Lot 255
Clay, Henry. Excellent-content autograph letter signed ("H. Clay") twice, once at the end of the letter and once as a free frank on the address leaf, as U.S. Senator from Kentucky, 1½ pages, Ashland, April 17, 1841. Letter is toned with a few scattered stains; lower horizontal fold is two-thirds separated and there is one vertical tear in lower portion. Clay's green wax seal is intact, with the "HC" clearly visible.
To the Reverend H.B. Bascom in Kentucky, regarding an official appointment Bascom had solicited for a Dr. Hendershott, discussing the death of President William Henry Harrison (ten days earlier, on April 4), and the "Regency" of John Tyler. After explaining his delay in writing because of an overwhelming amount of business and correspondence, Clay writes: "…After much consideration, I felt myself constrained to adopt the rule of non-interference in official appointments. Subsequent experience and reflection have satisfied me of its being correct. I wish I had now time to communicate to you all the considerations which forced it upon me, because I think you would approve it….The lamented death of President Harrison will not occasion any departure by me from the rule, under the administration of his successor…." Clay clarifies his lack of response to Bascom's proposal regarding Transylvania: "…I have had very little to do with Transylvania of late years. I think I received your letter at Washn. and when I came out, I either found the Board contemplating another arrangement, or, amidst the exciting scenes of the Presidential Canvass, my visit to Nashville etc etc. I did not give the subject the attention which it deserved. The death of Genl Harrison is greatly to be lamented. The administration of his successor is in the nature of a Regency, and a Regency is often weak, factious, and intriguing. Mr. Tylers disposition, I cannot doubt, will be to co-operate in adopting the measures of the Whigs. He has indeed just said as much. He will want however the popularity, real or apparent, of Genl Harrison, to give moral weight to his recommendations etc…."
Estimated Value $4,000 - 6,000.
|
| |
| Realized $6,600 |
