ALS signed “H. Clay,” one page, 8 x 10, June 19, 1839. Letter to Pennsylvanian Congressman John G. Watmough, in full: “I was much grateful, my dear Sir, to find from your letter of the 9th inst. that you justly appreciate and fully approved of the motives which constrained me to decline to adopt the application of your son as one from Kentucky. It was a painful conflict between the feelings of my heart and the dictates of my best judgment. Your son’s approval of my course proves that he possesses the manly character to which he has a hereditary title, and increases the regard on account of the decision which I was compelled to make. I read with attention and interest the address, a copy of which you did the favor to send to me. It depicts a most horrible condition of the public of Philadelphia on the occasion referred to and shows how dangerous mobs are when excited by passion. But it shows also what I have always believed, that mobs are especially dastardly and are easily subdued or successfully resisted by a few brave and determined men. I think Va will go right and keep right. Our friends had great difficulties to encounter—division among themselves, imperfect organization etc. which, on the other side, there was complete discipline, all the power of the Administration and all the great influence of the Enquiries, Judges, Bands etc. Mrs. Clay joins me in the expression of warm regards for Mrs. W. I add for yourself assurance of my constant friendship.” Addressed on the reverse of the second integral page in his own hand, and franked in the upper right, “Free, H. Clay.” In very good to fine condition, with intersecting folds and scattered creasing. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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