James Buchanan autograph letter signed with an additional free frank signature on the integral leaf. Dated via docketing as 7-8 June 1842 when Buchanan served as U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania. He writes to his friend, Col. Reah Frazer regarding potential Democratic candidates after the unexpected passing of Whig President William Henry Harrison. Buchanan and his fellow Democrats hoped Harrison's death would give them an opportunity to take back the White House, though Buchanan believed that nominating former President Martin Van Buren would be a mistake. Letter reads in part,

''…Great efforts are now being made throughout the Country in favor of Mr. Van Buren; but I think it is a general impression here that his nomination would jeopardy the party. In order to succeed we must detach from the Harrison party Democrats who left us on that occasion & who would gladly return, if a new man & new issues were adopted. I do not think that the prospect for the Penna. candidate is unfavorable.

Buchanan continues, ''Knowing the intimacy which subsists between you & myself, there are individuals in Penna. who desire to make it appear that I am hostile to Governor Porter because you express strong opinions against him & thus to such a pretext for attacking me. I wish you would not afford them this pretext. You are unconsciously playing into their hands. / The mania of speechmaking seems to have seized the Senate. I fear that the appointment Bill may not finally pass until the close of the present week…Sincerely, James Buchanan''. Also signed ''Free / James Buchanan'' on the cancelled leaf. Two page letter on bifolium measures 7.875'' x 10''. Folds with separation starting along fold. Small paper loss from wax seal. Very good plus condition.