Typed Letter Signed by VANDERLIP, Frank A. (1864-1937)

This innovative banker, who served as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury under McKinley (1897-1901) and president of the National City Bank (1909-19), helped found the Federal Reserve System, created the hugely successful war bond program that funded World Wars One and Two, and made his the first bank to open overseas branches. TLS, 3pp (separate leaves), 5½" X 8½", Florence, Italy, 19 September 1921. Addressed to Richard Washbourne Childs (1881-1935). Very good. On "Grand Hotel" letterhead with crest, Vanderlip writes his friend the newly-minted American Ambassador to Italy to explain his project and ask for help. In part: "I am making a rather extensive study of European affairs. I have been in Germany, Czech-Slovakia, Austria and Switzerland and have met the chancellors and government people. I am particularly anxious to get a really correct view of the situation here in Italy and I am going to ask you to help me economise my time by arranging an appointment or two. Senator Carlos Schanzer, one of the delegates to the League of Nations Assembly... has given me cards to Mr Belotti, Minister of Industry and Trade and to the Minister of Labour, and has asked me specially to see them...." Nicely signed in blue ink. An intriguing letter in excellent condition -- interesting insight into Vanderlip's research for his 1922 book "What Next in Europe?"