War-dated handwritten endorsement, as president, “A. Lincoln,” dated December 7, 1864, on an off-white 7 x 8 sheet, originally the integral second page of a letter to Lincoln from John Foster. Foster’s (included) lengthy letter, dated December 6, 1864, on both sides of a lightly-lined 8 x 10 page, expresses his concern that he was dismissed from his position as a clerk because of a “very lengthy speech, very vituperative of the administration and the government at the McClellan ratification meeting...My object in addressing you is to ask that if in your opinion, and with your sense of Justice, it is not incompatible with the public service you will have me instated in my former position – a position I had the credit of fitting efficiently and to the satisfaction of all.”
Lincoln’s endorsement reads in full, “I know nothing of this gentleman or his case, except as presented by these papers – I merely submit to the Provost Marshal General [James B. Fry] whether an inquiry is not due him. A. Lincoln, Dec 7, 1864.” Professionally cleaned and in fine condition, with a lightly toned vertical fold passing through first letter of each line of endorsement, and Foster’s writing a couple of shades light, but still completely legible.
Almost unimaginable in today’s world, this letter is a prime example of the remarkable access people had to the president at the time. Foster’s case is simple—one in which he disavows claims that he made negative statements against the administration during the 1864 Presidential Election—allegedly vicious rants that cost him a job. With evidence in hand and statements from the actual speechmakers, he turned to the White House for help after his claims fell deafly upon the ears of his superiors. Of course, the amazing part is not that someone would ask the President of the United States for help in getting his job back, but of course that Lincoln would take time to personally respond—though apparently unable to offer any assistance. An interesting presidential intervention for a man apparently caught as a political pawn. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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