108

12-page toast to the Plymouth Pilgrims

Warren G. Harding

Autograph Manuscript, unsigned, in pencil,

address to the New England Society [of New York?], praising the principles and virtues of character that gave rise to the achievements of the American colonists and endorsing them to help solve the problems of the day. 
Pages numbered in holograph 1-11 with a page "6½" inserted after page 6. 12 pages, 4to, written on rectos of separate sheets; moderate even toning brittling overall throughout, some short closed tears at edges throughout. 


Np, [1918?].

  • Notes: "Mr. Toastmaster, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the New England Society: In that first compact, signed on the Mayflower, was penned the essence of popular government and the summarized aspirations of a free people. It was more than the first written constitution of our English people, it was the unconscious acclamation of the American liberty which we toast today. . . .
    "If I had my history aright this preparedness of the Fathers not only warded off Indian massacres but brought designing 'Adventurers' to their senses, and saved the Plymouth Colony just as preparedness now will save the American nation. We need not be irrational or hysterical about it, but we ought to proceed in sober seventeenth century resolution to have a navy and merchant marine commensurate with our coast and commercial importance, and fortifications to guarantee our tranquility and make our ever-ready appeal for humanity the commanding voice of everlasting righteousness."
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November 6, 2025 12:00 PM EST
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