Edward Everett Seeks Pension For Widow Of Civil War NY 40 Killed At Alexandria

EDWARD EVERETT (April 11, 1794 – January 15, 1865) was an American politician, educator, diplomat and orator from Massachusetts. Everett was a Whig, who served as U.S. Representative, Senator, 15^th Governor of Massachusetts, Minister to Great Britain, United States Secretary of State and President of Harvard University.

Everett is often remembered as the featured speaker at the dedication ceremony of the Gettysburg National Cemetery in 1863, where he spoke for two hours, immediately before President Lincoln delivered his famous two-minute Gettysburg Address.

Two-page ALS, Boston, January 31, 1863, to E.B. French, second auditor of the U.S. Treasury, Boston. “I have your letter of the 20^th, with the printed directions.

“Mr. Wills’ application made out in due form, in all respects, according to those directions was sent to the War Department last summer. It would save time & expense to a poor widow, who with three young children, is in great need of this pittance if you would kindly procure the transfer of the application to your office.

“I pray your kind & prompt attention to this matter & I remain, Dear Sir, very respectfully yours,

“Edward Everett

[Postscript] “Mrs. Wills is the widow of Quarter Master Sergeant William J. Mills, Company A, 40 New York.

“Yours of the 20^th would have been immediately answered, but I have been unable till this morning to obtain an interview with Mrs. Wills.”

Letter has been attached to card stock with evidence of bleed through. Some foxing. The second page has been tipped in on the verso in three parts. Cut at the bottom affecting one word.  Very readable.

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