Peggy Bradfute to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, December 28, 1824

[Peggy Bradfute [at or near New London, Virginia], to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie [at Pharsalia,] Rose Mills, Nelson County, Virginia, November 24, 1824. Postmarked Lynchburg, November 27, 1824. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                       December 28 1824
Dear Friend

I received your Letter & have executed to the best of my ability as their [there] was but little Choice all of that number coming from the Same Factory. I hope it will answer.

I now ask how you have spent your Christmas Merry or Sad.

I spent mine very agreeably at Church held by the Episcolians [Episcopalians] at our Church by the Reverent [Reverend] Mr. Smith. 

Colls & Freeman of New Glasgow they had a Sacrament on Sabbath & a goodly Number of Methodist & Presbyterians Brethren united with them & we had a very solemn meeting on Saturday Doctor Davis & Abby had their Child Baptized by Mr. Smith they had their House full of kindred & Friends.

Harry & Fanny were invited but had gone up to her Father's. I write you some time ago that I was going to stay with her but Lucy Ambler being their [there] with an infectious Fever Prevented me. I was very sorry I could not see Lucy except to say howdy she has Fatten[ed] very much I saw neither of the Girls I regret very much this disappointment in visiting as expected you would be highly pleased to have seen them in that lonely Country.

[T]o change the subject I wish to know about breech I have committed to loose [lose] your Confidence I cannot conceive unless Mr. Massie told you I had mentioned what you had written about his being in a fret if that is what you allude to I will now Clear Myself before he had given me your Letter he said he had a great mind not to have Brought it  as you had said so much about him he then told Sister Maria that you & him had a quarrel which lasted 3 days & that one knight [night] you did not sleep together he laid the blame on you & as usual espoused your cause. 

I told him I knew he had grossly insulted you. Sister Maria told him she could hardly believe him for he was such a devoted husband & then mentioned you had said in your Letter you wished I knew what had put him in the dumps we wanted him to tell but he was ashamed we had several funny conjectures write me what it was tell him, pray for forgiveness as I am vindicating my innocence & this is a free Country you think you have a Great joke at last I will take a great deal less for it then you are willing to give. 

[D]on't anticipate any pleasure in a connection of that kind for it is more than I have; should it ever happen tell the doctor I will speak a good word for him if he wishes it if I am so unlucky I need not be alarmed as I understand he is now courting a widow her name I don't recollect I thank you kindly for your good wishes on the subject I hope you esteem them such if I could be teased I should have no peace but thank[s] to my Maker they don't move me.

[Y]our Friend Mr. Johnston has been very tough in rousting me I was rather afraid to retaliate but I found their [there] was no stop[p]ing place with him he saluted me constantly with how do you Mrs.[?]

[A]t length I put him to a stand by telling him; the Widow I had been set[t]ing her Cap for him for 2 years he was dumb for 5 Minits [Minutes] at last realized he could get nothing out of me he believed he must let me alone I am sure he will never say sweetheart to me again I wish you could have seen him you would have Laught [Laughed] heartily.

[I]n great hast[e] I have not time to corrected errors or put stops or to say any thing about Catherine P. at present.

                                    adieu my Friend
                                                 Peggy Bradfute

[p.s.] Bob is now waiting. Archibald says if you can get him a wife he will come with pleasure to see you.  

[Sarah = Sarah “Sally” Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828), who married William Massie (1795-1862) in 1814.

Peggy Bradfute = Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816). Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855) was one of her sisters. Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831), one of Peggy's brothers, married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866).

Because the Bradfutes keep showing up in letters from this period, here is an additional overview. All years approximate.

Robert Bradfute (1749-1816) from Scotland, married Sarah Irvine (1757-1807).

Their children included: 

Elizabeth Bradfute (1779-1861)
Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831)
Lillias Bradfute (1781-1849)
Archibald Bradfute (1786-1865)
Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (1788-1833)
Grace Bradfute (1792-1855)
Robert "Bob" Bradfute (1794-1861)
James Hamilton Bradfure (1803-1865).

