First Lady (1768–1849), née Dorothea Dandridge Payne Todd, who, during her tenure in the Executive Mansion from 1809 to 1817, was celebrated as a gracious hostess and as a powerful asset to husband James Madison’s political career. In 1814, she famously saved many state papers and a portrait of George Washington as British soldiers advanced on the nation’s capital, barely escaping with the national treasures as the presidential mansion was occupied and looted. For the remainder of her life she retained a place of honor in Washington society and was granted a lifelong seat on the floor of the House of Representatives. Third-person ALS, one page, 5 x 7.5, March 20, 1838. In full: “Mrs. Madison is obliged to deny herself the pleasure of passing the evening with Mrs. Pleasonton on account of a very weak eye.” Letter is affixed by its integral second page to a slightly larger sheet. The Mrs. Pleasonton mentioned here was very likely the wife of James Pleasonton, who was appointed by James Monroe to the newly created position of Fifth Auditor in the Treasury Department, which he would hold until his death in 1855. In 1814, Pleasonton, at the behest of President Madison, saved the Declaration of Independence and other papers from being burned by British forces. In fine condition, with tape repair to vertical tear at lower left (which could be matted out), uniform light toning, and a couple of creases. Intriguing association between two rescuers of important Revolutionary documents. RRAuction COA.
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