Name/Title
LetterEntry/Object ID
1998.281Description
Letter from Nath Young to Samuel Virden of Frederica [?], Delaware, dated April 9th 1826. The letter describes the duel between Henry Clay and John Randolph. Text of the letter is as follows:
[from] Capt. Nath Young
1826
[to] Mr. Samuel Virden
Frederica
Delaware
Washington
9th April 1826
Dear Sam,
We have had the devil to pay in Washington, and here goes a detail of
facts. Viz. A duel was fought yesterday afternoon at 4 oclock between Henry Clay, Secretary of State, and John Randolph, Senator from Virginia. At the first fire both missed, second flint Randolph [illegible] Clay fire, and then discharged his Pistol in the air. The combattants [sic] then shook hands - and thus Ended the affair, I forgot to tell you that the second shot of Clay hit R. in his clothes. This information was Communicated to me
[second page]
by Col. Tatnall [of Georgia] the Second of Randolph. My furlough has been extended and you may expect to see me at your House - in about 2 weeks when I shall God willing, and yourself and Cousin Ann take up my Head quarters, I have become acquainted with Mr. [illegible] and like him
very much. He says you are one of the finest fellows in Delaware - and
that you have got one of the finest Wives in the whole state. I was
out late last night at a party at Baron [Hyde de] Neuville, the French Minister
and feel today, like a man left unhung, Present/
[third page]
me affectionately to Sister Cousin Ann my news - and all friends - and
with the Expectation of seeing you Soon subscribe myself your friend.
Sincerely Nat Young