Garfield, James A (1831-81) 20th President of the United States, 1881.
Autograph letter signed ("J.A. Garfield") as U.S. congressman from Ohio, 2pp (recto/verso), 9¾" x 7¾", Washington, Feb. 22, 1874. Responding to a letter from L.S. Abbott concerning government economies, with excellent content. In part: "…I know how hard the struggle is for a man with a family to get along here in Washington with the salary now allowed to clerks. I have resisted…all attempts at cutting down the notes. And it is peculiarly unpleasant to me that I must be made the leader of the movement to reduce the number of the clerks in the several Departments. But some reduction is imperatively necessary and it falls to my lot to propose it….I have had no help…from any head of a Department or of a Bureau. Those who know how to do it will not; and I must do it who don't very well know how. I have no doubt that in many cases I have not made the reduction in the places where it ought to be made, and have reduced where it ought not to be reduced. I shall be glad to rectify any errors & right any wrongs. But that a reduction ought to be made I have no doubt….I shall be glad to receive any suggestions you may be willing to make." Normal folds, else fine.
Estimated Value $900 - 1,200.
U.S. Presidents
