Sold by Main Street Fine Books & Mss, ABAA, Galena, IL, U.S.A.
Association Member:
Heritage Bookseller
AbeBooks Seller since March 11, 1998
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
The eccentric American journalist co-founded and edited the sensationalist "National Police Gazette" and later edited "Spirit of the Times"; he also wrote pamphlets and an eclectic mix of books such as "The History of Oregon" (1845), "Europe in a Hurry" (1853), "McClellan: From Ball's Bluff to Antietam" (1863) and "Shakespeare from an American Point of View" (1877). Outstanding content ALS, 3pp (lettersheet), 5" X 8", "Office Wilkes Spirit" (New York, NY), 23 October 1862. Addressed to Daniel E. Sickles (Union general, 1819-1914). Very good. Mildly worn and age toned, with couple of tiny discreet archival mends. Some miniscule pencilled notes in the hand of pioneering autograph dealer Mary A. Benjamin at start and finish of letter. The controversial general was also a diplomat and politician, serving as congressman from New York (1857-61) even during his famed murder trial in which he was the first to claim temporary insanity and was acquitted in 1859. Wilkes pens him this colorful note on the eve of the next congressional election, just months before Sickles lost his right leg in the Battle of Gettysburg. "I hope you will not give ear to the intercessions of such men as Cagger [ ? ], Richmond, Woolridge and others who have urged you not to run, and that you will have no chance," writes Wilkes. "They are all secessionists in the present struggle and their advice is inspired by a desire that Wood should succeed, and most likely is sent to you thro' his intrigues. I have just seen a leading member of the Republican General committee (Sinclair Tousey) who desires me to say to you that the republicans of the district will not only give you their united vote but the Genl Committee will contribute [ ? ] in the way of funds. This operation to dissuade you is one of the most insidious rascalities of the traiters. Woolridge is a base scamp, and is acting in this matter as the mere tool of Clancy, Peter B. Sweeney & co. I wrote you that Mr Sec'y Chase told me that as far as [ ? ] in his [ ? ] he would see that the Govt would assist you in the [canvas?]." Boldly penned in Wilkes' usual hurried scrawl. For whatever reason, Sickles did indeed choose not to run for Congress and his successor was the very Benjamin Wood mentioned by Wilkes in the letter. A meaty, great content letter.
Seller Inventory # 52214
Main Street Fine Books & Manuscripts accepts VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards. Checks are welcome. Institutions will be accommodated as their procedures require. Shipping is additional and will be quoted at the time an order is placed. Every effort has been made to describe each book and any defects accurately. If an item proves unsatisfactory for any reason, it may be returned pursuant to ABEBooks' policy. We would appreciate a courtesy call if an item is being returned.
Attention dealers: w...
Shipping costs are based on books weighing 2.2 LB, or 1 KG. If your book order is heavy or oversized, we may contact you to let you know extra shipping is required.
| Order quantity | 5 to 14 business days | 3 to 6 business days |
|---|---|---|
| First item | US$ 6.00 | US$ 13.00 |
Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.
