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The Philander Chase letters were written in the 18th and 19th century and therefore may contain language that we understand today as harmful or offensive. You may encounter paternalist descriptions of Native Americans, racial slurs, or sexism. For more information, see our policy page.
Description
Dudley tells George that he wishes his cousin could join him but that there are a number of reasons why that probably won't be possible. He then discusses the achievements of their friend Salmon Cotton in the military.
Date
8-7-1814
Keywords
Burlington, George Chase, General Burson, army, Salmon Cotton, Randolph
Recommended Citation
Chase, Dudley, "Letter to George Chase" (1814). Philander Chase Letters. 467.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/chase_letters/467
Rights Statement
Transcript
K.Ch.140807
Dear George,
Your interesting and excellent letter by your hon. father gave me much pleasure it is perusal, & brought me the recollection of days that are past and gone. Days, the memory of which will never fail to excite the [fondest] emotions, will never perish but with life.
I will join you, most heartily, in your request that your cousin George may [accompany] you, and pursue with you that day of celebration in which you have progressed as a m[?], so honorable to yourself and pleasing to your friends, but there are [?] & [?] in the way of success with your cousin (& which your father will explain to you), that render it doubtful whether you will be gratified in your wish in this particular. Your cousin is a very fine and interesting young fellow, and from I can learn, has made fine progressing in his studies; and it is the anxious wish of his friends & relatives that he should, during the [remainder] of his [ministry], be with you, and under the impression & direction of his Uncle Philander. But Mr. P. is his guardian & likely will continue so. He objects, and I have but a small hope of [?] other [members].
I am glad to [receive] the affectionate mention you have made of Salmon Cotton, and much pleased with the flattering [accomplishment] you have made in regard to him. May he be blessed with good fortune, & I doubt not of his deserving success. A few days before [?] the [brigade], Salmon when at Buffalo rec. the appointment of Capt. in 26th Regt. and orders to remain in Burlington; by a compliance with which orders he [?] the glory and [?] the danger of participating in the [?] which will [?] the name of Genl. Burson & Scott & the brave army they commanded. When I left home on 1st [?] Salmon was at a house expecting your letter on the [frontier].
“Ne lude cum savis” or in other words, “never play with edge-tools.” And “he jests at scars that never felt a wound,” with many more such “wise words” occurred to my mind when I noted the careless [manner] in which you [played] with the dangerous [urchin]. Care! George, lest you in serious tragedy cut the heart you have [?] represented. I will remember you to all your kind acquaintances. Your Aunt [Olivia] came to [Hesshampton] with me, she will read your letter with great interest, and continue to mention you after & most affectionately. Give my love to Philander and all your [?]. When will you visit Randolph? Philander, when will you come & visit your [?] Uncle?
Dudley Chase