An unusual and intriguing typed letter signed by Harry Truman, as his daughter, "Margaret Truman," Washington D.C., Apr. 7th, 1947, to Mrs. Douglas A. Milward. "Margaret" thanks a well-wisher who praised her radio debut as a singer in March of 1947. Signature comparisons prove that this letter, though appearing to be an ordinary thank you note from Margaret Truman, in fact includes a Presidential signature in disguise. Truman was fiercely protective of his daughter and her singing ability. When Washington Post music critic Paul Hume said of Margaret’s performance in 1950 that, “…she does not sing very well and is flat most of the time…,” Truman responded with one of his most famous Presidential letters... "I've just read your lousy review of Margaret's concert. I've come to the conclusion that you are an 'eight ulcer man on four ulcer pay.’ It seems to me that you are a frustrated old man who wishes he could have been successful. When you write such poppy-cock as was in the back section of the paper you work for, it shows conclusively that you're off the beam and at least four of your ulcers are at work. Someday I hope to meet you. When that happens, you'll need a new nose, a lot of beefsteak for black eyes, and perhaps a supporter below!” (These biting words must not have bothered Hume too seriously, who sold the letter for $3,500). Truman’s affection for Margaret and his investment in her life was clear, and it is therefore not surprising that he read and answered some of Margaret’s mail, as can be seen in our letter, which features the White House letterhead and includes the original envelope and two modern photographic prints of Margaret singing in Detroit. A scarce and wonderful find with an accompanying classic story. $950
