Jackson, Andrew, 1767-1845 to Richard G. Dunlap

Letter written by Jackson as President, upset by the events surrounding the resignation of Major John H. Eaton as the Secretary of War. Jackson praises Eaton, as well as Martin Van Buren and Major William Berkeley Lewis for their loyalty. He attacks Vice President John C. Calhoun for what he sees as his plot to undue his administration in a "wicked depraved conspiracy," and regrets that he ever trusted Calhoun. Also attacks General Duff Green and his newspapers for being slanderous during this whole affair. The events referred to in this letter are all part of the notorious Petticoat Affair. Eaton's second wife, Peggy O'Neale Eaton, was considered too risqué, and was not accepted in Washington society, despite Jackson's social attentions. John C. Calhoun, his wife, and other members of Washington's high society managed to force Eaton to leave office. The surrounding scandal that broke out also forced a number of Jackson's cabinet members to leave their positions, and left Jackson very bitter with those he held responsible. Four black and white bust engravings of Jackson included.