Lot 613
Pierce, Franklin (1804-1869) 14th President of the United States, 1853-1857. Most remembered for his inability to deal effectively with growing regional conflicts over slavery in the decade preceding the Civil War, Pierce also reorganized the diplomatic and consular service along lines more fitting to the growing international role of the United States.
Autograph Letter Signed ("Franklin Pierce"). Three pages, octavo, Andover, Massachusetts, July 17, 1857. In black ink. To James Campbell, Pierce's Postmaster General. With one vertical and two horizontal folds, a thin strip of paper has been affixed along the fold, remnants of an adhesive appear on verso of final page. In very good to fine condition overall.
In a sincere letter, Pierce offers his consolations to Campbell whose wife had taken ill. He explains that he is "much pained to have such unfavorable accounts of Mrs. Campbell. I wish it were in my power to contribute in any way to your support in your great anxiety and sorrow." After giving a report on Mrs. Pierce's condition, he discusses the health of one of his cabinet members, Secretary of the Navy James C. Dobbin, suggesting the impact his impending death will have on other Cabinet members -- a group he refers to as the 'unbroken circle': "Our accounts from Mr. Dobbin are very unfavorable… It will not surprise me to hear of his death by any mail. I long to see him again … I contemplate with much pain these inroads upon that circle which remained unbroken for four years…" As the only President in history to serve a complete term without making any Cabinet changes, it is clear that Pierce created a unique bond with the gentlemen of his Cabinet.
Estimated Value $750 - 850.
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| Realized $690 |
