12

Ph'a Sept 17 1860

My D Sir

I have just declined an invita
tion to the laying of the Corner Stone of
your great University. It is painful to
do it. I would gladly go. To be present
on an occasion of such intent -- to
meet so many who are working for the
advancement of the Saviors Kingdom &
to be awhile with Mrs. Fairbanks & you
are all inducements hard to resist,
but the Hospital at home ties me
down & I will not {illegible}, for it too
is the Churchs cause.

I did not expect it so soon for {illegible: your?}
plans are to be presented only {illegible: 1 Octr? 10?}
which gives but little time for their
study & determination but in the quiet,
on the mountain top, with nothing to
distract, & the presence of His spirit