The handwritten farewell address of confederate colonel JS Mosby, aka the Gray Ghost, is to auction with a $50,000-70,000 estimate.

The lot will cross the block at Swann Auction Galleries in New York on November 20.

Mosby was among the most feared Confederate leaders

Mosby (1822-1916) is among the most legendary Confederate leaders of the US civil war. His men were feared for their uncanny ability to strike fast and disappear.

He refused to surrender in 1865 and only agreed to disband some months later, following a pardon from Union general Ulysses S Grant.

He went on to work as an aide to Grant in the aftermath of the war.  

Mosby's address reads in full: "I have summoned you together for the last time. The vision we have cherished of a free & independent country has vanished and that country is now the spoil of a conqueror.

"I disband your organization in preference to surrendering it to our enemies. I am now no longer your commander.

"After an association of more than two eventful years, I part from you with a just pride in the fame of your achievements & grateful recollections of your generous kindness to myself.

"And now, at this moment of bidding you a final adieu, accept the assurance of my unchanging confidence & regard. Farewell!"

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