May Exceptional Estates Auction
Lot 7:
Description
Historically important autograph letter signed (ALS) by U.S. President James K. Polk, dated September 17, 1845, addressed to Postmaster General Cave Johnson. Polk writes: “Will you enclose the two letters – sent herewith – in a note of your own to the Postmaster at New Orleans and request him to deliver them to Mr. Slidell in person. It is important that they shall not fall into any hands or be opened by any one but Mr. Slidell himself.” Written shortly before John Slidell was formally appointed envoy to Mexico, this letter reflects Polk’s coordination with Johnson for the confidential delivery of documents. Slidell was later instructed to negotiate territorial issues with the Mexican government, which declined to receive him. This letter was written during the period leading up to the Mexican-American War, which began in 1846. On the backside of the piece is written, “The President” and “J.K. Polk.” This critical letter documents President Polk’s private coordination with Postmaster General Cave Johnson to ensure secure delivery of confidential communications to John Slidell, whose failed diplomatic mission to Mexico helped set the stage for the Mexican-American War. Measures 10″ x 8″ folded. IMPORTANT NOTE: This specific letter is mentioned in James K. Polk’s diary (Library of Congress), which reads, “Wednesday, 17th September, 1845 — The President called a special meeting of the Cabinet at 12 o’clock this day; all the members present. His object was to consult further on the subject of the proposed mission to Mexico … it was agreed that the President should write a confidential letter to Mr. Slidell, notifying him of the President’s intention to appoint him and requesting him to be prepared on a day’s notice to depart … In the course of the evening the President wrote the confidential letter to Mr. Slidell, & Mr.Buchanan the letter to the consul at Mexico, as had been agreed on.” The diary entry on the day before includes the line, “The President, in consultation with the Cabinet, agreed that the Hon. John Slidell – of New Orleans, who spoke the Spanish language and was otherwise well qualified, should be tendered the mission.” This item can be shipped in-house. Multiple lot combined shipping may require 3rd Party shipping.
Condition
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