Distinguished statesman and three-time presidential candidate (1777–1852) who became known as the Great Compromiser for his support of the Union prior to the Civil War. ALS signed “H. Clay,” one page both sides, 8 x 10, May 29, 1822. Clay, as lawyer, breaks the bad news to his client, M. DeWolf. In part: “The Court this morning decided your cause … and I am sorry to have to communicate that the decision is unfavorable. The Court thought that the original transaction was usurious…. 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 … 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 very good condition, with faint show-through, partial separations along mailing folds (one with tape reinforcement) and a narrow strip of mounting tape to top edge of reverse. The writing is clear and dark throughout. R&R COA.
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