SPEECH OF THE HON. HENRY CLAY, IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES, ON THE SUBJECT OF ABOLITION PETITIONS, FEBRUARY 7, 1839.
Boston: James Munroe, 1839. 42, [2 blanks] pp. Disbound, moderately foxed. Good.
This is Clay's speech supporting the Gag Rule: a Resolution that Congress should refuse to receive petitions to abolish slavery in the District of Columbia. Clay detested "ultra - abolitionists." Their persistent gnawing at the divisive issue of slavery would have the effect, if not the purpose, of dissolving the Union.
These "inconsiderate and misguided petitioners" were way out of line: his speech publicized a petition from the "highly esteemed" Mayor of the District of Columbia and "several hundred" Washingtonians, asserting "that they do not desire the abolition of slavery within the District, even if Congress possess the very questionable power of abolishing it, without the consent of the people whose interests would be immediately and directly affected by the measure." Clay rebukes the "ultra-abolitionists" and warns of the "dreadful precipice down which they would hurry us."
LCP 2434. AI 54995 [5]. Item #37224
Price: $125.00