2020-01 Putnal
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/18/2020
Autograph Letter Signed, John Heidt, 4p. Quarto, Savannah, July 24, 1863, with cover addressed to Leila Vellard of South Carolina, with graphic content it reads in part: "...Am I a barbarian or a hero for raising before daylight this morning in order to see a poor Negro hang. I was a witness to the horrible scene and felt not the slightest emotion except pity for the poor miserable creature who had so short time to live. And yet he stood calm and self-possessed upon the treacherous footing, the very noose being already around his large healthy neck. It was a private execution by order of the Judge and there were no more than thirty persons inside the jail yard, though perhaps two hundred outside some climbing up the wall, others standing on carriage seats and all very anxious to see. Much to my relief the Negro two days ago confessed his crime on the gallows again. He attributed its commission to intoxication and warned all present against the use of ardent spirits. He believed in the mercy of God, and trusted that his peace had been made. The speech over the priest performed and I suppose gave him a note to St. Patrick when as a parting offering the criminal received a parting kiss and the embraces of the Holy Father. The long white cap was drawn over by the executioner, and it two more minutes Peter breathed his last. A slight struggle, and all was over. He died with his coffin before him, and was buried a Felon...May his soul be happy…" Fine.
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