JFK quotes Dante’s Inferno:

38. John F. Kennedy Handwritten Note with Dante Quote.

Unsigned handwritten draft by Senator Kennedy for a reply to A. M. Larmore, written in the lower margin of the letter sent to him, one page, 8.5 x 11, April 11, 1957. Responding to a kind note in appreciation of the Pulitzer Prize–winning book Profiles in Courage and virtue in modern America, Kennedy writes: “Thank him for a most interesting letter. In reading it I was reminded of Dante’s words: ‘The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those who in a period of moral crisis, maintain their neutrality. Best regards.” In fine condition, with rusty staple holes to the upper left corner. Accompanied by a typed transcript on Senate memo paper, and a modern print of a photograph of John F. Kennedy in a convertible during his campaign. Starting Bid $300

Typed Letter Signed on 1952 Election. TLS signed “Jack,” one page, 8 x 10.5, House of Representatives letterhead, November 13, 1952. Letter to a campaign worker named “Joe,” in part: “I want you to know how grateful I am to you for all your help over the past months. I am certain that we would never have been so successful against the Eisenhower landslide if it had not been for the effectiveness of our organization, an organization, in my opinion, that was the best that the state had ever seen.” Kennedy adds a handwritten postscript: “Many many thanks for all your help Joe.” In fine condition, with a couple spots of slight staining and some light vertical creasing. Starting Bid $200

39.

Remarkable

I kind invitation. As you know, I spent considerable time away from my legislative work here in Washington last year, and unavoidably so because of my serious illness. Therefore, I feel I should spend as much time as possible here this year.” In fine condition.

Starting Bid $200

LBJ To an Oklahoma Congressman

Johnson Typed Letter Signed as President. TLS as president, one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, January 18, 1969. Letter to longtime Oklahoma Congressman Tom Steed, in full: “Lady Bird and I were very moved by the eloquence of your tribute in Thursday’s Record. Your words made us feel proud and grateful—and we thank you. May the years ahead be good to you.” Johnson adds a handwritten postscript: “You are so good and dependable— always—’the best’—Call me when I can stand with you.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200

42.

Signed as President on Vietnam. TLS as president signed “RN,” one page, 6.75 x 8.75, White House letterhead, May 11, 1972. Letter to Congressman C. W. ‘Bill’ Young, regarding the peace process in Vietnam. In full: “It was most encouraging to learn of your forceful expression of support for the peace proposals I presented to the Nation this past Monday evening. Acceptance of these proposals, I believe, will bring an end to the killing, a return of our prisoners of war, a withdrawal of all forces with honor, and continued progress toward peace for all countries that have suffered for so long in this conflict. I want you to know that you have my deepest gratitude and warmest appreciation for your support of these objectives.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200

43.

44. Ronald Reagan Signed Photocopy of His Alzheimer’s Announcement Letter. Stapled photocopy of Ronald Reagan’s handwritten letter from November 5, 1994, announcing that he has Alzheimer’s disease, two pages, 8.5 x 11, signed at the top of the first page in blue felt tip by Reagan. The letter concludes: “I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life. I know that for America there will always be a bright dawn ahead.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from JSA. Starting Bid $200

45. Barack Obama Autograph Letter Signed as President. Extremely rare ALS as president, one page, 6.5 x 4, embossed White House stationery, no date. Handwritten response to a woman entreating for greater awareness and federal assistance within the mental health sector, in full: “Thanks for the letter—it means a lot. When things get tough, just remember I’m here fighting for you!” In very fine condition. Accompanied by the original White House mailing envelope. Starting Bid $300