ALS as president signed “U. S. Grant,” four pages on two adjoining lightly-lined sheets (the third page written in “oblong” orientation), 5 x 7.75, Executive Mansion letterhead, May 1, 1871. Grant writes to his friend George W. Childs, a Philadelphia newspaper publisher who wrote the biography Recollections of General Grant (1885). In part: “Mrs. Grant is in receipt of Mrs. Childs’ letter saying that your trip over on the B&O R.R. has been postponed until the 9th inst. In consequence of the near close of the Joint High Commissioners duties it would have been impossible for me to go at this time, as it will also be at the time you now propose going. The extra session of the Senate convenes on the 10th inst. and I must be here at the opening. The evening of the 11th Mrs. Grant and I propose going to Boston to spend Saturday & Sunday, I to attend the meeting of the Society of the Army of the Potomac ad Mrs. Grant to see her “darling’ [evidently one of the Grant children]. We would both enjoy the trip and the company very much but I do not see that there is any time this month when we could well go. About the last of the month we expect to take up our quarters at Long Branch, and on the 6th of June to visit West Point. Nellie expects the pleasure of Miss Fanny Drexel’s company on that occasion. Mrs. Grant & Nellie join me in kindest regards to Mrs. Child’s and yourself….” In fine condition, with very faint show-through, one mailing fold just touching top edge of signature, marginal mounting remnant to final page slightly touching a few letters of text, and a hint of mild soiling. The writing is dark and clear throughout. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
