Webster, Daniel (1782-1852) to James William Paige
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01946.03 Author/Creator: Webster, Daniel (1782-1852) Place Written: s.l. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: circa 1825 Pagination: 3 p. : address : docket ; 25.6 x 20.2 cm. Order a Copy
States that a rumor is circulating regarding Virginia Congressman John Randolph's challenge to duel Webster. Instructs his brother-in-law Paige to alleviate his wife Grace's concern if Randolph's challenge is printed in the newspapers. Assures Paige of his safety, stating "There is not a gentleman in Washington whose bones are all safer in his skin than mine are." Hopes Paige can send him a letter from Randolph dated 1816 or 1817, possibly Randolph's first challenge to duel Webster. Marked copied and private. Year added in pencil at a later date.
Webster served as Massachusetts Representative (1823-1828). In 1817, while Webster served as New Hampshire Representative, Virginia Representative John Randolph had challenged Webster to a duel regarding a conflict about a sugar tariff Webster hoped to pass. Webster refused the challenge but a relationship of political disagreement persisted between the two men.
Copied Private 1825
Tuesday Eve
Dr. William,
There has been a silly rumor running about here today, of Mr. Randolph having sent me a challenge, about that old business of the last session. If it should get into the newspapers, have the goodness to take care that Mrs W. be not alarmed of it. - It is all stuff - There is not a gentleman in Washington whose bones are all safer in his skin than mine are - I should not have thought of writing you this, but a friend has suggested that it might be well - as very idle rumors [2] now a days gets into the newspapers - I need not assure you that I should commit no folly - on such a subject. As to a duel with Mr Randolph in his present State, at least, no one thinks its possible. I would not have anything said about this, to anyone, unless you see some rumors in the papers- If so, say [struck: more] [inserted: nothing] about it; [struck: than to] [inserted: but] show Mrs W. this.
I am aware that even so much is not necessary - for she does not think me quite a fool -
Yours D. W.
(over)
[3] Among my papers, in my Drawer, in the Study, is a letter written to me by Mr. Randolph, about 1816 - or 1817 - It still remains in letter form - superscribed in a clean neat hand - signed, I think, John Randolph [text losst] Roanoke - I wish you would just step up, by yourself, find that letter, & send it in due time by the next mail. -
[address leaf]
Danl . Webster H.R.
James W. Paige Esq
Boston
[docket]
D. Webster
R. P. e.
about Jno Randolph
Private
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