![POLK, James K. (1795-1849), President. Autograph letter signed ("James K. Polk"), as President, to Secretary of the Treasury [Robert J. Walker (1801-1869)], Washington, 17 November 1848. 1 page, 4to, matted and framed with an engraving of Polk.](https://www.christies.com/img/LotImages/2011/NYR/2011_NYR_02514_0072_000(polk_james_k_president_autograph_letter_signed_as_president_to_secreta082537).jpg?w=1)
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POLK, James K. (1795-1849), President. Autograph letter signed ("James K. Polk"), as President, to Secretary of the Treasury [Robert J. Walker (1801-1869)], Washington, 17 November 1848. 1 page, 4to, matted and framed with an engraving of Polk.
"WOULD IT NOT BE PROPER TO STATE THE AMOUNT OF PUBLIC DEBT?"
A fine presidential letter on the government's finances: "Will the Secretary of the Treasury examine the enclosed paragraphs [not included] and add such suggestions in relation to the finances and debt as may occur to him. Would it not be proper to state the amount of public debt which has been paid since the 4th of March last? Should not the amt. of imports and exports for the last fiscal year be also stated? The Secretary will oblige me by returning the paper enclosed with his suggestions at his earliest convenience." Walker was the dominant figure in Polk's Cabinet, having directed the successful campaign of 1844. He was a strong supporter of Texas annexation, and an ardent proponent of American expansion. He hoped the U.S. would someday incorporate both Mexico and Canada within its domain. After leaving the Polk White house he became an opponent of slavery and a strong supporter of the Union during the Civil War.
"WOULD IT NOT BE PROPER TO STATE THE AMOUNT OF PUBLIC DEBT?"
A fine presidential letter on the government's finances: "Will the Secretary of the Treasury examine the enclosed paragraphs [not included] and add such suggestions in relation to the finances and debt as may occur to him. Would it not be proper to state the amount of public debt which has been paid since the 4th of March last? Should not the amt. of imports and exports for the last fiscal year be also stated? The Secretary will oblige me by returning the paper enclosed with his suggestions at his earliest convenience." Walker was the dominant figure in Polk's Cabinet, having directed the successful campaign of 1844. He was a strong supporter of Texas annexation, and an ardent proponent of American expansion. He hoped the U.S. would someday incorporate both Mexico and Canada within its domain. After leaving the Polk White house he became an opponent of slavery and a strong supporter of the Union during the Civil War.