ALS as secretary of state, one page, 7.5 x 9, July 1, 1848. Written from Washington, a letter to John Ritter, C. H. Hunter, John C. Meyers, and other members of Pennsylvania's Democratic Party. In full: "I have had the honor of receiving your kind invitation to unite with the Democratic Club of the City of Reading in celebrating the approaching anniversary of our national Independence. In answer, I must express my deep regret, that it is impossible for me to be with you on that ever memorable day without neglecting important public City. Will you be kind enough, in my name, to present the following sentiment to the assembled Company? Cass & Butler. The well tried & time honored standard bearers of the Democratic party in the existing Presidential contest. No true Democrat will ever desert the flag." Nicely matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 23.5 x 19.5. In fine condition. Buchanan had just been rebuked in his attempt at the Democratic presidential nomination, and here mends political fences by offering a sentiment in support of the Lewis Cass/William O. Butler presidential ticket. A highly desirable, neatly penned letter by the future commander-in-chief.