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Poor Hill Tenn.
Cousin Toad
I fear you will think hard of me for not writing sooner but this is the first opportunity I have had
to write since I received your letter which was delayed several days. Since I wrote you last I have taken
an important step, one that may influence my future to a greater extent than would be thought at first
glance. I have left college never, no never, to return. I could not bear to stay there and writhe under the
galling yoke which was imposed upon me. I could not see my rights, my liberties, mv conscience
trampled upon by a despotic faculty. I could not see talent made subservient to Methodism. I could not
see intellect and ability set beneath religion and sectarianism in the " of advancement and preferment.
I could not stay and see all the vital principles of justice and equity set aside and see passion and
prejudice rule. I know a great many of my friends will condemn me