RICHMOND Va. AUG 4 1861 CDS on cover signed by R. C. Puryear, M.C. (Confederate Member of Provisional Congress—4 Feb 1861-17 Feb 1862) to J. Jarratt Esq, Huntsville N.C. Per a July 29, 1861, Confederate Congressional Act, Congressmen were permitted to send letters without the prepayment of postage. The postage was to be paid on delivery by the recipient. All such letters were to be endorsed with the signature of the congressman. It is doubtful this privilege was widely used as congressmen were probably reluctant to have their constituents pay to receive their letters. Scarce Member of Congress Due. $350.

Richard Clauselle Puryear (1801-1867) was a U.S. Congressman from North Carolina 1853-1857. He was a planter and politician who also served in the North Carolina House for several terms, as well as the State Senate. He was also part of the Peace Congress following the war.