TO THE BLOOMINGDALES

REAGAN, Ronald (1911-2004). Autograph Note Signed ("Ronnie") as President, [Washington, 16 February 1982 to Alfred and Betsy Bloomingdale. 1 page, on a 3 x 5 in White House card with embossed gold presidential seal at top left with original transmittal envelope in his hand. Very fine. [With:] REAGAN, Ronald. Autograph Note Signed ("Ron"), Washington, [4 January 1983]. 1 page, 4to, on White House letterhead with original transmittal envelope addressed in his hand. Fine.

A pair of warm, personal notes from President Ronald Reagan during the White House Years. In his 1982 note, President Ronald Reagan thanks the Bloomingdales for a gift of swimming trunks: "I can't wait for summer. I'll be the best dressed guy on the beach. --Well - by the pool -- the W[hite] H[ouse] isn't on the Beach. Thank you both for very much... for your confidence that a fellow my age can still undress in public..." The second note reads in full: "Dear Lady Bruce, Here it is - but we're still not even. I owe you a great debt of gratitude. Bless you & again my heartfelt thanks. Sincerely Ron." The "debt" appears to have been repaid in the form of a $375 "Black Suede & Red Lizard Handbag" according to an enclosed invoice from Mario of Florence made out to Mrs. Bloomingdale.