German field marshal (1849-1945) who became one of the German Empire's most prominent military commanders during World War I. ALS in German, signed “Mackensen,” two pages both sides, 7 x 10, January 24, 1921. Letter to Dr. Tonche, who apparently hoped that General Mackensen would write his memoirs of World War I. In part (translated): "I can only repeat that…for the present the same reasons as previously stated prevent me from joining the circle of autobiographers…What Moltke finds acceptable is by no means acceptable to me. And the material that you have developed from previous war memoirs, and other published material strengthens me in my decision not to publish. I refuse to be humiliated by a publisher's irregularities and inaccuracies…I prefer to remain silent…Concerning questions about the Battle of the Marne I was very sorry that Colonel Hentsch cannot speak up. He was an excellent soldier of fine character, who suffered greatly by the publication of the orders to Bulow and Kluck's armies during those unfortunate September days in 1914." Matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 27 x 16; the backing conceals the reverse of both pages. In fine condition. It was on the orders of Colonel Hentsch that von Kluck and von Bulow had withdrawn from the Battle of the Marne.
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