Johnson, Andrew. seventeenth President

Autograph letter signed ("A. Johnson"), 3 pages (8 x 5 in.; 204 x 126 mm), Senate Chamber [Washington, D.C.], 18 February 1861, to his son Robert; formerly folded, last leaf inlaid. Black half-morocco clamshell box.

Mrs. Phillip D. Sang (sale, in these rooms, 27 March 1985, lot 186)

formerly folded, last leaf inlaid
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.

The Johnsons battle to preserve the Union.

As Senator, Andrew Johnson wrote this letter to his son Robert who had recently served in a special session of the Tennessee legislature called to consider their state's position on secession: " ... I was gratified to see various complimentary allusions which have been made to your course in taking a bold stand for the union and against Treason which is another name for Se-cession. The results in Tennessee has produced a wonderful influence here and thoughout the nation. I hope we will be able to hold Tennessee firm and put down Treason and Traitors. My position here this winter has been a trying one, more so than any I have ever occupied before. Nicholson [Tennessee's other Senator] is a Coward and a Traitor and has proved false and a liar. — This though is for you and no else at present, the time will come when I intend to expose his conduct."

As for the Washington Peace Conference, then in session, and discussing the Crittenden Compromise, Johnson writes: "I think the peace Congress will agree upon something — I have a proposition to submit for the Settlement of the whole question and have received much encouragement from friends that it can pass; but do not desire to be forward in presenting it to the Consideration of the Senate and the Country - I do not wish to come in Competition with Mr Crittenden — and the peace Congress in the settlement of the question — let this all pass for I intend to be control[led] by prudence etc. ..."