OTTAWA CREEK, K. T.,
Oct. 13, 1857.
MR. JOHN BROWN.
DEAR SIR, — Respecting the account you have against us as a
band, I would respectfully inform you that I have presented the matter before
them two or three different times, and I cannot persuade them but what was paid
by them was all that could be reasonably demanded of them, from the bargain
they entered into with Jones the agent. For my part I think the charge is just,
and it ought to be paid. The Ottawa payment comes off some time this week, and
I will present your case before them again, and do what I can to induce them to
attend to the account, though I entertain no hopes of its being allowed: but
nothing like trying. In contributing my mite in aiding you in your benevolent
enterprise, I enclose you ten dollars on the State Bank of Indiana (I presume
it is good, though hundreds of other banks are worthless), and throw in the
young man's bill and horse-hire, which amounts to four dollars. Accept it, sir,
as a free-will offering from your friend.
Times are coming round favorably in Kansas. Mr. Parrott for
Congress will have 8,000 to 10,000 majority over Ransom, and both branches of
the Legislature the same in proportion. I am quite encouraged that all things
will work together for good for those who are trying to work out righteousness
in the land. May God bless you in your work of benevolence and philanthropy:
and may God reward you more than double for your toil and losses in the work to
bring about liberty for all men! Write me if you can, and let me know how you
are getting along, etc.
I remain your sincere
friend,
JOHN T. JONES.
SOURCE: Franklin B. Sanborn, The Life and Letters of
John Brown, p. 245-6
