151. GUSTAVUS A. SMITH (1820-1885) Union brigadier general, as colonel he led the 35 Illinois, wounded at Pea Ridge, later served in guarding critical railroad routes. A historic group of nine complete war-date retained telegrams, three of which are signed "G.W. Smith", adding rank, totaling 4pp. legal folio, Goldsboro, [N. C.], written Jan. 15 and 16, 1863 to Zebulon B. Vance and various Confederate officers including Brig. Gen. W. H. C. Whiting about the Confederate Army's preparation to meet the Union advance into interior North Carolina. In part: "...[Jan. 15 to Gov. Vance]...Whitford reports that the enemy will make a show at Kinston today to cover his attack on Wilmington. The expedition...left Newbern...help us all you can with transportation...[Jan. 15 to Gen. Samuel French]...come forward to this place as soon as possible bring...your staff...[Jan. 15 to Gen. Whiting]...you say this morning the best course will be the speediest-explain yourself in cipher...[Jan. 15 to Major Graham Daves]...transportation will be sent to Weldon...and held there for moving the troops from that point. The troops [are] to be kept in readiness to move at short notice...[Jan. 15 to Capt. W. Hatch]...send the four companies of Daniel's Brigade...they belong to the 45th, 53rd & 32nd No. Ca. Regts...[Jan. 16 to Gov. Vance]...I beg to assure you that it is not my intention to interfere with transportation upon any of the Rail Roads, except in cases where the public interest and safety demand it...I cannot close this note without thanking you for the prompt and efficient assistance...rendered by you in our operations at a time when...the success of out army depends upon RR transportation...". Removed from Smith's personal military order book. Minor toning, else very good. 200 - 300