Raynors HCA 2017-06
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/1/2017
"Since We Started As A Nation The Slave Power Has Ruled But…8 Millions of People Cannot Rule 19 millions." A great early Civil War letter, 4pp. 8vo., by New York City attorney and Harvard graduate Rufus Billing Cowing (1840-1920), "No. 8 Wall Street, Room No. 28, New York, April 29, 1861" to his mother, reading, in part: "…well mother we are in the midst of a Civil War…never before in the annals of American history have the issues involved been of such vital interest…I hope to God that this struggle shall result in favor of our glorious Union and Constitution and more permanently establish liberty and justice throughout our whole country. Since we started as a nation the slave power has ruled but the time has at last come when 8 millions of people cannot rule 19 millions…these rebellious states must be taught that the Northern freemen are no cowards and dare defend the right. The cities of New York & Brooklyn are all eager for the fight and men and money are professed. We have sent out some splendid regiments…most all of my friends have gone to fight their country's battles…i[t] is enough to bring tears from the hardest and to make us proud to see the courage & patriotism of our mothers who part with their sons and offer them up for their country…I went to hear Henry Ward Beecher last night and I wish you could have heard him. I should think there was some 4 thousand people there and I think that he preached the finest sermon I have ever heard…I am still studying law, but very hard. At present, in fact, I cannot set my mind on anything but war and if my country needs me I shall willingly place my life at her service. Our Union & Constitution must be preserved though it costs millions of dollars and thousands of lives…I for one don't think a man who dies in this struggle for the Federal government dies to soon…Rufus." Minor spotting, else VG
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