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ALS, one page both sides, 8 x 10, September 25, 1848. Handwritten letter to William W. Downing, declining to endorse a candidate in the presidential election. In part: "No person in my position, except Mr. Clay, has ever addressed the people on the subject of a pending Presidential election; & for this, he was severely censured. Whilst custom precludes me from exercising this right, I am not the less anxious for the success of our candidates. Firmly convinced that the prosperity & perpetuity of our glorious union depend upon the ascendancy of Democratic principles, I would take an active part in the canvass, if I were not Secretary of State. Our Candidates Cass, Butler & Longstreth are worthy representations of these great principles & immensely deserve the support of their party. From present appearances, I entertain but little doubt of their election." In very good to fine condition, with substantial fold separations (including complete separation to the central horizontal fold) and faint toning to edges. Cass would ultimately be the Democratic Party's candidate for president in the 1848 election; he lost in a close race to Zachary Taylor of the Whig Party. A desirable, neatly penned letter on norms and decency in 19th-century American politics.
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