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[?] Memphis Feb 13. 1857
Mr. Armfield Esqr.
Dear Sir,
I have to acknowledge the rec[?] of your favor of Jan 27. and I embrace the ea[?] liest opportunity to write a line in reply.
From the very commencement of the proposa[?] to establish an Institution of the kind contemplated in the Bp's Circular which you have read, I have supposed that Beersheba Springs or the neighborhood would probably afford the most eligible scite. I say supposed, because I have never personally inspected the grounds. But I have the reports of others & they are favorab[?} to locality, as you suppose correctly, has yet been fixed on, and I should strenuously object to the selection of any spot, without previously examining the region to which you invite our attention. I wish you would advise with Bp Polk on this whole subject, who will be able to detail to you our plans,
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expectations, & hopes far better than I could do is, in the compass of a letter. The establishment of such a seminary as we hope to found, will go far towards perpetuating our union (I think) and "if the worst comes to the worst", it will at all events, materially aid the south to resist & repel a fanatical domination which seeks to rule over us. I thank you for sending me your blank circular about Beersheba &c. Your offer to secure building lots &c is very fair, and I should embrace it without a moment's hesitation, if I could command the means to erect the necessary building for a summer home. -- However, I hope to see you at your own house this summer and we will talk over all these plans &c.
With kindest regards to Mrs. Armfield I remain very truly yr friend