Sailboats on the Delaware River in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Letter in support of Sargent's plan to reach a settlement on slavery. Barnard sees the best chance of maintaining the Union to be a national Whig party.

Letter discussing strategy for the 1856 election between Zachary Taylor and Lewis Cass. Attention is also given to the expected congressional gains for the Whig party.

Letter of support dated October 9, 1844 from government officials recommending Nathan Sargent retain his position as Commissioner of Customs.

Letter of recommendation for Nathan Sargent, expressing the opinion that Sargent not be removed from the office of Commissioner of Customs.

Letter regarding Butler's treatment by the press.

Letter regarding Chase's opinion of Congress's power to coin currency other than gold and silver.

Letter discussing another letter sent to Clay which he desires to be published. It is from a Gen. Bradley, who Clay identifies as a political enemy.

Letter discussing the possible passage of a bill that would liquidate certain claims.

Letter expressing Clayton's concern over growing sectionalism, and his belief that the Compromise of 1850 only worsened matters. Clayton also references the events known as _Bleeding Kansas_, and notes an opinion that several states may secede.

Letter expressing Clayton's dissatisfaction with a price being charged him by a boarder. He also expresses his opinion that the Know-Nothing Party must stop secret nominations if they are to survive. Written exactly one year to the day of his…