^Lot 286 Charles Sumner

American politician (1811–1874) and Massachusetts senator best known as a radical Republican and a staunch opponent of slavery. In 1856, Sumner was severely beaten in the Senate chamber by South Carolina Congressman Preston Brook. ALS, one page, 9.5 x 7.75, April 15, 1865. Letter to an unidentified gentleman, written in the center panel of the sheet. A strong statement by the great abolitionist on Equality, issued on the day following Lincoln’s assassination. In full: “I hope this report will be satisfactory. Our cause has passed into a new phase. It is now the battle of ideas & not of arms. We insist upon Equality before the law, as the protection & safeguard of the new made freedom.” Sheet is affixed by the reverse of its left edge to a slightly larger light brown sheet. Scattered toning and soiling and vertical folds to either sides of text, otherwise fine condition.