Description

Description: In this effusive December 1, 1941 letter, Josephus Daniels, the American newspaper magnate expresses his thanks to one of his fans. The typed letter reads in part: “‘Pleasanter words never blotted paper’ than those contained in your very cordial and gracious letter of November 26th. I appreciate very much your expression and approval of the service I sought to render our country in the capital of our nearest neighbor. Your letter shows a kindness of heart.”

Josephus Daniels (1862-1948) controlled North Carolina’s largest newspaper, the Raleigh News and Observer, for many years. A staunch Democrat, President Woodrow Wilson appointed Daniels to serve as Secretary of the Navy (1913-1921) during World War I, his Assistant Secretary being Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Later, as President himself, Roosevelt appointed Daniels Ambassador to Mexico, a position he held from 1933 until the month before this letter was written in 1941. Ostensibly, Daniels is referring to his service in Mexico in this letter.

Typed on a 10 1/2″ x 7 1/4″ sheet of “The News and Observer Josephus Daniels, President Raleigh, N. C.” imprinted stationery. Item #A01484

Condition: Mailing fold lines, mounting remnants on verso with slight bleed through to recto. Overall good condition with a neat, bold signature.