TLS as president, one page, 7.25 x 9, White House letterhead, July 20, 1904. Typed “Personal” at the top of the page. TR writes Judge William H. Hunt in Helena, Montana. In full: “I return to you the pages of your report. I am a little doubtful about your remedy for the Spanish business. What you say about the territorial business is most admirable. Will you arrange so that the report is not made public without my permission?” In very good condition, with scattered creases and bends, light edge toning, a faint slightly rusty paperclip impression at the top edge, light brushing to the signature, and an approximately 2.5” long strip clipped from beneath the words “White House”…possibly by the president himself as he was writing from Oyster Bay and not Washington, D.C.
Hunt had spent nearly three years as governor of Puerto Rico when TR named him to the United States District Court for the District of Montana. Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, Spain ceded the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam to the United States. In addition, the US established a protectorate over Cuba and annexed Hawaii. For the first time in its history, the United States had acquired an overseas empire. President Roosevelt wanted to increase the influence and prestige of the United States on the world stage and make the country a global power, appointing men like Hunt to act on his behalf. Hunt had served as governor of Puerto Rico until July 4, 1904, with the report referenced here the last one he filed with the president. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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