Letter from B. S. Brooke to John T. Blake

This letter is an item from the Papers of John T. Blake [manuscript], MSS 8975, Department of Special Collections, University of Virginia Library. Image © 1996 by the Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia.

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Staunton, Nov 14, 1859

My Dear Friend

I am happy to inform you of my safe arrival in this place, found all well and glad to see me.

I have nothing of importance to communicate the times seem hard, money scarce, but not quite so bad as in Greenbriar for here you can get plenty to eat for the money and at rather reasonable prices. I see by the paper this morning that Cook has been convicted--Stevens has been handed over to the U. S. authorities and will doubtless be tried in Staunton. There is considerable excitment here in reference to this insurrection. Many persons are selling, and sending their negros to the South.

My kindest regards to your mother & sister. I have no news to give you & read none. I thought I would write you a line, to let you know of my safe arrival--Love to all

I remain
Truly Yours,
B. S. Brooke