Description:

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS
Fine content A.L.S. 1p. 4to., Washington, Apr. 22, 1839, to Democratic politician Samuel A. Foot, a former congressman, in part: "...I congratulate you on the success of the congressional whig delegation to this place, though I have had so much experience of being turned out that I almost always have a fellow-feeling with those to whom it happens, even when they disagree with me in politics. At the last Session of Congress, chance had given me a seat next to one of your late delegation - Ingham, and although we very seldom voted together, I found him so pleasant and good humored that I could not help wishing he might be re-elected - Perhaps he won my heart by voting against the Gag, which I hope all your whig members will do - I have not the same sympathy with Mr. Niles, and take great pleasure in the re-election of Mr. Ellsworth, and that the two branches of the Legislation harmonize with him is gratifying. It only remains to wish that the whig party would harmonize with itself. I suppose your son must send his wife's shawl to the Department of State - this has been the practice. The Constitution does not...forbid an officer's wife to receive presents from a foreign Sovereign but the usage has been so to extend the practice...". During his 17-year tenure as Representative, Adams spoke out loudly against slavery and put forth numerous petitions for the abolishment of the practice. The Gag Rule of 1836 mentioned in this letter, forbade discussion of slavery within the House, but apparently Adams was able to circumvent it with his rhetorical skills. Less than two years later, in fact, Adams would represent the defendants in the Amistad case, securing the rebelling Africans' freedom. The "Ingham" Adams writes of likely refers to Samuel Ingham, Representative from Connecticut and later Senator, while "Niles" is likely John Milton Niles, a Connecticut congressman and later Postmaster General. Mounting strip to left edge, one spot to bottom clear of text, overall very good condition.

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January 20, 2010 10:00 AM EST
Stamford, CT, US

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