James Gillespie Blaine autograph letter signed as Secretary of State. Datelined Washington, 1 November 1881, Blaine announced his plans for resignation just weeks prior, following Garfield's assassination. The two-time Presidential nominee pens a tongue-in-cheek response to magazine editor Edward Bok on mourning stationery. In full, ''Dear Sir: How much time annually do you think you waste in seeking autographs which are no more valuable than mine? Hastily, James Gillespie Blaine''. Measures 7.75'' x 10''. Near fine.