American Politicians and Leaders

150. Henry Clay Autograph Letter Signed. ALS as a Kentucky senator, signed “H. Clay,” one page, 8 x 10, January 11, 1842. A handwritten letter addressed from the Senate Chamber, in full: “I take great pleasure in complying with your request for my autograph, prompted as it has been by another friend, who has honored me with his attachment and confidence. If I have any title to his esteem, it is because I have brought into public life those sentiments of honor and probity, by which in private life I have endeavored to guide my conduct. My greatest ambition has been, and yet is to live and to die an honest man.” In very good to fine condition, with light creasing, short edge tears, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf. Starting Bid $200

151. John Rutledge Autograph Letter Signed to John Jay. Revolutionary War–dated ALS signed “J. Rutledge,” one page, 6.25 x 7.75, March 17, 1779. Handwritten letter to “The Honble. John Jay,” then president of the Continental Congress, sent from Charleston, South Carolina. In part: “Major General Howe has requested, of me, a Line of Introduction, to you—I could not refuse it—Being well acquainted with the Situation of Affairs in Georgia & this State, he will be able to give you the fullest Information…I will not therefore trespass longer upon your Time, which must be precious, than to assure you of my being with great esteem.” Annotated on the reverse in Jay’s own hand: “Gov. Rutledge 17 March 1779.” In fine condition.

The descendant of a prominent family in North Carolina, Robert Howe was one of five generals—and the only major general—in the Continental Army from that state. His career as a military commander was contentious and consumed primarily by conflict with political and military leaders in Georgia and South Carolina—to which Rutledge here alludes. After his failures in the South, Howe was ordered north in the spring of 1779 to defend Connecticut and the Hudson Valley from British raids. A significant introductory letter from one statesman to another, connecting three major figures of the Revolution. Starting Bid $500