Historically important War-date Autographed Endorsement Signed

New York, 1861. unbound. General Fremont authorizes Major [Simon] Stevens to procure for him a gun shipment of 113 Cases of Rifles -- while they simultaneously participate in the "Hall Carbine Affair." This endorsement was written on the back of a two page handwritten letter from H. Livingstock & Co., Importers and Custom Agents, New York City, August 21, 1861, who notify Fremont, in part: "...Mr. Henry Steven's goes to France, and shall ship to you from there by the Steamer Brewer 113 Cases of Rifles, if not by this vessel he will do so by the next one from Southampton -- the goods to be consigned to Wells, Fargo & Co...In relation to the Rifles, it will be necessary to have an order from the Secretary of the Treasury, to land these free of duty if they are intended for the Government, we do not know how these Cases will be marked -- but the Department can order such are as for yourself to be landed free..." Docketed by Gustavus Koerner: Will Major Stevens procure from Washington the necessary permit and find the things right forward - from - Headquarters -- Western Dept -- St. Louis -- August 27, 1861. Endorsed: J.C. Fremont -- Major Genl. Commanding. Note: at the very moment he authorized this gun purchase, Fremont and Stevens were participants involved in the "Hall Carbine Affair" whereby J.P. Morgan financed the purchase of 5000 surplus rifles at $3.50, which were resold back to the government for $22 each. Stevens was the broker who handled this transaction and Fremont was the purchaser! And there's an interesting twist to the story: though referred to as "Major Stevens," Simon Stevens never served in the military. He was appointed to this post on Fremont's staff as a Civilian Forwarding Agent in New York, looking after the Generals' purchases in Europe and the East. Weakness and small tears at the folds; two corners chipped. Very good(-) condition.<br/> <br/> American military officer, explorer, and first candidate of the Republican Party for the office of President of the United States.<br/> <br/>