Description:

JOHN N. MAFFITT
(1829-1886) Confederate naval officer, second only to Raphael Semmes. After service during 1861 in command of a blockade runner, he was given command of a commerce raider, C.S.S. Florida. Because his ship was unfit for combat, Maffitt made a daring run through the Federal blockade to Mobile for a refit. Returning to sea in 1863, he destroyed or bonded 22 Federal merchantmen before giving up his command for reasons of health. Rare A.L.S. 2p. 8vo., Wilmington, N.C., Sept. 1, 1874, to a lady regarding the court martial of George Henry Preble, who had been held responsible for Maffitt's dash into Mobile. In part: "...I send you the copy of the trial of Capt. Preble. My evidence restored this ver fr [veritable friend] & shipmate to his proper rank - he is now a...Comg at Phila...As soon as I can collect myself (a poor Confederate farmer, looking out for...his crop), I will devote myself to you...Ah, my dear Madam, the sad memories, of our unfortunate struggle against everything that was powerful & ungenerous; causes my heart to shed tears of sorrow - not only over our failure, but for the majestic lives lost...". Light staining, very good.

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December 9, 2011 11:00 AM EST
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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