Tens of thousands of the Friends of Freedom were anxious to meet
Senator Sumner at this place on Friday last. Many went away
disappointed. I had assured the Committee of Arrangements, that,
if the state of his health permitted, he would attend the meeting.
I have just received the enclosed private letter, which I venture
to hand for publication, that those who were disappointed may
understand and appreciate the cause of his non-attendance. It
is in answer to a letter in which I urged Mr. Sumner to spend a
fortnight in the Miami Valley for recreation, and to appear at
the Hamilton meeting, even if his health should not permit him to
speak.
Very truly yours, &c.