Vault Early Papers of the University Box 1 Folder 1860 Cornerstone Ceremony 1

New Orleans, Oct. 1. 1860.

Rt. Rev'd. J. H. Otey DD.

Chairman &c

Your kind note of 5th ult. is at hand, with the card of invitation to be present at the laying of the Corner Stone of the principal building of the University of the South.

I regret my inability to be present upon that highly interesting {insert symbol:}occasion and partake of the hospitalities so kindly proffered by you

Please accept my sincere thanks; & my good wishes & prayers for the success of the noble undertaking you have {illegible: to?} hand, and believe me to be, as ever,

Your friend & servant

Elyiah {illegible: Garrison?}