Sister Maria = Maria B. Byrd Bradfute (1786-1854), married to Davidson Bradfute listed above. Mary Cabell Bradfute (born October 1824).

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816.

The doctor = Dr. Thomas Massie II (1782-1864). Lucy Waller Massie (1791-1822), his first wife, had died in 1822. 

Mr. Johnston = Charles Johnston (1769-1833).

Lucy Ambler = Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler (1800-1888) married Thomas Marshall Ambler (1791-1875) on April 14, 1819. Their main abode was "Morven," Fauquier County, Virginia, from about 1820 on. For a link, see here.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, December 11, 1824

[Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler at Oakly, at or near Lynchburg, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Roses Mills, Nelson, Virginia, December 11, 1824. Postmarked Lynchburg, December 18, 1824. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                             Oakly December 11^th 1824

My dear Sally

We arrived at grandpapa’s on the last of November and the day after poor Fanny was taken very sick it turned out that she had the scarlet fever which is very infectious. I was in hopes that we would escape but last night Mary and James were both seized with the symptoms of the disease and this morning James is very ill but Mary thank heaven is much better and broke out all over which always produces relief.

Frances Langhorne and myself had both intended to have set off to day to pay you a visit but the sickness of James and Mary puts it entirely out of my power to visit you at all as I am in daily expectation of my children taking it and it is a most dangerous disorder for children of the age of mine.

Another thing is I would give it to all the children under your care. You cannot think what uneasiness it gives me to think of my children having it. The first symptom is a violent sore throat which you know is always dangerous for children.

Fanny has not been down here yet as she still has fever so that their visit to their grandpapa and aunts will give them but little satisfaction. I am afraid we will have a complete hospital at poor Frances.’

I am very sorry that I shall not be able to visit you as it would be most unreasonable in me to carry my family to your house to be sick.

Mr. Ambler has returned home and I do not expect him until January.

With my love to Mr. Massie and Tom I must bid you farewell and believe me to be yours most affectionately

                                                           L. H. Ambler

   

[L. H. Ambler = Lucy Hopkins Johnston (1800-1888) married Thomas Marshall Ambler (1791-1875) on April 14, 1819. Their main abode was "Morven," Fauquier County, Virginia, from about 1820 on. For a link, see here. 

Three children = Lucy Letitia Ambler (1820-1853), John C. Ambler (1821-1891) and Elizabeth Steptoe Ambler (January 20, 1823-1900).

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Grandpapa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

Fanny = Frances “Fanny” Steptoe Johnston (1807-1850).

Mary = Mary Morris Johnston (1810-1884).

James = James Steptoe Johnston (1808-1895).

Frances Langhorne = Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John "Jack" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” aka "Billy" Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]    

Peggy Bradfute to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, November 24, 1824

[Peggy Bradfute [at or near New London, Virginia], to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie [at Pharsalia,] Rose Mills, Nelson County, Virginia, November 24, 1824. Postmarked Lynchburg, November 27, 1824. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                                  November 24 1824

My dear Friend

I acknowledge[e] with pleasure your wellcome [welcome] Letter & was quite astonished at the reluctance with which you enquired after my Health; I presume it was only for your own gratification in your Solitary retirement more than a wish to hear from one who feels a great interest in your present & Eternal Welfare.

[Y]ou passed by the door & never once said how do you [do]; I acknowledg[e] my mortification; as to Mr. Massie he comes often & never deins [deigns] to say howdy; I now freely forgive you both as I am likely bidden not only seven times but seventy times seven; in which I hope grace will always enable me to do towards all mankind.

I am highly gratified to hear of your perfect restoration to Health & hope for a continuance of the Same. [T[his leads me to answer your enquiries concerning us all. 

Sister Maria has another Daughter 6 weeks old; Named Mary Cabell; she is very unwell has taken, Cold.

Mrs. Bird [Byrd] & daughter are well; Herself & Nancy Live with Mr. Tompkins; he has removed on the Hill to his own House.

Grace sends her Love to you & wishes to put a Postcrip[t] but as it is at my expence [expense] I won't suffer it; therefore you shall not sport at my cost now. 

