(1816 - 1863) Union major general who led a division in the defense of Washington, at Fredericksburg, and at Chancellorsville, where he was mortally wounded by a sharpshooter while issuing an order to dislodge his killer. Rare, fine content war-date A.L.S., 2pp. 4to., Washington, D.C., April 16, 1862, to fellow brigadier general and U.S. congressman GILMAN MARSTON (1811-1890), conveying his gratitude to his correspondent for helping him secure his promotion. In large part: ‘I beg you to accept my sincere thanks for your generous efforts to obtain for me the responsible position of Brig Genl of N[ew] H[ampshire] V[olunteers]. I had not flattered myself that you would even recollect our slight acquaintance at the battle of Bull Run, where your Regiment [the 2nd New Hampshire Volunteers] and – excuse me for adding – its Colonel [Marston], fought with bravery which would have won imperishable honors had the fate of the battle been reversed. It is my firm belief that there are not better troops in the service than those from N. H., and I hope, if this war does not very soon bring the misguided South to its senses, I may have the good fortune of serving with them…’ He signs boldly ‘A. W. Whipple’ in black ink at the conclusion. Shows original mailing folds with slight splits thereto at the edges, with slightly toned at the edges, with moderately heavier toning to the verso, in very good to fine condition overall.