

Charlestown, Va: Nov Dec 3 rd / 59
My Dear Friend.
Having
got nearly well of my wounds, I will try and write you a few lines, hoping,
that I am not forgotten although in prison, for Murder Treeson & other
charges. I do not feel guilty in the least, for I know, if I know,
anything, that there was no evil intention in my heart. I thought I should
be able to do, more good for the world, in this way, than I could do in any
other. I may have erred, as to the best way, but I think every thing will
turn out for the best in the end.
I doo not expect to be tried, untill
next Spring, when I expect I shall be hung, as I think, all the rest will,
Slavory: demands that we should hang for its protection, and we will meet
it willingly, knowing that God is Just, and is over all.
There seems
to be no mercy, for those who are willing, to help those who have none to
help them.
My heart, feel's like bleeding, to think, how many
thousand's, are worse off. in this land, than I am now. Oh that I could see
this country free, I would give a thousand lives if I had them to give.
When I say free I mean both
north and south.
O, how I wish
I could here you play & sing, some of those sweet songs. once more, but I
suppose I shall have to wate untill we meet in the spirit land.
What
joy there is in feeling, that we shall meet a our friend's, sooner or later
in a world better than this, that is: where the chances off dooing good,
are better than here.
I will not write any more at present, for fear
that I am intruding upon your time & patience.
Remember me to Mr. &
Mrs. Lindsley and family, & give the little one a few sweet kisses for me.
She is such sweet little girl, how I should like to see her!
If you
will write me a few lines, in answer to this, you will confer, a grate
favor on one of your [warmest] friends, & well-wishers.
Also remember
me to Wellthy, Alvi: & all enquiring friends.
Yours, for the good of
all mankind.
A.D. Stevens.
P.S. If you write, direct to Capt.
Avis, Jailor.
Charlestown, Va --
http://www.kansasmemory.org/item/90083/text