Very fine letter with a double autograph by Madame Chiang

Mayling Soong Chiang, also known as Madame Chiang Kai-shek, 1898–2003.  First Lady of the Republic of China,  1943–1975.  Typed letter signed, Mayling Soong Chiang, with autograph emendations and postscript signed, M.S.C., one page, 7” x 10½”, on engraved, blind-embossed stationery of the Office of the President, Republic of China, Taipei, Taiwan, January 6, 1962.  With original envelope.

This letter contains a double autograph.  Madame Chiang has signed the letter and then initialed the handwritten postscript.  She thanks Mr. and Mrs. Lin Arison, Jr., for “your thoughtful remembrances at Christmastime” and asks them to “please forward the enclosed letter” (offered separately) to Maj. and Mrs. Lin Arison, Sr.  She sends “all good wishes for 1962” and asks, in a handwritten postscript, “Are you quite settled in your new home? M.S.C.”  By hand, in addition to the salutation, she adds, “Yours cordially.”

The forwarded letter was to U.S. Army Maj. Harold Lindsey “Lin” Arison, Sr. (1919–1998) and his wife, Mary Jane (1923–2004), who were close to the Chiangs.  We are offering it separately here.  Lin Arison, Sr., was an American Army bandmaster who served as Chiang Kai-shek’s Military Music Advisor.  The U.S. Army loaned him to the government of the Republic of China in Taipei in 1954.  He rearranged and harmonized the national anthem of the Republic of China, and his version remains unchanged. 

This letter is a beautiful example of Madame Chiang’s holograph and signature in very fine condition.  She has written the salutation, closing, and postscript and has signed in blue ballpoint pen.  The letter has two horizontal mailing folds, one of which affects the closing but not the signature.  There is a reflective triangular fold   The typed letterhead envelope has been opened at the top, the back flap is missing, and there are scattered foxing spots, so it is in good condition.  The envelope bears no postal markings, which shows that it was hand delivered through diplomatic channels.

Unframed.