Charlestown, Jefferson County, Va., Nov. 27, 1859.
My Dear Miss Sterns,
— Your most kind and cheering letter of the 18th instant is received. Although
I have not been at all low-spirited or cast down in feeling since being
imprisoned and under sentence (which I am fully aware is soon to be carried
out), it is exceedingly gratifying to learn from friends that there are not
wanting in this generation some to sympathize with me and appreciate my motive,
even now that I am whipped. Success is in general the standard of all merit. I
have passed my time here quite cheerfully; still trusting that neither my life
nor my death will prove a total loss. As regards both, however, I am liable to
mistake. It affords me some satisfaction to feel conscious of having at least
tried to better the condition of those who are always on the under-hill side,
and am in hopes of being able to meet the consequences without a murmur. I am
endeavoring to get ready for another field of action, where no defeat befalls
the truly brave. That “God reigns,” and most wisely, and controls all events,
might, it would seem, reconcile those who believe it to much that appears to be
very disastrous. I am one who has tried to believe that, and still keep trying.
Those who die for the truth may prove to be courageous at last; so I continue
"hoping on," till I shall find that the truth must finally prevail. I
do not feel in the least degree despondent or degraded by my circumstances; and
I entreat my friends not to grieve on my account. You will please excuse a very
poor and short letter, as I get more than I can possibly answer. I send my best
wishes to your kind mother, and to all the family, and to all the true friends
of humanity. And now, dear friends, God be with you all, and ever guide and
bless you!
Your friend,
John Brown.
SOURCES: Franklin B. Sanborn, The Life and Letters
of John Brown, p. 607
