Raynor HCA 2014-01
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/30/2014
Two war-date letters signed by James Monroe, U.S. Consul in London, 7pp. total, 8vo, to an American spy - Mr. W. F. Gray - in Liverpool. Monroe and his informant are monitoring Confederate shipbuilding activities. The letters read, in part: "(2/18/63)…I have no doubt but that they are building at least 6 regular ships of war & we know where they are, & are probably negotiating for more to run out as privateers…We want every fact we can get that will go to prove these vessels are for the rebels. Such as being under the control or direction of Confederate agents, their having any discretion or voice in their construction or fitting out, the shipping of men &c - &c- all such facts as you or any other man can attest to under oath…I should like to be informed of all you hear…like the Emperors declaration about the blockade…You stand by the cause & I will stand by you thick & thin & you shall have full credit at Washington for all you do…(2/21/63)…I have read yours of the 19th & if the information concerning the Alabama is correct, & I see no reason to doubt it…it is important & may lead to her capture. I am glad to witness the continuation of your zeal & steadfastness in the cause of our glorious country & against treason & piracy…" With postal cover having London and Liverpool circular date stamps for February 20 and 21 respectively. Very good condition…plus; War-date, hand-carried letter from Federal spy W. F. Gray, 3pp., 4to, with drawing, Geneva, Switzerland, February 5, 1864, to Major-General Halleck, Washington, D.C., reading, in part: "…I send you another plan of Rich'd not that I do not suppose that you have no drawing but, I do it to show you I know the place, and I am desirous of coming to Washington and aid you with my personal knowledge as to all I know about the country in rebellion…Upon the exception of this, you can confer with Mr. Seward who will by the time this reaches you have had all the letters I have or intend to write…For four months have I held out believing Mr. Seward would acknowledge my services…" Included is manuscript map of Richmond and its environs that is supplemented by a numbered key to important places. Some edge wear and creases, good condition.
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