Henry D. Clayton to Woodrow Wilson

Your letter of October 10 was duly delivered by special messenger. Of course it gave me great pleasure to know your kind opinion of my past services and the possibilities of usefulness you consider me capable of in the succeeding sessions of Congress. My work heretofore in its connection with you has been exceedingly pleasant. I have been in hearty sympathy with all your patriotic plans and purposes, insofar as I have known them.
I have consulted with such friends as I could reach and they have agreed with me that I should look upon the wish expressed by you, as the head of the party, as imperative. I will, therefore, give notice of my intention to remain in the House during the present Congress and retire from the race for the Senate from Alabama and submit the matter of my reelection as Representative to the loyal Democrats of the Third Congressional District of Alabama.
I want to say to you formally what I said to you in person in our conversation at the White House last night, that I am very deeply appreciative of, and grateful for, the great compliment you have paid me in your letter.