Mathew Brady

Mathew Brady (May 18, 1822 - January 15, 1896), notable American photographer of the nineteenth century, authentic, personally docketed vintage letter (ALS by E.L Cook), four pages, front and verso, measuring 5 x 8 folded and 10 x 8 opened, dated December 6th [1864]. Brady is considered the father of photojournalism as he took thousands of photos of the Civil War, including the surrounding scenes of many crucial battles.

Docketed on verso of fourth page, “E L Cook / Dec 6/64” by Mathew B. Brady, across Cook's writing. Bulk of document penned by Cook; underlined words in the first sentence in purple ink probably made by Brady; other underlined words by Cook. In part: “Yours just recd draft for $200 came all right. The note was made on the 30th of Augst so there is 3 mos. due on it. I will send myself tonight the cigars to Blauvelt. I have raised the devil with Betts who says it is all the fault of ‘his man.’ I saw your wife in a stage the other day She was well and looking as handsome as ever – says she goes on to see you tomorrow. I was much provoked at Betts way of doing things. Liquors were offered me by a dozen different parties, but as he was an old chum thought he would do better. I concur in all your remarks respecting papers &c they were drawn up by a friend of mine who is a lawyer and brot in at the last minute so that I just skimed over them but as he said it ‘was all right’ … You are right I do owe 3 parties in W. [Washington] but Van Hooks is the largest and only $200 If I can only get what is owing me I could laugh at such things and slap ‘a full pocket … As far as managing ‘the Gym’ or even ‘advising’ you is concerned, all I can say is I should not know how to do either or even desire to. All the advice I have to give is go ahead and make money as fast as possible. Is this sound? The advice part was originated in the fertile brain of the lawyer it was no idea of mine I assure you…” Signed at the conclusion "E.L. Cook."

In very good condition, with the usual mailing folds, light toning, a small soiled area near bottom left corner of verso page, and an expertly mended tear at joint.