Mexican War and Union commander (1786–1866) nicknamed “Old Fuss and Feathers” for his love of military pageantry. ALS signed “W. Scott,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.5 x 9.25, July 21, 1812. Letter labeled “unofficial” by Scott written to General Thomas A. Cushing in Washington City. In part, “Your wish to suppress the publication of your trial, is natural in your circumstances: the publick [sic] may be less indulgent to you, than the court. This consideration, however, did not enter into my original determination, nor will it influence my conduct as to the future. The trial of a publick [sic] delinquent, is a matter of publick concern; and, as any person may prosecute, so may any person publish. Conviction and punishment have not their full effect unless the example is generally known. Hence, I deduce the right to print your case. But, if I were to publish, that you had been convicted of ‘conduct unbecoming a gentleman’ (I mean only to illustrate) when in fact the court did not attack that character to a certain offence [sic}, and only convicted you of a breach of orders, in one instance, and of unofficial conduct in two others; - or, if I were to publish, that you had been cashiered out of the army, because you were curious in letters, when, in fact. you were only sentenced to be reprimanded in general orders, for that curiosity, among other things; - in either case, I should perhaps, be guilty of a libel; and, if I am to judge from your letter to me, you would be glad enough to…But, sir, whatever I may offer to the press, on your subject, shall be the truth and if your conduct has really been as blameless, as you have caused it to be represented - permit me to enquire.” Repaired area of paper loss to bottom of last page affecting nothing, intersecting mailing folds, and a few stray ink marks to front page, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
