353

Columbus Ga. Oct'r. 1 / 60

Dear Sir

Your circular of the 5th ult'o,
tendering me an invitation to be pre-
sent at the ceremonies of laying the
Corner Stone of the principal building
of the University of the South reached me
this A.M.

It would afford me great pleasure
to be present on this most interesting
occasion, but circumstances preclude
the possibility, and I am reluctantly
compelled to decline your very kind
invitation

Praying that the Supreme Archi-
tect may prosper the noble work
and reward you and your associates
with all spiritual & temporal blessings

I am Dear Sir

Your Obt Sr.

{illegible: Jno. E. Davis? Jno. E. David?}

Rt. Rev'd. J H Otey

Chairman