Two letters: ALS, signed “U. S. Grant,” two lightly lined pages, 4.5 x 7, January 31, 1881. Grant writes to Mr. George Childs. In full: “Mrs. Grant and I go to Washington tomorrow and expect to return as far as Philadelphia on Friday. We will stop with you or Mr. Drexel [Anthony J. Drexel, noted philanthropist and founder of Drexel University] as may be most convenient for you. I take this liberty because of the kindness of you and Mr. Drexel in sending a standing invitation whenever Mrs. Grant & I visit your city. We will be obliged to return to New York on Saturday because I have an engagement to meet with the World’s Fair Commissioners that evening. With the kind regards of Mrs. Grant and myself to Mrs. Childs.” Together with: LS signed as president “Grover Cleveland,” one lined page, 6.75 x 9.25, Executive Mansion letterhead, July 31, 1885. Cleveland writes to Childs. In full: “Having been requested by Mrs. Grant to name the pall bearers to officiate at the funeral of Genl. Grant in New York on the 8th proximo, I have designated you as one of the number and have to ask that you give me early notice of your acceptance of the appointment.” Cleveland’s letter is accompanied by the original Executive Mansion mailing envelope. Matted and framed together with engraved portraits to an overall size of 25.25 x 23. Childs was an American publisher who, with Anthony J. Drexel, purchased the Philadelphia Public Ledger in 1864. He completely changed the then-little-known paper’s policy and methods, and made it into one of the most influential journals in the country. In fine condition, with splitting along horizontal fold of Grant’s letter and intersecting mailing folds and light edge toning to Cleveland’s letter. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.Oversized.
