Scarce ink signatures, "John Hay" and "Jno. G. Nicolay," on individual off-white slips, 4.25 x 1.25 and 5.25 x 1.75, clipped from the close of letters sent "From the President of the United States"; the Nicolay slip is affixed to a slightly larger sheet. In overall fine condition, with trimmed edges. John George Nicolay (1832-1901) served as private secretary to President Abraham Lincoln from 1861 until the latter's death. John Milton Hay (1838-1905) also served as a private secretary to Lincoln, but as there was only authority for payment of one presidential secretary (Nicolay), Hay was appointed to a post in the Interior Department; the men divided their responsibilities, with Nicolay tending to assist Lincoln in his office and in meetings, while Hay dealt with the president's never-ending correspondence.
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