Collinsville,
[Connecticut,] November 23.
My Very Dear Sir:
Little did I think, when I was so much enjoying your society at my home a few
months ago, it would ever be my lot to address you under such painful
circumstances; nor can I here find words to express to you the depth of my
sympathy. We mourn for you as for a father, yet not without hope; and much do
we rejoice to know that you still find comfort and consolation in communion
with that God whom, we doubt not, it has ever been your aim to love and serve.
And, although he may permit Virginia's sons and daughters to dye their hands in
your blood, we know that act will do much to advance the cause we love. True,
'tis a bitter cup, and would to God it might pass from you. Yet I think I hear
you say "Thy will, O God, be done."
Let us thank God
that the Power (called Law) which will lead you forth to martyrdom can reach no
farther. There is a resting-place where a Higher Law is known and recognized,
and where the oppressed go free. May God grant that we may meet there when he
shall have done with us here.
You will be pleased
to learn that your wife is being remembered in such a way as will relieve her
from pecuniary want. We feel it a privilege to contribute something for her
comfort, who has sacrificed so much for the cause.
You will never know
with how much interest your friends have watched each daily paper to catch each
item of news in your case, and each word you have been permitted to utter; for
we doubt not God has directed what you should say. Those words of truth you
have spoken have rung from East to West, carrying with them a deep feeling of
sympathy for the honest and noble Capt. John Brown. Many are the prayers which
have been offered that you may be sustained in the hour of trial. Surely, He
who has thus kept you will not forsake you. Thus feebly do I offer you my
heartfelt sympathy. May God ever be present to bless and keep you.
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