MALVINA "TOMMY" THOMPSON
Eleanor Roosevelt's secretary and companion sends a pleasant letter, signs name in black ink
Typed letter signed: "Malvina T. Thompson" in black ink. 1 page, 6¼x9¼. Written on official White House letterhead. Washington, D.C. December 29, 1933. Addressed to Mrs. W.E. Anderson of San Benito, Texas. In full: "My dear Mrs. Anderson: At the request of Colonel Howe I am sending you the enclosed stamped envelopes for your collection. Very sincerely yours". Although calling herself a Secretary, Malvina Thompson (1903-1957) was much more than that to Eleanor Roosevelt before, during, and after ER's years in the White House. While campaigning for Democratic Presidential candidate Al Smith in 1928, Thompson first met Eleanor Roosevelt, later becoming her secretary, gatekeeper, travel manager and companion, and close friend. Thompson, called "Tommy" by the First Lady, became so dedicated to these tasks that her marriage foundered, and she declined to marry her later male companion on the grounds that she couldn't spare enough time to make a marriage work. Rumors have surfaced over the years of a possible romantic relationship between Thompson and Roosevelt due to their close friendship, though this has never been confirmed with any evidence. Normal mailing folds. Toned. Creased throughout. Stains in the left and right margins. Corners creased. Pencil notes on verso in unknown hand. Otherwise, fine condition.