Following the announcement of their engagement in 1900, William Corcoran Eustis, and Edith Morton experienced an avalanche of congratulatory letters. One in particular caught our eye.
The author of the letter seems sentimental, referencing a poem, the final line of which is, “love is best.” Who could this romantic be?
Is that what it looks like? You better believe it! Edith received a sweet letter from then Governor of New York, Theodore Roosevelt.
Edith enjoyed impeccable connections; her father, Levi P. Morton, served as the 22nd Vice President under Benjamin Harrison.
While we certainly agree with Teddy’s sentiment that, “Nothing in the world in any way compares with happy love”, finding letters like these comes close!
See the complete letter below:
Dear Miss Morton, March 25, 1900
You have touched and pleased me very much by writing me of your engagement; will you think me very old-fashioned if I say, of your great happiness? Nothing in the world in any way compares with happy love. Do you know or care for Browning’s “Love among the Ruins”? Give my warm regards and heartiest congratulations to Mr. Eustis. I feel as though I were fairly well acquainted with the whole Eustis family. Indeed, if by any possibility I can, I shall be at your wedding. Mrs. Roosevelt is away in Cuba, whither she has gone with a very nice Louisiana fellow, John McIlhenny, a lieutenant in my regiment, in her train[?].
Faithfully yours,
Theodore Roosevelt
Governor Roosevelt illustrates his own interesting affiliations when he mentions his close friend, and fellow Rough Rider, John McIlhenny. If this name appears familiar, take note when next you see a bottle of Tabasco sauce.
