, 1897, 2 pp., 4 x 6 ¹/4, to Mrs. Samuel Mathews, Painesville, Ohio. "Will it be possible to allow Charlotte to come to Mentor on Dec. 3d? My seamstress is here and will be ready for her then. Will this interfere with any of her lessons?..." Requests reply if not convenient. Familiar rubber stamp on signature leaf, "Autograph Collection of Dr. Max Thorek, Chicago," "one of America's most distinguished surgeons, who had devoted many years to his unusual autograph collection"--Collecting Autographs and Manuscripts, Charles Hamilton, 1961. Short piece old tape on blank p. 4, else very fine and attractive. • With matching black-bordered envelope addressed in her hand, also boldly signed and franked, "Lucretia R. Garfield - Free." With c.d.s. (partly struck on black borders) "West..." [Mentor, Ohio?]. Lacking most of flap, else fine. $140-170 (2 pcs.)

15-28. Edith K. Roosevelt and Teddy's Dislike of Cruising.

A.L.S. of Edith K. Roosevelt, on Oyster Bay letterhead, May 27, (1929), 6 x 7, 2 pp., on two separate leaves. To "Mr. McPherson." "Private - Will you submit the article to Admiral [John D.] Long. I made some small corrections. Mr. Loeb [Theodore Roosevelt's private secretary] is right in saying that the Sylph was often here... The Mayflower but seldom, tho' after the Provincetown trip she was kept...at Clayton Bay. Mr. Roosevelt never used her for cruising, which he disliked. Merely for official business. The children, I & our friends left him at home on the two delightful trips which you mention...." Tear at upper left just touching "Private," old tape repair on blank verso of second sheet, thin spots where once lightly mounted, faint offset of her blotter at ascenders of signature, else very good. • Original wire service photo, Jan. 3, 1931, with typewritten caption on verso: "Mrs. Theodore Roosevelt...arriving on the S.S. Lorenzo, following a brief visit to Porto Rico, where her son, Theodore, is Governor. Mrs. Roosevelt is here to attend the memorial services on the 12th anniversary of her husband's death...." Trimmed to 3 ¹/2 x 5 ³/4, probably by a layout editor. • Ladies-size envelope in her hand, silver-engraved White House cornercard, to "Master Archibald B. Roosevelt, Seton School, Groton, Mass.," Nov. 18, 1907. Several long, feathered tears at left, one passing through "Archibald," another through cornercard, likely where her son opened in haste, but satisfactory. • Envelope from Mrs. Roosevelt's desk, in her secretary's hand, to Rear Adm. Hemphill, U.S. Flagship Rainbow, Manila, postmarked Charleston, 1908. Light nibbles at corners, else satisfactory. Interesting ensemble. $275-325 (4 pcs.)

15-29. Violets for Christmas - 1911.

A.N.S. of Frances F. Cleveland, Princeton, Dec. 20, (19)11, 5 x 7 ¹/2. To Mr. Robertson, probably a local florist. "Will you please send the violets as usual to Miss Tuckerman. I enclose card [not present]. With best Christmas wishes." Large crowned watermark. ³/4" tear at edge of blank fold, original folds, soft crease not touching signature, irregular blank top edge, probably where torn from a pad, else very good. A charming item. $150-200

15-30. "The beautiful orchids" for Mrs. Truman.

A.L.S. of Bess W. Truman on lettersheet delicately engraved in gold "The White House, Washington," "Saturday" (May 7, 1949 based on postmark), 4 ¹/2 x 6 ³/4, 1 ¹/2 pp. To Joseph E. Casey, Washington. "I did so enjoy the beautiful orchids the 74th Club sent me. In fact I enjoyed every minute of the delightful luncheon and deeply appreciate their kind thought of me." With bold signature. Blind clip mark at blank top, else excellent. • With uncommon "ladies" size envelope addressed in her hand. Purple 3¢ stamp. Average postal handling, else very good. $140-180 (2 pcs.)

15-31. "Gaze upon everything in Washington and remember everything you can to tell me."

Delightful, highly personal T.L.S. of Grace Coolidge, on Northampton, Mass. letterhead, Oct. 15, 1929 and continued "Wed. morning," 2 pp. Signed "Grace C," to her close friend Molly Sherman, Marblehead Neck, Mass., address corrected by Post Office to Boston. "Such boxes of lovely surprises as you do send me and such fun as I have trying out all the delicious creams and nice smells!...Lizzy's does pick you up and start you over again in a marvelous way...Thanks, a heap, my dear. Gaze upon everything in Washington and remember everything you can to tell me. We do not take a Washington paper, no time to read it...Therefore I commission you to gather all the news. Excuse my typing, the fact and the product. I am in a hurry because I am due at the hospital and going on to a tea from there...My mother's condition has not changed except for the usual ups and downs. Wednesday morning: Being a lady of leisure, I have many irons in the fire and I get nothing done...One of my irons became overheated...The top of the morning to you and may all your days be bright. With a great deal of love." Several corrections in her hand. Very fine. • With envelope in her hand, some postal handling, else very good. Mrs. Coolidge was one of the best letter-writers of the First Ladies; she and the President had left the White House in March of that fateful year. $180-220 (2 pcs.)

15-32. Unusually Placed Free Frank - at Top Center.

Envelope bearing signature "Helen H. Taft / Free," interestingly positioned at top center. Postmarked Washington, D.C., May 14, 1933, the crisp black circular date stamp over "Taft." Addressed in another hand in jade green. Light marginal toning, full-width mid-grey stripe from P.O. cancelling machine, passing through "Free," else about fine. Attractive conversation piece for display; such placement of a franking signature is seldom seen. $160-200

15-33. Five First Ladies.

Color official photo of White House, in summer, with fountains amidst yellow flowers. Signed in blue sky at top by five First Ladies: Elizabeth Bloomer Ford, Bess Wallace Truman, Patricia Nixon, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson. 8 x 9 ³/4 oblong. Gathered over a period of years by a leading collector, who periodically mailed the photo to the respective First Lady to add their signature. Handstamp on verso, "Official Photo - The White House...." Soft postal crease across upper horizontal, through Truman and Kennedy signatures, very light incidental handling and corner wear, else fine, and lovely for display. Request photocopy to study exemplars. All appear to be authentically signed, and the provenance - including a past Pres. of the Manuscript Society (his name on verso, in his hand) - could not be stronger, but understandably offered as is. An unusual item! $950-1400

15-34. "Freedom or Fascism" - 1940.

T.L.S. of Eleanor Roosevelt, on gold-engraved White House letterhead, Nov. 23, 1940, the month of F.D.R.'s reelection to his third term. 6 x 9 ¹/4, to Agnes. "Many thanks for sending me the pamphlet ‘Freedom or Fascism.' I was very much interested in it and appreciate your giving me an opportunity to see it. Affectionately...." Soft dust toning at top fore-edge, else very fine. A timely theme, World War II having already been raging for over a year. • With printed color portrait removed from a book, Lou Hoover on verso. $275-375 (2 pcs.)

16-1. A Cry against Hijacked Elections, while "Fools squeak Treason" - 1682.

Exceedingly rare political tract in form of an eloquent poem, "Midsummer-Moon: or, The Livery-Man's Complaint," by Tho. Thompson, London, printed for E. Harris, 1682. First and only edition. 5 ¹/2 x 7 ¹/4, 20 pp. A strongly Whig poem, decrying hijacking of the shrieval (London sheriffs) elections. "I Cannot hold, hot struggling Rage aspires, And crowds my free-born Breast with noble Fires, Whilst prudent Fools squeak Treason through the Nose, And whine a quivering Vote in sneaking Prose...Nature has given me a complaining part, And bleeding England a resenting Heart...." A master of wordcraft who was clearly influenced by Shakespeare et al, Thompson also published two comedies. A modern-day writer offers context: "What was traditionally an election for local civil servants took on new significance as the Whigs, excluded from politics by Charles II's continuing dissolution of Parliament, erupted into violent resistance as it became clear that the Tory mayor intended to insert his own men into the sheriffs offices. The Whig liverymen asserted liberty and citizens rights, as the sheriffs were responsible for choosing juries, and Tory sheriffs were seen as tools of arbitrary government."--credit: Stuart Bennett Rare Books. Title leaf separated but present; tears at upper horizontal and right vertical edges, dust-toned, lighter at two old erasures, moderate foxing, else satisfactory and still displayable; second and third leaves with dust-toning at upper right corner, last leaf tattered along blank right margin, else very good. A new discovery among the Nicholas Low Papers, acquired 1975 from venerable philatelic pioneers Harmer Rooke; Low was business agent of Alexander Hamilton, Pierre L'Enfant, Gouverneur Morris, et al. Perhaps three other copies have appeared on the market since 1916. British Library holds one copy, ex-King George III's library. Wing, English Short Title Catalogue, 1641-1700, T1011. $425-500

16-2. A Vermont Democrat laments, "We are dwindling through the loss of faith in the Justice of our Rulers...."

Eloquent "Private" A.L.S. of S(toddard) B. Colby, noted Vermont politician, family namesake of Colby-Sawyer College. Montpelier, Mar. 23, 1857, 2 ¹/2 pp. To Sec. of State Lewis Cass. Recently losing his bid for the House, Colby writes, "Allow me a moment of your patience in behalf of Vermont. In regard to the Collectorship I desire to pledge myself to the Pres. & his Cabinet that the appt. of Bowdich by the late Administration is unsatisfactory to ⁷/8ths of our party. And the sincere hope of all fair Democrats is for a selection by the present Administration. It was a hasty, stealthy, unworthy act, and the expectations of our Democracy from the change of Presidents, are sadly disappointed if so unfair a measure is sanctioned. Pardon my solicitude for it is not of myself but my party that I am anxious. Two or three selfish managers have made our cause, our patriotism, our party, the means of their own support without merit, & without respect to the feelings of our people, but by active imposition upon the Powers at Washington. We are dwindling through the loss of faith in the Justice of our Rulers. Bowdich could never have received the vote of ¹/20h of the party, & it cannot be endured...I enclose a brief letter address'd to the Pres. [not present], which I design'd to present in person...Should it please you to make this the subject of a conference with the Pres. you may be assured that the Administration will multiply friends in a geometrical ration by listening...If a removal can be made and Hon. Paul Dillingham of Waterbury, Vt. appointed, Vermont will hold a Jubilee." Once lightly tipped into Cass' letter-book, partial separation along spine affecting no text, some folds and handling wear, crease at lower left corner, three short reinforcements with pieces of stamp hinges, else darkly penned. About V.G. Colby's wife perished in the Henry Clay steamboat disaster. $70-100

16-3. Impeachment 1868: "He issues his imperial proclamations...."

Very rare pamphlet, "Impeachment of the President - Majority Report," (Washington, 1868), 5 ³/4 x 9, 59 pp., sewn. On p. 1, statement of House Committee on the Judiciary on their findings on whether Andrew Johnson "has been guilty of acts which were designed or calculated to overthrow or corrupt the government of the U.S...They have spared no pains to make their investigations as complete as possible...The charges made...are usurpation of power, and violation of law, in the corrupt abuse of the appointing, pardoning, and veto powers; in the corrupt interference in elections...Never in the history of this or any other state have questions more numerous and vital...presented themselves...and never was a Congress convoked in a more serious crisis...(Johnson) seems to have made up his mind...to forestall the judgment and wishes of the loyal people...by bringing in the rebel States themselves...To effect this object he issues his imperial proclamations...of his double authority as Pres...A plan of reconstruction prearranged by himself, and intended to be imposed on the country against the will of the men who had just scattered in flight the battalions of the traitor confederacy [lower case noted]...." Lengthy accusations of Johnson's "absolute obstruction of public justice, in sheltering the violators of the law from the just punishment...The Pres. had a policy...to punish nobody..." (p. 31). Citing Johnson's failure to punish Jeff Davis, and a rumor that Johnson "was going to bring 70,000 or 75,000 men to Washington, and was going to displace Congress and do as he pleased..." (p. 43). Blaming Johnson for "the tragedies of Memphis and New Orleans, those great carnivals of murder, where ex-confederate soldiers in their traitor uniforms...were let loose like wolves to riot in the blood of loyal men...(Johnson) has endeavored to obstruct the plans of Congress...." Concluding with itemization of seventeen accusations against Johnson, many arising from his favorable treatment extended to the South, having "fostered sentiments of hostility between different classes of citizens, revived and kept alive the spirit of the rebellion, humiliated the nation...." "James Farran" in pencil at top of p. 1, either his signature or this copy reserved for his use; possibly the S.C. member of Confederate Congress, with some paragraphs noted with pencil bars in margin, including discussions of the Confederacy, and Johnson's controversial return of Southern railroads to their "rebel proprietors." Wear at lower right tip first four leaves, light waterstains, old vertical soft fold for coat pocket, toning cover and some leaves, some table soiling outside back page, with cryptic filled and checked boxes, else internally about fine. Ablaze with political passion (and vitriol), the parties here were vanquished; Johnson was acquitted by a single vote, finishing his term, and returning to Washington again as a Senator. WorldCat locates no copies. $325-400

16-4. A Senator Donates Impeachment Proceedings.

Ornate copper-engraved receipt, headed "Trustees of the Astor Library," N.Y., Sept. 2, 1868, 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4. Gratefully acknowledging donation from Hon. E.D. Morgan "a copy of Impeachment of Andrew Johnson, 3 vols., 8(v)o...and deposited in the Library." Signed by Supt. Francis Schroeder, earlier the U.S. Minister to Sweden and Norway under Pres. Zachary Taylor et al. Docketed. Large "E Pluribus Unu(m)" shield watermark. Morgan, the cousin of the first Pres. of Wells, Fargo, was Gov. of N.Y. 1859-63, and Sen. at time of his donation. He had voted to convict Johnson; not one of the seven Republican Senators who voted for acquittal ever served in elective office again. Delicate edge toning, pleasing eggshell patination, and fine. Unusual. $60-80

16-5. Songs for Grant's 1868 Campaign.

Ephemeral pre-Fire Chicago imprint of Root & Cady, one of the city's leading businesses of the era: "The Song Messenger of the North-West, Extra," June 1868, 10 ¹/2 x 13 ¹/2, 8 pp., uncut at top. Their house organ, tactfully promoting U.S. Grant in the nearing Presidential election: "Tastes are almost as varied as the human race...Geo. F. Root has been so occupied with the ‘Triumph' [a new 400-pp. course book for singing teachers] that he only stopped to write a song, when the enthusiasm of the National Republican Convention reached him, on which occasion he set to music Chaplain Lozier's splendid poem, ‘We'll Fight it out on the Old Union Line.' This stirring piece was sung with immense success at the Convention...Price 30¢...." Other new songs offered include "Old Glory and U.S. Grant," "Hurrah for General Grant...representing the moment when the nomination was made...," "For President General Grant a-Smoking his Cigar," "Sailing into Dreamland," and more hopeful hits of the "other" Sixties. On back page, offer of "‘Grant Songster'...just what are needed in the present Political Campaign...10.00 per hundred." Original salmon-pink paper mailing label, "D.A. Lamb," who clearly pored over these offers with great interest. Blank right margins considerably tattered, wear at center fold junction, foxing, separated at spine fold into two signatures, but satisfactory, and excessively rare: perhaps the sole survivor. No original copies any issue recorded by WorldCat; Newberry has photostats of two other issues. $140-180

16-6. Rare Same-Day Memorial Program for Pres. McKinley.

Dramatic group relating to McKinley's assassination: Same-day "Memorial Meeting - A Tribute to Hon. William McKinley...," Aryan Society, West Chester, Pa., Sat. evening, Sept. 14, 1901, 6 x 6, 4 pp., deckled edge. A program of surprising elegance in both format and content, considering the brief time between arrival of the sad news, and its printing. • Folder, "Memorial Services - A Tribute to Hon. William McKinley...by the Citizens of West Chester (Pa.)," Sept. 16, 1901, two days after his assassination. 5 ¹/2 x 9, 4 pp., photo on front. • Oversize sheet music, signed by composer, "McKinley the Immortal - ‘It is God's Way' - Song with Refrain, by Emma Magruder, Dedicated to the Devoted Wife of our Martyred President." 10 ¹/2 x 14, 6 pp. (of which 3 printed), unusual funereal typography and large photograph. With lyrics. Pub. by Marclay Music Co., Boston. Bold inscription inside, to "Eliza Russell, Compliments of the writer, 521 N. Charles St." Right edge with tears from considerable use, break but no separation at horizontal fold, else satisfactory, and dramatic for display. WorldCat locates no examples; google finds no reference. • Headlines of West Chester Morning Republican, Sept. 14, 1901, trimmed and neatly mounted on old sheet, 7 ³/4 x 10 ¹/2. "The Nation's Chief is Dead! Spirit of Pres. William McKinley Has Taken Its Final Flight...The Country Has Lost One of the Greatest Statesmen That Lived in the Dawn of 20th Century." On verso, "President Dead...," with photo. • Mounted clippings from a different newspaper, "Pres. McKinley Expires at Buffalo...," with 43 col. inches of black-bordered article mounted both sides. "...The creature Czolgosz, extending his hand in a peaceful guise, uncoiled the serpent in his heart...." • Apparently from a third paper, "Col. Roosevelt Is Now President...," datelined Buffalo, Sept. 14. Woodcut portrait. Dramatic account of Roosevelt's swearing-in in a "quaint old mansion" in Buffalo. All clippings fine. $120-160 (6 pcs.)

16-7. "Republican, Democratic, Socialist, Prohibition."

Printed thick "1918 Republican Canvass Book," unused, issued by New York City office of Republican State Committee, evidently in preparation for that September's Primary Day. 5 x 9, tan card cover, unusually high grade white text with diecut tabs A-Z, ruled in red and blue. In each spread, columns for voter's name, address, "Republican, Democratic, Socialist, Prohibition, Doubtful," "First Voter," party in which enrolled, "Voted Last Election," and Remarks. "Political Calendar, 1918" on back cover, with N.Y.C. details. Covers uniformly browned, light uniform toning internally, else excellent. Today treated as novelties, it is only in post-World War II America that third, fourth, and even fifth parties lost their relative visibility. $45-60

16-8. 1928 Presidential Campaign - for Students.

Consecutive run of classroom bulletins, "Looseleaf Current Topics," last four months of 1928, 4 pp. issued weekly for school use, 72 pp. in all, 5 ¹/2 x 8 ¹/2, numerous thumbnail photos. Including leadup to, outcome, and aftermath of "The Greatest Show on Earth" - the Smith vs. Hoover Presidential contest; article, "Voting Intelligence Quotient," testing students' knowledge of voting, plus a wealth of other news of all kinds. Toning of overhung leatherette covers, else about fine. $50-70 (16 issues, bound)

16-9. Nixon's Attorney General - from Prison.

Envelope in hand of J(ohn) N. Mitchell, Nixon's Attorney Gen., from "Fed(eral) Pr(ison) Camp, Maxwell A.F.B., Ala.," following his conviction involving Watergate. #10 size, with "U.S. Dept. of Justice" franking hand-stamped at upper right. To autograph collector Frederick Casoni, Arlington, Va. One tear in flap and along right edge where opened, postal handling, else very good and clean. Scarce and unusual. Ex-H. Keith Thompson, Jr. $50-70

16-10. Nixon's Vice President - Leaving the White House Behind.

T.L.S. of Spiro T. Agnew, Nixon's Vice Pres., written after his resignation under duress. Chevy Chase, Md., May 29, 1974, 7 x 9. To autograph collector Claude Steele. "If you would forward your Masonic Patent to me at the above address prior to June 15, I'll be happy to autograph it and return it to you...After June 15, you might send it to the following address: ...Crofton, Md." Original half fold for mailing, else very fine. Agnew material is surprisingly elusive. Ex-H. Keith Thompson, Jr. $175-225

16-11. Harding's Abuse of Power?

Unusual T.L.S. of E.S. Wertz, on letterhead "Dept. of Justice, Office of U.S. Attorney, Northern District of Ohio," Cleveland, May 25, 1922, 8 x 10 ¹/2. To J.C. Woods, Manager, Marion Star, Marion, Ohio. "At request of Hon. H.M. Daugherty, Attorney Gen., I presented your request to be excused as a Juror on June 5 at Toledo. Mr. Miller, Clerk of Courts has instructed his Assistant ...to write you excusing you from service...." Pres. Harding had used his influence to exempt the manager of his newspaper from jury duty. • With contemporary newspaper clipping referring to this episode, likely from a competing local newspaper, "Harding Gets Juror Excused - Marion Star Employe(e) Has Boss ‘Fix Things Up' in Local Court...It's nice to have the Pres. of the United States for a ‘boss'...." Light tan patch on letter where clipping reposed in file for decades, blind clip impression at upper left, minor handling, else very good. Lingering to this day in sidebars, his administration "suffered from the corruption of officials appointed by Harding, notably Daugherty...," his Attorney Gen. referred to in this letter--Webster's Biographical. The manager's luck would shortly run out: the following year, Harding died in office, the cause theorized in recent years to have been poisoning. $55-75

16-12. The Unsuccessful 1812 Peace Party Candidate for President - and the Ship that Vanquished Piracy.

A.N.S. of DeWitt Clinton, replying on verso of portion of letter seeking Naval appointment for a gentleman. N.p., evidently as Gov. of N.Y., c. 1817-21. 2 ¹/4 x 7 ¹/2. Federalist and Peace Party Presidential candidate in 1812 (his uncle George Clinton the Vice Pres.), Mayor of N.Y.C., Sen. and Gov. of the Empire State, and head of the People's Party. Promoter of Erie Canal, "Clinton believed that infrastructure improvements could transform American life..."--wikipedia. His correspondent writes that the candidate wishes to "serve his Country...and suggest that he be assigned to the frigate Guerriere...." Clinton replies, "...Altho' not formally acquainted with the young gentleman mentioned in the within recommenda-tion yet, from my knowledge of the reputable gentlemen who have signed it, I am persuaded that the fullest confidence may be reposed in its correctness." The Guerriere had quickly become a ship fit for adventurers: Named for the British ship destroyed by the Navy in a thirty-minute battle in 1812, the new Guerriere led a squadron to vanquish the pirates of Algiers. Around this time, the 250,000 Muslim population of that notorious city were waited on by 100,000 white slaves, captured from France, the northern Mediterranean, and Britain. In all, about one million white Christians were enslaved in Algeria. On board the Guerriere in the ship's clashes was Lt. James Monroe, the President's nephew. Within two weeks, the Guerriere hosted signing of a peace treaty, ending payment of tribute to Algiers, and "exacting full payment for injuries to American commerce"--wikipedia. The ship next led the largest fleet ever sailing under the American flag in the Mediterranean - evolving into today's 6th Fleet - the show of force winning a treaty with Tunis and Tripoli. In cocoa brown on ivory, the side with letter to Clinton mounted on white sheet but legible by holding to a lamp. Minor glue spots at left and right, else about very fine. A fascinating Clinton example. With 1984 Swann catalogue page. $130-160

16-13. Unsuccessful 1864 Vice Presidential Candidate.

Signature of Geo. H. Pendleton, with "Ohio" in his hand, in purplish-blue on ivory card. Son-in-law of Francis Scott Key, and McClellan's running mate against the Lincoln ticket, one of the few political duos to be subject of a Currier & Ives print. Two years earlier, Pendleton served as a Democratic manager in impeachment of Federal Judge West Humphreys of Tenn. A Copperhead Democrat, he opposed the 13th Amendment and 1866 Civil Rights Act. A strong contender for the 1868 Presidential nomination, later drafted Pendleton Act, creating civil service merit system. Marginal toning, ink drop from his quill at top edge, else fine. $30-40

16-14. Unsuccessful 1880 and 1884 Republican Nominee.

Signature of Geo. F. Edmunds, with "Vt." in his hand, on glazed eggshell card. Leader of Senate Republicans as Pres. pro tem; active in Andrew Johnson's impeachment trial; a commissioner in resolving 1876 election; unsuccessful Presidential candidate at 1880 and 1884 Conventions. In 1880, though Edmunds continued to receive over 30 votes through the 29th ballot, Garfield emerged as the nominee; Edmunds' loss may have saved his life. Namesake of Edmunds Anti-Polygamy Act, making "anti-plural marriage" a felony, and author of Sherman Anti-Trust Act. Declined Pres. Arthur's offer of a Supreme Court seat. Biographical notes in pencil, in two older hands, on verso; remnants of black album corner at blank upper left, scuff at right just missing signature, some mottling characteristic of clay-coated papers, else good plus. $30-40

16-15. Unsuccessful 1884 Republican.

Superior postwar signature of Benj. F. Butler, "Mass." also in his hand. In mocha, on eggshell card, mounted on larger cream linen. Controversial occupier of Baltimore, later "the beast of New Orleans," Butler "showed a genius for arousing adverse criticism at home and embarrassing his government in Europe...Although an incompetent general, Butler was so influential that Lincoln could not relieve him until after the 1864 elections"--Boatner. Mount with characteristic darker cream toning, else very fine. Ex-Shaw Collection. • With Union patriotic envelope, postally unused, bearing large woodcut portrait of Butler filling left third of cover, captioned, "Whatever our politics, the Government must be sustained." Obscure imprint of Fred. Vogl, Boston, 1861. Light uniform toning, else very fine and uncommon. Weiss FP-PM-73; the only Vogl design in the Harvard University collection of 5,000 Union patriotics. $60-85 (2 pcs.)

