Raynors 2012-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/27/2012
Civilian letter written and signed by “J.F. Steward,” April 16, 1865, At Home, 4pp., VG. Steward is writing his friend Maggie, in large part “I am feeling quite down hearted after hearing of the death of the President. Never was such a loss sustained by any nation since the histories of nations were being written. A nation was made to mourn with inexpresable anguish, the loss of a noble leader whose chair must ever remain vacant for his place can never be filled ... The news of yesterday had a crushing effect upon the hearts of the people, as all had been feeling excellent of the glorious news of the past week. The loss of the President will be felt by the soldiers more than by any other class. the looked upon him as a noble leader & in every respect, their friend. It does not seem possible that there is a true soldier serving his Country voluntarily, whose eyes have not been dimmed with tears when reflecting upon the sad disaster. I hope the death of the President will have no serious effect on the War. I expect that the war will close as soon perhaps, as it would if Lincoln had been spared ... Andy Johnson will be more stringent with the enemy than Lincoln has been. Lincoln has been too lenient with them. He has dealt too kindly with them. ... The murder of Seward while in his sick bed was a most horrible affair & one which it is hoped may never again occur. All the public buildings are draped in mourning & yesterday all places of business were closed. ....”
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