Excellent TLS as president signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, June 26, 1912. Taft writes to his friend Charles A. Ricks. In part: “You have the right idea. The votes with which I expect to be reelected in November must come largely from these of the Republican faith, and our campaign has got to be one of conciliation instead of alienation. We must educate rather than excoriate. Thank you, old fellow, for your congratulations, your interest and your support.” The 1912 Republican Convention, at which Taft was nominated for reelection, concluded in Chicago just four days earlier, on June 22. Taft famously lost the following November when former Republican Theodore Roosevelt ran as the “spoiler” Progressive candidate, splitting the Republican vote and throwing the election to Woodrow Wilson. A few mild wrinkles and tiny spots and a touch of very subtle haloing to signature, otherwise fine condition. LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
