89

Runny Hope,

(Near) Auburn Ala:

Oct 2'd 1860.

Rev'd J. H. Otey DD.

Chairman Xc --

I deeply regret that my {illegible}
affliction prevents my acceptance of
your esteemed invitation to be with
you at the laying of the Corner Stone
of the University{underlined} of{underlined} the{underlined} South -- at
University{underlined} place{underlined} on the 10th Inst.

Your{underlined} great{underlined} enterprise{underlined} has from the
beginning commended itself to my earnest
approval {illegible: I?} {illegible} -- {illegible: Sympathy?} -- You have
not anticipated, but favorably met{underlined} the
biggest educational demand of the country --
& {illegible}, with a liberal state {illegible} &
good zeal which must afford {illegible}-
tible to the {illegible: early?} {illegible: literal?} sentiments of every
patriot & Christian in the church, of
whatever denominational bias.

That God may provide your noble
undertaking & bring it to a glad & glori-
-ous consummation is my fervent prayer --

I am sincerely y'r true friend &
Brother in X -- {illegible} {illegible: Saw---}