Lot 98
Grant, Ulysses S (1822-85) 18th President of the United States (1869-77). Autograph Letter Signed "U.S. Grant" as President, one page, 7½" x 5", West Point, N.Y., 9 June 1871. Fine except for foxing around edges and overall light toning. To General Orville E. Babcock (1835-84), who served as Grant's aide-de-camp from 29 March 1863 and served as his private secretary after the war, until 1877. Babcock delivered Grant's surrender demand to General Robert E. Lee and escorted Lee to Appomattox Court House. During one of the scandals to rock Grant's presidency, the Whiskey Ring, Babcock was indicted as one of those who had diverted liquor taxes into their own pockets. Although Grant had instructed prosecutors, "Let no guilty man escape," he intervened on Babcock's behalf, and Babcock was acquitted, partially due to Grant's testimony.
Addressing Babcock as "Dear General," Grant writes, in part: "You may make arrangements with the Q.M. to purchase my forage. I shall return…to Washington Thursday or Friday morning. I am glad to hear that the colt is recovering. I valued both of them highly…." Grant's love of horses was a constant throughout his life.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,000.
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| Realized $1,783 |
