Autograph letter signed “W. H. Marriott,” four pages, written from Annapolis, Dec. 27, 1826, with integral address leaf, red wax seal remnants, and postal markings. Addressed to George Hammond, Samuel Smith, Baltimore, and concerning contemporary Maryland political affairs, legislative maneuvering, and the writer’s hopes for a governmental appointment. An informative and content-rich letter from the Maryland state capital during the opening days of the legislative session, providing firsthand commentary on the organization of the Maryland Senate, the election of its officers, the upcoming gubernatorial contest, and patronage opportunities within state government. Marriott reports on the recent convening of the Senate, noting the election of Col. Lloyd as President of that body and discussing the refusal of another nominee to accept office. He speculates on the filling of a Senate vacancy and offers predictions regarding the forthcoming gubernatorial election, expressing the belief that Governor Joseph Kent would likely be reelected despite active political maneuvering. Of particular interest is the letter’s candid discussion of patronage and office-seeking in the early republic. Marriott asks his correspondent for assistance and advice regarding a potential appointment under a recently enacted banking law, apparently seeking consideration for a commissioner’s post connected with Baltimore. He emphasizes his local ties and qualifications while assessing the political influence required to secure the position. In part: “I am of opinion that no opposition will be made to the re-election of Governor Kent…” and “Do you think the Bank Bill Law will pass? … that a Commissioner should be appointed for the City of Baltimore? I am anxious to see my residence in Baltimore having a considerable real estate in that city…” He further requests that Hammond keep him informed of developments, observing that a professional man might be well suited to the commissionership and expressing hope that such service could lead to additional appointments through recommendations to the governor after review by the Court of Appeals. The letter provides an excellent window into the workings of Maryland politics in the Jacksonian era, revealing the interplay of legislative elections, gubernatorial politics, personal influence, and public office in the years immediately preceding the rise of organized mass-party politics. Correspondence discussing state-level political patronage and appointments from this period is increasingly scarce in the marketplace. Condition: Folded as mailed with original address panel, partial red wax seal, and postal markings present. Minor edge wear, small losses at fold extremities, and light toning consistent with age. Handwriting generally clear and legible. Very good condition overall. A desirable Maryland political letter from the state capital, rich in references to legislative proceedings, gubernatorial politics, and the patronage system that shaped public office in the early nineteenth century.
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Annapolis Dec. 27. 1826 My Dear Sir, Fourteen members of the Senate appeared in the Senate Chamber on Monday last & after taking the Oaths prescribed by the Constitution adjourned until 10 o'clock on yesterday, when meeting agreeably to adjournment, Col. Lloyd was unanimously chosen President of the Senate, & I am much gratified that he was prevailed on by his friends to accept the station. Mr. Sprigg who was chosen by the College has declined accepting. His letter was read today. The vacancy will be filled in a short time not however before the choice of the Governor & Council. I think it probable that Thomas Kennedy of Washington County will be chosen by the Senate to fill the vacancy; several persons have been named. I am of opinion that no opposition will be made to the re-election of Governor Kent, but I do not believe that more than one of the present Council (if any) will be re-elected. It gives me great pleasure to say that you are strong and I do not believe that an opposition will be attempted. Your friends will be on the alert watching every movement. Do you think the Bank Bill Law will pass? Will it not be necessary, should the law go into effect, that a Commissioner should be appointed for the City of Baltimore? I am anxious to see my residence in Baltimore, having a considerable real estate in that city. I am now too far removed from it, moreover, all my family relations & friends are in Baltimore & I should like to become an inhabitant of that city. What do you suppose the situation would be worth per annum? It must depend on the quantity of business. Be pleased to give me your opinion & I should be grateful if you are at liberty to furnish me information touching the contingency. I have thought that a professional man would be necessary to discharge the duties of the Commissioner and I flatter myself that could produce to the President who I suppose will possess the power of appointment, the recommendation of the Judges of the Court of Appeals & my professional brethren who practice in the Courts of Appeals & Chancery. I am my Dear Sir very truly Your Friend & Servt W. H. Marriott P.S. Be pleased to let me hear from you.
