Sumatra's Letter of Credence from King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Tom thrusts the formal diplomatic papers across the Oval Office desk, bearing King Bhumibol Adulyadej's authority for Tada Sumatra. Bartlet snatches them up, pen slashing signature and seal in crisp ceremony, voice thundering the declaration of ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary. Sumatra clasps them back post-handshake, mandate secured amid family photos and gift exchanges, regal weight lingering in presidential fingers.

2 appearances

Purpose

Formally presents and authenticates Tada Sumatra's diplomatic appointment as Thai Ambassador to the United States through presidential acceptance, signing, and return.

Significance

Anchors ceremonial poise in Oval Office respite, Bartlet's witty charisma humanizing global ritual against White House tempests—echoed in press briefings and successive credentialings, threading diplomatic continuity.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S2E12 · The Drop-In

Bartlet Banters with Wit Before Formally Crediting Thai Ambassador Sumatra

Sumatra's Letter of Credence from King Bhumibol is formally presented by Tom, accepted by Bartlet who signs and seals it with a declaration of extraordinary plenipotentiary status, then returned to Sumatra post-handshake, catalyzing the accreditation ritual's core transformation.

Before: Held by Sumatra, unsigned and unaccepted

After: Signed, sealed, and returned to Sumatra's possession

View full event

S2E12 · The Drop-In

C.J. Masters Press Chaos on Ambassador Protocol and British Delay

Referenced by C.J. in her description of the Oval ceremony as the official diplomatic document presented by Chief of Protocol and signed by President to accept credentials, underscoring ritual formality amid her protocol explanation.

Before: Held by ambassador/protocol officer

After: Signed and returned to ambassador

View full event