Woodrow Wilson TLS On French "Fears" During the WWI, 4 Months After Joining

1p typed, measuring 7" x 8.875", Washington, D.C., dated August 17, 1917. Signed "Woodrow Wilson" and addressed to Hon. Edward N. Hurley on the U.S. Shipping Board. Wilson applies to Hurley for advice on how to respond to a letter from French High Commissioner, André Tardieu. On White House stationery. With flattened mail folds and small punch holes at the top edge. Soiling at edges, along with staining from a removed paper clip. Pencil notation at the lower right corner. Boldly signed.

The letter reads in full:
"My dear Mr. Chairman,

It isn't clear to me just what Monsieur Tardieu's fears are based upon and therefore, before replying to his letter, I send it with the accompanying memorandum to you to get your advice in the matter. Will you be generous enough to give it to me?

Cordially and sincerely yours,

Woodrow Wilson"

World War I broke out in July 1914, but the U.S. would not formally enter the war until April 6, 1917. French Prime Minister Georges Clemenceau sent delegate André Tardieu (1876-1945) to the U.S. as his special representative in order to coordinate war efforts between the two countries and to raise money from private organizations and loans. Tardieu had previously served in the French Army during WWI and had been discharged after being wounded. Despite his organizational successes and praise from Clemenceau, Wilson found him to be a meddlesome bother. The day prior to Wilson's letter, Tardieu had sent a memorandum to the Secretary of State "Concerning the American Navigation Corporation Which Has Been Proposed to the Shipping Board by the High Commission of the French Republic in the United States." It is likely that it is this memorandum to which Wilson is referring. Tardieu would go on to become Prime Minister of France following the war, serving from 1929-1930 during the worldwide Great Depression.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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