Lot 174
Grant, Ulysses S. The ink is slightly smudged at the center fold, and at Grant's signature, which is nevertheless bold and legible. Otherwise the letter is Fine. Attractively framed with a large oval steel engraving of the President, and a brass "US" cavalry-style plaque. 18th President of the United States, 1869-1877.
Letter Signed as President. One page, Octavo, Washington, May 5, 1871, on Executive Mansion letterhead. To "Mr. N.G. Ordway [?]."
Like most legal disputes, the Alabama Claims case threatened to go on forever. The United States was suing Great Britan for shipping losses inflicted by British-built Confederate ships, called Raiders -- of which the "Alabama" was one -- during the Civil War. Great Britain, the U.S. claimed, had violated international law and neutrality. An international tribunal agreed, $15.5 million was awarded, and on May 8, 1871, the Treaty of Washington, settling the matter, was ratified. Here Grant, just a few days before, explains he's too late to attend the "ratification meeting." He writes, in full:
"Dear Sir, I had fully expected to be present at the ratification meeting this evening, but I have been detained until it is so late that I shall have to abandon the intention. Very Truly Yours U.S. Grant."
Estimated Value $1,000 - 1,500.
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| Realized $1,150 |
