(1818 - 1885) Union major general whose army was routed at Bull Run. and who was later reprimanded for his command of the III Corps at Cedar Mountain and Second Bull Run. Fine association A.L.S., 3pp. 8vo., Arlington [May 25, 1861], to future brigadier general Edmund Schriver, congratulating him on his appointment as a lieutenant colonel. In part: ‘I take advantage of an unusual thing, a moment of leisure, to acknowledge your letter of May 28. I saw yesterday, you name on the list of appointments in the new Regiments as a Lieut. Col. of Infantry! Of course there may yet be a slip; but I think not. It gave me sincere pleasure to be present when Thomas brought your name before the Secretary and urged your claims. He appealed to me, as did the Secretary. I knew all the circumstances of your leaving, of the misrepresentations it had occasioned. R. R. Thomas has great influence with the Sec. and he used it well. There was an opposition to you in Washington, but it was out down with the Sec. and I think now will not again show itself…’ McDowell signs at the conclusion in black ink. Shows original mailing folds, with some tape residue to the verso and two small holes at the bottom of the first page, otherwise in very good to fine condition overall.