[T]he Girls wear [were] at Mr. Langhorne's a few days ago. Frances was only Tolerable; I expect to go in a few days & stay some with her.

[T]he rest of your friends I hear but little about; Mt. Johnston was down a fortnight past & went with my Brother to Richmond & returned in High spirits jokeing [joking] about sweethearts; on his return home he expected to find his daughter Lucy & said she contemplated on her return to pass through Lynchburg; & that his Children should come down with her; I am quite pleased at the thought of seeing them; for the sake of their Charming Mother; Whose memory I shall never cease to cherish with the Warmest Affections of my Heart.

I suppose the Doctor told you he met me & wanted me to write in great hast[e]; on my get[t]ing home I heard he was just on his return from Courting a Rich Widow. I hope he has been successful for his own sake as well as; yours. [Y]ou did not say how he like[d] the Bermudeans; report said for him he was very much pleased with the daughter but this trip to the South; puts it out of all dispute.

I was pleased to hear of Mr. Waller's great good back in a Wife. I hope all the rest; may be as fortunate .

I congratulate you on your visit from the Reeves [Rives?] & hope a continuance also Mrs. Miller; we have had her in Lynchburg & she paid us a half a dozen Visits; she is a perfect curiosity.

Nothing in this place worth your attention. [S]hall expected to hear from you shortly unless I have been too tuff [tough] your own words Commit[t]ed you.

I did not understand about [T]om what Business he was in exept [except] he was Courting; for I hear of none of his movements unless he had rented a place & gown [gone] to work if so I give him joy.

Present me affectionately to your Mama & except [accept] my best wishes for your spending this solitary Winter dif[f]erent from the last; with health peace & Plenty & an appetite to enjoy it; & may you my dear Sarah not loose [lose] sight of the everlasting obligations you are laid under to serve him who has restored you to health from the very jaws of death; oh let lasting Gratitude flow continually from your heart & Tounge [tongue] that my Prayer is that you may with all that . . . to you enjoy unless Felicity in a better world than thi . . .

Nothing about my coming to see you again; for I make know [no] calculation for to morrow for me know not what a day may bring forth. I have not any expectations that I shall ever see Nelson again . . . saying at the same time it would allways [always] afford me great pleasure to be with you & yours & to feel grateful for the kindness & great attention you have ever paid me.

Present me affectionately to your Rib & except [accept] the same for your self [self] & Household.

Farewell my Friend I ever remains yours with Gratitude & Love
                                                            Peggy Bradfute

[Sarah = Sarah “Sally” Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828), who married William Massie (1795-1862) in 1814.

Peggy Bradfute = Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816). Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855) was one of her sisters. Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831), one of Peggy's brothers, married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866).

Because the Bradfutes keep showing up in letters from this period, here is an additional overview. All years approximate.

Robert Bradfute (1749-1816) from Scotland, married Sarah Irvine (1757-1807).

Their children included: 

Elizabeth Bradfute (1779-1861)
Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831)
Lillias Bradfute (1781-1849)
Archibald Bradfute (1786-1865)
Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (1788-1833)
Grace Bradfute (1792-1855)
Robert Bradfute (1794-1861)
James Hamilton Bradfure (1803-1865).Sister Maria = Maria B. Byrd Bradfute (1786-1854), married to Davidson Bradfute listed above. Mary Cabell Bradfute (born October 1824).

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816.

Mr. Johnston = Charles Johnston (1769-1833).

His daughter Lucy = Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler (1800-1888) married Thomas Marshall Ambler (1791-1875) on April 14, 1819. Their main abode was "Morven," Fauquier County, Virginia, from about 1820 on. For a link, see here. 

The doctor = Dr. Thomas Massie II (1782-1864). Lucy Waller Massie (1791-1822), his first wife, had died in 1822. 

Tom = Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880).

Your mama = Sally's mother-in-law, Sarah Cocke Massie (1760-1838).]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, November 15, 1824

Botetourt Springs early 1840s. A digital copy can also be found via Hollins University.

[Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler at Botetourt Springs, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Near Roses Mills, Nelson, Virginia, November 15, 1824. Postmarked Clover Dale [Cloverdale], Virginia, November 15, 1824. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                        Boteourt Springs November 15[th 1824]

My dear Sally,

Your letter was received about five weeks ago and you will scarcely believe me when I tell you that I have been so busy since that time that I have not had time to write a line.

I did not wish to have any work to bring with me as I . . . plain work of every kind and I was unable to bring Cinthia as she took it into her head to get married about a year ago and it keeps her and myself pretty busy making the children's aprons and the rest of their cloathes [clothes]. I have with me a girl about eleven years old and she is my able[?] [?]endance. However she takes as good care of the children as any old woman and my youngest requires very little nursing as she walks and says every thing.

I had a most fatiguing journey shut up in the carriage and we were nine days on the road. Betsy was very sick for two or three days after my arrival in consequence of fatigue I suppose. She has recovered her usual health now.

Poor Mrs. Nat Burwell died a day or two after my arrival here of a bilious fever having a family of young children. The girls went to hear the funeral sermon and returned yesterday. I could not leave Betsy or carry her as she was too unwell.

I was afraid to undertake the road by your house as it is much worse than the one through the valley. However if nothing should happen to prevent it I am going down to visit Grandpapa and will go on from there to see you. 

Fanny and Mary I think are uncommonly sweet girls. I am distressed to find them situated as they are. I wish papa would be prevailed upon to have a separate house for his family to live in. I suppose papa will let them go down with me as I am anxious to have them with me as much as possible and it will afford the, great pleasure to visit their grandpapa and aunts.

Papa went to Richmond a few days before my arrival and has not returned yet but is expected back every day. I hope papa will be compensated for all the trouble and expense he has been at in fit[t]ing up this place for company. 

I think the cabins are delightfully planned. They are so much more private than those at the other springs.

You must excuse my not writing a longer letter as John has a very sore foot and I am knit[t]ing a coarse sock for him to wear over his other one and wish to finish it to day.

With my love to Mr. Massie and Tom I must bid you farewell and believe me to be yours affectinately
                                                L. H. Ambler

[L. H. Ambler = Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler (1800-1888) married Thomas Marshall Ambler (1791-1875) on April 14, 1819. Their main abode was "Morven," Fauquier County, Virginia, from about 1820 on. For a link, see here. 

Three children = Lucy Letitia Ambler (1820-1853), John C. Ambler (1821-1891) and Elizabeth "Betsy" Steptoe Ambler (January 20, 1823-1900).

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Cinthea / Cynthia = probably an enslaved servant. 

Mrs. Nat Burwell =  Lucy Carter Burwell (1789-November 10, 1824), spouse of Nathaniel "Nat" Burwell (1785-1866). Elizabeth Ann Carter Burwell (1810-1861), one of their daughters, would marry Frederick Johnston (1804-1893), the letter-writer's half-brother, in 1834. 

Papa = Charles Johnston (1769-1833), residing at Botetourt Springs, Virginia.

Grandpapa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

Fanny and Mary = Frances "Fanny" Steptoe Johnston (1807-after 1850) and Mary Morris Johnston (1810-1884).]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]    

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, June 10, 1824

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne at Oakly [at or near Lynchburg, Virginia] to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Nelson County, Virginia, June 10, 1824. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                      Oakly June 10th 1824

My dear Sally

The Doctor came out this morning and I promised if he would come out this evening I would have a letter to send you, I have nothing interesting to tell; but do not wish to disappoint him, for he seems anxious to let you hear all the news in these parts.

I went up to Papa's last Sunday and went on to the Academy to hear Cousin Sophy Reid's funeral sermon, Patsy and Nathan were much more distressed than any of the family. Papa listened with uncommon attention and evidently felt a great deal.

I went to see Mrs. Irvine while I was up the old Lady is very much distressed at the idea of leaving the place; she says she thinks it will almost kill her to give it up.

Polly looks very large, tho her face is as fair and as delicate as I ever saw it.

