Lincoln, Abraham. Autograph endorsement, signed ("A. Lincoln") as President....

Description

Lincoln, Abraham. Autograph endorsement, signed ("A. Lincoln") as President. 1-page, written on verso of 7.6 x 9.75 in. (193 x 248 mm), "Office U.S. Military Telegraph. War Department" partially printed telegram addressed to Lincoln, signed by Major General Frank Steele. Directed to his Attorney General Edward Bates, Lincoln requests a special pardon for Willard M. Randolph. Separation at vertical folds, not affecting Lincoln's text. Lincoln writes a 14-line request for his Attorney General to draft a special pardon for Willard M. Randolph "an Attorney for the Rebel Government, but now taking the oath and going to work to carry the free-state Constitution..." Lincoln writes in full: The name is Willard M. Randolph. He was an Attorney for the Rebel Government, but now taking the oath and going to work to carry the free-state Constitution, at the election of the 14th. I wish a special pardon for him. Please send me the document. A. Lincoln March 7, 1864. The telegram on verso of Lincoln's endorsement is dated 8 March 1864, from Little Rock, Arkansas. Major General Frank Steele writes, "A. Lincoln President United States. Mr. Wm. Randolph took the oath of December Eighth (8th) immediately on learning of your decision. Very Respectfully, Frank Steele Major General". Provenance: The Pforzheimer Collection, Sotheby's, New York, 31 December 1989, Lot 103. From the collection of William J. Bell.

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