Madison, James (1751-1836) 4th President of the United States (1809-17).
Letter written in the hand of Dolly Madison (1768-1849) and signed in the text by James Madison, 1p, 9¼ x 7½", Montpelier, Feb. 26, 1836. To Professor Rogers: "J. Madison with his respects to Professor Rogers returns many thanks for the copy of his Report on the 'Geological Reconnaissance of the State of Virginia.' Unskilled as he is in the subject, he cannot but regard the Report, as an able and instructive commencement of a task, which is duly presented under the auspices it merits, cannot fail to amplify greatly the resources of the State and to afford aliment [nourishment], at the same time to a science becoming every day more and more interesting."
Professor Rogers is almost certainly William B. Rogers (1804-82), the renowned geologist who had just completed (1835) his geological survey of Virginia. One of James Madison's last letters, written just a few months prior to his death, at a time when he was suffering from acute arthritis in his hands. Repair at horizontal affects nothing. Boldly penned and signed.
Estimated Value $900 - 1,200.
The Arden Family Holdings of Beverly Hills.
U.S. Presidents