Estillville Sunday Evening

August 23rd 1855

Dear Sir --

I have just arrived at home; and having learned that there are several negroes for sale in the lower edge of Smith Co. I have determined on going there as early as possible. I shall start in the morning. I therefore write you now lest I should not return in time, for a letter to reach you at Nashville.

Wm. Sanders has 2 men that he has sent me will sell if [Levill?] say to his wife I want them for my own use and he has said he could and would purchase 15 (mostly all grown) of Cal Thos. Tate. As I returned through Rogersville I left with my Brown Saw Bradly $1500 which he promised me he would lay out in a few days for negroes of the right kind. He has a farm in the country and can buy as if for his own use without being suspected. Bradly is the Shff. of the Co. and can purchase if he will (which I have no double he will do) to advantage. I got the promise of 2 as men and a girl as I came on to day from a cousin of mine, but it being Sunday he would not close the trade. I calculate certainly on getting them. I think the chances are good for several of the right kind. I shall lay out all the money I have as early as possible and all we can raise.

I will write you immediately on my return from Washington. I have not seen nor heard any thing of and the other fellow. I shall come by on my return.

I am respectfully



[On verso] Estillville Va