ALS, one page both sides, 6.5 x 8, June 28, 1856. Handwritten letter to a young friend and supporter, commenting on his recent nomination for president and offering advice. In part: "You have proved a true prophet in regard to the nomination; but according to the old proverb, no man can tell who will be chosen until after the election. I rejoice to learn that you are studying hard, because I feel a deep interest in your welfare. The boy who does not study in his youth when he has the opportunity will bitterly resent this in after years. Still a cultivated intellect without health to make it effective will be of no use to the possessor himself or to the world. Exercise & moderate recreation are necessary to the formation of a vigorous constitution & these you ought by no means to neglect." In fine condition. Having been named the Democratic Party's candidate for president in early June, Buchanan would go on to win the presidential election in November.