Decr. 1860
Dear Sir
I send by the same mail with this letter, a package containing,
"Solitary and alone" a veritable eagle quill.
The King of birds, from the wing of which this quill was plucked,
was shot in this county by a young nephew of mine (now of Du Buque
Iowa) in the year 1844.
It was given to me by him, accompanied with the suggestion, that
I should present it to the then living and distinguished Statesman
Henry Clay, for the purpose of writing with it his inaugural address.
As Mr Clay was not elected President, it has been carefully preserved
by me until this time.
I now Sir have the honor of presenting it to you in your character
of President elect, to be used for the purpose it was originally
designed.
What a pleasing, and majestic thought! The inaugural address of
the President, of the United States to be delivered on the 4th of
March next "Deo volunte," written with a pen made from
a quill taken from the proud and soaring emblem of our liberties.
If it be devoted in whole or in part, to the purpose indicated
would not the fact, and the incident be sufficiently potent to "Save
the Union"
I hope to hear of its safe arrival and whether used or not for
the object stated, be pleased to accept this apparently singular
gift as a token of my sincere regard, and my high appreciation of
your eminent work and ability.
Very respectfully
Yrs &c
E. P. Oliphant.
N. B. I had expected ere this to have been able, to have presented
this quill in person, but domestic and professional engagements
have interfered to prevent so pleasing a task.
E. P. O.
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