466

{illegible: Ed--mton} 1st Oct. 1860

Rt. Rev. J. H. Otey D.D.

Dear Sir

Your note
accompanying card of invitation to
be present at the laying the corner
stone of the principal building of the
University of the South but recently
reached me -- I regret that is entirely
out of my power to be present at
the ceremony or in fact to be absent
a single day for any purpose --

Some twelve weeks since just as we
were on the eve of leaving home for
the springs Mrs. Collins was taken
most suddenly & violently ill and though
so far convalescent at to allow of being brought
to this{?} she is still the source of constant
anxiety and constant watching -- I can only
wish you success --

Very Respectfully Your Obt Sert

Josiah Collins