Lot 82
Cleveland, Grover. Autograph letter signed ("Grover Cleveland") as President, on Executive Mansion stationery, Washington, July 15, 1894. To William L. Wilson (1843-1900) who was U.S. representative from West Virginia and chairman of the Ways and Means Committee; in 1895, Cleveland would appoint him Postmaster General. Regarding a letter he is enclosing to Wilson (not present), Cleveland writes: "….I feel so deeply upon the subject of which it treats that I cannot longer delay explaining my position to you. No one can accuse me of heretofore attempting to impose upon those immediately charged with our tariff legislation, my opinions and preference at this stage I should be permitted to speak. I have marked the letter 'personal'. I am quite clear it is better not to have any publication of it immediately. I am willing it should be read to your House colleagues …."
The Wilson-Gorman Act had provided for a reduction in the McKinley Tariff but was opposed by Democratic forces in the Senate, who added duties on various goods. Cleveland denounced the package as "party perfidy and party dishonor" but allowed it to become law without his signature. The result was a reduction to 41% from the average 48% of the McKinley Tariff.
Estimated Value $400 - 600.
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| Realized $600 |
