February 2013 Auction Ends Thursday, February 28th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2013
Manuscript signed by U.S. Navy Secretary Josephus Daniels, dated 1915, two years before President Wilson asked Congress to declare war. Handwritten message, perhaps a speech draft, reads in part, ''...the fleet is becoming more efficient with every passing month...and in the interest of self-respecting peace, which is the only peace worth preparing for, it is devoutely to be hoped that this strength may not be questioned...'' Datelined Washington D.C., 6 May 1915, signed ''Josephus Daniels''. Single page measures 5.25'' x 6.75.'' Very good.
WWI Navy Secretary -- ''the Navy of 1915 is larger, better equipped, and in better condition than in any previous year...what President Wilson promised for the Navy has been fulfilled.''
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