(1806 - 1863) U.S. Secretary of War and Confederate brigadier general who transferred arms to the South prior to the war, later fled Ft. Donelson prior to the battle there. Fine association A.L.S. as Secretary of War, 4pp. 8vo., Washington, D.C., Aug. 17, 1860, to firearms innovator and entrepreneur SAMUEL COLT (1814-1862). Floyd responds to an invitation from Colt and his wife, in small part: ‘...I for myself and Mrs Floyd tender to Mrs Colt and yourself our… acknowledgments for your kind & thoughtful invitation to join you… But I regret more than I have words to express, my inability to accept your kind invitation & join your delightful party…’ He signs boldly at the conclusion in black ink. Floyd’s handwriting is difficult to read in places, but the letter is in fine overall condition, showing only very faint toning to the edges and an original mailing fold across the center.