Digital History>eXplorations>John Brown: Hero or Terrorist?> Planning the Raid>Gerrit Smith to F.B. Sanborn

Gerrit Smith to F.B. Sanborn, July 26, 1858

Source: Sanborn, John Brown, 466

I have your letter of the 23d instant. I have great faith in the wisdom, integrity, and bravery of Captain Brown. For several years I have frequently given him money toward sustaining him in his contests with the slave-power. Whenever he shall embark in another of these contests I shall again stand ready to help him; and I will begin with giving him a hundred dollars. I do not wish to know Captain Brown’s plans; I hope he will keep them to himself. Can you not visit us this summer? We shall be very glad to see you.

Copyright Digital History 2021