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416
Memphis T. Oct. 6th. 1860
Dear Sir:
I received your invitation a day or two since to be present at the Laying of the Corner Stone of the University of the South.
I regret exccedingly that my engagements are such, as not to allow me to witness those preliminary ceremonies of so much interest to every friend of education.
Very truly & respectfully
yours
LeRoy Pope
Right. Revd. Jas. H. Otey
Chairman, &c
University Place,
Tenn:
417
Eufaula Ala Octr. 5th 1860.
Sir
{illegible: Impressed?} as I am so profoundly, with the importance of establishing such an Institution of learning in this country -- and especially in this section of country -- as is proposed by its founders, the University of the South shall be, I cannot decline the invitation to be present -- which I take this occasion to do -- upon the occasion of lay= ing the Corner Stone of the principal building, without an expression of the deepest regret.
Very respectfully
Your Obt. Servt.
C. J. Pope
Rit Rev'd J. H. Otey
Chairman Ex. Com.
University of the South.
418
Clinton East Feliciana L.a. Oct'r 5: 1860
Jas. H Otey Esq'r University place Tenesee
Dear Sir
Your Circular of the 5th of Sept'r came to hand yesterday giving me notice from the Executive Committee that the corner Stone of the principal building {crossthrough: building} of the University of the South will be laid on the 10 Inst. and invite my attendance at the Interesting Ceremony.
In answer I would State that I have recently rizen from A Sick bed and feel unable to attend on the Interesting occasion and respectfully tender my best wishes for the prosperity of the Institution, and respects to the Executive Commitee and Subscribe myself Your Hbl Serv't
Wm. Pilliman
419
Rosedale. La. Sep 29. 1860
The Right Reverend
J. H. Otey
Bishop of Tennessee
Chairman of Ex Com of Univ of the South
Right Rev'd & Dear Sir
I beg gratefully to acknowledge having {illegible: secured? received?} an in= vitation from you to be present at the lay= ing of the Corner Stone of the Univ'ty of the South & in reply to express my regret that my duties in my Parish will not permit me to avail myself of your kindness however greatly I might desire {crossthrough: it} to do. so. Praying that the work which you are about to inaugurate may be carried to a successful completion by God's favor