Hiss Alger

Alger Hiss TLS Dated 9 Months Prior to Espionage Accusations

1p typed letter signed by embattled U.S. government official Alger Hiss (1904-1996) as "Alger Hiss" at center. Written in New York, New York on January 19, 1948 and addressed to Neil A. McDonald. On watermarked cream stationery with "Carnegie Endowment for International Peace / Division of Intercourse and Education" letterhead. Overall light toning. Expected light paper folds, including a vertical fold bisecting the "H" of "Hiss". A staple is present in the upper left corner. Else very good to near fine. 8" x 10.5".

In part:

"I appreciate your invitation to speak at the New Jersey College for Women on February 18 but am sorry to have to reply that my schedule is already over-full…"

Alger Hiss declined this speaking engagement at New Jersey College for Women, a part of Rutgers University, just nine months before his schedule would suddenly open up under allegations of Communist Party membership and espionage. Hiss, who had been a government attorney and a State Department official during the Roosevelt and Truman administrations, was then serving as President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (1946-1949). Hiss was denounced in front of the House Committee on Un-American Activities on August 3, 1948. He was twice tried for espionage and finally convicted of perjury in January 1950. Hiss served only part of his 10-year sentence and spent the rest of his life trying to clear his name.

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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