SUMNER CHARLES Autograph Letter Signed to an unnamed recipie

Sale 2551 - Lot 10

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Estimate: $ 200 - $ 300

"I GLADLY SYMPATHIZE WITH . . . ANY PARTY WHO HAVE THE GOOD OLD CAUSE AT HEART" SUMNER, CHARLES. Autograph Letter Signed, to an unnamed recipient ("My dear Sir"), expressing approval of his defense of "my cause," noting that some seek to injure him, explaining what motivates and justifies his own actions, and expressing his indifference to political parties. 4 pages, 8vo, written on a single folded sheet; horizontal folds. "Senate Chamber" [Washington], 25 June 1852

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"I am obliged by your liberal defence of my cause . . . .
"I know that I have done my duty here, & I put myself fearlessly upon the country.
"The case of D&S has occupied much of my time, & I still hope for a satisfactory result. . . . & yet I have been held up to reproach by some of their very earnest friends . . . Very well! I will not complain.
"I know my own heart. I have no desire, but to serve the State which has placed me here & to advance the cause of Humanity. In this spirit I hope to live & be free.
". . . To party I am absolutely indifferent. I think much more of Man, than of a Whig or Democrat, & I gladly sympathize with all of any party, who have the good old cause at heart."
Although it is unclear which case is referred to here by "D&S," it is likely that the "cause" mentioned in connection with freedom is the same cause to which Sumner refers in similar contexts repeatedly during 1852 and later. Sumner's first major speech, "Freedom National; Slavery Sectional" (arguing for the repeal of the Fugitive Slave Bill) was delivered only two months after writing this letter, in which he says of abolitionism: "All that I am or may be, I freely offer to this cause."