CSA 12-KB-v4 10¢ dark blue overheated plate variety (4 large even margins, couple trivial corner creases), tied RICHMOND Va. FEB 5 (1865) circular datestamp (Powell type 6q used from Oct. 1864 to Feb. 1865) on commercially made envelope with embossed tip to Mrs. J.T. L. Preston, Lexington, Va. Ex Harry Muldrow. $130.

John Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was a lawyer, educator and military officer. He was a primary founder and organizer of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). He was born in Lexington and Richmond, Va. He received his BA from Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) in 1828. He attended graduate courses at the University of Virginia and Yale. He was heavily involved at VMI in the early years. During the war, he was a Lt. Col. in the 9th Virginia Infantry, including time on the staff of and aide-de-camp to Gen. Stonewall Jackson. Much more information readily available online and in print.