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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
Chase complains of opposition to his plans and criticizes their fault in not sharing his vision. He asks Dudley to come visit him and assess the land he has bought.
Date
Spring 3-11-1826
Keywords
Mr. Well, steam boat, bargain, Intrepid Morse, Philander, Mr. Hogg, June Convention
Recommended Citation
Chase, Philander, "Letter to Dudley Chase" (1826). Philander Chase Letters. 597.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/chase_letters/597
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Transcript
11 Mar 1826
Dear Brother Dudley
I am still at Steubenville at Mr. Well’s. The Steam Boat expected has not yet arrived to take me down to the River. I must, however, be ready at a moments warning.
Pray read the inclosed; and after putting to it a blank seal send it.
By it you will see how far we have concluded to speak of the facts relating to the land. There will be a sufficient degree of uncertainty as to the Conventions finally ratifying the bargain in the opposition to my plans from Sectional views to ensure subscriptions if we relate on success in Brownsville in the most brilliant Colours.
Some men are so little, I mean so contracted in their estimate of things, that a great object reaching in its consequences to future ages and benefitting millions can not be comprehended even so far as to talk with any reason concerning it. If you address them they know not what you say concerning it. They find fault with that which should command the praise of all. Like the near sighted Clown, who when the man of taste was commending the magnificence of Its [Pauls] contradicted what was said; and found fault with the roughness of the stones which were nearest him. But I beg pardon for this [proving] sentiment.
Mr. Morse, your nephew Intrepid, is now by my side helping me copy some letters to my Ohio friends. He speaks of you with the most tender remembrance & deserves your best love. What should I do without him!
Rebecca Dear Philander’s Widow[s] sends her love. I wish you could know her: --- and this I trust you will do -- : For I give you notice Brother Dud, that you are coming this way when you go home. Don’t fly off as in a tangent from my proposition; for it will take [plare] [Hark’ee] When you are here you can be carried hence almost to your own doors by steamboats and Canals, and when you are here, how much good you can do. When you are here you can satisfy your own self about the land (by the by Mr Hogg affirms there are 1,000 cleared and fenced on it) & then judge what is best to be done
Come to the June Convention (the first week mind that.)
Oh on my family would rejoice to see you! Till when may God bless & keep you! So prays your own Brother
Phir. Chase
Judge Chase