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One page, period ink letter from famous Irish General James Shields, one day before Shields was wounded in action! In the letter General Shields is recommending soon to be killed in action Colonel Thomas Cass be promoted to the rank of brigadier general.
The following is a transcript:

Headquarters Shields Division
Fort Bell, Winchester
March 21st 1862


Honorable Edwin M. Stanton
Sec of War


Sir
I ___ have to recommend Col Thomas Cass, 9th Mass Vols. as an officer of high merit and worthy of promotion to the rank of Brig Genl. I have reviewed his Regt it is one of the best in the service, and he one of the most efficient officers.
I have the honor to be
Your sincere friend
and
Obdt servant
James Shields
Brig Genl
Comdg

The letter is an overall good condition, the ink is light, but readable. Very minor fold splits, the letter is docketed on the verso as follows:

Headquarters Shields Division
Winchester April 2, 1862


Brigadier General Shields


Recommends Colonel Thomas Cass 9th Mass Vols for promotion to Brig Genl


April 5, 1862


An incredibly important early war letter from a famous Irish general, concerning a very famous Irish Colonel who soon would be killed at Malvern Hill, just a few months after this letter was written! Truly a scarce Irish Brigade letter!

$375.00 plus shipping