American politician (1896–1954) who served as governor of New Jersey from 1935 to 1938. Though Hoffman was later disgraced by an embezzlement scandal, he is perhaps better known for his actions on behalf of Bruno Richard Hauptmann, the man convicted and executed in the infamous Lindbergh kidnapping case. Skeptical of the media circus and the mob-like, anti-Hauptmann sentiment that surrounded the investigation, Hoffman harbored serious doubts about Hauptmann’s guilt and visited him on death row. The governor was ultimately unable to have the case reopened after the conviction, and Hauptmann died in the electric chair just months after Hoffman sent this letter, on April 3, 1936. TLS, one page, 7.75 x 9, State of New Jersey letterhead, January 23, 1936. Hoffman writes to a supporter. In full: “I appreciate having your word of commendation and encouragement at this time when popular clamor seems to call for an expedient course in connection with the case of Richard Bruno Hauptmann. Regardless of the outcome, or of the consequences to myself, I know that I shall never regret having followed the dictates of my conscience, and having responded to my own sense of duty.” Mild scattered soiling and handling wear and trimming to top edge, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
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