Nathan Sargent from Henry Clay, Oct. 13, 1850

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Ashland 13th Oct. 1850

My dear Sir,

Before I received your favor of the 7th inst. Communicating the causes of your rejection by the Senate, I had written to you, expressing both my surprise and deep regret at the event.  I more than ever, now am sorry that I was not present when the question of your confirmation came up, as I think I could have probably prevented the decision that was made; but I had not the remotest expectation of it, and the state of my health obliged me to leave the city before the Session terminated.

What has passed cannot be reversed; but I fervently hope that the injustice done you may be repaired, by your receiving some equally good and respectable appointment, if not the same.  & I repeat, what I said in my former letter, that you are fully authorized to express to the President, or any of the members of his administration, my anxious desire that a suitable position should be made for you.  I have long known you, and entertaining the greatest confidence in you, I am persuaded that you may safely rely on the sentiments of justice which I am sure animate the President.

Your friend,
H. Clay

Nathan Sargent, Esq.