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 describing the recent debate over the reorganization of Kansas, the Fugitive Slave Law, and a vote on the unconstitutionality of the Compromise of 1850.

Letter discussing the formation of President-elect William Henry Harrison's cabinet. Wright also shows early support for civil service reform.

Letter discussing the formation of President-elect William Henry Harrison's cabinet.

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…

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 anger that opponents of Sargent engaged in a _vile trick to dispute your election._ Clayton also urges Sargent to call a meeting of the Know-Nothing Party.

Letter expressing Clayton's fear that he may have heart disease. Clayton also expresses disappointment at not being able to see Sargent.

Letter informing Sargent that Clayton must delay his trip to Washington due to heart problems. Clayton also discusses Virginia and Delaware politics.

Letter discussing his planned arrival in Washington and an anticipated trip to the Library of Congress.

Letter containing a cryptic prediction, possibly of the Civil War, that, _something extraordinary is in the wind._ Clayton also asks Sargent to arrange room and board for him in the summer.

Letter ridiculing Sen. Lewis Cass of Michigan for a lack of geographic knowledge. He also discusses disagreements with other senators over Central America.

Letter requesting Johnson's influence to get Sargent appointed as head of a Bureau in Washington.

Note requesting that Sargent come to see Clayton in Washington.

Letter warning Sargent against starting a personal quarrel with a Mr. Webb. He also discusses the bartering of a tariff bill for _a slice of Oregon._

Letter discussing a debate Clayton had with a friend over the representation of New England states in the offices of President and Vice President. He also discusses possible candidates and retells a racy story.

Letter requesting Sargent's advice on the possible nomination of John M. Clayton for a cabinet position.

Letter expressing Clayton's doubts that some Whigs will not vote in the upcoming election. He also discusses his choice for Vice President, and party disenchantment over Virginia and Massachusetts's plurality of national offices.

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

Letter discussing the dangers of the Whig Party becoming a sectional faction.

Letter discussing Hitchcock's recent negotiations with the Bank of the United States.

Letter regarding the commencement of building activities, including four brick stores and a cotton prep house.

Letter regarding Butler's treatment by the press.