Oct 22, 2015 - Sale 2394

Sale 2394 - Lot 8

Unsold
Estimate: $ 2,000 - $ 3,000
"REPORTS OF THE LAST WAR . . . WILL MAKE A BOOK ON STRATEGY MOST VALUABLE" (CIVIL WAR.) SHERMAN, WILLIAM TECUMSEH. Autograph Letter Signed, "W.T. Sherman / MajGenl," to "Dear Lippitt" [Francis J. Lippitt?], declining to endorse his book, but suggesting that the Congressional report of the War would provide him with excellent examples of interest to both civilians and the military [War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, 1880]. 2 pages, 4to, with integral blank, written on first and second pages, "Head Quarters Military Division of the Mississippi" stationery, ruled paper; folds. St. Louis, 2 November 1865

Additional Details

". . . I did . . . partially examine the bo[o]ks sent me but I would not be willing to express . . . an endorsement. The book like all others of which very many are sent to me must work its way into fame by its intrinsic merit and I think after the publication by Congress of the Official Reports of the last war you can combine your learning with the experience gained & illustrate it by recent & modern examples, which will make a Book on strategy most valuable & interesting not only to the General Readers, but to the military. I must abstain from giving my name . . . . But I will on all occasions express to you and others the interest I feel in the General subject. Officers in whom I have a personal interest, who have grown up under my eye & instruction are rapidly turning their swords into pens and all ask my aid, so that to give one & not another the endorsement of my name & opinion would be construed with partiality. . . . I hope you will be content with the expression of my general approval of your efforts."