Choice ALS, four pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 9.75, Huntsville, Texas, October 8, 1853. Letter to Secretary of the Senate Asbury Dickins. In part: “It seems a long time since we parted…it has been wonderful so far as I can judge at this distance, from the focus of National wants, to see the changes in relation to our Excellent President…When I left Washington the political sky was so bright that no one could think of clouds, nor do I know there are any…Please let me into the light of it, before I go on, for here we are far off, and news reaches us slowly. The Post Master General is regarded here as a week and inefficient brother: worse, they say, than any former P. M. General. I have for myself no opinions as yet, but it is true that the mails to the east of Texas are badly managed. I will try and be on, if I am spared, by the meeting of Congress. You will no doubt recollect Gov. Taney, my self, and others spoke to you about Major E. J. Cleveland, of Conn. for a situation in your office, and a good one too. Now my Dear Sir, this is the only one, in whose bringing forward, to you, I ever had any hand, and on whom my heart has been set…He is truthful, capable honest, and one of the purest Democrats on the Globe. I do rely upon you to give him a situation, that will be worthy of his talents, and capacity, as well as his strict honor. To finish his picture he is Temperate!! If you can write to me, I will be gratified to hear from you, as I depart for the city. I am now busy making a removal to Independence, west of this place, about seventy five miles." In fine condition, with intersecting folds and show-through from writing to opposing sides.
In this lengthy and fascinating letter, Houston discusses the political situation in Washington and the fledgling US mail system—in March 1853, Franklin Pierce had replaced Millard Fillmore as president, and Houston approved of the administration thus far. Although things were calm in Washington when he returned home to Texas, tensions would soon heighten—at the start of 1854, the Kansas–Nebraska Act was introduced to the Senate, and Houston correctly predicted its result, saying that he feared he would see his 'beloved South go down in the unequal contest, in a sea of blood and smoking ruin.' Though he and President Pierce were fellow Democrats, Houston dissented from the party and was one of just two Southern senators to vote against the act. A gorgeously penned and very rare letter, enhanced by its interesting content. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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