LS signed 'Go. Washington,' one page, 8.25 x 13.5, January 7, 1781. While the war rages on, Washington takes time to write a soothing letter to placate the feelings of two of his ranking officers. In full, 'I certify that, in the dispute of Rank between Majors Hull and Cogswell, which was ultimately determined in favor of the former, there was no personal reference to Major Hull, but that his succession to the vacant Lieutenant Colonelcy depended solely upon the established principles of promotion, he having been considered as an older Major than Major Cogswell from the time of the new arrangement of the Army in 1777. And I do further certify that Major Cogswell has been always represented to me as an intelligent, brave and active Officer.' In 1779 Hull was promoted to Lt. Colonel and eventually commissioned a Brigadier General. Cogswell was promoted to Major on January 21, 1777, giving Hull a full twenty days of seniority. Cogswell was unhappy about the promotion, and unimpressed with Washington's sworn certification and resigned his commission in the 1st Massachusetts Infantry. In fine condition, with seamless professional repairs to horizontal folds of top half of letter, some scattered light toning and soiling, bold signature and expected light folds. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
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