17-1. Last Hope: the Navy's Big Guns.

Fascinating specialized group on America's "atom bomb" of World War I - the massive rail-mounted guns, actually spares built for battleships, each railcar weighing 270 tons. Never having fought a full-blown European war in Europe, America urgently needed a counter to the Germans' so-called Paris Super-Gun, daily threatening to level the French city. Mounting 60-foot-barreled naval guns on rail cars, the crash project entailed another "first": the guns and their command trains would be staffed by Navy crews - on land - under Army control. In all, the rail guns fired over 700 shells, hitting German-held rail yards and positions up to 23 miles away. One of the guns fired the last railroad battery round of the war - timed to land moments before the Armistice tolled, at the 11th hour of the 11th day, in Nov. 1918. Comprising: Rare cover entirely in hand of commander of the rail gun program, from "U.S. Naval Railway Batteries, C.P. Plunkett, Rear Adm. U.S.N." to "Miss Julia P. Plunkett, c/o William C. Plunkett...Harvard University, Cambridge...." Plunkett's second signature and rank at lower left, beneath purple "A.E.F. Passed as Censored," censoring his own letter! Postmarked Oct. 19, (19)18 (the first actual use of the big guns in offensive service had been just six weeks before, on Sept. 6). Tear at blank upper right corner where opened, else fine, clean, and very rare thusly. • Realphoto postcard (pictured below), "Front view of U.S.N. 14" gun, Naval Land Battery," showing elevated, ³/4 view of the fearsome barrel and its rail car, with part of open "U.S.A. / 860" utility car attached, and four officers. Three massive cranes and two tall smokestacks in background, believed taken upon arrival in port, the cars being prepared for travel inland. A bit light, some handling wear, else about fine. • Set of 24 postcards of Brest, including 11 with highly interesting photos of the city's Port Militaire's bridges and enormous cranes, which unloaded the Ammunition Trains. Plus title card and publisher's list.

• Realphoto, "Heavy Railway Gun - Somme," an impressive ¹/2-side view of the car, its gun lowered for travel. • Very scarce realphoto titled "‘Big Bertha' - Range 100 Miles," showing the German version which was shelling Paris daily, spurring the emergency effort by the U.S. to design, build, ship, and deploy a counter-weapon, all in record time. Soon after arrival of our naval guns, the Germans destroyed both their Big Berthas and Krupp's blueprints, to prevent any details of their construction from falling into Allied hands. Light but still dramatic and informative, and else about very good. • Letter of sailor W.E. Fitch, possibly one of the elite 334 Navy crew manning the rail guns, envelope postmarked A.P.O. 749, Nov. 25, 1918, 1 ¹/2 pp., on American YMCA lettersheet, imprinted "On Active Service with the U.S. Naval Forces operating in European Waters." "...That clipping [not present] with my picture...was great. It was so accurate. The shells weigh 1400 lbs...The guns are 14" 50 calibre, and with the gun car, the whole weighs about 270 tons. This is for the one car only." • Realphoto postcard, sepia, showing four of the monster rail guns "On Front - France." In period hand on verso, "Big Naval Guns at the Front." Unused. A formidable view. Excellent. • Cover franked "Soldiers Mail," from a Sgt. Maj., "Hq. Co., Horse Battalion, Ammunition Train, 1st Div., A.E.F. via N.Y.," postmarked May 13, 1918. Censored. • Unusual realphoto postcard, "A Railway Gun in Action at Night," showing huge cloud of smoke upon firing. Interestingly, the tracks can be seen curving sharply; the gun trains often had to be positioned on curving tracks, to control recoil. Short tear at blank top margin where once pinned, else about fine. •Realphoto of barrel pointing skyward, "Verdun Front, France," the tracks appear to have been laterally reinforced with structural steel. This suggests the train was in situ, being aimed for its next target, a difficult calculation, taking into consideration the curvature of the earth! Excellent. Very dark, short blem at edge from an old staple, else fine. • "Farewell Dinner given by the Home-Loving Sailors of Trompeloup...," Nov. 24, 1918, 4 ¹/4 x 6 ¹/4, 4 pp. From same sailor's papers as following items:

• Charmingly typeset 8 pp. program, "U.S. Naval Aviation Station, Pauillac (France) - Thanksgiving Day at Trompeloup, Nov. 28, 1918," 6 x 7 ¹/2, (8) pp. Day's program including "football game between the Pauillac eleven and the 145th Ammunition Train's team from Camp de Souge...on the flying field," with full-page lineup of players and their positions. Including 11-man roster from the Train. Also, "Traveller's Burlesque Show" at new Y.M.C.A. Theatre, and boxing matches including welterweight Bob Steamer of the 145th (Ammunition Train), plus Knockout Rogers vs. One Punch Johnson of Naval Air Station. Half fold, some handling, else good. • Miniature single-sheet soldiers and sailors newspaper, Pauillac Pilot, Thanksgiving Day Number, Nov. 28, 1918, 6 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/4. Pres. Wilson's Proclamation and "Turkey Day" menu. "Good-Bye France, Hello Broadway." Among boxing matches, a reappearance of Bob Steamer (of Ammunition Train; see previous item in this lot). • 3 articles on the rail gun, one undated, others 1954 and 1991. Items relating to this chapter in military history are rare. $325-400 (12 pcs. + set 24 cards + research)

17-2. Postcard Group: Bugle Boys of South Dakota, and other World War I era Views.

Quality group of 20 realphoto postcards, c. 1912-1919, with variety of interesting views, many of groups in camp, from a handful of men to a dozen and up. Some fascinating facial studies. One postmarked; balance postally unused. "Men of Co. D, 71st," raucous group posing on green, one with submarine gun aimed at camera. • Bird's-eye of Camp Morrison, Va. • Full standing pose of two Doughboys in Tacoma studio. • Soldiers standing in a clearing, wielding frying pans, canteens, and mess kits. • Eight soldiers, cooking over a pit; their expressions straight out of Central Casting. • Panorama of several dozen sailors aiming their rifles, Alaskan mountains looming behind them. Postmarked Barrow, Alaska, 1912. • Cleaning crew in camp, posing with brooms on narrow walkway, brick-foundationed barracks behind. • Unusual photo of bugle corps, Camp Hagman (South Dakota), "1916," all 17 men with bugles of varied sizes and styles; three camp banners; fairly good definition of five mens' "U.S." holsters, apparently with .45s. • Rooftop photo, 1915, manuscript note on verso, "Here is far-famed Marine Band - the President's Own, taken during G.A.R. Parade...," showing about half of the 120-man band. • "Some salty gob - Master at Arms with a gun. That's the way I look every day." Trifle soft-focus. • Parade of "Co. A" with bayonets fixed, on field in camp, as officers watch, onlookers salute. Possibly 1930s. • Plus 1 mocha-tone, "...Military & Naval Parade, Golden Potlatch, Seattle," postmarked Creosote, Wash., July 29, 1912. 1¢ green Washington imperf on one margin. Several light, some with corner creases, evidently where removed from album; handling evidence, but very satisfactory, and about good to V.G. $70-100 (21 pcs.)

17-3. World War I U.S. Naval Collection - including Judaica.

Substantial specialized collection of postally used covers and postcards, from Navy and Marine Corps personnel on French soil, 1918-19, with quantity of postcards. Comprising: 27 postally used postcards, including 8 from Naval Air Station, Pauillac. • 9 unused postcards, including color "Our Navy..."; lovely color mezzotint Christmas card, U.S. and French flags flanking State of Liberty; silk-embroidered card, "A Kiss from France," rising sun over the ocean, with cerise flowers; "Hurrah for America!" with photo of U.S.S. Admiral. • Plus 7 unused realphotos ("Coaling a Battleship in Brest Harbor"; sailor with two French girlfriends). • 27 postally used covers (one with letter), manuscript frankings including "U.S. Naval Forces in Europe," "U.S. Naval Air Forces in Europe," "U.S. Naval Aviation Forces," "U.S.N. Aeronautic Force," "Officer's Mail," and "Sailor's Mail," variously. Wide range of senders and addressees. Several from "A.M. Cohen, Comdr. U.S.N., Base 7," and Navy Base Hospitals #5 in Brest, and #6 in Bordeaux. With blue, pink, and purple censor stampings in various styles. Many with (Base) "7" football cancel. A few highlights: Two sailor's Brest postcards, to his friend in Philadelphia with a most unusual name, "Miss Wrnowah B. Zook": "This is certainly a lonesome life. Nothing to do, no place to go...." • Envelope from sailor J. Goldberg, to mother in Philadelphia. • Christmas card, art of American plan flying low over waving children, amidst snowfall. • Long, romantic, syrupy letter from soldier or sailor at G.H.Q., n.d., 8 x 10 ¹/2, 6 pp., to wife "Honey Sweet." "...Every truck at the station will be busy tomorrow...Each load out is that much nearer home to you...I do carry my watch in my left shirt pocket with your dear self in it...My work is of a rough nature...I carry around in this ordinary old brain of mine ...about a thousand reels of moving pictures of you Darling...I could not live without you...." One internal tear, else excellent. • Booklet, "Vive la France," Y.M.C.A., "Headquarters...Brest," with separate local address for Colored Troops, 16 pp. on local history and customs, plus blanks for notes. • Folder, American Officers' Club, Chateau de Valencay (described as once the residence of Prince de Talleyrand and King Ferdinand VII). Condition understandably varied, from heavily worn to very good, but generally satisfactory and better. Splendid for teaching or display. $140-180 (74 pcs.)

17-4. With Reference to the (Flying) Dutchman, German Gotha Bombers high overhead, and 300 Bombs Falling.

Superior World War I group of 5 letters, 6 envelopes, 2 realphoto postcards, and 2 French-printed Christmas postcards, from sailor Rex Gunnell of Detroit, U.S. Naval Aviation (Forces), London, Dunkirk, and Paris, Feb. 26, 1918-Dec. 8, 1919. 20 pp. in all. Most to his brother. Feb. 26, 1918: On letterhead of Navy & Marine Corps Recreation Centre, Philadelphia: "...We get liberty every night... Going to a dance tonight... • Apr. 5, 1918: Now in France, "...Have some pretty lively times...With its narrow winding streets and red tile roofed houses it makes a person recall those stories we used to get at school...Many canals...There are not very many windows...They are either boarded up or none at all, and the basement windows are covered over with sand bags for protection against the Bache [wild pig] air raids which are quite frequent...Fritz gets to action if we make a noise like a woodchuck. We have a bombardment here from the lines as well as the sea but he hasn't bothered as much so far although he lands a few 17'ers around here...Last week we had one of his planes in the city square as a souvenir...." • May 9, 1918: "...Believe me, I see some sights of war...Spent one night at Calais. That's where the drive has been on...This is quite a town here [Dunkirk]...Plenty to eat and drink...plenty of mademoiselles...They bombard this place from land, sea and air, sometimes all three at once, so you can see we don't lack for excitement...In one of the cafes and the old siren blew. We looked out and soon see 14 Hun planes coming over our barrage fire...Soon had them going the other way too, but last night they evened matters with us. They shook us up some, believe me. I am bunkering in the sea wall now...I like to get up and watch them play overhead. When you hear the old Gothas humming overhead...and a few bombs falling you begin to think there is something doing, especially if it happens to shake your bunk a little...There are some regular birds over here...so high up that you can see him with the naked eye...." Gothas were a maker of Grossflugzeuge - fearsome long-range heavy bombers. With a range of over 500 miles, they had a service ceiling of some 16,400 feet. The 1916 model was the first plane with a tail gun having a 360° arc of fire. • June 27, 1918: "...Things were lively here. I see two machines come down in flames, though that's quite a sight at night. I would have like(d) to have been close to them when they fell so if there was any signs of life left in that dutchman I could have stamped his head off. I wasn't the only one that wished such a thing. Then the next night they came over again with about 1 machine. They come damm [sic] close to broke all the lights...Our office...and the English air base near here caught most of it that night. They dropped about three hundred bombs, some...large enough to put our house in. There were some casualties. There are quite a few boys here from Mich. and two of our pilots (who) received their missions last week as Ensigns are from Detroit. I had a nice letter from a girl that lives in Penna...She works at the public library...some girl Lee...." Gunnell's reference to "that dutchman" - the "Deutsch" man - may be to Anthony Fokker, "the Flying Dutchman." A Fokker-built plane was used by the Red Baron. • Jan. 26, 1919: "...This is a real lively place but you have to watch yourself lest some fair mademoiselle kidnaps you. This is the place for good looking women, believe me...and talk about dress, they sure know how to do it...They brought a new French car at the garage today, a Delaunay...Driving is no fun around here." • One realphoto postcard shows soldier inside barrel of cannon (album mounting strips, else sharp and very good). • With two snapshots of Gunnell, one in Navy blues, France, 1917, the other in dress uniform, Paris, 1919, posing with car. Lettersheets characteristically browned; envelopes with postal wear and tear, other minor defects, but generally very satisfactory. Contemporary references to the Flying Dutchman and Gotha bombers are excessively rare. $200-250 (17 pcs.)

17-5. In the Twilight of World War I: The Future - and Russia.

Two consecutive issues of N.Y. Times Mid-Week Pictorial, Mar. 21 and 28, 1918, plus Sept. 23, 1918, (24) pp. ea. Profusely illustrated in browntown gravure. On covers: "Signal Corps Men Observing Enemy Territory," "Italian Anti-Aircraft Machine Gun in Action against an Enemy Air Raider," and "American Soldier in Silent Prayer before a Bomb-Shattered Shrine in France." Sept.: Centerfold with map, 10 photos, and 9 circular portraits of top generals: "Germany's Military Power Waning before the Hammer Thrusts of the Allies on Devastated Soil of France and Flanders." Minor edge chipping two issues, another split along half of horizontal fold; semicircular fragment lacking at Sept. issue's spine where removed from volume, affecting corresponding text inside, else satisfactory, the images still compelling and dramatic. Uncommon, saved in far fewer numbers than the newspaper which enclosed it. • The Stars and Stripes newspaper, France, Dec. 27, 1918, 8 pp. Large page-1 stylized charcoal art, "The Future," showing a young man floating above a field of crosses and wreckage, his arms outstretched toward the heavens and the rising sun. Articles: A.E.F.'s war orphans, "Adoptions' Close...Aim to Give Children Chance they would have had if Father had Lived..."; "Meuse-Argonne Saw A.E.F. Make Maximum Effort," "President Takes his First Leave as A.E.F. Member - Christmas with his Army...," and more. Lengthy letter to editor, "So This is Russia," by an American serving there. Interesting ads, including Tiffany of Paris. Ink endorsement at top, "O.K. / Censored / Ralph B. Leonard, 1st Lt. Inft." Uniform toning, 1 ¹/4" semi-circular fragment lacking at blank top margin, else about good. $50-70 (4 pcs.)

17-6. A Pictorial Epic of World War I.

Heavy, oversize volume, Portfolio of the World War, "Rotogravure Etchings Selected from the Mid-Week Pictorial of The New York Times," (1918). 11 x 15 ³/4, unpaginated but several hundred pp., 1" thick. In original publisher's evergreen pebbled cloth, blind-stamped Grecian border, gilt title. Absorbing trove of many hundreds of photographs, some full page, plus maps and drawings, in green- and brown-tone, as they appeared in the pages of one of the world's then-top newspapers. Tracing the events of the War to End all Wars, from preparation for America's entry, to Armistice. With riveting photos of soldiers, War of the Worlds-style experimental tanks and artillery, primitive planes, destruction everywhere, and Rolls of Honor, with portraits of American soldiers killed in action, noting their home towns. Photos of gas warfare, war dogs, French Blue Devils saluting on hearing "The Star-Spangled Banner" while on leave in N.Y.C., Marine Corps at work, cutaways of German U-Boats, and much, much more. Inserted folded map of Western Battlefront. Curious massive marking on blank endleaf in orange pencil, perhaps "O.K.," denoting approval of this early sample copy from bindery. Wear at spine head and foot, one superficial scuff and two small spots on cover; inner hinge cracked; lower right corner of half-title leaf, bearing photograph of Pres. Wilson, with some edge tears; one leaf inside with long tear, uniform browning throughout, common on this polished groundwood, else sound, clean, and generally very good. Many of the battles, people, and places depicted were once familiar to every American; now, most are forgotten. A sobering journey. Found recently in its string-tied wrapping with storage markings c. 1970, with 65.00 price; now fresh to the market. $55-80

17-7. Newspapers of the Greatest Generation.

Group of complete newspapers with World War II headlines: The Norwalk (Conn.) Hour, Feb. 6, 1943. "Americans Strengthen Hold on Guadalcanal; Allies Attack Axis Strongholds in Tunisia - Big Bombing Raids by U.S. Slow Up Foes...Crucial Battle...Big Drive in Pacific Seen Two Years Away...." Local movie ads on p. 1 include "Boston Blackie Goes Hollywood." Chipping and separation along horizontal folds affecting text, but suitable for display or classroom use. • New York Times, Sept. 23, 1944. "Battle Rages to Free Encircled Air Army; Russians in Tallinn, Dash 50 Miles in a Day; Carrier Planes Continue Attacks at Manila." Page-1 photo, "Fighting the Germans inside their Fatherland," showing American machine gunners and tank at roadside. "Japan is Alarmed... Philippine Invasion is Imminent...Powerful U.S. Armada Attacked by Planes, Japanese Assert." "U.S. to be ‘Hard' with Germans; Eisenhower Orders Strict Rule." Small ads inside for Ebbets Field and Polo Grounds. Uniform marginal toning, else remarkably fresh. Excellent. • N.Y. Times Magazine, June 3, 1945, 48 pp. Some ads in color. Front cover bluetone gravure photo, "Action on Okinawa." Article by Gertrude Stein, writing from Paris on America's soldiers, and their lives about to begin at 30. "Today is Victory Day...the European Victory Day, and the young men are rightly told not to be too happy because it is only half over...." Shocking action photos of Operation Kamikaze, including Japanese plane hit while still high in the sky, falling like a comet into the Pacific. Photo of German civilians examining outdoor photo display of concentration camp atrocities - in Goering's home town. "Almost equaling in number the local inhabitants are thousands of former slave workers freed from their camps...." A riveting issue, capturing America and the world at that astonishing moment in 1945. Modest fray of few blank edges, light toning, some cover foxing, blank fragment torn from back cover, else very good. • N.Y. Herald Tribune, Aug. 15, 1945. Jumbo headline, "Japanese War Ends." "Truman Announces Unconditional Surrender...900 Superforts Deal Japanese a Final Blow...Flyers Racked by Horrible Anxiety...Seething (N.Y.) City Hails Victory, Millions Out...Frenzied 2,000,000 Jam Times Square...Japan Bows, Order Given to Cease Fire...." Brittle, frayed and separated into four quarters: along horizontal center fold, and cleanly split vertically; still one of the great issues of the century, and a survivor, dramatic for static display or teaching. $60-80 (4 pcs.)

17-8. Military Aviation Postcards.

Group of 11 unused and 3 used postcards, 1940s-50s. Including simulated-color linen, "Formation Flying through the Clouds," Utah, 1942. • Black-and-white "Greetings from Camp Pickett, Va.," postmarked 1943, montage of bombers in flight, parachutist jumping, tank, Jeep, and caisson. • Color linen bird's-eye of Glenn L. Martin Plant, Baltimore, 1944. All with good stamps. • Six black-and-white, unused, U.S. fighter planes, in flight, including F-86, Avenger, Douglas XF4D-1, A4D Skyhawk, McConnell Demon. • Color art, Canberra bomber, first jet to fly Atlantic without refueling, printed in England. • Pilot boarding B-24. • Parachutist bailing out. • Color linen, navigator sighting the course, San Antonio Cadet Center, 1943. • Plane on alert at sunset, guard silhouetted. • Plus 2 modern. Generally very fine. $35-50 (16 pcs.)

17-9. The Ship that Lives On: U.S.S. Broome Album.

Heavy binder containing a fascinating array of about 130 captioned photographs, a variety of original candids and older file prints, plus 48 photocopies, all relating to the destroyer U.S.S. Broome (DD-210) and her men. Compiled as a lifelong project by Basil Nickerson of Juneau, who served aboard the vessel Feb. 1941 to July 1946, plying Atlantic waters in convoy escort and patrol. Commissioned the year after WW I's Armistice - her "four piper" monicker denoting the ship's quad smokestacks - she was brought back into service in WW II. Comprising 49 protector pages, their contents from a wide variety of Nickerson's correspondents and research sources; most photos 2 ¹/2 x 3 ¹/4, 2 ¹/2 x 3 ¹/2, and 2 ³/4 x 4 ¹/2, with several larger, and a few 8 x 10. Including shots of dropping depth charges, patrolling off coast of N.C., ship's engineer at wheel, posing with a Casablanca policeman beneath a palm tree, and much, much more. Occasional minor handling evidence, a small number light, else generally fine to very fine, the photographs sharp, with very good detail and contrast. (Modern photocopies of reference value only.) Contained in modern, plain looseleaf. Smaller photos mounted by Nickerson on graph paper, with numbers and captions evidently corresponding to CD. • With CD containing scans of Broome photos and documents, from Nickerson's Zip and floppy disks (only 1 floppy present). • Illus. 1940 Philadelphia newspaper article, mentioning DD 210's role in chasing German freighters off coast of Mexico, a dense trail of smoke rising from one of them, its crew having set it ablaze to avoid capture. • "Four Stacker Comic Book," delight-ful cartoon-style adventures aboard the destroyers, and 2000 "U.S. Navy Memorial Calendar," with full-page photos of the vintage warships. Postwar, Nickerson lived in Alaska, founding the "Four Piper Destroyer Fellowship," maintaining records of the ship's history, and producing and selling memorabilia related to destroyers. This album was evidently his master working copy. A labor of love, one man's lifelong devotion to his ship. $250-375 (over 130 pcs. + photocopies + CD and floppy)

17-10. Three Substantial Scrapbooks of a Career Sailor's Life at Sea and Ashore.

Albums of career sailor William B. "Pete" Grimm, originally from Kansas City, with photos, souvenirs, and keepsakes spanning his life on and off duty, 1944-65. Serving on some twelve ships: U.S.S. Sterett, Casablanca, White Plains, L.S.T. 658, Mansfield, Los Angeles, Wedderburn, P.C.S, 1444, Goss, Caliente, Belle Grove, and Mathews.

• Album 1: Unusual vintage binding, evidently pre-1946. Black lacquer-wet-look with hand-painted Japanese motifs, including cherry blossoms, Mt. Fuji, striped brown tiger - perhaps mythical - surrounding a map of Japan, the placenames - including "Seoul / Pusan" - primitively imprinted on hand press. 7 ¹/2 x 10 ¹/4 x 1 ¹/2 thick. Containing over 100 photographs of his Navy days in Hong Kong, Kowloon, and Shanghai, c. 1945-57, including 86 small souvenir photos, captions printed in Chinese and English; 8 postcards of local scenery; 11 candids of shipmates in port with local companions, 3 ¹/4 x 4 ³/4. Also, photos of his wife and two young daughters; greeting cards from them; Masonic booklets and cards; 1966 World Series, game 1 ticket, Dodgers vs. Orioles, pistachio, lilac, red, and black on white (Orioles swept in four games, first championship in their franchise history). Front cover split at front hinge; most items (including Series ticket) mounted with wide Scotch tape, but dry and some may pull off with care; still a time capsule of this sailor's long career, and otherwise good and better, the binding alone a rarity, dating to Japan's custody of Korea.

• Album 2: A fascinating array of items within, 1944-late 1940s. In rather exceptional, vividly colorful binder, made in China - then our ally, with multicolor embroidery of dueling dragons in aqua, yellow, flame-orange, vivid purple, and black, on midnight blue silk, stitched in red relief, "Photo Graphs / Shanghai / China / 1945." 7 ¹/4 x 10 ¹/2 x 1 thick. Containing handkerchief decorated with view of Mt. Fuji, on sheer powder-blue silk, lettered "W.B. Grimm, U.S. Navy, U.S.S. Mansfield DD-728, Sasebo, Japan, 1946," with Japanese characters, the entire inscription likely by Japanese seller. Also, 19 souvenir photographs, printed in China, various sizes, all captioned in Chinese and English, mostly views of Shanghai, including "God of Piece" (sic) monument; 24 early postwar photos, variously gravure and darkroom-developed in Japan, most 3 x 3 ³/4, showing destruction: "Terrible Damage done to the City of Hiroshima by the Atomic Bomb," "A thriving black market...people flock together on eatables near Ginza in Tokyo," "Scenery for the war suffering districts...," and more; 13 darkroom souvenir photos, including "Imperial Palece" (sic), American soldiers being pulled in rickshaws past Ernie Pyle Theater flying the Stars and Stripes, and more; 12 photos of Hawaii and dancers, one especially personable; 14 photos on U.S.S. White Plains with hijinks upon crossing meridian in 1944; three of local women, evidently South Sea islanders; humorous Christmas card, probably printed in Tsingtao, China, crossed Chinese and U.S. flags. Lower right corner of front cover frayed, exposing board, else a rare survivor thus, suitable for display; internally all items mounted with wide Scotch tape, several leaves at rear shaken from cord tie, else very satisfactory, and immensely interesting.

