SICKLES, Daniel Edgar (1825-1914). American Civil War General and politician.
Autograph Letter Signed to General [Ulysses S] Grant, President of the United States, 4 pages 8vo (inlaid, original ink smudges), Albany, 16 February 1872. Offering his views on the stance that America should take in face of the threat of England withdrawing from membership of the International Tribunal of Arbitration.
Following the ending of the American Civil War the question arose of restitution by foreign powers, in particular England, for damages seen to have been caused or aggravated by those countries. Various treaties or protocols were negotiated, but relations with England were highly strained until the treaty signed in Washington in May 1871 which practically settled all outstanding questions. Three arbitrations were provided, for the fisheries, the North-western boundaries and the Alabama claims (arising from the sinking of the Alabama by the Kearsarge on 19 June 1864). It would appear from the present letter that the waters were still a little ruffled in February 1872.

'...The other Governments that have named members of the International Tribunal ... have thereby become substantially parties to the Treaty. They cannot now withdraw their appointees at the suggestion of England without a breach of good faith toward the United States. Such an act would be justly regarded by us as unfriendly. Italy, Brazil & Switzerland would in so doing make common cause with England in her repudiation of a solemn Treaty. ...'

Sickles enjoins Grant to write to Victor Emmanuel deprecating the proposed course of action in an effort to persuade him to hold together his allies.
[No: 20221]