Apr 17, 2012 - Sale 2276

Sale 2276 - Lot 223

Price Realized: $ 2,160
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 600 - $ 900
"OUR CAUSE WAS SURRENDERED WHEN THESE THINGS WERE WRITTEN" SUMNER, CHARLES. Autograph Letter Signed, to an unnamed recipient ("My dear Sir"), praising his article, pointing out that the two houses had adopted different versions of the Confiscation Bill, noting that only the House's bill was an Emancipation Bill, and noting a few remarkable passages. 3 pages, 8vo, written on a single folded sheet; minor scattered smudging to text. (AKF) Washington, 16 April 1863
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". . . [O]n the 5th July, the Confiscation Bill had not been agreed upon . . . . The Senate had adopted one Bill & the House another; that of the House being a thorough Emancipation Bill, reported by Mr. Eliot of Mass; . . .
"There are other passages which should be noted. (1) No expression of harshness to the slavemongers. (2) not . . . debate 'any opposing moral principles' that is slavery. (3) 'the condition of slavery will remain just the same in the several states, whether the Revolution succeed or fail'.
"As long as this record remains what can be expected? Besides, our cause was surrendered when these things were written."