3c Executive (O12). Cancelled by circle of wedges with matching "Long Branch, N.J. Aug. 25 P.M." (1875) circular datestamp on "Executive, Secretary" imprint cover to Judge Edwards Pierrepont, who was the United States Attorney General (1875-76), addressed in the hand of President Ulysses S. Grant, and accompanied by a three-page autograph letter signed by Grant, cover with diagonal crease which passes thru stamp

FINE. ONE OF ONLY SIX 3-CENT EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT COVERS KNOWN ORIGINATING IN LONG BRANCH, WHICH WAS PRESIDENT GRANT'S SUMMER RESIDENCE. ACCOMPANIED BY A FASCINATING LETTER TO JUDGE PIERREPONT REGARDING JUDGE GEORGE P. FISHER.

While it is impossible say with certainty, we believe the letter and the cover belong together. The letter is datelined July 8, 1875, and goes on to say, in part, "I am in receipt of your letter of yesterday speaking of the complaints against Judge Fisher, Dist. Atty. for the district of Columbia. I have no doubt but the good of the service demands a change. You may notify Judge Fisher of the fact and give him an opportunity to resign. The change will be made whether he resigns or not." Judge Pierrepont had issues with Judge Fisher dating back to the trial of John H. Surratt, a former Confederate spy who was accused of being involved in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Judge Fisher ultimately set Surratt free as a result of a hung jury, despite Judge Pierrepont's efforts in having him convicted.

Image Magnifier / Download

Power Search for Comparables