Raynors 2020-05 Putnal
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/30/2020
Autographed Document Signed, "J. Clay Lieut" 1p. quarto, No. 5, December 3, 1864, addressed to General Lafayette McLaws, pertaining to obstructing the roads parallel to the Ogeechee River in Georgia, thereby, hoping to slow down the advance of Sherman during his famed 'March to the Sear'. The dispatch contains examples of the secret Confederate cipher which was used to protect the location and activities of the writer. It reads "I telegraphed to you from No 6 bur getting no answer left to obey my orders I shall not commence for a day or so to obstruct the roads above No. 5 as that is the only crossing I know of & is being used by our men trying to join Gen. Wheeler. Shall I obstruct every road running parallel to the Ogeechee on the west bank for ten or fifteen miles back & how high shall I go to opposite No. 6 & cut off our men. Please send me power to impress whatever I need to carry out your orders. You will direct me at No. 5 C.R.R. The crossing is a feat. Shall I leave it. If I destroy it shall I also obstruct the road to it…" VG.
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