War dated endorsement as president, signed “A. Lincoln,” dated September 24, 1864, and written on the center panel of the integral second page of an ALS written to Lincoln by former Maryland Governor and current Senator Thomas H. Hicks. Hicks writes a letter of introduction for Cornelius Kidder, “and ask for him an audience with your Honor, if he present himself in person. I know Mr. Kidder well and long, he is a Gentleman, everyway worthy and relyable [sic], and none is more thoroughly loyal…I beg you have faith in him as a union man, a Lincolnite of the first class, and indeed as every way deserving your esteem and confidence.” Endorsed on the reverse by Lincoln, “This gentleman claims that he has a lot of ship timber cut in the fall of 1860 and being North of the Rappahanock River, fifteen miles above its mouth and on Carters Creek; and he wishes to bring it out. Let him do so, at his own expense and with the Sec. of War and Navy consent.” Also endorsed on the next panel over, “The Secretary of War having no jurisdiction over the subject makes no objection, Edward M. Stanton,” and also endorsed by Secretary of State Seward and dated October 1, 1864. As governor of Maryland, Hicks was faced with a growing pro-secession sentiment, against which he staged a vigourous defense. After Maryland was occupied by Union troops and secessionist action was squelched by widespread arrests, Hick’s position was buttressed by an overwhelming vote of support in the state legislature. His popularity swept him into the U. S. Senate, where he served from 1862 until his death in 1865. Lincoln was no doubt grateful for Hicks’ role in preserving Maryland for the Union, it’s not difficult to imagine the President granting practically any reasonable request that Hicks might make of him. In fine condition, with scattered toning and soiling (heaviest along folds), with one light stain over portion of Lincoln’s text, a couple light pencil marks, expected folds and a clear bold signature. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
