To Mrs. Nancy Brown, Robeson County, Richland Swamp, Cowper Hill Post Office, North Carolina

Newport, Tennessee on French Broad, Cock County.

Friday 27 September, 1811

My Dear,

Early this morning sitting under an oak on the bank of the French Broad River, I take my pen and paper to inform you that through the mercy of God, I am well and hardy, and am within two hundred miles of brother Duncan's. My little mare failed very much so that I had to walk considerable for two days until we got to Buncome Court House. There I had to exchange her for (I trust) a good horse I think will perform the journey. I gave thirty dollars boot, which I do not repent. I hope I will be at home by the appointed time, God willing. If there appears to be no place to fatten the hogs, I would wish not put up but the eight big hogs for fear of scarcity of corn. Perhaps I shall write no more until I get out O bye near a throne of grace. Show these lines to my dear Cousin Neill as soon as you get them.

Farewell.

N. Bascon

We have crossed the river safe, which is very wide, but shallow.

Original: Neill Brown Collection #702, Perkins Library, Duke University

Transcribed by Bradley M. Buie, January 2000