(1814 – 1897) Union brigadier general of volunteers, court-martialed in 1862 and dismissed from the military for corruption in the quartermaster's office, the only general officer to be so punished during the war. Rare, fine content and association A.L.S., 3pp. 4to., Washington, D.C., Oct. 30, 1856, to a colonel in Tampa. In large part: ‘I was hard at work yesterday afternoon at a ship-yard in Jersey when I received a telegraph from Genl [Thomas] Jesup ordering me here. I left immediately and arrived here this morning. Genl [William S.] Harney came on with me. I shall leave N.Y. for Charleston day after tomorrow. Genl Harney goes by rail to C- and we expect to take the Isabel on Tuesday the 4th for Key West. The General is now closeted with the Secretary, and I presume will insist upon a portion of the 2nd Art[iller]y being left in Florida until spring – probably Pratt & Arnolds Companies will be the ones designated, if any. Yesterday he asked me to take measures to provide guides – I replied that I did not believe that any one around Tampa was acquainted with the Big Cypress & the Everglades – hence the application of this morning, above referred to. Harney says he will not permit a single Spaniard to go south of Tampa – bad show for Captain John… The general goes to Florida with regret – does not believe he can get the [Seminole] Indians out &&… [later Maj. Gen. George L.] Hartsuff & Dr Edgar called on me in N.Y… Hartsuff says he can satisfactorily explain the transaction that occurred in the Ranger. I have made applications to have Key West designated as the principal depot & supplies to come from the North. Genl Jesup has adopted my views… Excuse this scrawl, I am stupid for want of sleep, and shall compelled to return to N.Y. tonight…’ He signs ‘J. McKinstry’ in black ink at the conclusion. Shows some ink burn and spots throughout, otherwise in fine condition overall.