Staunton Spectator, And General Advertiser

MR. CLAY AND MRS. POLK.—We find the following well told anecdote in the Western Continent, of Saturday:

"It is doubtless known to our readers, that shortly before his departure from Washington, Mr. Clay attended a dinner party, with many other distinguished gentlemen of both political parties, at the President's house. The party is said to have been a very pleasant affair—the viands were choice, the wine was old and sparkling—good feeling abounded, and wit and lively repartee gave zest to the occasion, while Mrs. Polk, the winning and accomplished hostess, added the finishing grace of her excellent housewifery in the superior management of the feast. Mr. Clay was of course honored with a seat near the President's lady, where it became him to put in requisition those insinuating talents which he possesses in so commendable a degree, and which are irresistible even to his enemies. Mrs. Polk with her usual frank and affable manner was extremely courteous to her distinguished guest, on whose good opinion, as of all who share the hospitalities of the White House, she did not fail to win.

"Madam," said Mr. Clay, in that bland manner peculiar to himself, "I must say that in my travels, wherever I have been, in all companies and among all parties I have heard but one opinion of you.—All agree in commending in the highest terms your excellent administration of the domestic affairs of the White House. But," he continued, directing her attention to her husband, "as for that young gentleman there, I cannot say as much. There is," said he, "some little difference of opinion in regard to the policy of his course."

"Indeed," said Mrs. Polk. "I am glad to hear that my administration is popular. And in return for your compliment, I will say that if the country should elect a Whig next fall, I know of no one whose elevation would please me more than that of Henry Clay."

"Thank you, thank you, Madam."

"And I will assure you of one thing. If you do have occasion to occupy the White House on the Fourth of March next, it shall be surrendered to you in perfect order from garret to cellar."

"I'm certain that—"

But the laugh that followed this pleasant repartee, which lost nothing from the manner nor the occasion of it, did not permit the guests at the lower end of the table to hear the rest of Mr. Clay's reply. Whether he was "certain that" he should be the tenant of the President's mansion, or whether he only said he was "certain that" whoever did occupy it would find it in good condition, like the result of the coming contest for the Presidency, remains a mystery."