Vault Early Papers of the University Box 1 Document Cornerstone Invitation 246

Oct. 3, 1860, Columbia, S.C.

Dear Sir

The courteous invitation, which you on the part of the Executive Committee have extended to me, has just reached me. I regret to say that circumstances beyond my control prevent my attendance on the occasion of the laying of the Corner Stone of the University of the South. With thanks to you and the Committee for the honor which you have done me in requesting my presence on the occasion, and with the warmest wishes for the welfare and future prosperity of the Institution, whose dawning hopes you will meet to celebrate,

I remain, Sir

Yours Respectfully

G. Woodward [Houtson?]