Kendall, Amos (1789-1869) to Francis P. Blair
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03209.10 Author/Creator: Kendall, Amos (1789-1869) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 9 July 1829 Pagination: 2 p. : address : free frank ; 25 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Reports on an upcoming duel between Sanders and Hawkins, begun when Hawkins was insulted that Sanders fired him, despite his mediocre performance. Hopes that Hawkins "gets a little hurt" in the duel, since he has acted so inappropriately. Says that Clay is "making himself ridiculous," and is weakly supported, while Jackson, "the old hero," is doing well.
Kendall was one of Jackson's political operatives and a chief member of his "Kitchen Cabinet."
Francis P. Blair was the publisher of the Globe, the official paper of the Democratic party for fifteen years.
Washington July 9th 1829
Dear Sir,
Enclosed you will receive two more Baltimore letters. Green is reprinting them with various other matters in an Extra Telegraph for the Kentucky market. The matters and things contained in them cannot be circulated too widely.
We are on tiptoe to hear the result of Sanders' 'affair of honor.' I hope neither of the parties will be killed; but I shall not regret it if Hawkins gets hurt a little. How extraordinary it is that he should complain of being removed when he must have known the condition of his accounts! These high-bred aristocrats seem to think they have a right to use the public offices and the public money as they please. With the help of a hickory we will learn another lesson.
Should Sanders have fallen, which I do not much fear, I hope you will have firmness enough to let the true state of Hawkins' affairs in connection with the Port Office be known to the world. When it is seen that a public defaulter kills a man for recommending his removal the effect on the public mind must be great.
I cannot think Hawkins would have entered into this affair of his own accord. He must have been thrust forward with the view of silencing or disgracing Sanders upon his first appearance as an Editor. I have confidence in Providence and do not think that outrages so glaring will be [] to succeed.
While Clay is making himself ridiculous, his friends by their war-pestilence-and-famine course are making him detestable. What! Can he rise in the estimation of the people by abusing General Jackson for removing cheats and speculators, while defaulters and bullies are employed in assaulting and shooting disinterested and independent citizens for the exercise of their undoubted rights? Impossible. We have recent news from almost every Jackson's man in Kentucky who was thought to be wavering, giving assurances of his attachment to the administration. Even McLean has though it necessary to contradict the rumors of his adhesion to Clay and affirm his attachment to the Hero! [] He is for himself. He wants to use Clay and Clay wants to use hi, and they will use each other up most likely. I do not think either of them has much love for Jackson, and they both rely too much on the power which office to accomplish political purpose.
The President, Secretary of War, the Navy and Port master General have gone to Norfolk whence [] will return on Tuesday. The old Hero is in better health than he was in the spring.
The Court have Watkins' case still before them. God knows what they will do with it, and except for the credit of the country and its judiciary I do not now care.
In haste your friend
Amos Kendall
Mr. R. Davis is with me.
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