War-dated ALS signed “G. A. Custer,” 7.5 x 5.5, no date, [but circa April–September 1864]. Letter to an unidentified Major. In full: “Oblige me by assisting the bearer of this note to arrange the Brigade report. I was absent all day yesterday and this morning. I am unable to understand how & where you get certain numbers which you have placed in pencil in the report.” Beautifully cloth matted and framed with a hand-colored engraved portrait, two engraved plaques, and a US brass belt buckle, to an overall size of 28.5 x 24.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, a bit of light feathering to signature, mirroring of signature to left side, and a couple light erased pencil notations to top border.
Although brilliant and daring in the field, Custer was found wanting in the routine duties of command of the Army of the Potomac, as is demonstrated in this letter requesting assistance in arranging a report. “I am unable to understand how & where you get certain numbers which you have placed in pencil in the report,” Custer admits to his subordinate. More than a decade later—in June 1876—he had another problem with numbers when he underestimated the number of Cheyenne and Sioux warriors and unwisely divided his troops as he proceeded to the Little Bighorn River...and his date with death. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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