Lot
619 
[Mexican War] Vera Cruz, Mexo Oct (2)3, two-line postmark (missing digit) and matching "10" rating handstamp on 1847 folded letter datelined "City of Mexico, Oct. 19, 1847" from General Gideon Pillow to his wife at Columbia Tenn., soldier's endorsement "Majr. Genl. Pillow, U.S.A." at top right; minor tear repaired, some paper loss where wax seal has been opened., F.-V.F. Estimate $1,000 - 1,500.
General Gideon Pillow was responding to his wife's very affectionate letter, reading in part: "Your letter my Dear touches my heart and deeply affects my feelings - I am fully of the opinion that this army will be recalled early in the Winter, or Spring of next year. If so I will be at home, if God spares my life, by 1st Apl… Gen. Scott has now given orders for opening the line of communication with the coast, so that in the future I will receive your letters and you mine… I have sent you a handsome bracelet made of my hair…" The month previous to writing this letter, Pillow would anonymously write letters (published in a New Orleans newspaper) claiming credit for victories at Contreras and Churubusco. Although discovered and brought to trial for this deceit, Pillow would escape punishment and be discharged by the Army in July of 1848. His next term of service would come during the Civil War, when he joined the Confederate Army.