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“WE MAY AS WELL REVERSE THE VERDICT . . .
ON THE CASE OF BENEDICT ARNOLD”
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GARFIELD, JAMES A. Letter Signed, “J.A.Garfield,” as Representative, to
Williams College classmate David M. Evans, acknowledging receipt of his letter and
accompanying newspaper article concerning the Fitz-John Porter case, and expressing his
disapproval of the possibility of overturning the court martial by comparing the case to
that of Benedict Arnold. 1 page, 8vo, ruled paper, “House of Representatives” stationery;
folds. With the original envelope. (AKF)
Washington, 19 January 1880
[1,000/2,000]
“
. . . If the action of the Court Martial of 1863 can now be overturned—the criminal exalted
and the court convicted, we may as well reverse the verdict of America on the case of Benedict
Arnold. . . .”
Fitz-John Porter was court-martialed soon after his alleged insubordination during the Second
Battle of Bull Run. General John M. Schofield’s Army board recommended in 1879 that the
case be re-opened and, after years of debate between Democratic and Republican factions of
Congress, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation restoring his honor in 1886.
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GARFIELD, JAMES A. Autograph Letter Signed, “JAGarfield,” as Representative,
to Williams College classmate Col. David M. Evans, thanking him for his letter and adding,
“I am glad to hear of the enthusiasm and hopefulness of the campaign in your state.” 1
page, 8vo, personal stationery; folds. (AKF)
Mentor, OH, 28 July 1880
[400/600]
WITH
—
printed speech delivered by Williams College classmate John T. Stoneman on
September 26, 1881, memorializing Garfield. 4 pages. 8vo, single folded sheet.
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