Statesman, three time presidential candidate, known as 'the Great Compromiser,' for his support of the Union prior to the Civil War. ALS signed 'H. Clay,' one page, 8 x 10, May 29, 1822. Clay breaks the bad news of the courts finding to his client. In part, 'The Court this morning decided your case...and I am sorry to have to communicate that the decision is unfavorable...I declared that, in point of fact, it did not believe from the evidence that it was so purged. It was of opinion that the process made out that you had retained one if not two years rent, not withstanding the arrangements by which you sought to purify the transaction. It was also of opinion that it was admissible in the Johnsons to question the validity of your mortgage. I regret this result of the cause which was unexpected. We shall take an appeal to the Supreme Court, when I hope the decree will be reversed. I received two letters...prior to the decision of the cause; one of them...a Certificate of the birth of your son, which was however not properly authenticated. I offered nevertheless, the Certificate to the court, and took an exception to its opinion rejecting the evidence.' In fine condition, with splitting along horizontal mailing folds, tape repair on reverse to one fold, lightly affecting one line of text, a couple pencil notations and mounting tape remnant to top edge. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
