Autographs
Daniel Webster Autograph Letter and Extract of his Speech
DANIEL WEBSTER, (1782-1852). Leading American Statesman during the nation's Antebellum Period, famous Orator and Whig Party Leader, Secretary of State, Campaigned Three Times for President of the United States.
This Daniel Webster lot contains two items which includes:

1. April 27, 1835-Dated, Autograph Letter Signed, “Dan’l Webster,” at Boston, 1 page, measuring 7.5” x 9.5” (by sight) and framed to an overall size of 11” x 13.25”, Fine. This is an original Handwritten Letter of introduction written by Webster to the Honorable Judge Wash of St. Louis. The penmanship is excellent in medium tan ink and fully readable. The signature of Daniel Webster measures 2.25” long at its conclusion.

2. (c. May 22, 1852) Unique and Historic Original Handwritten Extract of a Speech delivered by Daniel Webster at Fanuiel Hall, Boston on May 22, 1852, measuring 7” x 9.25” (by sight) and simple period framed to an overall size of 8.25” x 10.5”, Fine. The penmanship is likely of a reporter who wrote down Webster’s speech and is NOT written in Webster’s hand, in dark brown ink upon toned period wove paper having two scattered lighter tone areas. There is the printed word “We” at top with a page number “286” at top left indicating this was unused paper from some other purpose that Webster decided to utilize. The text starts with... “Mr. Webster Continued” also indicating this is a portion of his draft speech. This Speech reads, in part:

“... I may say, that the path of Politics is a Fiery path. It is agreeable Sometimes to turn aside from it, and to walk along by the pleasant burden of a beautiful vale adorned with the flowers and enriched with the fruits of friendship and Social regard...” and concludes with the following statement: “(Mr. W. Closed with Enthusiastic Applause)”.

The speech text is written somewhat small to help preserve space and has wonderful political content of the period. A most unique perspective! (2 items)
While Daniel Webster was vilified by Northern Abolitionists for his support of the Compromise of 1850, he was strongly supported by a faction of Pro-Union Whigs and although denied the Whig nomination at the convention, Webster was later persuaded to run as an independent candidate.

He ran a strong race until September of 1852 when ill health forced him to retire to his family home in Massachusetts where he died just 2 weeks before the election. His name remained on the ballot in Georgia and Massachusetts and he still managed to poll nearly seven thousand votes.