This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2020
A unique look into the heart of John Quincy Adams, offered here is a handwritten manuscript by the former President of the United States in which he composes a poetic eulogy, given before Congress in honor of his late colleague Samuel L. Southard, who had served on his cabinet as Secretary of the Navy. During his time as Secretary of the Navy, in which he served under both Adams and, prior to that, James Monroe, Southard proved to be one of the most effective of the Navy's early Secretaries. He endeavored to enlarge the Navy and improve its administration, purchased land for the first Naval Hospitals, began construction of the first Navy dry docks, undertook surveys of the U.S. coastal waters and promoted exploration in the Pacific Ocean. On Southard's watch, the Navy grew by some 50% in personnel and expenditures and expanded its reach into waters that had not previously seen an American man-of-war. He went onto become New Jersey Attorney General, followed by Governor, and finally a U.S. Senator. In Adams' eulogy, he mourns, in part: "He is gone! Full not of years but of honors in which had the undiscerning shaft of death pierced another bosom instead of his own it would have elevated him to the summit of power in this union and made him at this moment, the chief ruler of the land. Earthly honours and earthly powers for him are deposited in that Tomb, to which we are about to follow his earthly remains. During the period of six years while we were united as colleagues and fellow servants in the Executive department of the Government, my personal relations with Mr. Southard necessarily became of daily occurrence, intimate and in the highest degree confidential and they opened to my attentive observation of his character a mine of intellectual and moral worth richer than diamonds or rubies." In mentioning Southard's closeness to "the summit of power in this union," Adams makes reference to his position as president pro tempore of the Senate - next in line of Presidential succession, should President Tyler have passed away while in office. The 6.75" x 8.5" manuscript spans four pages on two adjoining sheets and stands in fine condition, with small repairs to fold splits. A moving and powerful remembrance written by the former President, who was then representing Massachusetts in Congress. Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).