• Album 3: Grimm's third photograph album, spanning 1951-65. Heavy, 10 x 11 ¹/2 x 2 thick, likely made in Japan, with multicolor-dyed combed cotton turned over boards, featuring cherry blossom on vine, signed (in Japanese) by artist. White tassel binding, stiff buff card leaves, gilt fore-edge. Dymo stencilled strips on first page, with names of ships on which he served. Including: 5 Liberty passes; birthday and Christmas cards (one printed in Japan); color postcards of Japanese scenes in Kobe, "the largest trading port," but still a small town; snapshot of Grimm in uniform; his five children; Masonic acceptance letter and membership cards; pencil list of four of his children, with notations beside each in Hebrew, probably Masonic use; military payment script; election to Elks; extensive 1960 Thanksgiving menu aboard U.S.S. Mathews; government operators license for "Pickup, Jeep, 1 Ton"; silk 50-star flag folded among Elks items - and a 1965 World Series ticket, game 5, green, red, and pink, in which Koufax pitched, winning MVP for the Series. Most items mounted with wide Scotch tape, now discolored to light honey tone but without stickiness; some pages now empty, the items possibly fallen as tape dried, else satisfactory.

• Grimm's U.S.S. Sterett memorabilia, the first ship he served on: 6 postally used commemorative covers relating to Sterret, Charleston Navy Yard, postmarked 1936-39, all with attractive cachets: laying keel, first day in commission, launch, and shakedown cruise. Soft creases, else fine. • Sterett captain's modern, tan yacht cap, and black reunion cap. Latter well-worn, else very good. $450-650 (3 albums + memorabilia)

17-11. The Mighty Battleship Missouri.

Compelling group of memorabilia relating to the fabled Missouri, on which the Japanese surrendered, ending World War II: Wood paperweight bearing engraved brass plate, "Teakwood Deck from U.S.S. Missouri...L(ong) B(each), Ca. / 7-15-(19)85," upon which the Japanese surrendered. 3 x 3 ³/4 x 1 ⁵/8 thick. Underside was evidently top of the ship's deck, with intriguing patination of aircraft tires, millions of footfalls, Pacific storms and seawater. • Another, 2 ³/4 x 3 ³/4 x 1 ⁵/8. Both in surprisingly good condition. These large pieces are now elusive; some were cut by entrepreneurs into thin cufflink inlays, or small chips framed with the ship's photo, appearing in the $50 to $125 range. • Souvenir folder, "Welcome Aboard," 1972, 5 ¹/4 x 8, 4 pp., navy blue on cream. Aerial photo as her massive guns fired, the projectiles weighing 1 ¹/2 tons! History of the surrender. Fascinating paragraph on the ship's dehumidification system to reduce corrosion of machinery and electronic equipment. List of armaments. Short tear on back leaf, graduated toning, else very good. • Black-and-white souvenir facsimile of surrender document, sold at ship, probably c. 1972. With its souvenir red, white and blue envelope, postally unused, line drawing of Missouri. Printed "The End of World War II / Official Surrender Document Signed in Tokyo Bay...Sept. 2, 1945...." Some tea(?) spots. • Two modern black-and-white glossies of the famous photos (the teak deck visible). 8 x 10. One showing MacArthur et al looking on as Nimitz signs, the other with Japanese signing as Allied brass witness. Excellent. • 5¢ scrip used in post-surrender occupation; American currency was not used in Japan. "Military Payment Certificate," purple and green. Series 541. Folds and considerable wrinkling, but bright and satisfactory. • Handsome official, modern souvenir folder welcoming the Missouri to San Francisco, with color photo of the battleship being escorted by a tug, sightseeing boat, vintage Navy utility ship, and pleasure craft. Facsimile inscription within emulsion of then-Mayor Diane Feinstein, "Welcome to San Francisco!" Heavy ivory folding mat, gold border, deckle edge, City seal with ribbon inside. Fine. • Souvenir cap, golden-yellow embroidery on black: "...BB 63 / The Lone Warrior," with knight astride rearing horse. Made in U.S.A. Very light evidence of use. Probably ex-William B. Grimm, Long Beach, retired U.S.N. (See his scrapbooks preceding.) A stirring assemblage. $170-220 (10 pcs.)

17-12. Postcard Group: At Sea and Ashore with the Navy.

Interesting collection of 42 U.S. Navy-related postcards, 1908-1940s, but principally World War II era. Including 31 realphotos (one duplicate), some candids; some with "A-R-A" logo. Most postally unused. A sampling: Color "U.S. Sailors Life - A Wrestling Match," postmarked 1908, message in French ("...demande police protection...") perhaps to stymie curious eyes en route, to San Jose, Calif. • Color "U.S. Navy Boxing Match on Cruiser Cleveland," postmarked 1908. Raphael Tuck. • Color "U.S. Revenue Cutter Service - Drilling with 4" Breech Loading Rifle...to impress smugglers or any other lawbreakers...," postmarked 1906. Raphael Tuck. • Prewar realphotos of battleship U.S.S. West Virginia (heavily damaged at Pearl Harbor; here shown passing under Brooklyn Bridge), WW I lead battleship New York, and heavy cruiser San Francisco (one of the Navy's most decorated ships, fighting against all odds at Guadalcanal, losing steering, engine control, communications, a Rear Admiral, her Captain, and all but one officer). • Realphoto, "It took three days to clear the Fo'c'le of ice" (Naval spelling of "Forecastle"), the entire prow and guns of the ship encrusted with thick ice. • Realphoto, waves swamping the deck of the Cheyenne. • Realphoto, organized calisthenics on deck. • Realphoto, "Loading a Torpedo," "Time, Inc. - Photo Approved...." • Realphoto, "Atlantic Fleet entering Culebra Bay, West Indies" (site of naval base off Puerto Rico). • Realphoto, "Setting Up Exercises, U.S.N. Training Station, Great Lakes, Ill.," showing rows of hundreds of new recruits doing squat-thrusts. Postmarked 1943, free franked. "We got all of our uniforms now, so we have to do our own washing and that's no lie...." • Realphoto, "Anchor Chain, Leviathan," showing a chain of unimaginable girth on this famed passenger liner repurposed in the war. • Realphotos, "Our Aeroplane Gun," pointing skyward at sea, and "Patrol boats and mine layers, Brest, France"; both light. • Realphoto, WW I era, "A Division at Sea," thick black smoke from ship bearing down on cameraman. N. Moser, N.Y. • Realphoto, "Quarter-Deck Seas," by Moser, cinematic view of ship pitching into mountain-range-like waves. • And others. Varied wear, postally used cards with some corner creases, else good to fine. Splendid to dress up displays. $80-120 (42 pcs.)

17-13. Postcard Group: We're in the Army Now.

Specialized assemblage of 36 Army-related postcards, nearly all showing Army camps and barracks on the home front. Most World War II era, few prewar. Including 6 realphotos; occasional color linens. Two postally used from Camp Roberts, Calif., 1942 (plus one duplicate, unused); balance unused. Including: Realphoto, Gen. MacArthur, holding cigar. Photographer W.J. Gray, Los Angeles. • Realphoto, Chapel Spire, Camp McCoy, Wis. • Realphoto, chapel and avenue, Camp Phillips, Kans. • Realphoto, CCC Camp, near Chalmor Ranch, Roosevelt Park, four stake-body trucks and three pickups in distance. • Barracks Interior, Ft. Sheridan, Ill. • Printed montage, planes, tanks, carrier, soldiers and sailors, surrounding "V(ictory)." • Color, Army Motorcycle Corps. With sidecars, one with machine gun behind shield, facing camera. Probably prewar. • Sepia, post exchange with ice cream counters, Camp Pendleton, Calif. • Camp Roberts, Calif., two with pencil messages. "...There is Indians and ever(y)thing else here. We have good officers but they are strict...." • Also: Camp Ord, Salinas, Calif.; Camp San Luis Obispo, Calif.; Ft. McDowall, Calif, 2 diff.; McClellan Field, Calif.; Chanute Field, Rantoul, Ill.; Evansville, Ind.; Camp Claiborne, La.; Fort Meade, Md., 4 diff. showing progression from reception center to barracks; Arsenal, Springfield, Mass., Tuck; Durham, N.H.; dress parade, West Point, 2 different, impressive; Ft. Bragg, N.C.Camp Endicott, R.I.; Camp Warden McLean, Chattanooga, 2 diff.; and Ft. Wright, Spokane. Occasional light handling evidence, else generally fine and better. A somewhat overlooked aspect of the story of the war. $60-85 (36 pcs.)

17-14. A Complete Packet of 24 Different Frank Teixeira Patriotics.

World War II patriotic covers in consistent style, each with Teixeira's stylized red, white, blue, and yellow-gold cachet. Each with postmark "U.S. Army Postal Service A.P.O. 1 / Jan. 14, 1943" tying free frank. Each with neatly applied censor stamp, and signature of noted philatelist-soldier Capt. Frank L. Teixeira of famed 1st Infantry Division, who prepared covers. Each with diagonal toning of seams, else mint and strikingly attractive. All Teixeira covers are now rare (he issued many more than 24 covers, but these were his original numbers 1-24, and packaged by him as a set). An opportunity to acquire a numbered run.

• Beginning with "Casablanca Meeting," Jan. 14, 1943. With tassel-fringed shield. In yellow ribbon, "Pres. Roosevelt and Prime Min. Churchill Meet - Africa - Jan. 14, 1943." Teixeira catalogue no. 1, cover no. 1.

• "Teheran Meeting," Nov. 28, 1943. Red, white, blue, and yellow-gold cachet, "Teheran Meeting..." with tassel-fringed shield. In yellow ribbon, "‘Big Three' Meet at Teheran - Persia - Nov. 28, 1943." Blue postmark "U.S. Army Postal Service A.P.O. 1 / Nov. 28, 1943" tying free frank. Neatly applied green censor stamp, and signature of noted philatelist Capt. Frank L. Teixeira of famed 1st Infantry Division, who prepared cover. Teixeira catalogue no. 2, cover no. 2.

• "D-Day in France," June 6, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "Invasion of Normandy, June 6, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 3, cover no. 3.

• "Paris Liberated," Aug. 25, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "F.F.I. Troops Drive Nazis out of Paris - France - Aug. 25, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 4, cover no. 4.

• "Brussels Liberated," Sept. 4, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Belgium - Sept. 4, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 5, cover no. 5.

• "Luxembourg Liberated," Sept. 10, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "Nazis Withdraw from Luxembourg City, Sept. 10, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 6, cover no. 6.

• "Athens Liberated," Oct. 14, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Greece, Oct. 14, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 7, cover no. 7.

• "Belgrade Liberated," Oct. 16, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Yugoslavia, Oct. 16, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 8, cover no. 8.

• "Tirana Liberated," Nov. 18, 1944. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Albania, Nov. 18, 1944." Teixeira catalogue no. 9, cover no. 9.

• "Warsaw Liberated," Jan. 17, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Poland, Jan. 17, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 10, cover no. 10.

• "Yalta Conference," Feb. 12, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin Meet at Yalta - Russia, Feb. 12, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 11, cover no. 11.

• "Cologne is Taken," Mar. 5, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Cologne Falls to the American 1st Army - Germany, Mar. 5, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 12, cover no. 12.

• "1st Army Crosses the Rhine," Mar. 8, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Remagen Bridge Falls to the Americans - Germany, Mar. 8, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 13, cover no. 13.

• "Vienna Liberated," Apr. 10, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Austria, Apr. 10, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 14, cover no. 14.

• "F.D.R. Dies," Apr. 12, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Nation Mourns Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt, Apr. 12, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 15, cover no. 15.

• "Amsterdam Liberated," May 5, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Nazis Driven out of Amsterdam - Netherlands, May 5, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 16, cover no. 16.

• "Copenhagen Liberated," May 5, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Denmark, May 5, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 17, cover no. 17.

• "Prague Liberated," May 8, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Czechoslovakia, May 8, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 18, cover no. 18.

• "Oslo Liberated," May 8, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Capital of Norway, May 8, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 19, cover no. 19.

• "V-E Day," May 8, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Victory in Europe - Germany Surrenders, May 8, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 20, cover no. 20.

• "Potsdam Conference," Aug. 1, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "The New ‘Big 3' - Truman-Atlee-Stalin Meet at Potsdam, Berlin, Aug. 1, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 21, cover no. 21.

• "First Atomic Bomb Dropped," Aug. 6, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "United States Drops First Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug. 6, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 217 (added by Teixeira to packet, to complete chronology).

• "Russia at War with Japan," Aug. 8, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Russia Declares War on Japan, Aug. 8, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 22, cover no. 22.

• V-J Day," Sept. 2, 1945. In yellow ribbon, "Victory in Japan - End of World War II, Sept. 2, 1945." Teixeira catalogue no. 23, cover no. 23. Such sets are now rare. $750-950 (24 pcs.)

17-15. Archive of an Intelligence Officer.

Fascinating assemblage of Columbia Recording Corp. exec-turned-World War II intelligence officer Lt. Arthur Tober. From Bridgeport, Conn., trained at Anti-Aircraft Artillery School, Fort Davis, N.C., stationed in Alaska, then retrained at Military Intelligence Training Center as a photo interpreter, because of his knowledge of German. Including six photographic studies of superlative artistic quality, 8 x 10, professionally taken, of artillery officers. An accompanying note to Tober states that one, showing a puppy in a soldiers knapsack lettered "And we can do it again," "will soon appear on front page of a national magazine, maybe Liberty." Another inscribed to Tober by photographer. All on double-weight matte paper, and choice. • Panoramic photo of Anti-Aircraft Artillery Officer Candidate School, Ft. Davis, showing about 150 men in uniform, presumably including Tober. 8 x 31 oblong, 1942. Sharp and dark, with superior sepia contrast. Rolled, as usually encountered, else excellent. In the wake of Pearl Harbor, anti-aircraft artillery officers were urgently needed. • Thick original kraft envelope mailed home, "Passed by Examiner," containing collection of 12 Alaska camp newspapers "Kodiak Bear," Fort Greeley (7, one in triplicate), "Ladd Field Midnight Sun," "Anchorage Daily Times" (3 diff.), "The Williwaws" (Vol. I, No. 1), all 1943. • Envelope of more camp newspapers: "Sourdough Sentinel" (Yukon, 2 diff., 1943-44, one with front-page account of visit of Eddie Rickenbacker), and 8 clippings, some from major American dailies, one with large photo of Tober with Dixie Walker, Stan Musial, Frankie Frisch, and other baseball stars visiting Alaska and Aleutian bases. • Tober's gold-leaf-on-black desk nameplate, 2 ¹/2 x 14 ³/4, with artillery cannon insignia. • Three embroidered artillery patches (two the same). • Two elaborately gold-stamped humorous pictorial certificates for Tober's induction in "Totem Igloo Mystic and Auroral Order of Alaska Cheechakos," in 9 x 12 envelopes, postmarked Anchorage and Kodiak, 1943, "See Alaska" oversize label. • Tober's personal azimuth, mounted on instructional folder. "Lose your way and you may lose the battle...." • Booklet, U.S. Army Recreation Camp, Mt. McKinley, (32) pp. • Restricted Special Orders, Camp Pickett, Va., Dec. 1945, mimeo, detailing his release from service; authority for departure, signed by numerous officers (7 pcs.). • Photo ID card issued by Adjt. Genl.'s Office; and more. Good to excellent; the most valuable items, the 8 x 10 photos, are choice. $375-475 (over 50 pcs.)

17-16. Defending Maine: Archive of a Jewish Soldier and Chaplain's Clerk.

About 50 items relating to Jewish Cpl. Aaron Stein, "Portland Subsection and Harbor Defense of Portland," Fort Williams, Maine, serving as editor of camp newspaper, "The Guidon," and clerk in office of Chaplain, with whom he developed a friendship evident in correspondence. 1941-46. Just a few highlights: Letter to Stein on Star-of-David stationery of Jewish Community Center, Portland, Dec. 4, 1941, inviting him to be a guest at their supper dance, Dec. 8. "Since our list of Jewish men in the Portland Harbor Defense area may be incomplete, please be good enough to check this date with any of the Jewish boys you may come across ...From our hostess group you will have the pleasure of choosing your ‘Young Lady' for the evening...." Doubtless, the mood was much different than expected. • Letter from his former C.O., now at Chaplain's Office, Ft. Jackson, S.C. "This is a real combat outfit and no fooling...." • Letter from Chaplain, here at H.Q. Chaplain School, Harvard. "...This is War and good chaplains, ahem! - are needed with troops!..." • Unusual typewritten memo from Col. at Ft. Williams, concerning interference with publication of Stein's newspaper. "...My advice which at least on this occasion happens to be good advice is that all concerned regardless of their rank or position play ball 100%. Otherwise there is going to be a local explosion as a result of which someone is definitely going to be burned." • Letter from ed. at "H.Q. Hawaiian Dept., Fort Shafter, T(erritory of) H(awaii)." • Letters to him from officers and friends, including Chaplain and Post Advisor, Portland Harbor Defense; three V-Mail letters from Chaplain to Stein, social events for soldiers; Army manuals on "Use of Information" and gun care (4); camp publication "G.I. Galley" - actually a very high quality magazine - with wonderful cartoons; 1942 Christmas menu and dance program; and report from H.Q., 8th Coast Artillery, Ft. Preble, Thanksgiving 1943 menu and roster. Archive concludes with 1946 letter from friend just out of the service, now in the garment business on New York's Seventh Ave.: "Schlossie [the writer] is a married man! Yes, I did it...Honeymoon (in) Florida and Cuba...." Much more. Notwithstanding the typewritten Base recreation schedule, mounted on card and once tacked to office wall - listing dances six nights of the week - conspicuous by its absence is mention that one of the largest oil storage areas in the U.S. during World War II was just outside Portland, at Recompense Bay. Sabotage of this facility would have been disastrous for the country. Fort Williams was manned by both soldiers and sailors. Generally fine, and highly interesting, with human interest sometimes lacking in such soldiers' collections. $175-275 (about 50 pcs.)

17-17. Three Items Signed by World War II Medal of Honor Recipient.

Group of three items: A.L.S. of celebrated autograph collector Rev. Cornelius Greenway, on his church letterhead, Brooklyn, N.Y., July 14, 1945, 8 ¹/2 x 11. To "Pfc. Gino J. Merli, M(edal) of H(onor)," Peckville, Pa. Enclosing photograph (not present) for Merli's signature. Greenway writes, "I was severely wounded in France; also gassed and twice decorated...Is it true that you were severely bayonetted? I hope not." Merli replies on verso, "Carried out the order as best I could...Best of Luck. My bayonette wounds are not too serious." In characteristic Greenway fashion, he has pencilled biographical notes at bottom of the letter: "...Merli received Congressional Medal of Honor on June 15, (19)45...He earned it near Lars la Bruyère, Belgium. Repeatedly feigned death in spite of several bayonet probings, then he continued firing his machine gun on enemy overrunning his position." Browning along center horizontal fold, where check reposed for decades. • With Greenway's check to Merli for 1.00 postage, endorsed on verso. Greenway's letter which enclosed the check unusually ghosted on both sides of check; browned, else very good. • Old-style P.O. return receipt, bearing Merli's signature in pencil. "Received Congressional Medal" in Greenway's hand. Two adhesions on address side from use, else good. Greenway would often mention his own World War I wounds, to improve chances of receiving the autograph of his addressee. Ex-Parke Bernet, early 1970s. $60-80 (3 pcs.)

18-1. Psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich writes a student in the Nazi years, "Right now the situation looks crazy...The coming years will demand enormous efforts...."

T.L.S. with initials "W.R.," Mar. 22, (19)38, 8 x 10 ³/4. In German, possibly his retained file copy. To "Liebe Freunde," believed a Mr. Bumbacher, a student of Reich. With translation c. 1980s: "Your letter was good and - frankly - much maturer and more experienced than the former ones. I guess that you were angry with me, because I seemed a bit incommunicative with you...As far as I am concerned, it was nothing personal. To reassure you and your friends over there, I'd like to tell you that we work here not only scientifically in the lab, but we also try to gain a hold of all possibilities and starting points of a new movement which is visible and has to be formulated. Right now the situation looks crazy, but in the not too distant future you will receive an outline of constructive art. The coming years will demand enormous efforts. That takes caution, intelligence, courage, and most of all, development of the person as such. Learn practically in contact with workingmen, how to survive difficult times without illusive demands. I will of course always be available to you...." Fragment lacking at blank lower right edge, uniform cream toning, else very fine. Reich material is now somewhat scarce. $200-250

18-2. Nazi Gunner's Illustrated Notebook.

Highly unusual item: a bound engineering-style notebook of a German gunner, including his hand drawings of British, French, and German planes and warships. 6 ¹/2 x 8 ³/4, black leatherette over flexible boards, about 26 pp. filled with manuscript notes (in German), plus 18 pp. with artwork, the scribe believed a Nazi sailor, possibly a coastal defense gunner attached as crewman manning a 15cm S.K. C28 cannon (this gun mentioned throughout). Silhouette, head-on, and bird's-eye drawings, most in broad pencil, some in ink, of aircraft and various cruisers and destroyers, meant to guide the gunner in determining whether a target was friend or foe. Numerous types of views are drawn: wing designs, frontal views, engine placement, fuselage and tail profiles, ships' smokestack and mast arrangements, and more. Including examples of ME 109, Wellington, JU 52 and 87, Hudson, He 111, and BV 222. Some of the planes drawn are World War I- to 1920s-style, still in service. • When opened from back cover and rotated, another approx. 48 pp. bear extensive text entries, mostly in brown, green, and grey inks, untranslated but presumed military content and possibly of considerable interest. Most text in a bold, clear hand. Occasional embellishments in red pencil using a ruler. Leaves preprinted with a fine grey and red engineering grid. Covers worn from use with creases, some dogearing of leaves, uniform cream toning of text, else good. Fascinating. Selected spreads suitable for display. $200-300

18-3. Mail from a Nazi Doctor who Resisted.

Group of 15 postcards and envelopes (sans letters) of Nazi military mail, postmarked early in World War II: Comprising 5 Feldpost postcards, 1 folded lettersheet (containing 3 full pp.), and 6 lined envelopes, from Ober Arzt (Head Physician) Rudolf Lang: 4 dated Jan.-Feb., and 8 in July-Aug., 1941. Nazi eagle c.d.s. Most to Frau Gerda Lang, presumed his wife, in Oberammergau (Bavaria) and Bad Gastein, Salzburg. Postcards in customary pencil, other items in pencil or ink. Usual postal wear, else clean and very good. Lang appears in the modern work Disobeying Hitler: German Resistance After Valkyrie, by Hansen. As the noose tightened in the waning days of the war, Lang was a senior physician at the main hospital in Augsburg. Approaching American infantry distributed leaflets telling the Germans to hoist white flags. "Save your old town and its inhabitants from the rain of steel that threatens Augsburg with destruction." Nazi Gen. Fehn, in command of the city, had 800 men available and refused to surrender, building barricades on bridges and underpasses. Bridges were primed to be blown up. The resistance group around Dr. Lang had prepared delivery of the city through negotiations with the town's Nazis - and then made contact with the Americans. A local cycled to the Americans and agreed to the surrender; the next morning, he led a number of tanks and jeeps into the city. American soldiers entered Fehn's bunker, gave him an ultimatum that passed, then arrested him, thus ending the war in Augsburg on April 28 - a week from V-E Day. "Augsburg was largely preserved from the complete destruction that came (to)...Heilbronn, Nuremberg, and Ulm, thanks to a unique revolutionary movement that greatly facilitated the invasion of American troops."--tracesofevil.com. • Plus 3 pcs. from others, presumed non-medical: 1 postcard (with two swastika handstamps), 1 cover (with green bar stamp, "Feldpost Nr. 11093B"), and 1 cover, typewritten, from "Maj. Hotter," Breslau to Munich, blank top edge torn. Mail of Nazi physicians is uncommonly encountered. Worthy of translation. $130-170 (15 pcs.)

18-4. The Siegfried Line.

Unused letterhead of "Organisation Todt / Einsatzgruppe West" - the Nazi engineering and labor unit that built the Siegfried Line, to stop Allied invasion from the West in 1942. 8 ¹/4 x 10 ¹/2, with Nazi eagle at upper left, in black. File wrinkles along right margin, uniform toning, else very good. $30-40

18-5. Second and Longest-Serving President of Israel.

Autograph Note of J. Ben-Zevie, penned on his visiting card printed during the Mandate period, this variant spelling his personal usage. Jerusalem, (1950), printed English one side, Hebrew on verso. 2 ¹/2 x 4 ¹/4. "Member of advisory council for Palestine" crossed out by him, penning "Member of the Knesset" and several lines in Hebrew, in dark blue. (Ben-Zvi served in the 1st Knesset, and signed Israel's Declaration of Independence.) Writing that he is acquainted with Moshe Ackerman, and wishes people to help him. Much worn, rust stain of slip at lower left, right margin with moderate stain, lesser pocket stains elsewhere, creases, but satisfactory. Evidently carried in Ackerman's wallet for some time, this card representing his survival in the new land of Israel. Ben-Zvi "helped create the political, economic, and military institutions basic to the formation of the state of Israel"--Britannica. Rare. $140-180

19-1. A Physician's Rejection of a Kentucky Militia Man.

