474

Marion Ala

Oct 5th 1860

Rt: Reverend J. H. Otey

Dear Sir

Your favor
of Sept 5th & post marked the 29th came to
hand this morning & I hasten to reply --
It would afford me unspeakable pleasure
to be present at the coming exercises of
this important enterprise, but the brief time
allowed me for leaving, with previous
engagements prevent me from comply
-ing with your polite invitation.

With assurances of prosperity for
the great cause of Education I remain

Very Respectfully Yours

F. A. Bates