Vault Early Papers of the University Box 1 Folder 1860 Cornerstone Ceremony 1

{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

Madison. Morgan Co. Ga.

October 6th. 1860.

Right Rev'd. & Dear Sir --

Till within a day or two since, I hoped to have had the pleasure of accepting the in= vitation of the Executive Committee to be present at the laying of the Corner-Stone &c -- of the University of the South. Circumstances however prevent my leaving my parish at this time, & I therefore with much regret decline your flattering atten= tion. I trust the above will explain my not sending an earlier answer, & I trust you will receive the same as an apology --

Very Respectfully

Charles H Coley.

Right Rev'd.

Jas. H. Otey D.D., L.L.D.

University - Place

Ten.{underlined}

Belmead Va. Oct 3d. 1860

To the

Rt. Rev. Jas H Otey,

Bishop of Tenn

Dear Sir

In conse= quence of absence from {illegible: home? here?}, I have but recently received the Card and your kind note of invitation with which I have been honored -to attend upon the occasion of the laying of the corner stone of the first building of the University of the South -- to take place on the 10th of this month --

I regret, sir, that it will be out of my power to be present upon that interesting occasion --

But allow me to tender to you sir, and to your patriotic co= laborers in this great & good work my heart-felt sympathy & cordial best wishes

May the Corner Stone of the University of the South - founded upon

the "Rock of Ages" -- {illegible: ever? even?} {illegible: tear?} up an {illegible: impossible?} superstructure destined to shed {illegible: abroad? about?} the influences of truth light & liberty - to every people and throughout all time --

I remain sir with the

highest respect

Yr most obt. servt

Philip St. Geo. Cocke

Mobile Ala. 2d October 1860

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

University Place

Tenn.

Rt. Rev. and Dear Sir,

In acknowledging your kindness in inviting me to be present at the laying of the Corner Stone of the principal building of the University of the South on the 10th inst. I have to express great regret at not being able to avail myself of it.

For some time past I have indulged the hope of being present at this ceremony, but our business arrangements at this part of the Year will not allow me the pleasure.

With great resepct,

I am Rt. Rev. Sir

Your Obedient Servant

Robert S. Bunker