Crisp ink signature, as President, “U. S. Grant,” on an off-white 3.75 x 2.25 card. Accompanied by an 1870 letter of transmittal from Grant’s private secretary Robert M. Douglas, on Executive Mansion letterhead, stating in part: “I herewith enclose an autograph of the President.” Also accompanied by the original mailing envelope, with “From the President of the United States,” printed across the top, and addressed in Douglas’ hand to “George W. Eastman, Esq., Lowell, Mass,” and franked in the upper right by Douglas. The signature rates in fine condition, with a mild shade of overall toning, and a bit of trivial edge soiling. The uncommon presidential envelope shows light toning and soiling, as well as separation along two edges.
Robert M. Douglas was the son of prominent Democratic Senator Stephen A. Douglas (of the Lincoln-Douglas debates). He became disillusioned with the Democratic Party as a result of the Civil War and eventually became the private secretary of Republican President U. S. Grant. A fine example with iron-clad provenance. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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