Manuscript document of Thos. V. Morrow, Surgeon, 39th Regt., Kentucky Militia, Oct. 13, 1828, 6 ³/4 x 7 irregular, on crudely handmade paper with natural thin spots, and deckled two sides. "I hereby certify that I examined Robert Richardson, a militia man belonging to Capt. E. Harrison's company of the 39th Regt. of Ky. militia & I find him disqualified for the purpose of military duty in consequence of the loss of use of his forefinger of the right hand. He is therefore...entitled to exemption during the continuance of his present disability." Coffee-and-cream ink, oatmeal toning, minor spot near signature, perhaps from blotter, else very good, and evocative for display. Militia man Richardson's exemption may have saved his life: Kentucky acquired the monikur "Dark and Bloody Ground," for the numerous Indian wars fought there. $70-90

19-2. The Epidemic of 1849: Cholera Reaches New York City.

Letter from N.Y.C. clergyman J. Larnin, S.J.(?), 77 Third Ave. [near Bowery], June 8, 1849, 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4, 1 ¹/2 pp. To Capt. James Rudd, Louisville, Ky. "You have the kindness to invite me to make your house my home...Should any fortunate breeze waft me to the West, I shall certainly avail myself of your invitation...The cholera has at length reached N.Y. But it does not break out with any violence...It appears that our neighbors of Brooklyn, on the other side of the East River, are more anxious about the cholera than they are in N.Y...We regretted exceedingly not having seen Bishop Spalding [of Ky.] when he was in N.Y. What a pity...." Integral address-leaf, dark pink c.d.s. Staining and some wear at folds, tear on address leaf where opened, else good. $50-70

19-3. A Medical Student Picking Prunes in Old Oregon.

Lengthy, entertaining letter from Rudolph Schmidt, a mischievous medical student in Turner, Ore., Mar. 29, (19)02, on 5 individual pp., 8 x 10. To brother in Washington, D.C. Reporting his grades, "Osteology 85%, Hygiene 97, Materia Medica 94... Histology will be about 80 because it is my hardest study...I think I will work-out again this coming harvest. The work is not so very hard and wages fair, about $1.25 per day and board. People as a rule are nice...Last Fall I picked prunes for George Staples. I had a most delightful time. There were two young ladies staying at Staples, one the cook and the other stayed for company. Both of them came out almost every day and helped me pick prunes...You should have heard the ‘deep thoughts' that were expressed, and the ‘eloquent language' used. Oh my!! At evening they would play cards or sing...The telegraph operator and myself did more mischief than a band of monkeys. We started in by tick-tacking ...by the aid of a spool of cotton thread, a large piece (of) resin, and a nail, which was tied to one end of the thread and inserted into a crack along the side of the house...About 300 yards from the house was one or the other of us, with the resin in our hand which when drawn along the thread...produced most unearthly long drawn moan like sounds...." Describes the hysterical reactions of their superstitious hosts, who began banging on the floor of the house, trying to quell the spooky noise, then taking an ax to the wall! Short tear on one page, original folds, else fine. The writer did earn his M.D., remaining in Oregon. He is credited with first demonstrating a phenomenon in ulcer chemistry, in an article "Some Mistaken Diagnoses" in Northwest Medicine, 1910. • With envelope, 1 ¹/2" tear in center where opened, 2¢ red Washington stamp intact, "Oregon" c.d.s. struck partly off cover. $100-130 (2 pcs.)

19-4. New York Lockdown in 1784.

D.S. of Robert Yates, Revolutionary War patriot, jurist, member Albany Committee of Safety, N.Y. Provincial Congress; delegate to U.S. Constitutional Convention, but opposed ratification. Albany, N.Y., Jan. 24, 1784, 8 x 12 ³/4. "...Daniel [Rowley of Kings District, Columbia County] hath been sick for some weeks past...and the Deponent verily believes that the said Daniel would endanger his Life if he was at this time to go abroad and...unable to attend the Supreme Court...." Bold signature with paraph of Yates, as witness, and by William Knapp. Oatmeal toning, weak at folds, minor chipping at upper left, else good and suitable for display. An obscure find. $85-110

19-5. Antebellum Magazine Written by Lunatic Asylum Patients.

Excessively rare magazine, The Opal, "Edited by the Patients of the State Lunatic Asylum, Utica, N.Y.," Aug. 1853, 6 ¹/4 x 10, (34) pp. Pictorial wrappers, with decorative title and Gothic frame ornaments. Probably the first periodical in America written and edited by psychiatric patients, published by Dr. Amariah Brigham, here pioneering his new approach to "social psychiatry"; founder of American Journal of Insanity (today's American Journal of Psychiatry). "Devoted to usefulness," this issue largely devoted to "Literary Studies," with eloquent, well-written articles, poems, and book reviews by the inmates. "We are so constituted...that a certain degree of employment is essential to our happiness. To have this activity judiciously regulated, so that we may not be enslaved by indolence, and, at the same time, preserved from unhappy excitement, is highly desirable...." Soliciting donations of books and money from "the generous and philanthropic, whose sympathies are with the unfortunate...since the State has made no appropriations for a Library for our use...." A poem, "Asylum Life: or, the Advantages of a Disadvantage": "I have no care for copper or coin, I have no fear for any one's frown...I have talks to take, and news to read, With chit-chat and work the hours to speed...." A first-class publication, in typesetting, paper, layout - and wordcraft, with advertisements of Utica merchants on covers. Every other spread untrimmed at top, light dust-toning of cover, minor crease at lower left corner, else a file sample in very fine, fresh condition. WorldCat locates only six holdings, including National Library of Medicine, Yale's Medical Library, and as distant as Zentralbibliothek Zürich. $110-140

19-6. "A candidate for the torment of Hell...."

Letter to the noted Dr. A. Brigham, "Supt. of the State Asylum, Utica, N.Y.," from Evansville, Jefferson County, N.Y., Mar. 2, 1847, 1 full p., 8 x 10. Writing "...in behalf of a suffering fellow being...in this vicinity, Mr. Wm. Bennett, a man about 40...whose earthly prospects were as pleasant as could be. No earthly cause can be assigned for his present derangement...He imagines his prosperity is about being wasted, family to be reduced to wretchedness ...He has taken the position that he is despised by his neighbors, and is a candidate for the torment of Hell forever, though he has been respected for his piety & moral worth. Last week he made two attempts to commit suicide...one by plunging himself into a spring of water. The derangement in his system is manifest by...involuntary motion of the body & limbs. (His mother has been deranged 20 years.) Can he be admitted into the State Lunatic Asylum?..." Ms. "5" postal marking. Blank ³/4 x 1 corner of address-leaf lacking, typical hole in blank area where opened at seal, else V.G. Darkly penned. $60-80

19-7. Confederate Surgeon, Yellow Fever Pioneer - and Defender of Slavery on Anthropological Grounds.

A.N.S. of J(osiah) C. Nott, antebellum Alabama physician, Confederate surgeon, and racial theorist, using his international reputation to defend slavery on "scientific" grounds, incendiary even some 165 years ago. Mobile, May 24, (18)57, 5 x 8; in this year, Nott co-edited his second book, Indigenous Races of the Earth, claiming a natural hierarchy. Unusual all-over wavy watermark, lending decorative effect. "I leave here on the 28th & expect to arrive in Philadelphia on the night of the 3d. I hope to meet you at the University on the morning of the 4th...." Some ink blotting on blank bottom, short tear at blank bottom edge, else fine. In his widely published writings, Nott asserted that there had been separate creations, producing differences between races, and that slavery was therefore justified. "Charles Darwin cited Nott's...arguments as an example of those classing the races of man as separate species; Darwin disagreed and he concluded that humanity is one species..."--The Descent of Man..., Darwin, 1871, p. 217, in wikipedia. (Interestingly, Nott's paternal lineage was from New England, and he trained in New York City.) Known for his research on yellow fever - to which he lost four of his children in one week - Nott is credited as the first to link mosquitos to the dreaded disease. Filling several key medical posts in the Confederacy, he served as Medical Director for Gens. Bragg and Ruggles. "The Union takeover of Mobile...appalled Nott, particularly as the occupying forces included two regiments of African-American troops and the Mobile Medical College [which he helped establish in 1859] was commandeered by the Freedmen's Dept. as a school for freed slaves..."--Encyclopedia of Alabama, Horsman. A biography of Nott was published by Louisiana State University Press. Rare; the first example we recall handling in decades. $160-200

19-8. First Successful Heart Transplant.

Colorful group of 3 greeting cards sent to Philip Blaiberg, dentist in South Africa who received world's first successful heart transplant in 1968. His operation was front page news, bringing cards from well-wishers worldwide. Each signed by him on verso, to raise funds for local Rotary Club. Minor wear, else V.G., attractive, and unusual. Choose:

19-8-A. Including birthday and get well

Variety of designs. $80-110 (3 pcs.)

19-8-B. Jewish New Year

Variety of designs. $90-120 (3 pcs.)

19-9. A Love-Lorn Colorado Railroad Surgeon: "paced the floor until four in the morning...."

Interesting letter of Dr. T.H. Craven, "Asst. Surgeon, D(enver) & R(io) G(rande) R(ail) R(oad)," Canon City, Colo., Dec. 28, 1892, 7 ¹/2 x 10 ¹/4, 2 pp., in pencil, signed with initials "Your true lover." To Stella Van Buskirk, "City." "I passed a very sad night of it...I went straight home when I left you Stella...paced the floor until four o'clock this morning...I layed down again and cried myself to sleep. O Stella I must see you some how today...I have got you mad at me...I have always treated you as nice as I could...Please answer this Stella...." Unusual "Rialto Mills" pictorial watermark. Some fold wear, else about very good. • With stampless envelope with seldom-seen pencil marking, "Charges 5." Irregular right edge where torn open by the anxious recipient, waterstained. $75-90 (2 pcs.)

19-10. "They seemed to enjoy the eve very much looking at the pictures and engravings...."

Letter about a mentally ill woman, from New Milford, Conn., Feb. 24, c. 1850, 6 ³/4 x 8 ¹/2, 4 pp. To her sister Mrs. Schroeder, 3 St. Clement's Pl., N.Y. Interesting mention of different forms of transportation: railroad, sleigh, and carriage, and a dizzying account of family visiting and news. "...I have been out to take Cousin Mary...sleigh riding...Came home to dine on boiled turkey, oysters &c...They seemed to enjoy the eve very much looking at the pictures and engravings...Cousin Charles started off in his carriage soon after breakfast, as we thought it would be disagreeable riding on wheels in such deep snow. We proposed taking a sleigh ride as far as Brookfield...I am sorry Sib has been such a bother to you...Uncle says ‘she has a hidden Devil in her somewhere'...." Very fine. • Stampless envelope, salmon New Milford c.d.s.; insect nibble at two margins, just touching one descender, else about very good. The addressee's St. Clement's Place was part of a charming episode in the history of Old New York. Beginning around 1831, "A common real estate marketing gimmick at the time, especially in Greenwich Village, was the renaming of single blocks to add high-toned character to the homes. The clever, if confusing, practice resulted in Varick Place on Sullivan St., (and) St. Clement's Place on MacDougal, to name a few..."--daytoninmanhattan.blogspot.com. In all events, this is the first non-cartographic 19th century reference to St. Clement's Place we have handled. $65-85 (2 pcs.)

19-11. "Thomas' school has been stopped because of the teacher's health...."

Lengthy letter from Milbury, Mass., to her sister, a missionary in Constantinople, Turkey, Jan. 20, 1849, 4 very full pp., 7 ³/4 x 9 ³/4. "I know that the Lord will take care of you as well as in our midsts...Saw (Dr. Benedict's) patients...Went to church...wrote his daughter how well he looked...The next morning he was a corpse... Arteries leading to his heart were ossified. He was taking magnesia for his condition...You have probably heard of loss of the steamer Lexington on Long Island Sound and great loss of life and property. Thomas' school has been stopped because of the teacher's health...." Light toning along fold, else very good. • With envelope, via Mission Rooms at Boston, paid "5" and pink circular handstamp. Spilled ink along two margins with some chipping, else satisfactory. $45-60 (2 pcs.)

20-1. Lady Susan's Manor in the Reign of William and Mary.

Manuscript real estate document, on vellum, in Latin, Oct. 3, 1698. 9 ³/4 x 12 ¹/4, in an attractive hand, on ruled baselines. Transfer of a lease issued by Lady Susan Effingham, widow of Robert, presiding over a manorial court. To Charles Shawe, for land in Wymondham, Norfolk, previously rented to Elizabeth Paston. Elizabeth was perhaps a descendant of the Paston family of Norfolk, who acquired much land from the real-life namesake of Shakespeare's character Falstaff. Famous for their 15th century correspondence, the Paston Letters serve as one of the principal sources for social history of the Wars of the Roses period, and are notably mentioned in Encyclopaedia Britannica's chapter on the English Language: "In Old and Middle English the spelling remained a fairly reliable source for obtaining knowledge of the pronounciation, but the development of a fixed spelling early in the modern period meant that this was no longer the case, and other types of evidence have to be used. The most important of these are: (1) the spellings in private writings which are not bound by conventions, e.g., the Paston Letters..."--1958 ed., Vol. 8, p. 562. The Pastons also appear in Magna Carta Ancestry... (Everingham and Richardson, eds., 2011), The Paston Women (West, 2004), The Changing Face of Arthurian Romance (Adams, 1986), and numerous other works. (Interestingly, Prince Harry and family are rumored to have acquired a home in this charming area.) Several light smudges, one small hole in a crease with no loss of text, some toning, else V.G. $140-180

20-2. America's First Attorney General, who Proposed the Anti-Slavery Virginia Plan.

A.D.S. seven times of Edmund Randolph, first Attorney Gen. of U.S., under Washington; earlier his aide-de-camp 1775-76 and personal lawyer during the Revolution, Attorney Gen. of Va. 1776, member Continental Congress, succeeded Patrick Henry as Gov. Proposing the anti-slavery Virginia Plan for a new national government, Randolph was a delegate to Constitutional Convention - but then refused to sign it. Also the second Sec. of State, succeeding his second cousin - Thomas Jefferson. Signed six times by Randolph, in full, within text, plus "E. Randolph" at conclusion, 7 ¹/4 x 12, 1 very full p., Spotsylvania County, Va., Oct. 5, 1796. Evidently a draft, with several corrections also in his hand. Representing estate of Richard Brooke, Randolph "complains of Edward Voss of Culpeper County in custody of a plea, that he render to him the sum of £103 Virginia currency, which to him the said Voss owes, and from him unjustly detains...The said Voss, altho' often required, hath not paid the aforesaid sum of £103 Va. currency... hath refused, and still doth refuses, to the damage of the said Edmund Randolph... and therefore he brings suit &c...." Interesting oversize watermark of crowned arms. Shallow 1" fragment lacking at blank left margin, lacking blank upper right tip, 1" internal tear passing through four lines, several minor edge tears, light toning, else darkly penned, about very good, and a stellar examplar of this important Founding personage. • With finely copperplate-engraved bookplate of "John Randolph of Roanoke," 2 ¹/2 x 3 ³/4. Early red-wax mounting evidence on verso, else V.F. A descendant of Pocahontas, and a founder of American Colonization Society, John freed nearly 400 slaves, "heartily regretting that I have ever been the owner of one." John fought a duel with Henry Clay; ironically, Edmund was chief counsel for Aaron Burr - who had slain Randolph's fellow first-Cabinet member Alexander Hamilton - in Burr's trial for treason. Randolph material is now uncommon. Randolph's resume offers a compelling example of an anti-slavery Southern founder. $1600-2200 (2 pcs.)

20-3. From a Mediaeval Law Book - Two Columns.

Fascinating, large portion of leaf from a glossed manuscript law book, Italy, c. 1325-1375. In Latin, on leathery vellum. About 6 ¹/2 x 10 ¹/2. Double column with marginal notations, some in a miniature hand, these perhaps of the late 15th century. Several red and blue paragraph marks and initials with simple embellishment, the blue an unusual cyan tone with hint of jade green seldom seen in such a mediaeval manuscript. Condition typical of recovered manuscripts, with many bookworm holes, these reducing right column; glue and paper adhesions on one side; possibly used as a book cover in later Middle Ages, one side washed to present a blank surface (this was also done to re-use valuable vellum!); overall satisfactory, and entirely collectible. An unusual gift idea. Request image for condition. Provenance: Sotheby's, London. $65-90

20-4. From a Mediaeval Law Book - Four Columns.

Larger leaf from same manuscript law book, Italy, c. 1325-1375, this with nearly all of three columns, plus much of the fourth. About 9 x 12 ¹/2. Instructive for display with preceding lot, showing re-uses of leaves from the same source. Two red and five sapphire-blue paragraph marks. Recovered from a binding, possibly used as a book cover in later Middle Ages, one side washed to present a blank surface; "No. 21" penned in later hand on verso, denoting the volume of the book wrapped with this manuscript; many bookworm holes, one about half-dollar size, others small; loss of ends of four lines at lower right, glue and paper adhesions on one side, large coppery waterstain outline, but overall satisfactory, and entirely collectible. Request image for condition. Provenance: Sotheby's, London. $90-120

20-5. "Evil disposed...wickedly devising...craftily...with force & arms...."

Dramatic manuscript legal document, antebellum Maryland, Mar. 3, 1856, 8 x 12 ¹/2, 3 pp., draft of charges and jury's concurrence, by attorney, with some changes in text. Period docketing. A bill of conspiracy against three Morgans, presumably brothers, "being evil disposed & dishonest persons, and wickedly devising, contriving & intending, falsely, unlawfully, fraudently, craftily, and unjustly...to cheat & defraud William P. Maulsby and Frederick J. Nelson...with force & arms, did...confederate and agree together... to cheat and defraud...a large sum of money, $500...." Light browning and dry breaks along folds, but no separation, else very good and unusual. $75-100

20-6. Slavery, Swearing, High-Treason and "Wrecks of Sea" - Laws of 1800.

Interesting pamphlet, "Acts and Laws, Made and passed in and by the General Court of Assembly of the State of Conn., in America, holden at Hartford...on the 2nd Tues. of May, 1800." 5 ¹/2 x 8 ³/4, disbound segment, pp. 401-438 (conclusion) inclusive, plus title page and "An Act to prevent Theatrical Shows..." curiously numbered 521-522 (the text continuing on 523, not present). Also including two acts "...to prevent the Slave-Trade," passed 1789 and 1792, "Act against profane Swearing and Cursing," "Act for restraining Swine from going at large," "Act for licensing...Houses of public Entertainment...and for suppressing unlicensed Houses," "Act for Punishment of Theft," "Act for punishment of High-Treason, and other atrocious Crimes against the State," "Act to encourage the destroying of Wolves," "Act concerning Wrecks of Sea," and more. Semicircular portion lacking at right portion of one leaf, affecting only marginalia; one leaf shaken, dust-toning of title page, some toning and moderately light foxing, handling wear, but still satisfactory. In custom-made folding slipcase commissioned c. 1972, red cloth, period-style decorative lining, gilt stamping, and excellent. Evans 37226. $85-120

21-1. A Travelogue Atlas with Engravings of Blacks, a White Slave, Chinese - and "a California Lady."

Landmark set of folio atlases by Charles T. Middleton, A New and Complete System of Geography, "containing a full, accurate, authentic and interesting Account and Description of Europe, Asia, Africa, and America; as consisting of continents, islands...gulphs, &c. and divided into Empires, Kingdoms, States, and Republics...The whole embellished...with upwards of 120 copper plates...." London: printed for J. Cooke at Shakespeare's-Head, (1777-82). Two volumes, original full calf, hubbed spine, 9 ¹/4 x 14, 546 + 548 pp. + Indices. Containing 6 + 14 maps, charts, and "globes," respectively (North America and several others hand-colored). Vol. II title page in red and black. At rear of Vol. II, "Directions to the Binder for placing the Cuts," listing number, title, and page number of all 117 listed maps and engravings (60 combined in Vol. I, plus 57 in Vol. II); 9 plates bear the same number, but all are different. The map of South America, often lacking, is neither present nor called for on list of plates; because Middleton was issued in parts, each surviving copy is unique in content and collation: "No two copies seen have the same corpus of maps attached to the same title-page, and other variants may exist--A Carto-Bibliography of the Maps in Eighteenth-Century British and American Geography Books, McCorkle. The very first map, "A Mercator Chart of the World," by Thos. Bowen, is its State 3, with numerous tracks of Capt. Cook and other explorers added to Pacific, and updates around Alaska and Australia. Characteristic offset of most plates onto facing text pages, notwithstanding a printed note beseeching, "The Binder is particularly desired to beat the Work before he places the Cuts, in order to prevent the Letter-Press from setting off on the Engravings."

The first of the popular atlases of the period, Middleton is further distinguished by its lengthy, fascinating text, illustrated with 90-plus full-page copperplate engravings, forming a narrative travelogue. Some with ornate borders, all within blind-sunken panels and exquisitely struck, the plates include:

"Arabs and Moors on Camels, Horses, and Bullocks, going to Senegal with Gum" (illustrating text entitled "Negroland"), "Men and Women of St. John's...Philippine Islands" (this is today a "lost island" and subject of Philippine legend), "Different Methods of Traveling in Congo," "Birds of Africa," "Manner of Beheading Criminals in the Kingdom of Benin...," "Hottentot Men, Women and Children," "The Emperor of China Receives Homage from his Subjects," "Algerine Method of executing a Christian for attempting to escape from Slavery," "Mahomet Murdering Irene," "Negroes of Kachao preparing the Maniac Root," "March of the Military of Japan," "The Jaggas, a People of Africa, with their Methods of defending themselves...," "King of Cochin China riding upon an Elephant," "Thomas Kouli Klan, Emperor of Persia Assassinated," "Negroes of Africa climbing the Palm Tree," "A Chinese floating Town," "Holy Sepulchre at Jerusalem," "Circumcision of the Negroes at Senegal," "Russian Manner of punishing Robbers...," "Columbus presenting an Account of the Discovery of America to the King and Queen of Spain," "The first Interview of Columbus with the natives of America," "A Man of California Fishing...and a California Lady," and others.

Period signatures of John Morison, Ruthwell, N(ew) B(runswick), (Canada), with masthead of his blind-embossed notepaper affixed in Vol. II. All boards separated, moderate surface wear but retaining charm, tips much worn. • Vol. I: "Mercator Chart of the World" misfolded, some fraying, one tear. Map of the World (hand-colored) torn and in three pieces, with internal fold fraying and defects, and 1 ¹/4 x 5 blank bottom strip lacking, but restorable by a patient conservator. Map of Asia (hand-colored) with tear and flap, but repairable with considerably less work. Flyleaf and frontispiece with edge tears, creases, and edge browning; title page with edge browning, minor edge folds, but complete and very presentable. • Vol. II: Lacking blank flyleaf and frontispiece (if called for). First and last leaves, the title page and "List of Subscribers" respectively, much wrinkled but flattenable with care; title with 6" vertical tear. First map, of Europe, much wrinkled, a tear, but restorable, else plates and balance of maps and text in fine, clean condition. Beddie 870. Sabin 48854. Fresh to the market after at least forty-five years. Now very scarce. The engravings alone worth a multiple of estimate, $550-775 (2 vols.)

21-3. Map of "Battle-Field of Chancellorsville."

Oversize, exceptionally detailed, composite "Preliminary Map of a part of the South Side of James River, Va., from surveys and reconnaissances...of Capt. A.H. Campbell...1864...." Prepared by noted mapmaker Julius Bien & Co., N.Y.; half fold as issued by Government Printing Office, (1891-95). Plate XCIII in "Atlas to Accompany the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies...." Black and water-blue on cream, with several Confederate positions in red. With large inset of "Battle-Field of Chancellorsville," drawn by Army engineers 1867. Opening to 18 ¹/2 x 29. Faint, pleasing uniform creamy toning, lacking tip at blank lower left, else remarkably fresh, and excellent. A key map at a fraction of the four- to five-figure cost of the complete atlas. Splendid for a Virginia wall. $75-100

21-4. Ten Civil War Maps printed on One Sheet.

Ten smaller maps on one large sheet, as issued: "Battle-Field of Young's Branch or Manassas Plains...July 21, 1861," "Map of the Rebel Fortifications at Columbus, Ky., surveyed under the direction of Brig. Gen. Geo. W. Cullum, Chief of Staff & Engineers, Dept. of the Mississippi, 1862," "...Position of the Batteries used by U.S. Forces in the Reduction of Fort Pulaski...1862," "Siege of Fort Pulaski...Mouth of Savannah River...," "Action at Front Royal, 1862," "Sketch of Fort Pickens, Fla., by Lt. Langdon, 1861," "...Battle-Field at Bull Run...by Henry L. Abbott, 1st Lt., Top(ographical) Engineers," "Skirmishes near Bailey's Cross-Roads, Va., 1861" (two different maps), and "...information obtained from Scouting parties, Hunter's Chapel, Va., 1861." Prepared by noted mapmaker Julius Bien & Co., N.Y.; half fold as issued by Government Printing Office, (1891-95). Plate V in "Atlas to Accompany the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies...." Black, water-blue, and moss-green on cream, with Confederate positions in red. Opening to 18 ¹/2 x 29. Overfold by printer at upper and lower portions of fold, chips at three tips, few short edge tears repaired with touches of glue on blank verso, light handling evidence, else very good plus. Fascinating. $70-90

21-5. Composite Maps including the Obscure Battle of Carnifix Ferry, West Virginia.

