^#1986 ^Lot 2047 Henry A. Wise

American statesman and diplomat (1806–1876) who served as a brigadier general in the Confederate army, where he fought beside Lee at Appomattox Court House. His most notable act as Governor of Virginia (1856–1860) was to sign the death warrant of famed abolitionist John Brown. ALS, one page, 7.5 x 10, embossed letterhead, October 23, 1847. Wise writes from Philadelphia to William Randall, Esq., in full: “I rec’d your note last evening. You couldn’t possibly know that I would arrive so soon! I regretted more than you do that I did’nt meet you, but we will see you next week. What day, I can’t say until I hear from Mr. Buchanan to whom I write by this mail and whose answer will determine the day on which I will leave here. We will go direct to Washington, but will on our return to Baltimore spend several days and devote a large share of our stay then to you & your family. I desire eagerly to see you. I took the liberty to draw, in anticipation, on you for $322 in favor of a drover named Clayland for some houses I bought of him.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, light toning and creasing, an adhesive remnant to the top and bottom edge, and pencil notations to each of the top corners. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Wise’s hand.