431

Franklin Tenn Oct 6. 1860

Dear Sir

I have received your invitation
to be present at the laying of the
"Corner Stone" of the University of
the South -- I have also received your
note asking me, on the occasion, to
deliver an address -- which would {illegible: heal?} of
the {illegible} &{?} ours{?}, or a normal{?} service{?}
-- & {illegible: as} exhibit, its {illegible: b}, on the virtue
intelligence & character of the people
-- It is an admirable theme -- & the occasion
a noble one -- but, alas, -- I feel my
self utterly incapable, could I, in the
absence of other preventing events -- be
present with you to do {illegible: justice?}
to it -- {illegible} It seems to me that such an
address, to be of value, would require
on its preparation, much reflection & care
-- {illegible} they may be I am chained
at home -- by the {illegible: presence?} of my