American politician (1814-1869) who served as secretary of war in the cabinets of Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. Civil War-dated ALS, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, War Department letterhead, March 4, 1865. Letter to Miss Ella Steele, in part: "I am glad you have had the pleasure of witnessing the inauguration of Mr. Lincoln today for his second term of President of the United States; and hope that the bright sun, that shone forth after the morning clouds & storm, may be a harbinger of days of peace & prosperity after the darkness & gloom of this war; and that in health and happiness you may enjoy that blessing." In fine condition, with old mounting residue along the edge of the last page. A rare account of Lincoln's second inauguration by one of his senior cabinet members.
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