John Brown [alias Isaac Smith] to his Family, August 16, 1859

Chambersburg, Penn., Aug. 16, 1859.

Dear Wife And Children, All, — I left all well at home yesterday but Martha, who was complaining a little. Am in hopes nothing serious is the matter. I will only now say I am getting along as well, perhaps, all things considered, as I ought to expect. We all want to hear from you; but we do not want you all to write, and you need only say all is well, or otherwise, as the case may be. When you write, enclose in a small envelope such as I now send, seal it, and write on it no other directions than I. Smith & Sons. Enclose that in a stamped envelope and direct it to John Henrie, Esq., of Chambersburg, Franklin County, Penn., who will send it to us.

Affectionately yours,

I. S.

SOURCE: Franklin B. Sanborn, The Life and Letters of John Brown, p. 531-2