Longtime senator of Missouri (1782—1858) who was a strong advocate of westward expansion of the United States. Two ALSs signed “T. H. Benton” and “Thomas H. Benton,” both one page, 4.5 x 5.75 and 4.75 x 7.75, no dates. The first, in full: “Can you send me the document of Mr. Cushing’s negotiations with the Chinese, 1844? Also the proceedings of the Senate on the confirmation of Mr. Cushing’s Chinese appointment”; the second, in part: “I have to thank you for your several favors—the index of the Laws to myself, a copy to Jones, & one to Heap. The one to Mr. Jones is returned to you that you may frank it to him.” In overall fine condition, with old mounting remnants showing through from the reverse of the smaller letter.
