A LETTER FROM HON. THOS. H. BENTON, TO COMMODORE STEWART, ON THE ACTION OF THE NAVY BOARD.
[np:]: 1856. 12mo, 10pp. Disbound, lightly tanned, Very Good.
In this scarce pamphlet Benton explains his opposition to the law that has separated many distinguished officers from the Navy, as part of the Navy's planned reduction in force. The "odious and trackless secrecy of the proceeding" is especially objectionable. Because the decision-making Board serves as agents of the President, the Act has rendered the navy "a Presidential navy, holding by the tenure of Executive favor," rather than "the navy of the country."
Commodore Charles Stewart, one of the career officers cashiered under the Act, was a celebrated naval officer. During his long service he commanded the American Mediterranean Squadron; at the time of Benton's Letter he commanded the Philadelphia Navy Yard. He served during the Quasi War with France and the War of 1812 as commander of the Constitution, the Constellation, and other vessels.
FIRST EDITION. OCLC 30555438 [2- Harvard, Johns Hopkins]. 47 NUC 0325455 [1- Harvard]. Sabin 4787n. Item #28484
Price: $250.00