Description:

Clay Henry

Single page ALS, 8" x 9.5" dated "Washington 23rd April 1818", and signed by Henry Clay as "H. Clay". Overall toning with browned edges, expected folds. Archival repair to intact tear along left margin not affecting script.


Hot headed and passionate Henry Clay writes an ALS regarding a case brought before the House of Representatives funding assistance for "poor little Ernest". Henry Clay, known for his unsurpassed ability to broker differences, finding the middle ground, seek compromise and reconciliation, has responded that although the response was nearly unanimous to allow him $250 per annum" that "Unfortunately the Senate owing to the late period of the session when the pension bill was carried to that body, postponed it indefinitely .. along with it the provision for Ernest " Known as "The Great Pacificator", Clay has taken it upon himself champion the effort and believes "At the next session we may hope for a more auspicious result." Henry Clay has always fought for what he believes in and has been known to say "I would rather be right than President".


The letter as stated reads in full:


"During the session just closed, I brought before the House of Representatives the case of poor little Ernest. The House by a vote nearly unanimous determined to allow him $250 per annum for his (illegible) at the Connecticut Asylum. Unfortunately the Senate owing to the late period of the session when the pension bill was carried to that body, postponed it indefinitely .. along with it the provision for Ernest. At the next session we may hope for a more auspicious result.

/ H. Clay"


A fantastic letter showing Clay's tenacity. Although he could be terribly self-interested, he would sacrifice his most strongly held points of view when the integrity of the Union he so loved and so tried to shepherd were imperiled. The Union and its people, he put above all else.


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