[Raphael Semmes], (CSA Rear Admiral, Commander of Confederate raider 'Alabama'), Dec. 20, 1874 four page post-war letter to 'Admiral' (Raphael Semmes) from John McIntosh Kell (CSA Navy First Lt.) who served under Semmes on the 'Alabama' and regarded by Semmes as his most accomplished and trusted officer, the contents detail Kell's recollection of the capture of the Whaling Ship 'Levi Starbuck' and the treatment of its crew, he refutes the claim of a captured sailor, reputed to have been taken prisoner by the 'Alabama' and claiming serious mistreatment while a prisoner, on 5 x 8" blue-lined stationery, some minor staining and light soiling, otherwise very fine