Three maps on one large sheet, as issued: "Battle-Field of Carnifix Ferry, Gauley River, West Va...1861...commanded by Brig. Gen. W.S. Rosecrans," "Country about Somerset, Ky.," and "Military Reconnaissance - Vicinity of Gauley Bridge, Dept. of Western Va...." Julius Bien & Co., N.Y.; half fold as issued by G.P.O., (1891-95). Plate IX in "Atlas to Accompany the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies...." Black, moss-green rivers and creeks, on cream; "Rebel" positions in red. Opening to 18 ¹/2 x 29. Very light edge toning, one short edge tear, modest crinkling at top center, else fine. $75-100

21-6. Composite Maps including the Civil War in Arkansas and Tennessee.

Ten smaller maps on one large sheet, as issued: "Map showing System of Rebel Fortifications on the Mississippi River at Island No. 10 and New Madrid...," "Route from Keetsville to Fayetteville, Ark.," "Battle-Field of Pea Ridge, Ark...," "...near Bentonville, Ark. to Cassville, Mo...1862," two sketches of "Battle-Field of Pea Ridge...," "Rebel Position at Centreville...," "Battle at Leetown," "Manassas Junction and vicinity...," and "Sketch of Battle-Field at Shiloh, near Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., 1862." Prepared by noted mapmaker Julius Bien & Co., N.Y.; half fold as issued by Government Printing Office, (1891-95). Plate X in "Atlas to Accompany the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies...." Black, moss-green rivers and woodlands, with "C.S. Troops" in red. Opening to 18 ¹/2 x 29. Light edge toning, minor chipping at two lower tips, several short edge tears, modest crinkling at top center, else about fine. $70-90

21-7. Composite Maps of the War in Virginia.

Thirteen smaller maps on one large sheet, as issued, depicting clashes between May-Sept. 1862: "Rough Sketch of Reconnaissance, May 24, 1862" (Hanover C.H., Va.), "...Battle of Hanover, Va...," "Engagement near Hanover C.H...," "March from Mount Airey to Old Church, Va.," "Skirmish between Two Rebel Batteries and...1st Md. Artillery...New Bridge, Va.," "Battle of Mechanicsville, Va...," "Sketch of the Battle of New Market, Va...," "Map to accompany the report of Brig. Gen. J.E.B. Stuart...Commanding Pamunkey Expedition to the Enemy's Rear..." (the following month, Stuart took command of all cavalry in the Army of Northern Va.), "Malvern Hill, Va...," "Topography of the Battle-Field of Cross Keys, Va...," "Route and Positions, First Corps, Army of Va., Maj. Gen. Sigel, Commanding...," and others. Prepared by Julius Bien & Co., N.Y.; half fold as issued by G.P.O, (1891-95). Plate XXI in "Atlas to Accompany the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies...." Black, green, and blue, with Confederate positions, routes, and lines in red. Lacking one tip, light marginal toning, two short edge tears, very light edge and handling wear, else V.F. Suited for display. $80-110

21-8. Exceedingly Rare Atlas - by America's First Stationer.

A landmark work in cartography - and American publishing, A General Atlas of all the known Countries in the World..., regarded as 1822 (but possibly before 1819), published by Fielding Lucas, Jr., Baltimore's earliest successful map publisher, and founder of the first stationer in U.S. Early, variant title, edition, and size, with 67 maps, 11 ¹/4 x 13 ³/4 (a larger edition, c. 1823-24, was 12 x 15). Lacking covers and spine, but the text block evidently complete. Typographically extravagant, hand-watercolored title leaf, copper-engraved and attributed to Jos. Perkins of Philadelphia. With all 67 maps cited in Table of Contents, each blind-paneled. Lovely original hand-watercoloring throughout, in delicate and exquisitely blended shades of pink, green, yellow, apricot, and aqua, variously, the artist notably skilled. Mercator world chart and some individual state maps double-page. Publisher states this is the enlarged edition, having added "the maps of the different divisions of Europe, Asia and Africa...He has chosen the present size, not only on account of its being more portable than larger maps, but also...at a moderate expense."

Regarded as the "finest general atlas produced in the U.S. at the time, setting aside the Tanner and Finley atlases as specialized productions"--David Rumsey Historical Map Collection, Stanford. Comprising 3 maps of the modern world, plus 18 of Europe, 6 Asia, 2 Africa, 30 North America - including individual states plus Arkansas and Michigan Territories, 1 West Indies, and 7 of Mexico and South America. Plain endleaf waterstained; endleaf, blank flyleaf, title page, and prospectus leaf lacking 2 x 2 corner at lower right, with no loss of text; text block separated at dry spine into about six segments; blank end and flyleaves chipped along right margin, a small number of other leaves with minor chipping; first five leaves with brown mottling, this judged from warm storage, but essentially absent from balance of atlas. Maps of Europe, Canada, and Conn. with trivial to light chipping at right vertical; few maps with foxing or light uniform toning, else nearly all are remarkably fresh, bright, clean, and highly attractive. In all, internally fine to very fine. Worthy of rebinding (the later edition bore polished crimson calf with blind and gilt ornamentation). "In essence (Lucas) was a precursor of the modern publisher; he selected, produced, and sold books, but he did not print books himself. All printing was farmed out..."--Marylandia Collection, University of Maryland Libraries. "As an artist, Lucas helped publish one of the first color plate books [c. 1837]..."--wikipedia. (Astonishingly, the Lucas printing firm still exists. For some years, they printed the Cohasco catalogue.)

Acquired c. 1968 and off the market since. Foster p. 190. Not in Philips. Rumsey 4866. See Sabin 42611. WorldCat appears to locate only two copies of this edition (of a total of five copies of all editions). The lengthy WorldCat entry, evidently composed by a curator at Stanford, observes: "...This is a transitional atlas edition which was finalized in the 1823 atlas; the 16 early map issues are the earliest issues of Lucas' 1823 atlas maps; and it must have been issued in small numbers because it is not in any of the standard references other than a brief mention in Sabin... Extremely rare." No copies on abebooks. RareBookHub records only a single appearance at auction from 1860-present, sold by Leslie Hindman, in "original tan sheep," 2018, for 12,500.00. Single maps (none of North American subjects) have appeared on the market for 65.00-125.00 each. $7500-10,500

21-9. Map of Italy, c. 1617.

Delightful miniature map of Italy, shown during period of Spanish rule. By Hondius (1563-1611), the Flemish cartographer and engraver in England; his maps, globes, and illustrations place him in the foremost group of early mapmakers. 5 x 7 ¹/4. "Regnum Neapolitanu," depicting Italy from Livorno, Siena, and Perugia south, plus most of Sicily and the Gulf of Venice, and parts of Corsica and Sardinia. Lovely hand-watercoloring in raspberry, golden yellow, lemon, lime, red, and water and azure blue, by noted New York watercolorist Ariadne Liebau, late 1960s. Delightful ship, sea creature with head of a mammal, and ornate Baroque cartouche and typographical swashes. Modest edge toning, else very fine. $200-250

21-10. Specialty Maps of Connecticut and Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.

Two maps, evidently U.S. Geological Survey: highly detailed, giant folio hand-finished folding map of easternmost Connecticut south to Fishers Island, and with large part of Rhode Island. At north, from North Woodstock on west, to Woonsocket on east. Undated and untitled, but judged c. 1895-1905, and likely dateable by researching railroads and other details. Comprising about two dozen sections individually mounted on original heavy linen backing, opening to about 24 x 52 ¹/2 in all. In textured brown flexible covers. Black and white, with blue showing water, and medium brown showing topography. Blueprint "title" on cover shows region divided into five sections, indicating this is a map of section 5. Few period notations of property owners. Some cover soiling, occasional stains, but surprisingly sound condition, and internally very good. • From same issuer as above, a highly detailed, large hand-finished folding map of westernmost Mass. Northernmost place names: Grafton on west, Halifax on east. Southernmost: Salisbury on west, Southwick on east. Comprising about two dozen sections individually mounted on original heavy linen backing, opening to about 37 ¹/2 x 54 in all. Covers, colors, and dating as preceding. Photostat "title" on cover shows region divided into four sections, indicating this is a map of section 4. Cover soiling and creases, some wear, light chipping and toning, but internally very good. One would be hard pressed to identify more highly detailed maps of this scale and period. Rare, and rather mesmerizing. $180-240 (2 pcs.)

21-11. Specialty Map of New York City area.

From same issuer as above, this bearing imprint of U.S. Geological Survey, printing of 1904. A highly detailed, large hand-finished folding map of "New York City and Vicinity." Northernmost place names: Franklin, N.J. on west, Port Chester, N.Y. on east. Southernmost: Marlboro, N.J. on west, Lynbrook and Long Beach, L.I. on east. Comprising sixteen sections individually mounted on original heavy linen backing, opening to about 33 x 47 in all. No covers, as issued. Black and white, with blue showing water, and medium brown showing topography. Some soiling, especially of unprinted linen side; waterstaining prominent around title at lower right, some wear, tears and defects, but generally about good. Utterly fascinating. $110-140

21-12. Early Automobile Map of New Jersey.

1907 "Automobile Map of New Jersey - North Section," published by Geo. H. Walker & Co., Boston, for Automobile Club of America, N.Y. Opening to 26 ¹/2 x 40. Original light linen backing. Blue-green, mocha, and black, with roads in maroon; mileages shown. One card cover only, evidently as made, with stylized Club logo. Scale 2 miles per inch. Driving in those early days was quite an adventure. Old dampstaining, black blush on cover, stuck at two short folds, else satisfactory. Auto road maps before about 1912 are uncommon, becoming increasingly scarce with each year of age. $65-80

22-1. "Dancingly Yours...": Signed Photos of Stars of Burlesque.

Rare gathering of 7 signed photographs of white, black, and Chinese exotic and variety dancers of the Forties, at least five by important theatrical photographers. All inscribed to fellow dancer (Duchess) Margaret. Comprising: Bonnie Boyia, "To Margaret, With a special wish that your special wishes come true, Always, Bonnie Boyia, 12/23/44." 6 ¹/2 x 9. Photo by Maurice Seymour, Chicago, perhaps the top Golden Era photographers of celebrities (Maurice and Seymour were brothers). Boyia posed in oversize sombrero. A dancer, carnival act, and "talker"--streetswing.com; a Facebook page dedicated to her. Tape along four edges, affecting first few letters of each line of inscription, but distant from signature, else about very good. • Bonnie Boyia, inscribed "To Margaret, Best of everything in everything you do - always...." 5 x 7. Photo by Maurice Seymour. Adhesions along four blank margins from old mat and tape, else about very good. • Garcia & Gomez(?), "For Margaret, Wishing you the best of everything, Regards, Garcia & Gomez." 8 x 9. Bloom, Chicago, the pioneering celebrity photographer in the Windy City, for whom Maurice (and his brother Seymour) first worked. Bloom appears in Chicago Central Business Directory of 1920 and 1930. Showing the femme fatale in sequins, as her Lugosi-like dance partner hovers. Yellow discoloration at three blank margins from old mat, trimmed across bottom, handling wrinkles, but satisfactory. • Mai Ling signed photo, 7 x 9, c. 1945, inscribed in blue on dark portion, "To Margaret, Best Wishes to You Always, Mai Ling." Elaborately cloaked in boa, and holding peacock feathers. Stylized imprint of photographer Larry Karth(?), Cleveland. Removed from mat, considerable creasing at corner quadrants, else masterful exposure and camerawork, and satisfactory. Mai Ling mentioned in the same sentence as Gypsy Rose Lee in ...The Last Generation of American Burlesque Queens by Goldwyn. Scarce. • Gloria Love, inscribed "To the Duchess [perhaps Margaret's stage name], Best of Health, Wealth and Happiness, Dancingly Yours, Gloria Love." 4 ¹/2 x 6 ¹/4. About fine. • Ramona, inscribed "Best of luck & happiness to Margaret from Ramona," 5 x 7. Photographed by Bloom, Chicago. Some old mounting evidence in blank white borders where removed from mat, else good. • Black variety act Al Saunders and Ella Mae Waters, inscribed "To Margie, All the Best at All Times, Al Saunders & Ella Mae Waters, 7/2/(19)45." 3 ¹/2 x 5 ¹/2. She in striped dress, puff sleeves, and stage shoes; he in elegant all-white tux, tails, and shoes, holding hat. Photo by "K. Progress, N.Y." Waters was the headliner dancer for "the Sepia Mae West," Mae Johnson, at the Harlem Showboat, Los Angeles, 1933. Discoloration at two margins where removed from mat, tape across signature(s), else good, and all items rare survivors, and flamboyant vestiges of American popular culture. $130-170 (7 pcs.)

22-3. Songs of the (18) 60s.

Delightful personal collection of 21 printed romantic, popular, and classical sheet music, "Gertrude / 1864" in old pencil on first title page. In binding c. 1870, with her purplish-black goatskin label on cover, gilt-stamped "Gertrude W. Brown" (of Baltimore): period notation on first page, "Balt(imore) News Co. / ¹/2 Bound, Cloth sides." 10 ¹/2 x 13 ³/4, garnet-brown ¹/2 leather and tips, over chocolate brown cloth, copyright dates 1859-65, plus one 1870. Most 6 to 12 pp. including covers; some with exhaustive publishers' pricelists of other music on back. Many with then-nouveau typography and ornamentation. Songs include "Angeline," with charming mezzotint, holding a spray of roses, with daisies in her hair. "Written and Composed by H. Millard," Boston, 1859. • "The Gipsy's Warning," by Henry A. Coard, unusual peppermint-striped type, musical border with cherubs holding lutes and harps. "...Lady shun that dark eyed stranger, I have warned thee...." Brooklyn, 1864. • "Star of the Evening," by Henry Tucker. Albany, 1855. Circular cover typography, lovely complex border. • "Ye merry birds," Ferd. Gumbert, 1859. • "Thou art so near and yet so far," Alexander Reichardt, no year. • "Last Words of Washington," Gen. Geo. P. Morris, 1862, with part of Washington's Farewell Address on back cover. • "Hymns of the Church," set to music to J.R. Thomas, N.Y., 1870, with superlative illumination, in style of a mediaeval manuscript, printed in blue and gold leaf. • "Fausto," by Gounod, 1864. • "I'm a Merry Zingara," M.W. Balfe, n.d. • "I have something sweet to tell you," Mrs. Osgood, Louisville, n.d. • and others. One with Baltimore bookseller's handstamp, others Beer & Schirmer or C. Breusing, both of 701 Broadway, N.Y. Spine and cover edges scuffed, small bookworm valley on back cover, else good; internally, most with handling wear, some edge tears, some with marginal paper reinforcement by Gertrude or her bookbinder, one leaf of Verdi song lacking 6 x 7 corner, "La Traviata" with long tear, but generally about good to fine. In all, charming decor for a music room or parlor of a period home. $90-120 (21 songs) F

22-4. Movie Mogul Sam Goldwyn, Jr. and his Gold Bag.

Partly printed U.S. Government "Baggage Declaration" form for Samuel Goldwyn, Jr., son of the Pres. of M.G.M., traveling in Stateroom no. 7 on S.S. Lurline, Jan. 30, 1938, 7 x 8, Dept. of Agriculture, Bureau of Plant Quarantine. Signed in water-blue. In another hand, declares "1 Trunk, 2 Hand bags, 1 gold bag, Hawaiian grown material - None." Showing his Beverly Hills home address. "All fruits, nuts...bananas, pineapples, coconuts...must be entirely consumed or removed from this vessel before it reaches the territorial waters of any State, Territory, or District other than Hawaii...." Purple "L(os) A(ngeles)" handstamp. Paper clip outline, staple holes, some handling, else very good. Unusual. A glamorous visage of a King of Hollywood traveling - with his "gold bag" - to Hawaii, when luxury cruises were a favorite pasttime of the rich and famous. $50-70

22-5. Warner Baxter Signs his Wife's Name - Twice.

Similar to above, filled out in Warner Baxter's hand, in his wife's name, and signed twice thusly, by the star of "42nd Street." Travelling in two adjoining staterooms on S.S. Malolo, May 6, 1935, 7 x 8. Interestingly, no baggage is declared. With their Bel-Air address in Warner's hand. Purple "San Francisco" handstamp. Some light creases and handling evidence, else very good. Scarce. $160-200

23-1. Catalogue of Airships, Balloons, and Aeronautical Apparatus.

Excessively rare illustrated, priced catalogue, "Air Bubbles & Buoys," C.G. Spencer & Sons, London, 1919 within text. 8 x 10, 12 pp., flamboyant stylized cover art of their naval and military-style hydrogen balloons, in midnight blue and orange on moss-green linen cover; black and greentone text, numerous photographs. "Manufacturers of every description of aircraft, balloons, parachutes, airships & aeronautical apparatus for naval, military, sporting & advertising purposes. Contractors to British Govt. Air Ministry, Japan, India, Chinese...Govts. & Signor Marconi." Established 1835, Spencer describes their German-type balloons, "the eyes of our Forces" in the just-won World War. Also offering Spencer Parachute, "made of Super Jap Silk"; accessories for balloons, airships, and aeroplanes, including waterproofed aero fabric and goldbeaters' balloon skins; "Naval and Military Captive or Kite Balloons for Hydrogen. any size or type"; passenger and advertising balloons, including animal and bottle shapes, Montgolfier fire balloons, and more. On last page, side-view technical drawing of the Spencer 275-foot-long non-rigid airship, made of "rubbered fabric." A terror in World War I, after the Hindenburg disaster, military balloons were largely limited to barrage and weather use. Two vertical folds, probably from original mailing; marginal wrinkling and wear of front cover, internally with light uniform cream toning, and very good. WorldCat locates only the British Library copy, but theirs with a variant title and only 8 pp. Possibly a unique survivor thus. $160-220

23-2. Scarce History of Manned Flight - Told in 457 Illustrations.

Lavish oversize volume on the history of flight through pictures, La Conquête de L'Air vue par L'Image, 1495-1911 (on cover; 1495-1909 on title page), by John Grand-Carteret and Leo Delteil, printed by Librairie des Annales, Paris, 1910 in light older pencil, 1911 in contemporary ink on small ornamental blue and white paper label of Louis Bochet, presumed original French bookseller, on front inside board. 9 ³/4 x 12 ¹/2, (176) pp. With 457 illustrations, 14 color plates, supplements and tables. Scarlet buckram, elaborately decorated in brassy gilt showing eight different flying machines, stylized typography, the cover alone suitable for display. A splendid compendium, spanning aerial precursors, from a drawing by Goya of a man flapping feathered wings, the Montgolfier brothers, Meusnier's aerostat dirigible of 1784, to the decade of Bleriot, Curtiss, Santos-Dumont, and the Wright Brothers. Early drawings, both fanciful and humorous, of airborne schemes, already surprisingly numerous by the early nineteenth century. Among the wilder concepts were riverboat-like craft held aloft by an egg-shaped balloon, "Congo Air Line" showing a railroad coach-like vehicle sporting wings like ducks' feet, and an elegantly dressed Frenchman in a telephone booth-style structure, manipulating long levers, and many, many more. Plates beautifully lithographed on ivory matte enamel, one using eight (or more) passes of transparent inks, the pink and magenta almost fluorescent; another with brilliant yellow and orange, others in butterscotch sepia. In all, a masterpiece, the presswork rivaling the subject matter, providing both entertainment and exhaustive insight into the evolution and ingenuity of manned flight. At rear, significant label of renowned dealer American Library Service, 117 W. 48 St., N.Y. Its Director, Symon Gould, was a colorful antiquarian and rare book dealer, also presiding over its sister company, Aeronautical Library Service. By 1943 Gould had assembled a major archive of pioneer aviation history acclaimed by the Smithsonian as "superb." (He was also a two-time Presidential candidate - of the Vegetarian Party.) Break along inner hinge at endpaper, minor cosmetic wear along part of front outer hinge, but still tight; minor shelf wear at tips and head and tail of spine; uniform pleasing light toning of text leaves; plates on clay-counted art paper, and fresh; occasional abrasion at some trifle-wider blank fore-edges (book was printed and gathered in a complex collation, and as was the practice, was not backtrimmed again); else internally about fine to fine. Abebooks locates only two copies, both offered by Italian booksellers. Caproni/Bertarelli, p. 90. Sorbets, p. 46. A conversation piece for an aviation collection. $300-375 F

23-3. The Zeppelin Heads Home.

Attractive cover flown on last leg of the Graf Zeppelin LZ-127's round-the-world flight, boldly postmarked Lakehurst, N.J., Aug. 31, 1929, franked with red 20¢ and purple $1 postage stamps, the former with 9-bar football, latter with uncommon lilac straightline "Lakehurst, N.J." handstamp. Decorative alternating red and blue airplane border both sides. Nearly flawless backstamp at Friedrichshafen, Sept. 4, 1929, black oval "12." To H(erbert) H. Griffin, c/o Deutsch Multigraph, Berlin, his Cleveland address on flap. Light tip wear, else uniform warm cream toning, fine, and pleasing for display. A.A.M. Catalogue Z-76. Evidently now elusive: Robert A. Siegel's Powersearch finds only one example in their sales, 1930-2020. $60-85

23-4. First Day Cover for the 50¢ Zeppelin Issue.

Attractively cacheted Zeppelin "First Day Cover...," AAMC Z-216, bearing very fine green 50¢ #C18. Postmarked on first day of issue Oct. 2, 1933, N.Y., with 7-line flag cancel. Red and blue airmail border. "First Day Cover - Special Stamp Commemorating the First Air Mail Flight / Via Graf Zeppelin / Friedrichshafen, Germany to Chicago, Ill. / Via Pernambuco, Miama [sic!] and Akron." Simple line drawing of the airship. Typewritten address to Frank J. Erhardt, Staten Island, N.Y. Purple handstamp on verso of Edward Hacker, Hammond, Ind., noted issuer of cover. Period "32" in red pencil beside postmark. C18 about 45/55 centering top and bottom, 40/60 left and right. Soft vertical postal crease on part of vertical border, not affecting live matter; light postal wear at tips, else pleasing uniform ivory toning, and fine plus. A splendid item, showcasing one of philately's best-known stamps. Fresh to the market. Planty C18-4. Scott C.V. 200.00. $100-130

23-5. Final Trip of the Hindenburg.

Group of three items, suitable for display: Attractive oversize postcard from the airship's first North American flight - which met with disaster at Lakehurst. Bearing two German postage stamps, and two postmarks, "Flug-und Luftschiffhafen...Frankfurt," May 1, (19)37, and "Koln [Cologne] / 3.5.(19)37" at upper left. Fluorescent-pink rectangular handstamp, "Wegen Ausfalls der Deutschlandfahrt...Nordamerika Fahrt." Large circular pictorial handstamp in cerise, showing the Zeppelin above winged swastika, "Luftschiff Hindenburg, 1 Mai 1937...." Manuscript endorsement across top, in period hand, "Mit Luftschiff Hindenburg." Purple handstamp of sender W. Stauder, Vohburg. On verso, printed wash drawing commemorating 500th anniversary of Herzog (Duke) Ulbrecht III and Duchess Agnes, castle in background. The Hindenburg had accepted mail, including this postcard, for an earlier trip within Germany, which had been cancelled; this card was dropped over Cologne by the Zeppelin on May 3, as it traveled to America. Trivial tip wear, else excellent. Sieger 453. • Postcard showing Hindenburg and Graf Zeppelin airships in flight over their home airport in Friedrichshafen. Darkest brown-hued black-and-white. Kosmos, Stuttgart imprint. Unused. Diagonal crease at upper left, else very fine. Transatlantic travel by airship was a luxurious novelty; aviatrix Clara Adams is known to have paid $3,000 for her ticket on the Graf Zeppelin. • Realphoto postcard of Count von Zeppelin, namesake of the modern airship, postally used. Velvety matte silverprint. Stuttgart imprint. C.d.s. Knittelfeld (Austria), possibly Sept. 1909, on extremely fine, full-margined postage stamp. Lengthy message in German, to Heidelberg. Some shadowing of three mounting corners, minor scuffing of three fore-edges, else fine. $180-230 (3 pcs.)

23-6. Pioneer Ballooning.

Elegant unused license for "Spherical Balloon Pilot" issued by Aero Club of America, N.Y.C., c. 1915-20. Gold-stamped on booklet-style case, exquisitely decorative tortoise-shell-colored polished gloveskin, 3 x 4 ¹/4. Printed endpaper, with rigid tipped leaf to affix photo. "The above-named Club, recognized by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, as the governing authority for the United States of America, certifies that...is hereby licensed as Spherical Balloon Pilot." Blind-stamped "Whitehead & Hoag Co." Text in six languages. The Club was a power base of its "Governor," the celebrated (and notorious) Henry Woodhouse, an Italian-born aviation promoter, founding editor of Flying magazine, and friend of the famous. Among his many (ad)ventures, Woodhouse purchased 1,500 acres of the ancestral lands of George Washington and George Mason, planning a Zeppelin airport. While many of Woodhouse's aviation exploits were real - he was one of the commissioners organizing the first round-the-world aerial derby - he was a prolific forger of autographs; his specialties included Washington material, and books ostensibly from the libraries of Signers of the Declaration. Pencil marking by an oldtimer, "($)6, 12/2/(19)27," possibly ex-William Peters, one of the foremost first-generation collectors of pioneer flight material. Photo leaf separated at paper hinge, some toning inside, case light edge wear, else very fine. $110-150

23-7. Post-Gatty Record Round-the-World Flight.

