Description:

DAVID G. FARRAGUT
(1801 - 1870) Union rear admiral instrumental in the taking of New Orleans and the Union control of the Mississippi. It was at Mobile Bay where he exclaimed "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!". Sarcastic A.L.S. "D. G. Farragut Comdr. U.S.N." 1p. 4to., Norfolk, Feb. 28, 1849 to assistant surgeon Dr. Charles H. Wheelwright who apparently had mounted a hissy-fit over the loss of a pencil and denouncing the personnel at Gosport Navy Yard as thieves. Farragut diplomatically informs the surgeon that "...'the Pencil,' (which caused you to denounce 'the Gosport Navy Yard people a set of Plunderers') has been found; & I strongly suspect precisely where you left it. It will be delivered to your order. The propriety of your denunciation I leave to your own conscience...". Offered together with a nice war-date Brady carte-de-visite of Wheelwright in uniform and dated in pencil on verso: "March 4, 1862". Usual folds, else fine condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent USPS priority, USPS International Express (for most overseas) or UPS Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyer's should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. Customer's who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee.

January 20, 2010 10:00 AM EST
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 22.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000