John Jacob Astor was an American fur trader who made one the first great American fortunes by making loans to the US government during the War of 1812, and in New York real estate. He writes to former First Lady Dolley Madison: "Dear Madam, The letter which you have so kindly written to me in the date of the 30th May has given me a gratification for which I cannot sufficiently thank you. I have often intended to take the liberty of writing to you in order to remind you of me, and express the deep interest I shall ever feel in your welfare, but the state of my health has been so uncertain that I could not well perform the task. I feel highly flattered by your courtesy in anticipating me by your letter, which, while my life is spared, I shall continue to regard as a great consolation to me. I for a long time, contemplated paying you a visit at Montpellier, but my health would not allow me that pleasure. I regret extremely to learn that your friends here in New York cannot expect this gratification of seeing you among them this season. We still hope that we may rely upon your granting us this favor of a visit at no distant period. I am, dear madam, very respectfully and gratefully your faithful friend, John Jacob Astor." While signed by Astor, the letter is written in his secretary's hand, Fitz-Greene Halleck.