Lot 29: CLAY, Henry (1777-1852), American Statesman, Autograph letter signed

CLAY, Henry (1777-1852), American Statesman, Autograph letter signed (H. Clay) to Edward C. Delavan (1793-1871), chairman of the NY State Temperence Association, November 3, 1846, 1 page in very fine condition. Sent from 'Ashland', his Kentucky estate near Lexington, Clay writes in support of Delavan's temperence cause, while cautioning that the issue must be kept out of government. "...I continue to think of the Cause of Temperence, as I have always done, that it has accomplished great good: and I believe it will achieve still more, if it be kept out of the political arena. But if coercion be restored to instead of free volition, I think it will fail. Men may be persuaded but will not be forced to be either religious or temperate." Archival framed presentation (DIMENSIONS). Provenance: The American Museum of Historical Documents.

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000

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