Envelope carried on their record round-the-world flight, signed by Wiley Post as pilot, and by Harold Gatty as navigator. Postmarked Mineola, N.Y., June 21, 1931; Berlin transit cancel, June 24; dual pictorial cachets, Moscow, manuscript June 26; with return to Mineola July 1 (this black postmark atop a larger Russian handstamp). Printed cornercard, "Round the World Flight / of the Winnie Mae." One of the great innovators in aviation, Post developed the first practical pressure suit, discovered the jet stream, and made record altitude and air mail flights. "He may have reached 50,000 feet and, on one Burbank to N.Y. attempt he attained a groundspeed of 340 m.p.h., which was called the most startling development since Lindbergh..."--The Airpost Journal, July 1986. Their plane Winnie Mae is now in the Smithsonian, along with the Spirit of St. Louis. Howard Hughes described Post's journey as the most remarkable flight in history. All this with but one eye, little education, and living to only 35 years of age: Post was killed in the plane crash with Will Rogers in 1935. Trivial wear, pale cream uniform toning, else fresh and very fine plus. AAMC 1141. $375-475

23-8. "Via First American Rocket Airplane Flight."

Cover, 1936, for Willy Ley's early rocket experiment. Teacher of Werner von Braun, Ley was a pioneer in aerial rocketry. Envelope bears green pictorial label, two cachets (one with line drawing of the craft at speed; the other purple with Western hemisphere), imperforate 16¢ blue airmail special delivery postage stamp, and three postmarks front and back, in commemoration of Ley's flight on Feb. 9, 1936, from Greenwood Lake, N.Y. to Hewitt, N.J. Within only a few years, Ley's pupil was involved in the sending of rockets over London during World War II. Minor toning and postal wear, else very good. Historic. $35-45

23-9. Worn by the First Woman Air Passenger.

The spectacles, in folding case, of Clara Adams, the first woman airplane passenger, who flew on more first flights in aviation history than any other single person. From a Thomas Flying Boat in 1914, to the maiden voyage of the Graf Zeppelin to America (and the only woman aboard), paying the substantial sum of $3,000 for her Graf Zeppelin ticket; her mother had been the next-door neighbor in Germany of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin. Also the first woman to cross the Atlantic by air in 1928, and on the first round-trip across the Pacific in 1936, Adams flew on the maiden flight of the Hindenburg, first Clippers across the Atlantic, and between San Francisco and New Zealand. The pilot of the latter was later lost with her friend, Amelia Earhart. Delicate frameless style, polished edges, scalloped brass nose bridge, right lens drilled for suspension. In original hard black linen clamshell case, lined in deep blue velvet. With copy of 1950 illustrated Miami Herald article about her, "There Isn't a Plane She Wouldn't Take - World's Champion First Flighter Covers 200,000 Miles for Record...." Very minor wear, else both fine plus. What must have been seen through these lenses! $150-200 (2 pcs.)

23-10. Holder of Many Aviation Firsts for Women.

Picture postcard in hand of Clara Adams, lengthy message, signed in full, sent to longtime correspondent and noted pioneer aerophilately dealer Bill Schneider, c. 1950. Adams material has been drying up on the market, especially since her Papers were acquired by the University of Texas at Dallas. Fine. $45-60

24-1. A Monumental History of England.

Very rare two volume set, in all, over 2,200 pp. Vol. I: A Complete History of England, "from The First Entrance of the Romans...Unto the End of The Reign of King Henry III...Wherein is shewed The Original of Our English Laws...The True Rise and Grounds of the Contentions and Wars between the Barons and our Antient Kings...," by Robert Brady. (London), "In the Savoy, Printed by Tho. Newcomb for Samuel Lowndes...," 1685, first edition. 8 x 12 ¹/2. Vol. I containing "Early Reigns & Index": (68) pp. "General Preface" + 675 pp. text + (8) pp. "Catalogue of the Authors used..." + 254 pp. Appendix + (67) pp. Index. Original full polished calf, on front and back, a blind-stamped central plaque of stylized fleurs de lis, framed by stepped-and-repeated shell, spray, and scroll motif. Two gilt-stamped oxblood spine labels; blind-stamped emblem between each spine hub. Striking marbled endpapers, with supernova swirls in cream, apricot, red, and brown. Both boards and first five leaves separated en bloc; thick bead of glue and outlines of five old strips of tape once reinforcing front hinge (only); one 4" scratch in lower undecorated field of front cover, spine with some dryness and small chips, else surprisingly modest wear. Engraved frontispiece of James II not present, but he had just ascended to the throne, and this copy presumably bound before the portrait was ready. Internally with pleasing uniform ivory toning, else little evidence of use, quite fresh, and very fine. Several old dealers' markings on a blank flyleaf, including "2 vols., 35.00" in red pencil, possibly in the hand of David Mendoza of Mendoza's Book Shop c. 1970, once the oldest book establishment in New York City, and the last commercial gaslight customer of Con Edison. • Vol. II: A Continuation of the Complete History of England: containing The Lives and Reigns of Edward I, II, & III, and Richard the Second [King 1477-99]. Period signature "Will. Boothby" on title. Complexly paginated: 467 pp. + unpaginated Index + 139 Appendix + (8) An Introduction to The Old English History..., with its own title page + 412 A Full and Clear Answer to a Book, written by William Petit Esq., entitled, The Rights of the Commons Answered..., with its own title page (dated 1683) + 60 pp. Appendix + 68 "The Glossary" + unpaginated (additional) Index. Binding and most condition details as for Vol. I. Further information gladly furnished. An early English royalist historian, Brady was "a principal agent in bringing English historical method out of its medieval forms and into its modern period"--J. Pocock (1951). Arguing against traditional English rights and for royal absolutism, some of Brady's views were controversial; he asserted that the Norman invasion had little effect on the development of English law and the feudal system. Much of his writing is charming and concise, his scholarship perhaps without equal among peers, and the exhaustive indices, references, and sidebars render the set indispensable for the researcher and genealogist. Wing B4186. Elusive in two volumes with matching bindings. $1150-1500

24-2. A Triumph of Italian Book Arts - 1713.

Three volume set, Delle Prediche dette nel Palazzo Apostolico da Fra Francesco Maria d'Arezzo, Cappuccino [Order of Friars Minor Capuchin]...Dedicate alla Santita di N. Sig. Papa Clemente Undecimo [Pope Clement XI], by (Cardinal) Francesco Maria Casini, and printed during his lifetime by Giovanni Maria Salvioni, Rome, 1713. Predating Milan edition of the following year. Original full vellum, 9 x 14 ¹/4. Vol. I: (28) pp. preface + 582 pp. + (46) indices. Full page steel-engraved frontispiece; title pages in red and black letterpress, with magnificent inset engraving in sunken panel, both leaves on sheer vellum. Small inset steel engravings, woodcut ornaments, and cartouches throughout text, together with superlative typography. • Vol. II: (16) + 588 + (44) pp. • Vol. III: (16) + 612 + (56) pp. In all, a boldly artistic and impressive graphic treatment for the period. Ex-lib N.J. monastery, with blind-embossed and purple-stamped markings. Vellum dry, some tears and curling at heads and tails of spines, but easily restored. No volumes on abebooks. Probably ex-Whitlock Farm Booksellers, 1970s. RareBookHub finds no copies this edition on the market between 1860 and present. Excessively rare. $250-300 (3 vols.)

24-3. The Mysteries of Japan - 1649.

One of the first single-source volumes for Western Europe on the mysteries of Japan and the Orient: Descriptio Regni Japoniae. Cum Quibusdam Affinis Materiae, ex Variis Auctoribus Collecta et in Ordinem Redacta, by Bernhardus Varenius. Amsterdam: Ludovicus Elzevir, 1649. First edition. Thick 16mo, contemporary full dark brown calf, raised bands, crimson leather spine label. Two volumes in one: (xlviii) + 267, (viii) + 320 pp., engraved illustrated title page, and one folding chart. Lacking folded engraved map, covers firm, minor wear, text tight, very clean with minor aging, brief foxing, else very good. Rare compilation of reports on Japan by various explorers and Jesuit missionaries, together with a translation of Schouten's account of Siam, and chapters on the religions of various peoples. Willems 1095. WorldCat locates only one institutional copy of this first edition (at University of Pa.). A subsequent edition was published in Cambridge in 1673. $550-650

24-4. Art-Photographs of 19th Century New Zealand and Australia - including the Soon-to-be-Lost Eighth Wonder of the World, the Pink Terraces.

Fascinating album of 23 striking original images, first photo dated 1877, the others the same or near date. The photographer's skill is exceptional, with a keen eye for composition and drama. In period ¹/4 russet calf, pebbled terra cotta boards, gilt rules, 10 x 12 oblong; olive-toned silverprints, various sizes as itemized following, neatly mounted on original cream card leaves, linen-reinforced hinges. Comprising: 8 photographs, each 6 ¹/4 x 9, captioned "New Zealand" in stylish period hand: First photo titled "Sulphur Springs, New Zealand, 1877"; two additional scenes, including a bronzed man in silhouette - presumed a Maori - atop a rock, amidst swirling mist rising like cotton candy around him. Five views of the Pink (and White) Terraces of Roto-Mahana Lake on New Zealand's North Island, before their destruction in the 1886 volcanic eruption. The explosion is said to have been one of the most violent in modern history, rivalling Krakatoa. Here showing their terraced crystalline silica outcroppings, presenting an other-worldly spectacle. Indeed, the Pink Terraces were once called the Eighth Wonder of the World. • 4 photos showing Old Sydney: pier with multitude of ships' masts; buildings; and long multi-block scene from corner of Elizabeth St. Window and wall signs include "Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals," "George Lewis - Chemist & Druggist," "J.E. Ellis - Outfitter," "...Family Hotel," and others. 4 x 6 ¹/2. • 2 photos, each marked "Tree Ferns, Australia," probably in a botanical or public park. 6 x 8. • 1 photo of handsome Georgian building. 4 x 6. • 2 photos, one of rural road, other of vaulted arches, perhaps ruins, enveloped in elaborately sculpted English-style formal garden. Man seated atop high point. 2 ¹/2 x 3. • 2 photos of an attractive brick house with iron-filigreed overhang, and stone arch with church behind. 7 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/2. • 4 period photos of paintings of Yorkshire Terrier tasting an open jar of honey, a glass of wine, waiting beside a gopher hole, and a Labrador with quail. First two 6 ¹/4 x 7 ³/4 oval; second two 3 ³/4 x 4 ³/4 rectangular. • 1 woodcut, "The Pink Terrace of Roto-Mahana before the eruption of 1886." 6 ³/4 x 10 ¹/2. • 4 additional photographs laid in, long ago removed from another album, three presently unidentified, fourth captioned Lynmouth (Devonshire, England; see evident provenance of album below). • Twentieth-century prints of Sydney pier and one of Pink Terrace photos, each with 4 x 5 negative. • Vintage sepia photograph, 4 x 6, of unidentified seaside town, but research of signage visible under magnification reveals Margate around 1869: "Stevens Hoy Hotel," "Ward Ship Hotel," "Dukes Head Hotel," "E.H. Thomson Pier Hotel," "G.H. Akhurst" (Coffee and Dining Room), and others on Parade St. With later print and 4 x 5 negative. • In contemporary light pencil on a front flyleaf, "E. Lethbridge / 6 Woburn Terrace," almost certainly one of "The Misses Elizabeth & Maria Lethbridge," found at this very street address in Devonshire; Elizabeth was born 1824--History, Gazeteer and Directory of the County of Devon..., 1878-79; research accompanies. Date in pencil at rear "10/29/(19)49," presumed later bookseller's notation. Tiny stationer's label on inside back cover, "M.W. & Co., London." Lacking spine covering, but holding; an irregular 2 x 3 section found preserved within pages, from which its Gothic ornamentation can be faithfully reproduced; blank front flyleaf nearly separated; mounts with very minor foxing and toning, some photographs a bit lighter than others, else sharp, very good and better, and well suited for display. These period images are rare records of the Eighth Wonder of the World; because of the remote location of the Pink and White Terraces, first-hand depictions are limited to such photographs and several paintings, capturing them in their sublime color. $900-1200 (23 vintage photographs + other items)

24-5. With 404 Woodcuts of Fish and Marine Life.

Charming book, The Ocean World: Being a Description of The Sea and some of its Inhabitants, from the French of Louis Figuier. "New edition, revised by E. Perceval Wright, M.D...University of Dublin," London: 1872. Rare deluxe binding, original polished marine-blue calf, five spine compartments elaborately decorated with Medusa-like ornament within vinery frames, burnt-orange spine label. 5 ¹/2 x 7 ¹/2, 656 pp., index. Fishscale endpapers, matching-style marbling all fore-edges. Profusely illustrated with 404 fine woodcuts of fish and marine life of every description + 30 full-page plates, including "Sponge Fishing on the Coast of Syria," "Coral Fishing off the Coast of Sicily," "Dredging for Oysters," "Sturgeon Fishing on the Volga," "Fishing for Electric Eels," and more. Outline where bookplate removed, one heavy and numerous lesser blind depressions in covers, modest spine and tip wear, else attractive for shelf display, and internally fresh and very fine. A delightful encyclopaedia of marine life. Rare in leather fine binding. $90-120

24-6. The "House of Darkness" hiding the Secret Archives of the Original Americans.

Fascinating Description of the Ruins of an Ancient City, discovered near Palenque, in the kingdom of Guatemala... followed by...The History of the Americans, by Capt. Antonio Del Rio and Dr. Pablo Felix Cabrera "of the city of New Guatemala." London: 1822. The first published work on Mayan archaeology, and a corner-stone of the history of the Americas. 9 ¹/2 x 11 ³/4, suede over plain brown boards, 128 pp., deckled text; frontispiece + 16 plates (one double-page) of Mayan and other Central American designs, and a Palenque structure. Hidden in the forests of Carmen, southern Mexico, Palenque held the secrets of an ancient Mayan city. Claimed by the author to represent "the original population of America," for several decades the discovery was concealed by the Spanish government, "whose sole object was the acquirement of riches," desiring to bury "in total oblivion any circumstance that might...excite the cupidity of more scientific and enterprising nations...." Claimed the equal of the era's other important discoveries in Egypt, Palenque offered hieroglyphic and anthropological clues said to be analogous. "...Thick and underhung lips, which traits are equally as dissimilar to those of the present race of Mexicans, as are the black Egyptians of this day...." Lamenting the "records of history...and knowledge contained...sacrificed at the shrine of Spanish superstition and Vandal ignorance...." Explorer Del Rio theorizes "the firmest bonds of fraternal alliance and friendship" between Palenque and the kingdom of Yucatan, the two linked by rivers. Describing similarities between stone buildings "decorated with serpents, lizards, etc., formed in stucco... statues of men...beating drums and dancing...," some of the figures "much more rude and ridiculous than the others." The nearly 100 pages added by Cabrera offer the "Solution of the Grand Historical Problem of the Population of America." He tells the tale of a secret "house of darkness," guarded by Indians, which held the "precious documents of history...as a memorial for future ages" - until it was discovered and destroyed by an 18th century Spanish prelate. Cabrera asserts the original Americans' civilization surpassed those of ancient Greece, Rome, "and is even worthy of being compared with...the Hebrews themselves" (p. 39). Old ornamental bookplate of William Fuller Maitland, both father and son bearing the same name, both important English art collectors, the son also a member House of Commons; the bookplate's printing suggests this was the son's volume (born 1844, in 1921 selling the ancestral Stansted Hall named on bookplate). Upper right portions of boards creased and dented, other board edges and tips worn; break in suede at 3" top of front outer hinge; neat, older reinforcement at inside hinges with white linen strip; plates with some light foxing, else internally remarkably fresh and very fine and better. Field 231. Sabin 71446. A riveting volume, nearly writing a screenplay by itself. $2300-2900

25-1. Ancient Coin - 321-300 B.C.

Hemidrachm. Silver. About ¹/2" diam. (tiny!). Laureate head of Apollo, Greek god of music, poetry, prophecy, and medicine; bas relief heightened by eye-catching gloss. On reverse, prow of ship. "Bithynia-Cius" (Kios). "Posus Magistrate." Seaby 1471 variety. Apollo was considered the embodiment of "manly youth and beauty"--Webster's New World Dictionary. Ancient patination to dark gunmetal, with flashes of bright silver. Judged about Very Fine, the obverse especially displaying nicely. Scarce. $170-220 (Enlarged 175% for detail)

25-2. Ancient Coin - 30-32 A.D.

Pontius Pilate, "procurator of Judea under Emperor Tiberius, in 1st half of 1st century A.D.; in this capacity, tried and condemned Jesus Christ."--Webster's Biographical. Year 17-18 = 30-32 A.D. Bronze prutah. About ¹/2" diam. R. 132-3. M. 230-1. Two parallel clips on rim, else interesting chestnut and dark chocolate tones. Some white oxidation, else About Good. $90-130

25-3. Ancient Coin - 37-44 A.D - Friend of the Jews.

Herod Agrippa I, King of Judea 41-44 A.D. Imprisoned in Rome for offending Tiberius, released by Caligula. Receiving tetrarchy of Galilee, and "rewarded with annexation of Judea and Samaria to his dominions; strongly pro-Jewish; caused death of Apostle James and imprisonment of Peter."--Webster's. Bronze prutah. About ⁵/8" diam. Fringed canopy. On reverse, three ears of grain. Similar to Hendin 553. Two parallel clips on rim, else ebony brown, and Good. $30-40

25-4. Ancient Coin - 66-70 A.D. - A Coin of the Jews.

First Revolt, Jerusalem, 66-70 A.D., year 2. BMC Pl. 30-11, vine leaf on branch, amphora (lamp) on reverse. Bronze prutah. Dime size. Two parallel clips on rim, else rich coffee brown color, and Good. $35-45

25-5. Ancient Coin - 117-138 A.D.

Roman Republic, Denarius, silver. Hadrian, 117-138 A.D. Bust facing right. "Hadrianus Avg[vgtvs] Cosii PP"; "Aequitas Avg" on reverse. Standing Victory, facing left, holding scales of justice. C.122. ¹¹/16" diam. Attractive, obverse with uniform luster, reverse an ermine grey, minor band of verdigris within a fold of robe, else Fine/Very Good, the devices strong, retaining eccentric letterforms as struck. Evidently a very scarce type. $55-70

25-6. Ancient Coin - 253-268 A.D.

Gallienus, Roman Emperor with his father Valerian, becoming sole Emperor when father captured by Persians. Bronze. ³/4" diam. Bust facing right, wearing crown of thorns. Reverse: two German captives seated at foot of trophee. Struck very much off-center, with substantial original die break at 6 o'clock, not affecting likeness, both lending considerable visual interest. Obverse judged Extremely Fine, retaining detail of hair, crown, and eye; reverse Very Fine. Uncommon reverse type. $60-80

25-7. Ancient Coin - 283-285 A.D.

Carinus, short-lived Roman Emperor, who "indulged in violent excesses, but displayed some bravery and military skill against barbarians; killed by one of his officers"--Webster's. Bronze. ³/4" diam. Unusually detailed bust, his hair, whiskers, and face retaining good definition. Reverse: Genius standing left, holding patera in right hand, cornucopia in left. Original die break at 7 o'clock; rim clipped or defective from 9:30-11:00, else obverse judged Extremely Fine, reverse About Good. Similar to RIC 255. $30-40

25-8. Ancient Coin - 324-361 A.D.

Constantius II, made caesar at age 7, Roman Emperor 337-361, disastrously defeated by Persians; the first Roman Emperor to publicly celebrate victory in a civil war. Bronze follis. ³/4" diam. C. 324-325. Wreathed bust facing left. Stone fortress (a "campgate") on reverse, with star above; "Providentiae Caess." Possibly dug; uncleaned and undisturbed since acquisition c. 1960s; minor hints of verdigris, else Good, with all but seven letters on reverse retaining high relief. Similar to RIC VII 27. $20-30

25-9. From the Dawn of the Renaissance.

Large section of mediaeval manuscript, about 7 ¹/4 x 14 ¹/4, probably Italy, c. 1300-1350, with interesting accent and punctuation convention. Eight initials (plus four more on verso) in the rare blue (actually made from lapis lazuli, at one time more valuable than gold), and seven (plus two) in vivid orange-red; parts of ten lines also in red. Evidently commentary, about 53 lines per side of principle text, in caramel, in a fairly elegant hand. Plus about 90 lines of exhaustive annotation - in a miniature hand - filling one margin on each side. A six-line passage in black stands out, its red initial "M" as bright as the day it was penned, these lines probably in another hand, using different ink formulae, retaining their intensity. Recovered from a binding in which used as a lining, about two-thirds of the better side satisfactory, a one-third vertical band with mocha cloudiness of the leather once resting atop; verso with brown staining from glue, but at least half legible. Irregular oval 1 ¹/4" hole at upper left, superficial scuffing, but the condition not unusual for the genre, and entirely collectible. Request photograph. $120-160

25-10. How to Lead a Good Life - circa 1400.

Rare, oversize leaf, Catalonia, Spain, c. 1400, from Summa Collationum, Sive Communiloquium, by John of Wales (Johannes Gallensis). In Latin, on vellum, 9 x 11 ³/4. Numerous letters filled with yellow; ornately embellished red and blue initials at top of both sides. From his most important book, intended to provide priests with basic, practical information on how to lead a good life, so that in sermons and conversation, they could instruct individuals of all classes and conditions in the norms of ethical conduct, reinforced by the example of the ancient world as provided by the quoted texts, including Cicero and Seneca. The author used chess - a recurring theme in literature of the Middle Ages - to compare life to a chess game. In the complete book, the following passage can be found: "This whole world is a kind of chessboard, of which one square is white but another black, on account of the twofold state of life and death, of grace and sin...The pieces of this chessboard are the people of this world...positioned in various places of this world...One captures another, and when they have finished the game, they are put back again in one bag...and there is not a difference between a king and a poor pawn, because the rich and poor are together...In this way almost all those who are greater during the passage through this world are placed lower...in hell, whereas the poor are carried off into the lap of Abraham...." A biography, John of Wales, by Jenny Swanson (1989), found only a few copies of this book as richly decorated as the copy from which this leaf came. She notes that John's book was used by fourteenth-century Spanish kings, one of whom ordered a copy for his Queen, as a source for ideas on government. It is possible that the leaf here came from a book commissioned by royalty. The illumination on this leaf seems to have been done by the same hand as the Valerius Maximus manuscript of the same period, done in Barcelona and now in that city's archives (ms. L/26). In all events, mediaeval manuscripts from Spain are among the scarcest. A complete copy of this work in later, printed form is currently offered on abebooks for approximately 72,600.00. Single leaves are very scarce on the market. Minor handling patina, else very good and attractive for display. A superior item, combining size, content, and region. $250-325

25-11. Original Leaf - 1487.

From Plinius Secundius' (Pliny's) Naturalis Hystorie, printed by Marinus Saracenus (Marino Saraceno), Venice, June 14, 1487. Latin. 8 x 12. Black on oatmeal, with total of six red and five ultramarine blue initials hand-painted. Blue pigment, prepared from lapis lazuli or azurite from Afghanistan, was once as valuable as gold. Palest bluish-grey halos spread around the five blue initials, the color absorbed into paper; irregular ¹/2" fragment lacking at blank bottom edge, brown patination from leather along once-bound edge, some handling darkening at top and bottom tips where leaves turned, else very good plus. WorldCat locates one leaf, at Midwestern State University, Texas. Ex-Cy Stapleton Collection. $55-75

26-1. With 150th Anniversary Presentation Letter, 1888.

A most unusual example - albeit very incomplete - with provenance from the Sower (Saur) family - by the date of this presentation the oldest publishing house in America. Given as a gift by Charles Sower to an important Philadelphia newspaper publisher, then in turn to a major financier and rare book collector. About 212 leaves (of about 636), including the 23rd Psalm, of the 1743 first edition of the first Bible printed in America in any European language (and only the second Bible printed in America in any language). The book already incomplete when the following presentations were made:

• Mounted on inside back panel of suede and buckram board: Autograph Letter Signed of Ch(arles) G. Sower, on ornate letterhead of Christopher Sower Co. "Established by Christopher Sower, 1738, Incorporated 1888...Philadelphia...," Sept. 4, 1888. To Geo. W. Childs. "Herewith find a copy of the first edition of Christopher Sower Bible, printed, as you will see by the title page to New Testament, in Germantown, in 1743. These old Bibles were in constant use so many years that they are seldom found with first title page and opening chapters complete. I had this rebound for preservation ...Your friend, Ch. G. Sower." (Illustrated below.) In 1888 - 150 years after its founding by Christopher Sower (the elder) - the firm was incorporated by great-great-grandson Charles Gilbert Sower.

• Mounted on inside front board, bold signature of Ch. G. Sower, plus A.L.S. of George W. Childs, on his letterhead as proprietor, Public Ledger, Philadelphia, Oct. 17, 1890. To James W. Paul, Jr. "I send you a copy of the Sower Bible to add to your collection. You are collecting books of the right kind in the right way, and you will eventually have one of the rarest and most valuable libraries in Philadelphia...Your friend...." A remarkable self-made man, Childs rose from unidentified parentage, to be considered a Republican nominee for President. Joining the Navy at age 13, he went to work in a bookstore the following year. In 1864, Childs bought the Philadelphia Public Ledger, then constructed a new building, called "the finest newspaper office in the country." Making $500,000 a year, Childs and his financier partner Drexel purchased and built what became the Philadelphia Main Line, an early planned suburban community. Childs' own summer home boasted fifty rooms.--wikipedia

Recipient of this gift, James W. Paul, Jr., was a banker in the firm Drexel & Co. (his father-in-law, and Childs' business partner), son of the noted Philadelphia financier and philanthropist, and brother-in-law of W. Waldorf Astor. Passing away at just 57, his friends including J. Pierpont Morgan. Paul was a collector of "valuable paintings and art objects, and a large quantity of rare stamps, of which he was an enthusiastic collector."

