Two (2) Letters to Andrew Jackson, from Robert Irwin and Francis Preston Blair. 1st item: Creek War era ALS from Robert Irwin, commander of Fort Gaines, Alabama, addressed to Major General Andrew Jackson. Makes reference to hunger conditions among soldiers at the camp; Irwin's unsuccessful attempts to acquire pork from Fort Mitchell; and a large amount of corn burned, possibly "by the Indians." Undated, circa 1813. Bifold. 12" x 8", folded. 2nd item: Francis Preston Blair (1791-1876) ALS addressed to "My Dear General," dated April 15, 1840, regarding the 1840 presidential elections. Blair was born in Abingdon, VA and raised in Kentucky. He was a journalist, newspaper editor, and influential advisor to several politicians, including President Jackson. Although Jackson's second presidential term had ended three years earlier and he was near the end of his life, this letter shows he still took a keen interest in politics. "I know that you feel a deep interest in the arrangements to be made for our next great battle, and none could order better than you," writes Blair. He references the impending re-nomination of Martin Van Buren (who would go on to defeat in the general election later that year) and expresses confidence in the incumbent Vice President, Richard M. Johnson. Ironically, the following month, the Democratic party refused to re-nominate Johnson. They were unable to agree on an alternative, and decided not to nominate anyone. It remains the only time since the passage of the 12th Amendment in 1804 that a major party has failed to nominate a Vice Presidential candidate. (In the electoral college, the Democratic vice-presidential votes were divided among Johnson, Littleton Tazewell, and one of Jackson's proteges, James K. Polk, who is mentioned in passing in this letter, and was ultimately elected President in 1844 with influential assistance from Jackson). Letter is one single page, front and back, 8" x 10", and includes a later typewritten transcription on an additional 8" x 10" sheet of paper. Provenance: the estate of Dr. Benjamin Caldwell, Jr., Nashville, Tennessee. CONDITION: 1st item: 3 long separations/tears, crossing fold line; 7" loss with tears at bottom of page, crossing fold line. Sticker is on exterior of plastic sheath, not on the paper. 2nd item: Excellent condition; toning. Pencil notations from former owner.