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Lot #14
Grover Cleveland Autograph Letter Signed as President on "the insanity that seems just now to be afflicting the American people"

Grover Cleveland pens an incredibly prescient, confessionary letter on "the insanity that seems just now to be afflicting the American people," judging their inherent goodness and on the carnivalesque "brood of liars and fools"

Estimate: $8000+

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Description

Grover Cleveland pens an incredibly prescient, confessionary letter on "the insanity that seems just now to be afflicting the American people," judging their inherent goodness and on the carnivalesque "brood of liars and fools"

Exceptional, private ALS as president, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, Executive Mansion letterhead, May 14, 1896. Handwritten letter to Lemuel Clarke Davis, editor of the Philadelphia Public Ledger. In full: "The fact that such silly things as is contained in the clipping you send me, can find a place in any newspaper, indicates one of the strangest developments of the insanity that seems just now to be afflicting the American people. 'The American people are good people.' I still believe that fully, though I confess I have moments—only moments—sometimes of distressing misgiving. I am praying now that purulent infection may pass away leaving life and hope of complete recovery. In the meantime the brood of liars and fools must have their carnival." In fine condition, with light toning to the first page from prior display. Accompanied by the original Executive Mansion mailing envelope, addressed in Cleveland's hand and marked "Personal." President Cleveland had a reputation for straight talk and forthrightness, and minces no words in this unique letter to newspaperman Lemuel Clarke Davis. Astonishingly, he confesses to even questioning the goodness of the American people and denounces a debased press—issues that continue to plague the United States today.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Featuring Art and Literature
  • Dates: December 20, 2024 - January 08, 2025





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