December 18, 1931
I DEEPLY REGRET to learn of the death of your husband, Herbert Knox Smith, whose career was one of such distinguished public service. Mrs. Hoover and I extend our deepest sympathy to you in your bereavement.
HERBERT HOOVER
[Mrs. Gertrude D. Smith, "Westward," Farmington, Connecticut]
Note: Mr. Smith, head of the Bureau of Corporations from 1907 to 1912, died at his home in Farmington, Conn., on December 17, 1931.
Herbert Hoover, Message of Sympathy on the Death of Herbert Knox Smith. Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/207103