20854 (Charlottesville Va) PAID 5 (CC type C) in blue on 7-star flag patriotic (CC type F7-4, CV $1,000). Although there is no circular datestamp, the style of paid and rate handstamps, as well as the known correspondence, indicate this is a Charlottesville use. Addressed to Capt. Eugene Davis, Albemarle Light Horse, Manassas Junction, Va. A bit war weary and soiled. Ex Bruce Engstler and John Vagnetti. $450.

Capt. Eugene Davis (1822-1894) was a 39-year-old lawyer and farmer when he enlisted on May 20, 1861, at Charlottesville, Va., as a captain. He was commissioned into Co. K, 2nd Virginia Cavalry, Army of Northern Virginia. He was a volunteer aide to Gen. Pendleton. In 1863, he mustered into Company D, 6th Virginia Cavalry. He fought at 1st Manassas, was detailed in 1863 to the Quartermaster Department, and was captured May 11, 1864, at Yellow Tavern, Va.; he took the oath of allegiance in February 25, 1865, at Elmira, NY.