Description:

EDWIN M. STANTON
Fine association and content L.S. as Secretary of War on official letterhead, 1p. 4to., Washington, Nov.8, 1865 to President ANDREW JOHNSON condemning in no uncertain terms the proposed commissioning of Col. and Bvt. Brigadier Gen. J. M. Cutts, 11th U.S. Infantry. He quotes a report to Johnson: "...'This officer has been once dismissed by Court martial, and has since escaped trial under grave charges promising to resign - a promise he has not fulfilled. His promotion is most strongly disapproved. (Signed) U.S. Grant; Lieut. General'...' Fine condition. Grant may have been a bit too hard on Cutts. During the war, Capt. James M. Cutts (1837-1903) was charged with conduct unbecoming an officer after he allegedly committed several offenses, including criticizing Burnside in letters to the president, constantly arguing with his fellow officers, and attempting to view a married woman dressing in the hotel room next to his. His appeal reached President Lincoln, who approved the convictions, but reduced the punishment to a written reprimand. Lincoln then wrote Cutts a letter, likely presented in person, indicating that he was sure the 'peeping' offense would not be repeated, and urging Cutts to attain his full potential by demonstrating self-control. Cutts is reported to have been so chastened that he resolved to reclaim his reputation through battlefield heroism. Cutts displayed extraordinary gallantry at the Battle of the Wilderness, the Battle of Spotsylvania and the Battle of Petersburg. However, while serving in Louisiana in 1868, Cutts was accused of being intoxicated while on duty, being indecently dressed, and being abusive to the soldiers under his command. Informed that the convening authority for his subsequent court-martial intended to recommend his dismissal from the service, Cutts resigned his commission on June 19, 1868. Perhaps there was yet another 'indiscretion' to which Grant alluded to in his report. In any event, Cutts highest brevet would be as a Lieutenant Colonel...but on May 2, 1891 he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism at the Wilderness, Spotsylvania and Petersburg!

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December 8, 2021 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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