“If we are to be beaten let us meet it like men… Should Henry Clay be nominated— I will exclaim ‘Amen. Amen. to that right or wrong Amen.’“

(Henry CLAY) Fine content Autograph Letter Signed “John A. Trumbull“, 1 page, 252 x 198 mm. (10 x 7 3/4 in.), 28 November [18]39, Stonington, to William Whiting Boardman (1794-1871), Connecticut politician who served as a delegate to the 1839 Whig National Convention that nominated William Henry Harrison as their nominee for President in the election of 1840.

Trumbull voices his desire to see the Whig party nominate Henry Clay as a candidate for President, and N.P. Tallmadge for Vice President, at the National Whig Convention, taking place just a few days later in early December 1839.

The letter reads in full: “This will be handed you my friend Cpt. H. Phelps Esq. permit me to introduce him for further acquaintance— he contemplates accompanying you to Harrisburg. I hope in a few days to hear of the result of your Convention— and have very little doubt that I shall hear of the unanimous nomination of Henry Clay & N.P. Tal[l]ma[d]ge. I dislike much to hear people taulk [sic] of ‘Expediency. [Winfield] Scott & Co. of one thing I am fully satisfied. If the Whigs of the U. States cannot elect Henry Clay— thay [sic] cannot elect any other candidate. If we are to be beaten let us meet it like men— It will afford me more satisfaction to know that I have tryd [sic] to elect him & him at last— than to succeed with any other Candidate— Should Henry Clay be nominated— I will exclaim ‘Amen. Amen. to that right or wrong Amen.’”

Henry Clay lost the Whig nomination at the 1839 convention to William Henry Harrison. Senator Nathaniel Pitcher Tallmadge (1794-1864) was a Senator from New York (1833-1839, 1840-1844), but did not receive any votes at the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania convention.

Usual folds, remnants and wear to left margin affecting content as shown, light creasing, overall fine condition.

(EXA 5701) $450