CHAMBERLAIN, Joshua Lawrence (1828-1914). Autograph letter signed (''J. L. Chamberlain'') as Governor of Maine to Benson J. Lossing, Augusta, 25 June 1867.

CHAMBERLAIN, Joshua Lawrence (1828-1914). Autograph letter signed ("J. L. Chamberlain") as Governor of Maine to Benson J. Lossing, Augusta, 25 June 1867.

Two pages, 250 x 198mm, with original transmittal envelope (93 x 223mm) addressed in his hand.

As the anniversary of Gettysburg approaches, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain recalls his former comrades-in-arms with whom he had "mingled" his "own blood on days of desperate valor." Chamberlain graciously thanks historian Benson Lossing for his invitation to speak at an Independence Day celebration in Poughkeepsie, New York, but declines citing a previous engagement. Instead he offers the following sentiment: "It would be especially gratifying to me to testify my sympathy with you by my presence on that occasion. There could be no more befitting service for that day than the testimonials you propose in cherishing the memory of the brave men of your state and county who have given their lives to preserve and perpetuate the principles affirmed and the rights insisted on in the Great Declaration nor could anything touch my heart more quickly than this loving remembrance of men with so many of whom I have shared the fortunes of the field, and, I am proud to say, have mingled my own blood on days of desperate valor. I shall never forget these heroes – these comrades – these friends."

Pre-Lot Text
PROPERTY OF A GENTLEMAN