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Letter by Garfield's Physician

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Letter by Garfield's Physician
"WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED AFTER THE AUCTION ENDS BY THE AUCTIONEER ONCE ALL BIDS HAVE BEEN PROCESSED TO DETERMINE THE WINNER FOR EACH LOT."
Exceptionally rare autograph letter signed by President James Garfield's physician, Dr. Silas Boynton, on the President's health after he was shot by assassin Charles Guiteau. Ironically, Boynton confidently predicts a full recovery for the President, who would die from the bullet wounds a month letter. Written on Executive Mansion letterhead and dated 11 August 1881, letter reads in full, ''My dear friend. Your favor of the 8th recd. I am happy to inform you that the President is doing splendidly at the present time with every prospect of going steadily on to complete recovery. He will get well there can be no doubt on that point. His case has been critical and at times very discouraging but to all appearances the danger is now past and we hope there will be no more complications. Give my love to your good wife and believe me your friend. S.A. Boynton.'' Letter includes original ''Executive Mansion'' envelope addressed to the recipient, W.E. Ketchum. First cousin to President Garfield's wife Lucretia, Boynton was one of three physicians attending to the President after he was shot, and specialized in homeopathic medicine. After Garfield died in September 1881, Boynton stated that he wanted no payment for his service to the President, though the government paid him $3,000. Garfield's other two physicians pressed for and received much larger sums. Two page letter is on front sides of four page card-style stationery. Mild toning and folds, else near fine.