Lot 870

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Description:


(1731 - 1786) Revolutionary major general whose early patriotic writings landed him in jail, later a street leader and principal actor in the revolutionary movement. Appointed major general to assume command of West Point and environs following the flight of Benedict Arnold. Rare and fine content war-date L.S., 2pp. 4to., West Point, Jan. 20, 1782, to Col. Shepard concerning his Court Martial instigated by Gen. William Heath for insubordination. He writes in most part: '...The Subject of the Conversation at my Quarters with you on the 16th. Instant, being made a charge in my Arrest, I shall be obliged to you to commit the Ideas [underlined] of that Conversation to writing, as minutely as you can, and address it to me least time or Accident [last four words underlined] may efface them from your memory. I beg you to recollect particularly on whole order in what [word missing] Demand was made on Colonel Crane, to countersign the order to issue Ammunition. I flatter myself as Request is made Solely [underlined] to promote Justice, you will cheerfully grant it as soon as you can...' In a five line postscript below his signature, dated Jan. 21, 1782, he adds: '...I wish you to recollect, whether or not, I informed you, of my receiving a letter, while you were at my quarters that day [preceding phrase underlined], from Captain Goodals in which he reported that thirteen hundred cartridges from Verplanks Point had been plundered.' McDougal was acquitted on all seven charges levied against him in August of 1782. Small portion cut out underneath postscript by some vandal (presumably the second signature), heavy folds, light soiling, ragged margins and only part of what was presumably the integral address leaf remain, otherwise very good condition.

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February 9, 2021 10:00 AM EST
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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$100 $499 $20
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$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
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