105. EDMUND KIRBY SMITH (1824-1893) Confederate lieutenant general who led troops at First Bull Run, fought under Bragg at Perryville, and later commanded forces in the Trans-Mississippi, crushing Banks in the Red River Campaign. Good content and thoughtful A.L.S., 3pp. 8vo., New Orleans, Feb. 24, 1893 to a Darwin C. Pavey offering sincere praise for former adversaries Union General Fitz John Porter and President Rutherford B. Hayes who had served in the Union army as an officer. In part: "...Fitz John Porter was my classmate and has always been and is one of my dearest friends. He was always faithful and true in his allegiance and devotion to his country and I place him amongst the very best of your Generals...a born soldier and leader. His friendship for and attachment to McClelland [sic] was his cardinal sin and produced that cruel and unjust finding of the court which degraded Porter as a soldier and citizen. The whole country now recognizes his loyalty and devotion...Mr. Hayes is a good and true man and his administration as honest and pure is well recognized throughout the South. You know what Gen. Hampton said of him and of the indebtedness of South Carolina & the South for his fair & impartial action for their troubles..." An excellent content letter in near fine condition. $400-500