Fine Political Content Henry Clay Letter

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CLAY, Henry (1777 - 1852) American politician, the "Great Pacificator" who supported the Missouri Compromise and the Compromise of 1850 which sought to avoid a civil war on the issue of states' rights and slavery. Autograph Letter Signed, “H. Clay” 2p. quarto, Ashland, July 10, 1842, addressed to G.H. Smith, and reads in part: “...I am delighted to hear fo the fine speech which prevail among the Whigs in Congress, notwithstanding the pefidy of the President. His last rally veto must open all eyes, even the blind. I am also gratified to learn that they will pass a good permanent Tariff, including the refusal of the restriction in the Land bill. I sincerely hope in the new aspect which the question has assumed, that is whether laws shall emanate from Congress, or from Mr. Tyler - our Georgia friends will rally around the independence of the Legislature. I think that if this permanent Tariff also shall receive the Veto, the next step which I understand is in contemplation, that of passing a tariff limited to 20 per cent with a provision for a good home valuation is wise and judicious. What shall I do about visiting Indiana?...I feel that all the political & physical considerations are adverse to my attendance upon large meetings of my fellow citizens, gathered together on my account...I have been warmly pressed to attend large conventions in Ohio, and would gladly assist our friend Corwin, if I could do so with propriety; but I have thought it best to decline going...I think Congress ought not to adjourn until it passes a Tariff, or demonstrates to the Country that it cannot pas one without a surrender of its Constitutional independence. You will be threatened with a Veto. But, disregarding all such threats, I would vote for that measure what accordance to my own sense of duty I thought right, whatever may be the opinion of Mr. Tyler. That is the only course by which you can secure your own approbation, and the support of the Country...” Mounted at margin, else VG.

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