LINCOLN, Abraham (1809-1865). Autograph note signed ("A. Lincoln") to Senator Charles Sumner. Washington, D.C., 14 May 1863.

1 p.; 2 x 3 1/2 in. (51 x 89 mm), on cardstock; scattered light toning; ink smear; paper loss on verso from when mounted.

Intriguing war-dated autograph note by President Lincoln, requesting Senator Charles Sumner (1811-1874) to dine with him and General Joseph Hooker (1814-1879), then Commander of the Army of the Potomac.

In full: "Will Senator Sumner please come to breakfast with Gen. Hooker this morning, half past 8.?"

Early May of 1863 was one of the most stressful times for Abraham Lincoln during his entire first term. The Union Army of the Potomac was fresh from its disastrous defeat at the Battle of Chancellorsville, Confederate general Robert E. Lee was invading the Shenandoah Valley, and a political scandal was rife within the Union Democratic Party after the arrest of anti-war Ohio Congressman Clement Vallandigham (1820-1871).

Impromptu meetings with various legislators or generals, such as the one referred to in this note, were often called by President Lincoln when he needed guidance on the use of his war powers. Not in Basler.

Provenance:

Louise Taper, Beverly Hills, California

Property from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Foundation

This lot is located in Chicago.