(CIVIL WAR) Wool John E His autograph response to a scurrilo

Sale 2432 - Lot 110

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Estimate: $ 300 - $ 400

(CIVIL WAR.) Wool, John E. His autograph response to a scurrilous rumor about his patriotism. Autograph Note Signed twice, "John E. Wool" and "W", his retained draft response to the letter on verso from "T.D.D." to Wool. One sheet, 12 1/2 x 8 inches; separations at folds, marginal tears in all four corners, minimal dampstaining; inscription by later collector Henry B. Davenport in upper margin. Troy, NY, 1 November 1864

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This letter was written shortly before the 1864 election, when President Lincoln was challenged by General McClellan. A Brooklyn man named "T.D.D." (tentatively identified as Theodore D. Diman) wrote to General Wool to pass on two unpleasant rumors. First, that during the Mexican-American War, that Wool admitted that the successful August 1847 plan to capture Mexico City had been masterminded by McClellan as a young lieutenant. Second, that Wool and his son-in-law were supporting the Union ticket only because of a proposed contract to build ships for Lincoln's navy. The letter concludes "an answer is requested, that I may contradict such assertions."
Wool penned his disgusted response on verso: "There is not one word of truth in this communication. It is a lie from beginning to end. You should have given the name of the person & you should have given your own name. There should be no concealment when your country is beset by traitors, liars & toyers." with--a small engraving of Wool by Buttre after Brady.