President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th President of the United States, TLS, one-page typed letter on The White House, Washington, D.C., stationary to John Marshall Butler, Senator from Maryland, dated January 17, 1963. Addressed to "The Honorable John Marshall Butler," lower left, Kennedy remarks upon Butler's retirement from the Senate, writing "Dear Senator: I am sorry that I cannot join personally with you this evening for the testimonial dinner marking your retirement from the United State Senate. I know that this occasion is one of both regret and satisfaction for you. After a most successful career in law, you worked most effectively over two terms as a Senator from Maryland. During that time, you were also an influential member of three of the most important legislative committees of the Congress. I am confident that in the days ahead you will continue to take an active interest in public affairs, and I wish you and your family all happiness. "Sincerely" with signature below. Housed and matted under glass in a black painted wooden frame with gilt wood fillet. Sight – 8 3/4" H x 6 5/8" W. Framed – 13 1/4" H x 10 3/4" W. Provenance: The estate of Senator John Marshall Butler of Maryland, by descent to consignor. CONDITION: Overall good condition with waviness to paper, toning/acid burn across top margin and in lower right corner (does not affect signature). Signature in good, legible condition. Not examined outside of frame. Some losses to paint on frame.