, Farmington, to JS, , Hancock Co., IL, 7 Oct. 1843; handwriting of ; docket in handwriting of ; two pages; Helen Vilate Bourne Fleming, Collection, CHL.
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[been] companionless and alone. My design design is to put my shoulder to the wheel of the triumphant car of truth and hope that you will find in me a person who will not shrink at trifling impediments. Do not receive this in the light of boasting but rather in conformity to the spirit of the declaration of scripture that “thestrengthofGodismadeperfectinourweakness[”]
Among all my imperfections I [ca]n truly say that I never proved treachero[u]s to my friends nor flagged in my exertions to advance the interest of any social body to which I have been attached so long as they acted up to the principles of truth and rightiousness.
I have read the gross libels penned by Butler and others and the whole have rather prejudiced me in your favor
Your are at liberty to read this letter to your particular friends and give me such advice as [yo]u in wisdom, the result of your mutual co[u]ncil shall dictate.