Remarkable handwritten letter by Abraham Lincoln. Dated May 11, 1861, two months into his Presidency and only one month into the Civil War. Written to the Secretary of Navy [Gideon Welles], this note features Lincoln's routine hand written "Executive Manson" letterhead along with the date "May 11, 1861." In this note, Lincoln is asking Welles to look into the suspension case of E.B Boutwell. Lincoln understands that Welles is "over whelmed with business" but is asking him to politely to attend to the matter quickly. My Dear Sir: Some time ago, at the request Commander E. B. Boutwell, I asked you to look into the case of his suspension, and ascertain whether he might not, without inconsistency, be relieved from the remainder of his suspension. I am now informed that his case is not yet acted upon - I make no complaint of this, knowing you are over whelmed with business, but I will be obliged if you will attend to it as soon as possible. Yours very truly, A. Lincoln." This outstanding letter measures 5x8" and folds open to a larger size. Note was once tri-folded but that evidence can only be seen from the back. There is on small ink "smudge" in the word "I" but otherwise ink rates 8.5/10. Has faint pencil handwriting on the back about Boutwell. Comes with PSA LOA.