Alexander C. McClurg letter, 5 March 1868
Letter from bookseller and Union veteran Alexander C. McClurg in Chicago, Ill. to historian Benson J. Lossing provides a character sketch of Union General Jefferson C. Davis. McClurg discusses in detail Davis's military career, the "affair with General Nelson," and Davis's leadership abilities. He notes that Davis was "slender" and "very athletic," but "careless in his carriage and attire." He faults Davis with being "too independent" in the service by refusing the aid of those who might have helped him advance in the ranks. Of the affair with General Nelson at the Galt House in Louisville, Ky, McClurg states that Davis "always regretted the occurrence" and that the event "had a depressing effect on him."
Archival Material, English, 1868