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Authentic Hand-Written Letter Signed (ALS) by Rear Admiral Samuel P. Lee (1812-1897)
This is a significant historical document dated February 14th, 1871, written on board the U.S. Flag Ship Severn (2nd Rate) at Key West, Florida.
Content Summary:
In this letter, Rear Admiral Lee instructs Captain C.H.B. Caldwell (Chief of Staff of the North Atlantic Fleet) to take a mail steamer to Havana, Cuba. The mission was to settle a claim of damages regarding a collision between the USS Severn and the Schooner Elvira. Lee explicitly directs Caldwell to "Consult Consul General offerdle & make every effort to protect the interests of the United States."
Key Features:
• Signature: Boldly signed "S.P. Lee, R. Admiral Comdg N.A. Fleet".
• Stationery: Written on blue-lined paper with a faint embossed "United States Coast Survey" or similar official seal.
• Provenance: Matching description from sale lot #840 (see attached catalog reference).
• Backside: Features a "Seen at this Consulate" notation from Havana, dated Feb 17, 1871, signed by the Consular Clerk.
Message to Buyers (Condition & Photos)
Important Note to buyers:
"Please review all high-resolution photos carefully for a detailed look at the document's condition. This 150+ year-old letter shows original fold lines and minor age-related toning as expected for its age. The ink remains dark and very legible. The letter is sold as-is, and the photos serve as the primary description of its physical state."
