February 5, 1861

Clay, Cassius Marcellus, 1810-1903

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Frank W. Ballard

Clay, an abolitionist, informs his friend Ballard that he was misrepresented by the New York Tribune. Discusses the possibility of New Mexico entering the Union as a free or slave state, and the Compromise of 1850. Defends himself from Horace Greeley's criticism (Greeley was editor of the Tribune). Concludes by stating, "Things look awfully gloomy-- I feel a split on the slave [line]! God save the Republic."

GLC05692

23 August 1851

Clay, Cassius Marcellus, 1810-1903

Autograph letter signed

Title: to unknown

Written from "White Hall," Clay's estate. Clay, an emancipationist, replies to a letter from an unspecified recipient. Possibly discussing his run for Governor as an anti-slavery candidate in 1851, writes, "The number of votes cast for the anti-slavery candidates is small- I believe my vote is about thirty five hundred... The causes of my small vote are the inherent difficulties of the movement; Old party organization, and the violent misrepresentations by the Whig party of my views." Declares, "...slavery is the disturbing cause of old partyism everywhere... the time is near if not now-…

GLC02448.05