Incoming blockade-run use on folded letter re tobacco business from John K. Gilbert, London, Englanddated Aug 25, 1864 to William Gray, Esq, Richmond, Va.; postmarked with oval STEAM-SHIP,CHARLESTON / S.C. / OCT / 10 cds and manuscript "12" rate, Very Fine and scarce. Ex John Hill. $2,000.

William Gray was a prominent tobacco shipper and manufacturer associated with several firms in Manchester, Va. Born in Prince Edward County, Gray moved to Manchester around 1810. In 1821, Gray became a partner in Gray & Pankey and, twelve years later, established his own firm, William Gray & Co. He directed the company's operations until his death in 1863. The Gray correspondence is well known to postal historians. The Gray papers reside in the Virginia Historical Society.