Reagan, Ronald, fortieth President

Autograph letter signed, 1 page (10 1/2 x 7 1/4 in.; 266 x 183 mm) on personal letterhead with gilt embossed presidential seal, [Los Angeles,] 24 July [1989], to Major-General Richard Rohmer, with original autograph envelope.

Autograph letter signed, 1 page (10 1/2 x 7 1/4 in.; 266 x 183 mm) on personal letterhead with gilt embossed presidential seal, [Los Angeles,] 24 July [1989], to Major-General Richard Rohmer, with original autograph envelope.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Reagan on General George S. Patton, "our mutual hero 'Old Blood & Guts.'"

Shortly after Ronald Reagan left office he was a guest of Conrad Black's at a party at the Toronto Club. There Reagan met Major-General Richard Rohmer, who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross while serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Reagan told Rohmer an anecdote about General Patton. As Rohmer then explained in a letter to Reagan, 4 July 1989, "Because you were whisked away before I could tell you my Patton tale, I am left with no alternative but to put it to you in writing in the form of my 1981 book 'Patton's Gap' which I enclose." In the present letter, Reagan thanks Rohmer for the book, and refers to a novel of his as well.

"I've just received your book and your letter and can't wait to read about our mutual hero 'Old Blood & Guts.' Well in addition I'm looking forward to 'The Hour of the Fox.' You were more than kind and I'm truly grateful to you.

"Thank you too for marking the pages relating your meeting with our hero. I've already read them—and yes they are typical of our hero. [Patton had expressed profane incredulity that someone of Rohmer's slight stature was piloting a war plane.]

"I'm sorry I had to run so quickly on that enjoyable affair in Toronto. Maybe one day our paths will cross again. I hope so, Again my heartfelt thanks and Best Regards."

Accompanied by a signed copy of Rohmer's Patton's Gap and a copy of his letter to Reagan.