• Taped to 1888 endleaf, a handwritten description on verso of a printed baptism card, probably 1960s: "Pages from T(itle) P(age) to p. 120 missing. Page 121 glued to another sheet; only p. 122 visible [and about one-quarter missing]. Bible ends with Old Testament...." Typo by Saur: two different pages are numbered 978.

In all, about 212 leaves present. Acquired by consignor late 1970s or early 1980s, the book already broken: Up to page 478: about 52 leaves (about 104 pp.) present, non-consecutive, with many lacking. • Pages 487-995: about 160 leaves (about 320 pp.) present. Includes 23rd Psalm. Occasional consecutivity. Pages missing from this block comprise:

511-512, 561-570, 573-576, 581-582, 595-596, 599-602, 611-612, 615-618, 623-623, 629-632, 641-654, 657-658, 661-656, 671-678, 687-690, 697-698, 703-712, 725-734, 737-742, 749-750, 753-758, 761-762, 777-778, 785-786, 809-814, 835-840, 845-852, 855-858, 863-864, 871-880, 887-888, 891-914, 929-930, 935-936, 965-970, and 985-986.

Both covers and suede spine covering separated from text block; most of suede covering of the separated spine present as a relic. Gilt stamped "Saur Bible / 1743," when rebound by Ch. Sower nearly a century and a half later. Title page typewritten on an old manual typewriter, perhaps by Sower in 1888 (though appears early 20th century), and mounted on 1888 blank endleaf. Leaves with uniform browning, some waterstains, some leaves shaken and edges moderately tattered, but most good or better. Pp. 145-148 disbound, with extensive marginal notes in ink, in an 18th-century hand. Possible inscription on p. 995 ("Gott"?). • With old descriptive label, on embossed paper, perhaps c. 1920s. Evidently once mounted on an inside board, then removed when book broken. The volume may have been acquired by one of the dealers who compiled leaf collections. Because values of many rare books were slow to recover in the decades following their zenith in the 1920s, and crash in 1929, they were sometimes broken apart and sold by the leaf, or in leaf collections.

Many leaves bear 18th century manuscript notes in margins, in a small, fine hand. Because the volume was the property of Charles Sower, heir of the publishing house bearing Christopher Sower's name, it is possible that these notes are in the hand of a much earlier family member, but this requires research. Understandably offered as is, with all faults, nonetheless a survivor of a highly important colonial imprint, with unique multiple provenances. Even if broken further, both the important and ordinary leaves would bear a premium because of the Sower family ownership. Individual leaves are now elusive on the market: at time of this writing, abebooks shows only two single, provenance-less leaves (68.00 and 100.00). Further description or photos gladly furnished. $4800-6000 (about

26-2. A Letter to John Wesley, Founder of Methodism, seeking "direct testimony from God."

Contemporary retained copy of letter to Wesley, evidently unpublished, in hand of his eloquent acolyte "E.B." (Mrs. Eliza(beth) Bennis), one of the most influential exponents of Methodism in Ireland, playing a role in bringing the faith to North America. Lim(eric)k, "July ye 10th, 1766," 6 x 7 ³/4, 2 full pp. She had met the first Wesleyan preacher to visit Limerick in 1749; Wesley would make some 42 trips by horse to Ireland, organizing societies of faithful. "I recd. yours of the 29th of Mar. wher(e)in you mention that one of our preachers has lately advanc'd a new position; that there is no direct or Immediate witness of the world of sanctification, but only a perception or Conscienciousness that we are Changed: I believe there is no passing through such a Change without being sensible that a Change is wrought. But how can any know what the Grace is...without the direct testimony of God's spirit? Indeed according to my conception of it Satan was bound so that he shou'd never have power to disturb such souls...But are there not times when the powers of darkness shew their strength. Do they not often raise a mist in the soul which clouds almost every grace, And then throws in multitudes of doubts and questionings into the mind; And in this case is there not need of a direct testimony from God, And if this be not attainable what shall comfort a soul in such Sircumstances [sic]. I request your own thoughts on these matters. For my part a state of uncertainty was always a painfull state to me...my heart so torn by reason of my Inbred sin...My heart was broken at the thought of sin still subsisting...In times of grievous temptation I shou(l)d be ready to give up my Confidence were it not for this testimony which often shines Indisputably clear...a pity that all do not seek it, but I believe many are contented with being happy without knowing their freedom...They miss the comforts proceeding from this testimony...My ignorance is so great, And my Ideas of things so confus'd...Being in myself a poor, dark, unstable creature, But blessed be God for his free grace, through this alone I am what I am...My Indigence appears every day more and more, and this drives me to my Lord Jesus...My Dear Sir, I request your prayers...." Light foxing and dust toning, some fold wear, else about very good. "No. 5" on verso, in a period hand. The denomination is believed to have derived its name from students' characterization of John Wesley's brother, Charles, as a "methodist," for his methodical study habits (and authorship of 6,500 hymns!). Unrecorded in writer Elizabeth Bennis' journal, noted for her descriptions of daily life of women in Ireland, 1749-1779, published in 2007: "Energetic, intelligent and zealous, she went on to become one of the most influential of John Wesley's Irish correspondents, an advocate of Methodism not only in Limerick but...through her contacts with John Stretton, the Irish-born apostle of Methodism to Newfoundland, had a hand in establishment of Methodism in North America. Immediately following her conversion, Elizabeth began a journal which she would keep for the next thirty years. Intended primarily as a record of the author's spiritual condition and progress towards ‘perfect holiness,' (it) opens a window onto the daily life and inner consciousness of a middle-class woman in eighteenth-century Ireland, and onto the world which she inhabited. It is at once an intimate and intensely involving account of a remarkable woman, and a major addition to the sources for the history of women, religion and domestic life in this period."--precis of publisher Columba Press (Ireland). Evidently unpublished: the only 1766 letter in The Works of John Wesley is dated Manchester, Mar. 29. RareBookHub records no Bennis letters at auction or in dealer catalogues, 1860-present. $350-475

26-3. Another Letter to John Wesley, Founder of Methodism: "Your last visit to this place prov'd a blessing...."

Retained copy of letter to Wesley, evidently unpublished, in hand of his eloquent acolyte "E.B." (Mrs. Eliza(beth) Bennis); see preceding lot for biographical detail. Limerick, July 15, 1767, 6 ¹/2 x 8, 1 p., with 2 lines concluding on verso. "No. 7" on verso, in a period hand. "I have made many attempts to write to you since you left Limerick, but my state has appeared to me so confus'd that when I have taken up the pen, I knew not where or how to begin...Your last visit to this place prov'd a blessing to my soul. Your word was accompanied with some degree of power, and I was given to see more clearly the work of God on my heart. But yet, I cannot say I am satisfied...I am ready to question this evidence...Indeed it appears to me sometimes as a perfect inconsistency...I do not find that measure of life, or love, which I once enjoyed...I think my experience such a Jumble, & I am myself such a poor dark blind Ignorant creature...." Light foxing, some fold wear, else about very good. Unrecorded in The Journal of Elizabeth Bennis, edited by Rosemary Raughter, 2007. $275-350

26-4. Rare Philadelphia Methodist Imprint.

Important book in the annals of American Methodism, printed within Wesley's lifetime: An Extract of the Christian's Pattern; or, a Treatise of the Imitation of Christ..., by Thomas A. Kempis. Published by John Wesley. Philadelphia: Prichard & Hall, sold by John Dickins, 1790. 306 + (11) pp. 2 ¹/4 x 4. Contemporary full calf. Title page signed by Thomas Workman; two signatures at front plus two at rear endleaf of Dorsey Stewart, "Steal not this Book, for fear of Shame, for in it stands the owner(s) name" and "his hand and pen, he may be Good, I can't say when," also in his hand. Covers detached from use, and loosely stitched back on with very old twine; internal tear in first leaf of index, with no loss of text; several old paper clips flagging pages of interest to a previous owner, varied foxing, none objectionable, handling wear, else good plus. Bristol B7503. Early American Imprints, 1st Series no. 46000. This edition unrecorded in Evans or Sabin. None located by WorldCat (except for microform). No printings before 1830 on abebooks. This example last on market in 1976. $550-725

26-5. Psalms 39 to 48 - Reused as a Book Cover.

Partial vellum leaf, first half of 13th century, from an early and large monastic manuscript psalter. Probably Cistercian, based on punctus flexus punctuation and monochrome initials. Germany or southern Netherlands. In Latin. Trimmed to 6 ³/4 x 13 ³/4 and used as cover of an account book (not present). Text from Psalms 39:15 to 44:3 on front, Psalms 44:3 to 48:17 on verso. Double column, 50 lines of text in neat Gothic book hand. With large and small initials throughout in bright red. On one side of leaf, about two-thirds painted over in loden green where the sheets were used to cover an account book, perhaps around 1650, judging from offset ghost of unusual oversize "X" design from once-facing endleaf. The nearly fluorescent red has emerged in spots from beneath the green (the underlying text, while attributable, is challenging to read). Unpainted side toned to rich nutmeg brown, ink erosion of a 1 ¹/2"-high lazy S interestingly "die cutting" a curved window in vellum, else legible, and exuding considerable patina; vellum with marginal cracks and understandable imperfections from its remarkable survival. Fascinating relic, with desirable content. $180-220

26-6. Psalms 68 to 72 - Reused as a Book Cover.

Companion to above lot: Partial vellum leaf, first half of 13th century. Trimmed to 6 ¹/2 x 13 ³/4 and used as cover of an account book (not present). Traces of initials for Psalms Psalms 68-70 on front, Psalms 70:3 to 72:26 on verso. Large and small initials throughout in bright red. On one side of leaf, about two-thirds painted over in loden green where the sheets were used to cover an account book, perhaps around 1650, judging from offset ghost of unusual oversize "X" design from once-facing endleaf. The nearly fluorescent red has emerged in spots from beneath the green (the underlying text, while attributable, is challenging to read); adjacent unpainted text largely obscured by adhesions of the later binding use. Unpainted side toned to rich nutmeg brown, legible, and exuding considerable patina; vellum with marginal cracks and understandable imperfections from its remarkable survival. Desirable content. $160-200

26-7. Sixteenth-Century Bible Leaves.

Two different printed leaves: From Holy Bible printed 1585 by Charles Barker, London. In English, Geneva translation, by reformers who left England during reign of Queen Mary, for Geneva. Including Deuteronomie, "...Cursings and plagues." This translation retained its influence for a hundred years. 6 ¹/4 x 8. Some toning, else very good. • Leaf from A Catholike and Ecclesiastical Exposition of the Holy Gospell after S(t). John. Printed in London, 1575, by Thomas Marshe. 7 x 11 ¹/2. Large Roman and italic callouts, highlighting Blackletter text. "For Jesus knewe... who should betraye him." Edge toning, else fine. $40-50 (2 pcs.)

26-8. Attacking the Catholicism of the Duke of York - for whom New York is Named.

Printed "Abstract of the Contents Of Several Letters Relating to the management of Affairs with Rome, by the D(uke) of Y(ork) and Others...Shewing our present Dangers," by "a Protestant," n.d. but c. 1679-81, during the time the recently-converted Duke - a.k.a. James II, for whom New York is named - left England during the uproar over the Popish Plot, as his opponents sought to bar him from the throne. (7) pp., 7 ¹/2 x 11 ³/4. "...this execrable Popish Plot, contrived...for Murdering the King, and Subversion of our Religion and Government...The English Nation will be reduced thereby to absolute slavery, under the most malicious Enemy...All (James') fine Speeches and promises are to be lookt upon as nothing...Take notice of the Duke's being advanced to the Catholick Religion to the Joy of the Pope...." Returning to assume the throne, James published a declaration of liberty of conscience for all denominations, restirring fears of a Catholic tyranny, and again escaping, this time to France. Ex-lib stamp dated 1900. Light dust-toning of margins of first and last pp., wrinkle at blank edge of first leaf; removed from binding, else very good. $50-70

26-9. Beginnings of the Episcopal Church in America - "what pickle" New York City is in - and Respecting "the stripes" of the Flag.

Newspaper, The Connecticut Gazette..., New-London, Dec. 3, 1784. Printed by Timothy Green. On page one, a half column: "At a Convention of Clergymen and Lay Deputies of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States..., held in N.-Y...," recommending the state delegates "unite in a general ecclesiastical constitution...That the said church shall maintain the doctrines of the gospel as now held by the church of England...That the first meeting of the convention shall be at Philadelphia, the Tues. before the feast of St. Michael...," signed in type by William Smith, D.D., Pres. Sharing front page, lengthy State Act with likely one of the first American "consumer protection" laws: astonishingly detailed specifications for packing barrels and casks with beef, pork, fish, tobacco, "French sugar," "pearl ashes," and flour. Barrels must bear the brand and town of an inspector, these receiving a "fee or reward" from 1 shilling to 6-pence. Inside, imminent war between Holland and Austria, the French having "inveigled the Dutch into a contest with the Emperor." The first shot was fired at an Austrian vessel, but causing only "trifling" damage. From Boston, report of England's "Sir Charles Douglass, the blustering commodore...severely reprimanded...for his very improper treatment of the American flag. They have...taught them how to behave in future to the stripes that are respected in every corner of the globe...His feeble attempts to put a stop to the trade between the States and Halifax, are highly condemned by his Masters...." Theft of "the Continental chest for this Commonwealth, containing a large sum in Mr. Appleton's Interest Certificates, and some valuable papers...The culprits are now in goal [jail] for trial. It is hoped they will meet the just demerits of their crime." Capt. O'Brien of Newbury-Port reports that approaching Nova Scotia, "he was saluted a number of times with a loaded six-pound Cannon, and afterward, for about 4 hours, with small Arms, and obliged to come to an anchor...They threatened to whip him...Their Naval-Officer refused him an entry, for insulting the town with Rebel Colours, and even denied him the liberty of landing a few thousand of boards...telling him it was insufferable to shew them colours there...." Many Royalists (and blacks) had fled to Nova Scotia, the Revolution having ended just the previous year. Report from New York City of "a most dreadful storm...almost every cellar filled with water...Many merchants that the preceding evening exulted in the conscious superiority arising from the fair prospect of unbounded wealth, saw in one short night their promising hopes blasted...." (Ironically, p. 4 contains a half-col. ad for a 1,500-acre estate in Nova Scotia, complete with bake-house and cider-bearing orchard, seeking an American buyer.) A visitor to New York writes, "During the heats of last summer, I have seen their streets no better than receptacles of filth...I saw the high and the low, the rich and the poor, the municipal officers, all...wading through their dirty holes, heaps and kennels...Go to New-York, gentlemen. Go and see what pickle that town is in...The anarchy of our Town-Meetings [in Boston] is preferable to this costly and useless pomposity [of N.Y.]." A printing curiosity, the thick moss-tan paper with manufacturing oddities: semicircular indentation in right margins but leaving ample margins, and half of the sheet, approximately bearing pp. 3-4, with thin patches, two reinforced with small bits of tape decades ago; minor dust-toning at deckled edge, few brown spots believed arisen from papermaking, binding holes, with good plus. Printer Green's earlier press was long believed by historians to have been the very first press in America, brought here in 1638, on which the Bay Psalm Book was printed. (Despite much fanfare over the centuries - including issuance of a 1939 postage stamp depicting the press - the claim was disputed in the 1950s.) $110-150

26-10. The Spiritual Foundation of Early America.

Contemporary manuscript "Copy of the Constitu-tion of the Female Religious Society in Westborough," penned by Eliza Blake, Sec., Dorchester County, Mass., July 27, 1816, 7 ³/4 x 9 ¹/4, 4 pp. "Being deeply impressed with a sense of the truth & importance of the Christian religion...we the subscribers hereby associate for the purpose of meeting for a religious conversation & other exercises...to supplicate the God of grace for ourselves...to sing his praise in heart & voice...To do something towards the building up of his Kingdom by making articles of clothing for pious young men educating for the ministry...." Much toning, especially of p. 4; coffee(?) droplets, light edge chipping, but darkly penned, very satisfactory, and suitable for display. $55-75

26-11. "I have a story to tell you which will make your ears to tingle": In the Raptures of Revivalism, spreading from Old New York to the South.

Strident, lengthy letter of 22-year-old T.E. Clarke, Pompey (N.Y.), Feb. 8, 1828, 7 ³/4 x 12 ¹/2, 3 ¹/2 pp., integral address-leaf with manuscript "25," to brother William C. Clarke, Carlisle, Ky. Writing of his personal convictions, change of heart, and conversion of his soul, with news of friends and neighbors converting, mentioning Utica, Troy, and Whitesborough. "...Many articles of melancholy intelligence, and many a time has my paper been polluted with the unhallowed effusions of a trifling spirit. I have said much that should have been unsaid...Now William...I have a story to tell you which will make your ears to tingle...I have submitted myself into the arms of his mercy through Christ Jesus...When I look back upon my former self, I seem like some intoxicated soul[?] wandering about in the twilight among objects scarcely discernible, and not at all in their true shape...There is a reflection that fills me with astonishment that I have lived 22 years with the blaze of the light of the gospel flashing around me, and the fearful truths of God's word staring me constantly in the face...set in array before me...We are little diminutive wicked wretches. We know it ...but how little do we feel it. How little does the justice of God seem real...How hard to look upon ourselves as committed for a day of fearful trial...continually accelerated pace to a heaven of joy, or a hell of wo(e)...We are, with the Israelites of old, in danger of boasting that it is for our own righteousness that the Lord has brought us in to possess the land...." After escorting his mother to Springfield, Mass., the writer returned to Troy, where "most of the Christians in the city interceding with God in my behalf. They prayed that I might be detained til I could go in peace...The last time (I) had engaged a seat in the stage coach...I was then told that something unforeseen would keep me in the city...I began to feel that the finger of God was in it and determined to make no further effort to run away like Jonah...The change I spoke of was anything more than the withdrawing of the Spirit or a delusion of the devil...There have been several instances of conversion in our neighborhood...You must pray too for these brothers & sisters of ours. They are sad rebels - just as I was a month ago...Why are we commanded to pray if we are not to receive?...God seems to say to us, as he did to Moses concerning the children of Israel, ‘Let me alone that I may destroy them'...My birth day was kept by (Mr. Beman's) church as a solemn fast...As a preacher he excels all that I ever heard unless I except Mr. Finney. Mr. F. is the greatest preacher America ever saw...Finney is at Wilmington, Del. where there is a revival by his labors. He has preached in Philadelphia. The eyes of Christians at the South will be opened...." Darker waterstained triangular portions at top, middle, and bottom portions of right margin, loss of some words where red wax seal adhered, some fold wear, but darkly penned, and very satisfactory. With catalogue cutting of noted old-time dealer Craig Ross. $80-110

26-12. First Edition of an Important Work on Mohammed, 1723.

Oversize volume in lovely binding, (The Life of Mohammed), text in Arabic and Latin: "De Vita, et Rebus Gestis Mohammedis / Moslemicae Religionis Auctoris, et Imperii Saracenici Fundatoris...," by Ismael Abu'l-Feda. Oxoniae (Oxford): Theatro Sheldoniano, printed by Rob(ert) Shippen, Oxford, 1723. First edition of this important work, the author a mediaeval Kurdish prince, historian, and geographer; the crater Abulfeda on the Moon is named for him. Title page copperplate engraving by Joannes Gagnier. Thin tall folio, 10 x 15 ¹/4, 160 pp. Attractive mottled caramel ¹/2 glazed calf, darker brown tips, strikingly futuristic boards marbled with mocha and slate-blue bubbles on flowing rivulets in four tones of cream to mahogany; fore-edges sprinkled in complementary terra cotta; oxblood and black spine labels, the binding judged c. 1825-50. An ambitious typographic production, in a styled Garamond, with swashes and ligatures, set within wide margins, with uncommonly deep letterpress impression, giving a full-black richness to the type. Arabic and Latin mostly in parallel columns, with exhaustive annotations, and fleeting appearance of Hebrew. The heavy use of Arabic likely presented a challenge, even in a book production center such as Oxford. Inner hinge exposed, but binding tight; shelf wear at four leather tips and top and bottom edges of boards, else pleasing decorative appearance. Nickel-size ink spot on half-title and title pages, subtly camouflaged inlay repair at blank top of prefatory p. xi, diminishing light foxing on first and last dozen leaves, else internally fresh, crisp, and fine plus. Ex-Swann Galleries, Sale 1022, 1970s, and off the market since. Another copy, rebacked, "bit chafed, slightly foxed," sold at a 2014 Dutch auction, for EUR 2640. $2300-2800

27-1. Check-Style Document Endorsed by Owner of Washington's Presidential Mansion - and 3.6 Million Acres.

Manuscript check-style draft endorsed by fur trader Alex(ander) Macomb. Though a Loyalist, it was Macomb's Manhattan mansion that was used by Washington as a Presidential seat in 1790. Speculatively purchasing 3.6 million acres from N.Y. after the Revolution - for 12¢ an acre - he was unable to resell it fast enough to keep up with his debts, landing him in debtors' prison. He never regaining his fortune. Issued by merchants Low & Wallace, N.Y., Sept. 8, 1807, 3 ¹/2 x 7 ¹/2. Repaying $1,000 to William Wilson in sixty days. On verso, a fine signature of Macomb, with flourish, Wilson, and two others. Wilson may have been the physician, postmaster, judge, and estate manager for the Livingston family. (Macomb's son married Signer Robert Livingston's granddaughter.) Livingston's vast land holdings were a focus of anti-rent riots. Nicholas Low began his career as a clerk to Jewish colonial merchant Hayman Levy, then founded his own firm during the Revolution; director of Bank of N.Y., 1785; member N.Y. Constitutional Convention, and business agent of Alexander Hamilton, Pierre L'Enfant, Gouverneur Morris, et al. Minor short tear at blank bottom edge, marginal toning, light wear, else V.G. Uncommon signatures, with fascinating links among the elite of Washington's first administration. $130-160

27-2. A Primitive Jacksonian Check.

Manuscript check of Lew(is) Cass, in hand of and signed by his son Lew(is) Cass, Jr., during his father's term as Jackson's Secretary of War. "Cashier of the U.S.B. Bank," Washington, Feb. 4, 1836. "Pay Mr. Wilson or bearer $5." 2 x 7 ¹/2. Cross cancel in blank area. Cass ran for Pres. in 1848, losing to Taylor, later serving as Secretary of State in the years leading up to Civil War. Two remnants of grey paper on blank verso, where removed from ledger, some spilled ink on verso, else about fine. A primitive form of early check. $30-40

27-3. Tour of the "treasures" of the U.S. Treasury for a V.I.P.'s Daughter.

A.L.S. of former Union Maj. Gen. J.R. Hawley, here Sen. from Conn., (Washington, D.C., Jan. 5, 1897), 5 x 8. To Hon. D.N. Morgan (Treasury Dept.). "I have the pleasure of presenting my daughter Miss Margaret & her friend Miss Isabel Hooker of Hartford. They wish to see the great treasures. I cannot go this morning. Can you give them a nice guide?..." Born in North Carolina, Hawley led Union troops throughout the South; sent to New York City to keep peace during the 1864 Presidential election, he served as postwar Conn. Gov., Congressman, and Senator. In rich brown ink. Original folds, two soft, blind vertical creases, else very fine and attractive. $120-160

27-4. Stock Certificates: Railroads, Steamboat, and Oil.

Attractive group of six issued stock certificates: Two of Little Miami Rail Road Co., 1864 and 1869, Cincinnati, local imprint, charming vignette of primitive locomotive pulling coal and parlor cars. Revenue stamp. Signed by two different Pres. • Aguan Navigation and Improvement Co., N.Y., 1885, low no. 76, vignette of large paddle-wheel steamboat. Green and black. American Bank Note. • Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Co., 1899, intricate pumpkin-orange border, finely engraved locomotive in black. Unusual variant: a "Preferred Stock Trust Certificate" to a London stockholder, redeemable in five years for three shares - but cancelled 1901. International Bank Note. • Providence and Worcester Rail Road Co., Providence, 1916, green and black, pink printed seal. Signed by Pres. With separate document bearing red $2 revenue stamp, transferring shares to local bank in 1939. American Bank Note. • Omaha Bridge and Terminal Railway Co., 1945, rich currency-green, vignette of bridge in black. A.B.N. Old tape discoloration at left margin. • Reiter-Foster Oil Corp., 1939, purple-red and black, vignette of oil derricks and gusher. A.B.N. Light wear, else all fine. $170-250 (6 pcs.)

27-5. Father of the Greenback.

A.L.S. of Congressman E(lbridge) G(erry) Spaulding of N.Y., credited with creating the Greenback of Civil War years. N.p. but possibly Buffalo, Jan. 10, 1849, 1 p., 7 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/2. "We are desirous of having the interest paid up on the mortgages on Lloyd St. [probably in Buffalo]...B & M, $3000 from Jan. 1, 1847, int(erest) annually." Vertical tear and lacking fragment at blank bottom, probably when opened, else about very good. In 1861, Spaulding introduced a bill authorizing Treasury notes payable on demand; the law which ensued permitted issue of $150 million in legal tender notes - or Greenbacks - in 1862. Suitable for display with currency. $55-70

27-6. Uncut Sheet of Kentucky Lottery Tickets.

