ALS signed “Danl Webster,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 10, March 24, 1840. Letter written to Henry, a relative of N. Ray Thomas, Webster’s manager of his farm. In part:
“Today you will reach home; you will soon perform the last solemn rights, & leave your beloved brother to sleep with the kindred dust. You will then, my good friend, have done all that love & friendship can do, and must reconcile yourself, without murmuring, to the will of God. This Providence is mysterious, but that which we know not now, and shall know hereafter. Every thing is well, because every thing is in His hands, without whose knowledge not a sparrow falleth to the ground. I am aware that your mother, Mrs. Porter, and the other sisters will be penetrated with the most profound grief; they will shed many tears, but pray them to be comforted, & enjoy, gratefully, the recollection connected with the beloved object, now that they can see his face no more…
“For some hours before his death, he was not sensible; but so far as I could judge from his countenance, he sometimes appeared distressed and at other times free from pain. When the latter was the case, a serene & happy smile was on his countenance; & I have no doubt he had before his contemplation those happy visions which, in an earlier period of his sickness, he said had been revealed to him ... And now, Dear Henry -- Dear Mrs. Thomas -- Dear Ann -- and all the members of the Family -- since love and affection can do no more, leave him in the hands of God. Be thankful that he has lived on Earth so long, and weep not, as those without hope. That death, which has happened so early, must have happened sometime; & of the proper time God is the only Judge. And may His blessing be with you, & with us all!”
In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, light toning a bit heavier to folds, and some scattered light soiling.
In March 1838, Webster hired N. Ray Thomas as his manager and expressed his desire to have a large farm that Webster would use as a source of income. The project fell by the wayside following Thomas’ death. Webster was purportedly distraught by the loss, and had personally cared for his ill friend prior to his death. The respect and admiration held by Webster for his manager is made palpable in this letter. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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