From “J.R. Cotton” to “Gen. McPherson”. Dated “Vicksburg, March 8^th, 1864.” 2pp in ink, moderately faded but entirely legible. Else VG.

Text as follows:

“Gen. McPherson……..For your consideration the undersigned respectfully represents that having voluntarily abandoned the fortunes of the Confederacy and taken the oath of allegiance to the US Government he wishes to be considered without abatement or reservation a loyal man and as such wishes to act in some suitable capacity in the interest of the Government. As a deserter from the Rebel army prudence would indicate that I should not act in the ordinary capacity of a soldier as I would not be treated as such if captured. But I would be gratified if I could act in own individual capacity and take my own hazard if in case of capture by union troops I could be recognized by you as being acting with fidelity to the Government. In fact I wish a secret service the detail of which I would be glad lay before you….Very Respectfully, J.R. Cotton”

By the spring of ‘64, Major Gen. James McPherson was a rising star in the Union west. On March 12^th, 1864, he received command of the Army of Tennessee, later to operate as Left Wing of General Sherman’s Army in the forthcoming Atlanta Campaign. This curious letter from J. R. Cotton of Vicksburg raises the tantalizing questions concerning McPherson’s possible role in behind-the-lines military intelligence. What was the “secret service” that the Confederate deserter turned Union loyalist wished to lay before McPherson? [And for what sort of payoff?]. Unfortunately, we may never know, as Gen McPherson was killed in action, July 22, 1864, at the height of the Atlanta Campaign. Whatever response Cotton’s “secret service” proposal may have elicited, if any, invites further research. An intriguing letter, replete with a hint military cloak and dagger.

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