Four consecutively numbered, partly printed tickets, "Lexington Library Lottery," 1811, 7 ¹/4 x 7 ³/4. Each with retained stub. Signed by Jnt.(?) Wrigglesworth, "Ag(en)t." Imprint "T. Smith, Printer." Gentle graduated toning at right margin, some light wrinkles at blank lower right corner, else very fine. Uncommon in uncut multiples. $650-800

27-7. Friend - then Foe - of Ben Franklin.

Ticket, "Canal Lottery, No. Two," Philadelphia, Jan. 1, 1796, 2 ¹/4 x 6 ¹/4. "Paid $6, Due $4...." Signed by Secretary Wm. Smith in red-brown, four ink cancellations. Scalloped left and bottom edges, portion of charming agricultural woodcut. Decorative border. Smith was a fifth-generation member of the eponymous Pennsylvania family; his voluminous correspondence with Benjamin Rush and Thomas Penn is preserved at the University of Penna. Invited by Ben Franklin in 1753 to tour his new Academy of Philadelphia, Smith accepted his offer to teach logic, rhetoric, and philosophy. Rapidly elevated to head the school, he later raised funds in England for Franklin's now-degree-granting college, and for New York's Kings College, antecedent of Columbia. Fearing that Pennsylvania's German-speaking population was at risk of being influenced because of their ignorance of the English language and system of government, Smith led the German Free School movement. Clashing with Franklin by cultivating the Penn family for financial support of the Academy, Smith and his future father-in-law were arrested and imprisoned for seditious libel. By the time of the Revolution, Smith had alienated himself from mainstream Penna. politics, seeking refuge in Maryland. Returning after the War, his College merged, creating the University of Penna. Blind-embossed cancellation impression, but barely penetrating paper. Excellent. Evidently elusive; no examples initially found online. $90-130

28-2. Congratulating George Washington "on the happy establishment of the Union."

Fascinating and important issue of Gazette of the United-States, (N.Y.), Nov. 4, 1789, 9 ³/4 x 15 ¹/2, (4) pp. With two addresses of George Washington on p. 1, one in reply to the Pres. of Harvard, the other responding to an eloquent tribute to him from Boston's citizens. In this, his first year as President, Washington had begun a tour of New England. Harvard lauds him as "First Magistrate...(who) left the tranquil scenes of private life, to secure those national blessings we were in the utmost danger of losing...Permit us, Sir, to congratulate you on the happy establishment of the Union...You are strongly impressed with the necessity of religion, virtue and solid learning, for supporting freedom and good government, and fixing the happiness of the People upon a firm and permanent basis...." Harvard thanks Washington for rescuing the school from "a state of depression...the Muses fled from the din of arms, then heard within its walls," to "a state of tranquility." Washington replies, "...Elected by the suffrages of a too-partial country...it gives me sincere satisfaction to learn the flourishing state of your literary republic...." A florid tribute from Boston, whose citizens "cheerfully abandoned our property and possessions in the common cause of America...It is our fervent prayer to the Almighty Ruler...that the invisible hand which led the citizens of America through the dangers and calamities of war, may still guard and protect you...." Washington thanks them for "Your love of liberty - your respect for the laws - your habits of industry...." Inside, lengthy list of the procession, upon Washington's visit to Boston. Including "The President, In his military uniform, On an elegant white Horse," followed by a vast cornucopia of occupational craftsmen, including Bakers, Blacksmiths, Boat-Builders, Card-Makers, Carvers, Chaise and Coach-Makers, Clock and Watch-Makers, Goldsmiths and Jewellers, Hair-Dressers, Hatters, Lemon-Dealers, Mathematical Instrument-Makers, Sugar-Boilers, Truckmen, Wharfingers, Scholars, and more - plus music and fireworks. Slightly rotated on press (not an uncommon occurrence on the ancient presses of the period), the final line on page 1, "Boston, Oct. 27, 1789" just barely shaved as it approaches the edge of the sheet; p. 3 considerably swung, with loss of last line in one column (an obituary), and grazing last letter of several lines. Blind 3" horizontal tear on both leaves, but undetectable when laid flat. Else with uniform toning, few minor marginal tears, and about fine. The Gazette was the new country's first administration newspaper, sometimes the first to print news of Congress; their New York City pressroom was walking distance from Congress, when New York was the national's capital. Elusive and insightful. $300-450

28-3. The Battle of Gettysburg Rages On.

One of the iconic newspapers of the Civil War, The New York Times, Sat., July 4, 1863, with exhaustive, riveting, and often vivid coverage of the clashes of July 1, 2, and 3. 15 ¹/2 x 21, 8 pp. Page 1 headlined, "The Great Battles - Our Special Telegrams from the Battle Field to 10 A.M. Yesterday - Full Details of the Battle of Wed. [July 1] - No Fighting on Thurs. Until Four and a Half P.M. - A Terrible Battle Then Commenced...The Enemy Repulsed at All Points - The Third Battle Commenced Yesterday [Fri.] Morning at Daylight - The Rebels the Attacking Party - No Impression Made on Our Lines - The Death of Longstreet, and Barksdale of Miss...." Perhaps the foremost compilation, in newspaper form, of the turning point of the war. Their own correspondent, having been at "Gettysburgh" since July 1, advises that reports "as thus far rendered in the Philadelphia and Baltimore papers, are almost totally incorrect...On July 3, a bloody engagement was then fought... resulting in a substantial success to our forces, the enemy being repulsed with great loss...." The same reporter continues in another column, "...The sharpshooters in the steeples and belfreys of the churches persistently blazed away at officers and artillery horses...The battle now became perfectly fearful. The armies engaged each other at very short range...I never saw or heard of such desperate tenacious fighting...The enemy would often bring up suddenly a heavy column of men, and force our line back, only to be in turn forced back by our own line of glittering steel...Look where you would on that field a body of rebels would be advancing...The struggle grew hotter and hotter...I visited some portions of the line by moonlight, and can bear personal witness to the terrible ferocity of the battle...." Editorial statements inside, "The National Anniversary - Celebration of the Fourth," "The Military Rights of Colored Troops," "Negro Soldiers from the Free States," "Waste of Life in our Armies - Duty of the Government," and much more. A trifle dry, but probably a file copy only; fine chipping of three edges, but the margins generous, and affecting no text; ³/4" vertical tear at 12 o'clock all leaves; old quarter-folds, very light marginal toning, else showing little handling, about fine, bright, and clean. $750-1000

28-4. Original Newspaper Illustration by a Pulitzer-Prize Winner.

Splendid signed, original newspaper illustration by Pulitzer Prize-winning illustrator (Fred Little) Packer, published in the daily newspaper New York Journal, forerunner of Hearst's Journal-American, one of Gotham's great papers. Not later than 1932. A touching scene of a mother, holding suitcase, taking one last look at her sleeping daughter, childish drawings of a giraffe and elephant on the wall behind, before she leaves on a trip. Captioned in blue crayon-pencil "2 col. / True Story for Tuesday / 1st Ed(ition) Journal." 14 x 14 ³/4, in india ink and charcoal pencil, on stipple art board. "485" in pencil at upper left, likely the engraving department's job number. Dust toning at blank margins, several thumbprints in margins on front (the other four fingers on verso), from placement in horizontal graphic arts camera to make negative; some other light table soiling, else good plus, and wonderful for display. It would not be insurmountable to locate the story which this illustrated. Beginning his art career in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Packer came to New York in 1919, creating brilliant Parrish-esque advertising art, and editorial cartoons and illustrations for Hearst's Journal, American, and Mirror. His 1952 cartoon mocking Truman, titled "Your Editors Ought to Have More Sense than to Print what I Say!," captured the Pulitzer. Even in the galaxy of New York's top commercial artists, Packer was a star. Very scarce. See illustration; cropped to fit catalogue space. $170-220

28-5. Cliffhanger over Manhattan - 1934.

Signed, original newspaper illustration by (Fred Little) Packer (see bio in preceding lot), published in Hearst's New York Mirror. Timeclock of engraving department stamped on verso Nov. 19, 1934, 12:09 P.M. Suspenseful scene showing a window washer in Manhattan, the water tower of a nearby building below, as he dangles perilously from a cantilevered window swung outward. Art size 5 x 7, on 10 ¹/4 x 16 ³/4 ivory card stock. In blue crayon-pencil, "22 Picas / [Floyd] Gibbons / 1st Ed(ition) Journal / Monday," but apparently run in its sister daily, the Mirror, instead; in a different hand, in pencil, "12:40 edition." It is impressive that art received from Packer's drawing board just after noon was already on press and heading to newsstands some 31 minutes later. Two simple sketches of a high-prowed ship at side of board, certainly doodles by Packer. Dust toning, some table wear, but good.

The columnist here, Floyd Gibbons, was a flamboyant newspaperman, and one of radio's first news reporters. First a police reporter, then World War I correspondent for the Chicago Tribune, in combat with the Marines, he "lived a life of danger." With a fast-talking style, Gibbons narrated newsreels and "Your True Adventures," the latter as both radio programs and film shorts, based on the best stories submitted by listeners. It is possible that the present original artwork illustrated one of these Gibbons tales in newspaper form. As short films, they were produced by Warner Brothers in N.Y. "Each recreates a ‘heart stopping' event with actors and often presenting the real person behind the story in the final scene, introduced by Gibbons himself."--wikipedia. The present artwork might have accompanied his nail-biters "Defying Death," "High Peril," or "A Minute from Death." He was memorialized in "The Floyd Gibbons Story," in a 1962 episode of The Untouchables, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A conversation-starting display item; the massive tilting window shown here was found in many Manhattan commercial buildings built in the first quarter of the twentieth century. Opening them involved pulling, then setting a chain, whose tension held the window in the desired position; this was an exciting job for youngsters (including this cataloguer). $200-250

28-6. "The fate of East Florida...."

Bell's Weekly Messenger, London, July 26, 1818, 8 pp. With alarming 11-column-inch letter, in which its Charleston author warns that the Americans have penetrated into West Florida, carrying on a war of extermination against the Seminole Indians. The Spaniards were helpless to stop them. "The fate of East Florida is still uncertain but the Americans do not disguise their determination to possess it. What in the name of common sense is the British Cabinet about? Can it be so blinded as not to perceive the consequences that must result from the occupation of the Floridas by the U.S...During the administration of Mr. Madison, a secret law was passed, authorizing the pres. to direct its seizure...Tempo [Tampa] and Bona Grande...are capable of receiving the largest ships of war...New Orleans...promises to become the emporium of commerce of the Western world...." Lengthy article on the "high price and bad quality of Porter (wine)." Count of officers of the Royal Navy's "White, Blue (and) Red." About fine. Scarce. $70-90

28-7. The Moon Landing - including the Famous "Men Walk on Moon" Issue.

Stirring group of five newspapers: Boston Globe, July 15, 1969, Section 1, 22 pp. "Astronauts Face Moon Trip Unafraid - It's ‘When' We Land, Not ‘If,' Says Aldrin." Early example of full-color in tabloid: "Artist's Conception of Man's First Step on the Lunar Surface - Astronaut Neil Armstrong's big moment, next Mon...." Inside, photo of the three spacemen at previous evening's news conference. Some handling, edge tears, outer toning, else good. • N.Y. Times, July 17, 1969. Complete, including special 20 pp. Apollo 11 "Man and the Moon" supplement. "Astronauts Speeding Toward the Moon; First Day of Apollo Flight is Flawless... Craft on Target - World Watches Start of Man's Attempt to Achieve Landing." Exhaustive pictorial coverage inside, in what was then arguably America's flagship newspaper. Mottled toning on lower half, diminishing over first 10 leaves, some storage fray at right edge, one section imperfectly machine-folded, else unread and about fine. • Boston Herald Traveler, July 18, 1969, section 1, 12 pp. "Moon Walk May Be Sunday - Nixon to Make Person-to-Person Call to Astronauts During Lunar Walk...." Four sequential photos of lift-off of "Mighty Saturn V rocket...." Foxing top half of p. 1, minor edge wear all pp., else satisfactory and a scarce title. • N.Y. Times, July 21, 1969. Complete in 4 sections. Bold headline of this famous issue, "Men Walk on Moon - Astronauts Land on a Plain after Steering past Crater - Voice From Moon: ‘Eagle Has Landed'...." Two large page-1 photos of Aldrin alighting, and Armstrong joining him. Some mousechew along 3" of left edge, affecting some text in left-hand pp. of section 1; light toning, else unread and very good. Rich Moon content, with poem by Archibald MacLeish, reactions from around the world, and essays on Man's explorations of the unknown. • Daily News, N.Y., July 22, 1969. Complete Night Owl ed., 92 pp. "They Dock! Buzz Says It: Beautiful, Very Quiet Ride!" Page-1 artwork showing blast-off from Moon. Also, "U.S. Eases Trade, Travel Ban on China"; "Teddy [Kennedy] to Fight Crash Charge." Much more Moon coverage inside, including centerfold. The advertisements a parade of lost names of New York City: Gimbel's, Franklin Simon, E.J. Korvette, Mays, Modell's, Herman's Sporting Goods, Alexander's, and others. Two-pp. civic ad deploring N.Y.'s "transit system that's hot, crowded, dirty and dangerous," urging action on Second Ave. subway (first planned 1929, still unfinished some ninety years later). Very minor handling, else fine. $170-220 (5 pcs.)

28-8. "The Turky Merchant of London," Christian Corsairs - and the Prince of Transylvania.

Riveting group of eight consecutive issues of the world's oldest continuously published newspaper, The London Gazette, Dec. 13, 1675-Jan. 10, 1676 (the three issues of the new year bearing a typo, still showing 1675 in the masthead!). During reign of the Merry Monarch, Charles II. 7 ¹/4 x 11, 2 pp. ea. Filled with news of fighting throughout much of Europe, the complex intrigues a real-life "Game of Thrones." In first issue alone: "Yesterday came into this Port [Falmouth] the Turky Merchant of London, richly laden...(Also) the Amity...William Terrel, Master...In his Voyage he was met by a Privateer of Biscay, who ...very evilly entreated him, and took away two Hogsheads of Wine, and several small Guns and Musques... Four Turkish ships bound for Constantinople, which (dare) not put to Sea for fear of the Christian Corsairs, who are very comfortable in those Seas, and give the Turks great disturbance in their Trade...The Grand Vizier seemed very eager in his intentions for the carrying on the War against the Poles...at present in a pretty good posture, having forced the Turks and Tartars shamefully to retire...." Dane and Norse troops rumored fighting the "Suedes." The "affairs of Hungary" deteriorate, as deputies from the Prince of Transylvania "mediate with the Emperor on their behalf...." "The Turks... marching toward the Danube in great disorder." From Liege, "...what Complaints the poor Countrey people make of the hard usage they receive from the Troops...that they are forced to provide with Meat, Bread, Beer, Hay, Straw, &c., and besides all this are obliged to pay Contributions to the Spaniards. A strong party of Dutch...threatened to destroy all with Fire and Sword...." Much, much more. The incessant combat makes modern-day news seem mild. Evidently never folded, edge toning, first leaf with light tortoise-shell effect, deckled fore-edge, else crisp and very fine. $150-220 (8 pcs.)

28-9. News from Gouda: "Two French Trumpetters came" - and White Slaves of the Tartars and Cossacks.

Group of six consecutive issues of The London Gazette, Oct. 10-31, 1672. 7 ¹/4 x 11, 2 pp. ea. Filled with news of European intrigue: Expecting a Turkish invasion, "From Poland they tell us, that the Nobility seem at length awakened by the approaching danger, and are Arming themselves with all the speed they can, for the defence of the Kingdom...to expect the coming down of the rest of the Nobility ...The Turks in the meantime make high demands." From Cologne, "Three French Regiments of Horse appeared within sight of this place...Our watches were doubled, and several Cannon brought upon the walls...." The Prince of Orange clashing with the Duke of Luxembourgh: "The Fight was very hot, and many Men killed...Some whisper it to be not less than 4,000...This must have also cost the French dear...." From Gouda (land of the Dutch cheese), "Yesterday two French Trumpetters came...and summoned the Town to surrender...This morning early went ten Companies...There is again some design in hand...." The ships Happy Returns and Dragon engage off the coast of "Plimouth"; the Hercules "laden with Coals from Newcastle"; "his Holiness" beseeching "all other Christian Princes" to come to the aid of Poland, fighting the Turks. Tartars and Cossacks, retreating in Poland, "either killed or made Slaves of all they met...." Some 600 "tuns" of cocoa arrived in Madrid from Cuba. Much more. Mocha toning, tortoise-shell mottling, characteristic of paper, not moisture; old soft half fold, some tears and fragments lacking at blank margin where removed from binding, second issue with some scuffing and darkening, else about very good. Splendid for classroom use. $110-160 (6 pcs.)

28-10. Fighting "to enjoy their Liberties and Religion."

Three consecutive issues of The London Gazette, May 15-26, 1684, 2 pp. ea. "Cossacks...subject to the Czars of Muscovy...to offer the King of Poland their Service, upon condition they may continue to enjoy their Liberties and Religion..."; the King accepted, sending them "Moneys and Cloaths." Retreat of "6,000 Souls" as Turks approach, awaiting the 50,000-man Imperial Army, 10,000 Hungarian soldiers, the King's 60,000 men, and 49,000 Cossack troops! Much more. Darker tortoise-shell effect on third issue, else very fine. $60-80 (3 pcs.)

3000. Webster's Biographical Dictionary.

Older edition of this long-out-of-print standard, with some 40,000 U.S. and foreign entries from all periods of history, ancient to Twentieth Century. Over 1,600 pp., cloth, d.j., with multiple reference indices. An invaluable work -- we use our desk copy many times each day. We have collected used copies: Ex-lib, with expected wear, but good reading copies, $19.75 • Clean, lightly used copies; may have minor ex-lib marks and d.j. wear, else internally about fine. $33.00

3001. Webster's Geographical Dictionary.

Older edition of this out-of-print classic. Over 47,000 places, 218 maps, 15,000 cross-references, 1,370 pp., cloth, d.j. Including alternate and former place-names, and foreign-language variants. In addition to countries of the world and cities, in many cases natural features, populations, sizes, and economic and historical information is provided (albeit as of publication date). An essential reference tool for home, office, school or library. Clean, lightly used copies; may have minor ex-lib marks and d.j. wear, else internally very good. $26.00

3002. Generals in Blue.

Warner's companion to Generals in Gray, this work his classic reference to some 583 Union Generals. Photograph and biography of each officer. Including invaluable listing of the 1,367 additional Union General Officers who never held full rank. 680 pp., cloth, d.j. Very fine. $39.50

3003. Generals in Gray.

The classic reference on 425 Confederate Generals, with photograph and biography of each. 420 pp., cloth, d.j., appendix of battles. Many of the photographs are from private sources, heretofore little-known. One of the foundation volumes of any Civil War library. V.F. $32.50

3004. More Generals in Gray.

A newer reference work, by Bruce S. Allardice, and adjunct to Warner's original Generals in Gray. Containing 137 additional Confederate Generals unlisted in Warner's book. 425 pp., illus., cloth. New. $29.95. • Also, softcover. New. $23.95

3005. Autographs of the Confederacy.

Limited Edition of handwriting examples of the men who led the South. Nearly 600 high quality photographic reproductions, 200-screen halftones. Printed on acid-free paper, bound in library-quality bookcloth, French marbled endpapers, silk ribbon placemark. Nested limitation leaf autographed by Robert E. Lee, IV (great-grandson of R.E. Lee), William Wirt Allen, III (great-grandson of C.S.A. Gen. William Wirt Allen), and compiler Michael Reese II. With today's prices for Confederate autographs, this pictorial reference can pay for itself in short order. The original - and definitive - work on the subject. Copies reside in the libraries of many descendants of the Generals of the Confederacy whose autographs are pictured within. Published by us in 1981, now long O.P. Supply now very limited. Mint. $125.00

3006. Autographs of the Confederacy.

Extra-deluxe connoisseur's edition. All edges gilt. Bound by hand, with black silk moire boards stamped in gold, platinum-grey silk moire endleaves. Printed on acid-free paper. Numbered limitation leaf, with signatures of Lee IV, Allen III, and compiler. In custom fitted heavy Mylar dustjacket. Content identical to preceding edition. With letter signed by book designer, describing history of and materials used in this exceptional collectors' keepsake binding. A stunning confection - as rare as its subject matter - for the Civil War historian and connoisseur of fine bindings alike. Only twenty copies originally made. Just four remaining. Mint. $245.00

3007. Biographical Reference of The Bronx.

They Were Here: Some Bronxites Who Have Achieved. Unique, O.P. reference, listing distinguished Bronxites in every field of endeavor, from colonial times to the present: Nobelists, authors, musicians, artists, clergy, public officials, educators, scientists, doctors, businessmen, industrialists, athletes, and others. Including years of birth and death, brief biographical information, and neighborhood where they lived, where available. Second Revised (and final) Edition, 1986, published by Bronx Society of Science and Letters, long defunct. (xiii) + 101 pp., 2 plates, 6 x 9 ¹/4. Doublethick cover. Genuine vegetable parchment overwrap toned, else new. $29.00

3008. Autographs c. 1870.

Older quality reprint (by ourselves) of autograph catalogue of Charles Burns, Wall St., N.Y. Possibly the earliest autograph pricelist extant: Said to be the first - and only - autograph dealer in America in his day. 5 ¹/4 x 8 ¹/4, 8 pp. plus cover. Describing and pricing several hundred offerings, all at now-bargain prices (Audubon A.L.S. 2.50, Jeff Davis 1.00, John Hancock 6.00, Patrick Henry A.L.S. 10.00). With copy of 1922 article about Burns by Walter R. Benjamin. As new. $5.00

3009. Motoring in America - The Early Years.

Frank Oppel, Editor. Castle Books, 1989. A delightful ensemble of 48 articles appearing between 1900-1910, each on a different motoring subject, from steam to gas to electrics, from racing to touring to shows, and much more. Including: "The Detroit Races" (1901), "The Automobile Show" (1901), "Motor Farm-Truck Delivery" (1902), and more. 6 ³/4 x 9 ¹/2, 476 pp., hard cover, colorful d.j., hundreds of black and white illustrations, black on cream text. Articles faithfully reprinted from originals, hence varying typestyles and formats within this thick volume. A splendid reference work, rich in the lore of the horseless carriage in the first decade of the century. Trivial d.j. edge blemishes from bindery, else New Old Stock, O.P., and unread. $9.75

3010. Imported Car Spotter's Guide.

A unique automotive pictorial reference work, by Tad Burness. Over 2,000 illus. of 83 makes, from 11 countries. From Allard to Wartburg, Alfa Romeo to Volvo. Pub. 1979, 8 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/2, 359 pp., soft cover. Showing imported cars starting with their first appearance in American showrooms, variously 1940s to 1970s. Some wear, else V.G. Now very scarce. $42.50

3011. American Truck Spotter's Guide, 1920-70.

Pictorial reference work, by Tad Burness. Over 2,000 illus. of 170 makes. From All-American and Acme, to Ward Electric and Yellow-Knight. Pub. 1978, 8 ¹/2 x 9 ¹/2, 328 pp. + appendix, soft cover. Some wear, else very good. Now scarce. $21.50

3012. Kaiser-Frazer - The Last Onslaught on Detroit.

The definitive book on the marque, by noted automotive historian Richard M. Langworth. Pub. by Automobile Quarterly, 1975, first edition, 8 ¹/4 x 9 ³/4 oblong, 287 pp., profusely illus. Some d.j. wear, else good plus. The most successful of the new brands in postwar America, Henry Kaiser's visionary conglomerate lives on in the health care and aluminum enterprises bearing his name. The avant-garde Kaiser-Darrin appeared in television's The Adventures of Superman; one stylish Kaiser, the Dragon, was noted for its interior fabric simulating the skin of a ... dragon. $79.00

3013. Forgotten Patriots - African American and American Indian Patriots in the Revolutionary War.

A Guide to Service, Sources, and Studies. Published by Daughters of the American Revolution, 2nd ed., 2008, 874 pp. + 82 pp. Supplement. Some illus. Bibliography and 7 appendices. A unique, essential reference: Over 6,600 names of Blacks and Indians who contributed to American independence. High-quality, copyright-free photocopy, 8 ¹/2 x 11, 3-hole punch ready for your binder. The underlying book sold out and declared out-of-print years ago; its text has been publicly released online, but is cumbersome for those researchers who wish to have a hard copy on their shelves. As new. Shrink wrapped. Offered as a courtesy, printed on demand, at cost. $97.00

3014. The New York Times Directory of the Theater.

Intro. by Clive Barnes. Heavy 1,009-pp. compendium "to the most exciting 50 years of the N.Y. stage." 1973 ed., 9 ¹/2 x 12, brown buckram, d.j. 300,000 finding-aid-style citations for further reading of the Times' theater reviews of some 20,000 N.Y. plays, 1920-70. Listing "every play, playwright, composer, actor, actress, director, producer, choreographer, and stage designer." Two short tears at top of d.j., groundwood paper browned at margins, else unused and very fine. A standard reference work on American theater. $34.50