Coolidge, Calvin, as Thirtieth President

Autograph letter signed, 2 pages (8  7/8  x 7  in.; 226 x 178 mm) on White House letterhead, Washington, 11 March 1924, to Judge R. W. Irwin, Boston, giving his views of his presidential duties; horizontal fold.  Together with: autograph envelope.

Autograph letter signed, 2 pages (8 7/8 x 7 in.; 226 x 178 mm) on white House letterhead, WAshington, 11 March 1924, to Judge R. W. Irwin, Boston; horizontal fold. 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.

An exceptional letter in which Coolidge sets out his views on his duties as President.  Calvin Coolidge became President upon the death of Warren Harding on 2 August 1923.  He was visiting his family in Vermont when Harding died in San Franciso and was sworn in by his own father, a notary public, by the light of a kerosene lamp in the family home.  At first the American public did not know what to make of the new President, who had been quietly in the background during Harding's tenure.  Here, eight months into his Presidency, Coolidge, writes to an acquaintance in Boston, giving his thoughts on his abilities to serve in his new capacity.

"You do not need to worry about me.  This will be a hard job but that has been my life.  A great deal of abuse goes with this office, of course, but it does not worry me.  The people know if I make good. They will know if I fail, they ought to get some one else.  I do not have to worry about myself, I am President.  I have to do the best I can for my country.  I am doing that but I can't do it in a hurry.  The job is big enough to warrant deliberation."