War-dated ALS signed “R. E. Lee,” one lightly-lined pale blue page, 8 x 10, July 16, 1862. Letter to S. Bassett French [aide-de-camp to Virginia Governor John Letcher]. In full: “I have recd your note. You are right in the information you have recd in reference to Genls Huger & Anderson. The latter having been promoted to Major Genl. I cannot see how any reflection can be made against Genl Mahone—The Pres. is exercising the right given him by law, has appt Genl Anderson Major Genl from among the Brig[adie]rs. It is to be supposed he considered the qualifications of all, & may have used in his selection. But it is surely not the fault of those he overlooked. What reflection can there be upon them—I cannot see it, & if there is I see no way of remedying it. Surely nothing has been intended or done by me to cast any reflection. Genl Anderson for the battle of Wmsburg has been distinguished in every battle & recommended for promotion by all his Comm[ande]rs—I presume this may have had some effect upon the President’s action.” After writing the rank “Genl” six times in this letter, Lee incorrectly writes French’s name at the lower left as “Genl S. Bassett French” instead of “Col.” In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds.
Two days before Lee wrote this letter, Brigadier General Richard H. Anderson was promoted to Major General on July 14, 1862. Earlier in 1862, Jefferson Davis gave Major General Benjamin Huger command of a division in Joseph E. Johnston’s army during the Peninsular campaign. Huger was harshly censured for his lack of leadership during the Battle of Seven Pines and the Seven Days’ Battle around Richmond. Lee relieved Huger of his field command on July 12, four days before writing this letter. On July 30, 1864, Brigadier General William Mahone, a Virginian, was promoted to Major General and was later with Lee at the Appoattox Courthouse for the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia. A clean, boldly penned, and highly presentable letter with excellent military content. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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