WILLIAM L. MARCY (1786-1857). Marcy was New York Governor, Senator and Polk’s Secretary of War during the Mexican War. His greatest contribution, however, was as Pierce's Secretary of State, when he negotiated twenty-four treaties. ALS. 3pp. Old P. Comfort. Aug. 1 1855. An autograph letter of a somewhat personal nature signed "W. L. Marcy" to "Mr. Calvin Ames". Mr. Ames was a messenger at the State Department:

"Though I sincerely regret that I shall have to part with you yet I should, if I had been where you could have counselled [sic] me, have advised you to adopt the same conclusion you have arrived at.

You are a young man & owe it to yourself & those who may defend you to look beyond the present time into the future. To your present situation there is no flattering prospect. Should you remain where you are for the next few years – which ought to be the best ten years of your life – you may not be better off that you now are. But with your capacity and habits of business you can scarcely fail at being well situated for life, by the proper charge. You have therefore in my judgment acted wisely in embracing the opportunity which was offered to you.

Our intercourse has been pleasant to me and whenever you go you will carry with you my sincere & cordial good wishes for health, happiness and prosperity. I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you before your departure from Washington but if any thing should prevent let me hear from you often. Should you locate at Detroit I may wish you to look at some of my affairs in the vicinity."

7 1/4" x 9". The letter is in Very Fine condition.    125. up