Union Naval officer whose career began when he was fighting pirates off Sumatra, he later became U. S. Grant’s indispensable naval aide. War dated LS, one page both sides, 8 x 13, June 11, 1861. Letter to an associate concerning a gentleman’s upcoming examination for a Naval position. In part, “His request was granted and when he again presents himself he will be examined, and if qualified to perform the duties of ‘Inspector of Timber’ he will be passed, with great pleasure, by the Board of Examiners…I beg leave to say respectfully that if a candidate’s qualifications are to be pronounced upon, with implied authority by the person or persons recommending his appointment, or the mode or character of the examination to be prescribed by any other than the authority constituting the Board of Examiners, then the examination itself would fail in accomplishing the object for which it was instituted - securing competent incumbents for office.” In fine condition, with light overall toning (a bit irregular on the reverse), a couple small notations and a few folds and creases. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
