1860 (Feb. 15) Charleston S.C. to Mexico City, Mexico, blue datelined folded letter bearing 3¢ dull red (26) strip of three and single, tied by two strikes of sharp "Charleston S.C. Feb 15 1860" cds, addressed to John S. Cripps in care of the Legation of the U.S., flap with "Forwarded by You obt. svt., J.T. Pickett, Vera Cruz, April 13th" manuscript forwarder's notation of the U.S. consul; left 3¢ rounded corner, Very Fine and interesting U.S. consul forwarded use. Estimate  $400 - 600. Gen John Thomas Pickett was U.S. Consul from 1853 to 1861, and held many officer commissions on missions and engagements in both the U.S. and C.S.A. When the "Southern War of Rebellion" broke out he was appointed the Confederate Commissioner to Mexico. He served as Asst. Adjt. General C.S.A. army on General John Breckenridge's staff. In 1863 as Secretary of First Confederate Peace mission and 1864 - 1865 as Special envoy extraordinary to Mexico arranging escape of CSA officials. $0 (Image)