20

22

Russellville 4 October 1860

Dr Sir

My professional engagements prevent the acceptance of
the invitation tendered me by the Executive Committee through
you as their Chairman, requesting my presence on the 10th Inst --
to witness the laying of the Corner{underlined} Stone{underlined} of the principal building
of the University of the South.

I sincerely regret my inability to attend. I rejoice
in the prospect of having a Southern Literary & Scientific Insti
=tution established & located upon Cumberland Mountain
in the State of Tennessee at which the young men of the South
may receive a complete education. Although I cannot
participate in the pleasure of witnessing the ceremonies, my
best wishes for the success of the enterprise & the happiness of
all those connected with it, will be with you.

I am very respectfully

Your Obt Servant

J. R. {illegible: Meleroon? Mcbroon?}