Arranging terms to sell his PRIZE BULL La Fayette and other news of his farm stock, in an autograph letter, signed 5 February 1836 from Washington, D.C., to Major S. Smith in Lexington, Kentucky; with Clay's signed free frank and address on verso of a blank integral leaf.

Washington, DC, 1836. 4to. One-page, approximately 175 words, in part: "Mr. M. Smith has applied to me to purchase La Fayette, stating that you referred him to me and were willing to any terms that I might propose. I have written to him that, with your approbation, I should be willing to take $400, reserving the privilege to each of us for sending five cows to him. If you are satisfied with these terms this sale may be made, otherwise not ... I shall be glad to receive your frank opinion of the cattle I have lately sent out; particularly of the bull and three imported cows ... Six asses (three of each sex) are on their way from Malta to K[entucky]. and I expect will arrive at Ashland in all the month of March. If there is not mistake in their measurement, they are larger than any ever introduced into K[entucky], of Maltese asses." Clay's activities as an importer of cattle and asses and his role in breeding thoroughbreds are discussed at length in the article 'Henry Clay and his Ashland Estate,' by Richard Troutman ("Filson Club Historical Quarterly," Vol. 30, pp. 159-174). Some foxing, but very good and quite legible. Folded for mailing (small hole at one corner fold, affecting two letters). (#6276). Item #58731

Price: $2,250.00