Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Lot #386
Benjamin Butler

Twenty years later, Butler is still haunted by his controversial activities during the Civil War: “When I returned from New Orleans I accounted with the War Department for my doings and had my accounts audited and approved”

This lot has closed

Estimate: $0+
Sell a Similar Item?
Refer Collections and Get Paid
Share:  

Description

Twenty years later, Butler is still haunted by his controversial activities during the Civil War: “When I returned from New Orleans I accounted with the War Department for my doings and had my accounts audited and approved”

TLS signed “Benj. F. Butler,” one page on his 8 x 10 law firm letterhead, August 13, 1886. Butler writes to John I. Davenport, Esq. regarding the aftermath of his administration of New Orleans during the Civil War. In part: “When I returned from New Orleans I accounted with the War Department for my doings, and had my accounts audited and approved. In the numerous suits brought against me in the State of New York I had occasion to get certified copies of those accounts to be used as evidence…. It now so happens that nothing can be found of my accounts in the War Department. I have a letter from the Department that they furnished me these…. Now, what I want of you is to carefully examine the papers in all the cases against me and see if you can find that copy or some certified copy of that account…. I forward you a copy of a letter from the War Department [not present] where I have been stirring the matter up.” In fine condition, with usual mailing folds, scattered wrinkling, and light toning. R&R COA.

Auction Info