Lot 2476
Confederacy, Robert E. Lee, free frank "R E Lee" signature on folded letter endorsed Dept. of War, Engineering Dept. to Lt. G.W. Morrell, U.S. Engineers, Flat Rock N.C., red "Washington D.C. May 23" cds and matching "Free" rating handstamp at right; docketed in cds as received Jun. 2nd, cover addressed and endorsed in a different hand; accompanied by original May 23rd 1837 LS signed "R E Lee" to Lt. Morell concerning the acceptance of his resignation, separated from cover; cover with overall toning, letter bright and fresh, Fine.Estimate $2,000 - 3,000.
A RARE ROBERT E. LEE FREE FRANK WHILE SERVING AS ASSISTANT AT THE WAR DEPARTMENT CHIEF ENGINEER'S OFFICE IN WASHINGTON D.C.
Lee did not enjoy free franking privileges, he signed it as member of the Engineer Department but the free franking was allowed under the War Dept. franking signature. He served as an assistant in the chief engineer's office in Washington, D.C. from 1834 to 1837.
Realized: $1,600
Lot
2477 
Confederacy, Southern Express, Atlanta Ga., Contents Unknown, clear wax seal on reverse of cover from J.Healy Smith, Surveyors Office to Alexander H. Stephens, Crawfordville Ga., endorsed "Valuable Papers value $5"; some pencil notes; top edge tear, Very Fine. Estimate $300 - 400.
Southern Express was founded by Henry B. Plant in 1861. During the war years this company transported "Valuable" or money letters throughout the South (also connecting with Adams Express for 'through the line' letters).
Realized: $300
Lot
2478
Confederacy, (Telegraph) Lynchburg & Abingdon Telegraph Company, blue embossed shield cameo with "Dublin Va. Jul 13" cds and pencil "Paid / 5" rating to Rural Retreat Va., Very Fine and rare telegraph company use, ex-Kohn; signed Brian Green on reverse. Estimate $400 - 600.
Realized: $300