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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
At Dr. Wilson's urging, Chase may have to publicly defend himself against G.M. West. He implores his brother to write more and provides small updates on their friends.
Date
1-13-1831
Keywords
G.M. West, Mr. Marriott, Dr. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Caswall, Mrs. Russel, Bishop of Nova Scotia, Mrs. Bachelor, Asylum Chapel, St. John's New Brunswick
Recommended Citation
Chase, Philander, "Letter to Dudley Chase" (1831). Philander Chase Letters. 875.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/chase_letters/875
Rights Statement
Transcript
Dear Brother
It seem’d an age between your first and second letter from Washington. Do write me more often!
I am not surprised at your astonishment, when you read the papers related to G.M. West.
Dr. Wilson says I must come out in self-defence. I would that this were done by an abler hand! Besides I am so little acquainted with Controversy. And yet if some things must be done to save the College, and nobody else will undertake it, here am I. But don’t expect any thing but a plain story: very short and much to the point. I have matter enough to do the work effectually. The Publications put forth by the Trustees of the Asylum Chapel in St. John’s New Brunswick Nov. Scotia concerning his [base] transactions in that City will give the public an ample idea of this real character. Therefore also 3 reviews of Mr. Marriott’s letter but these [latter] as yet I have seen but in part. The Bp: of Nov. Scotia has written me a letter about West also in which the fellow cuts but a sorry figure.
But after all I am quite unhappy at the very thoughts of this business. Pray with me that I may not say [words] anything but such as duty shall dictate.
Mr. Caswall and his Wife Mary have gone to Vermont and by this time no doubt have paid your Wife a visit. He is a man of piety & for his years of great learning and good taste but is quite deafish so that it is painful to make him hear. They went home to see Mrs. Bachelor who is said to be sick.
We are all on tiptoe in expectation of seeing you here! We have now y[ou] promise and under the smiles of Providence we shall have the pleasure of seeing you.
My dear Wife & Children join me in every expression of love to you.
Mrs. Russel and Sarah are well & thank you for remembering them in your letter
Do you believe it Addison talks seriously of coming and taking up his abode in the neighborhood of Ken Coll.
Your loving brother
Phir. Chase
13 Jan
1831
Gambier Ohio