I hope Sally the measles will not prevent your coming up one day later you need not to fear them at all, I did not pretend to keep my children from them, I consider it a trifling complaint with the least care, do hurry on for we are extremely anxious to see you.

I should like to go down and come with you up mostly to be company for you on the road, but in this unhappy world we have but few of our wishes gratified.

I have not seen Lucy since I saw you, Papa talks of her constantly, and seems as if he would give worlds to see her; but thinks Mr. Penn dislikes to mix about with the world, and keeps Lucy at home with him; he says he wants yo see you more than ever so I hope with all our anxiety you will hasten the time.

                              My love to Mr. Massie
                                 Your affectionate sister 
                                    Frances Langhorne 

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818. Other children included Elizabeth Johnston(e) Langhorne (1821-1888) and James Steptoe Langhorne (1822-1905). 

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of "Papa," James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here

The Doctor = probably Dr. Thomas Massie II (1783-1864); possibly Dr. William Steptoe (1791-1862). 

Catherine "Cate" Reid = probably related to, Major John Reid (1784-January 18, 1816), aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson, born in or near New London, Virginia, then based in Tennessee; and Maria Frances Thompson Reid (died January 1816?). They apparently had a daughter named Sophia or Sophie/Sophy Reid. Jack Reid was directly related to Nathan Reid (1753-1830), who had married Sophia Thorpe(s) in 1784. Other Reid family members lived around New London and Lynchburg, Virginia. Jack Reid was working on a biography of Andrew Jackson at the time of his death.

Patsy and Nathan = not sure who they were.

Mrs. Irvine = possibly Polly Irvine's mother. 

Polly = possibly Mary B. Irvine, who married Dr. Paul C. Cabell in 1823.

Lucy and Mr. Penn = Lucinda “Lucy” Steptoe Penn had married Robert Cowan Penn (1789-1856) in 1814]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, April 10, 1824

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne at Oakly [at or near Lynchburg, Virginia] to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Nelson County, Virginia, April 10, 1824. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

Dear Sally

Tom went from here yesterday and would have gone on to Nelson but for his having promised Mr. Johnston to go down with the girls some time this month, he is a complete man of pleasure and does nothing but ride about, I hope their good company and the fine weather will recover you so far as to be able to come up with them for I never was an anxious to see you in my life and nothing but my clumsy and unsightly appearance has kept me from you so long, I have been prevented from going out for the last month in consequence of my very delicate form, but would have gone to see Mrs. Bradfute today, who is just from Richmond but for one of hour horses being lame.

Mr. Langhorne was to see Papa a week ago he says he is in fine spirits, nothing would do but Jack must stay with him.

I am very much afraid he will not be as well managed as he was at your house last fall every person who saw Jack said they never had seen a child so improved.

I suppose you knew Cate Reid was married, her husband is very sick with the bilious fever I was very much diverted at Uncle Tom Callaway a few days ago, he said he expected if Cate had not have married him the very day she did she never would have married that he always thought her like a fickle day in April. 

I hope you will keep Miss Peggy with you until you come up which I hope will not be long it may produce as good an effect as it did some years ago when you said you mended every mile.

My eye has become so very weak and blind that I can neither write or read much without it being very painful to me.

Do take all the care of yourself and get well and come up with Fanny and Mary as your trip will be rendered more agreeably by their good company.

My love to Miss Peggy Mr. Massie and the rest of you all.
                                        your affectionate Sister
                                         Frances Langhorne

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818. Other children included Elizabeth Johnston(e) Langhorne (1821-1888) and James Steptoe Langhorne (1822-1905). 

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of "Papa," James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here

Tom = presumably Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880). 

Mr. Johnston, the girls = Charles Johnston (1769-1833), residing at Botetourt Springs, Virginia; Frances “Fanny” Steptoe Johnston (1807-after 1850) and Mary Morris Johnston (1810-1884).

Mrs. Bradfute = mother, aunt or sister-in-law of Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), who was a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816), as was her sister Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855). Their brother Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831) married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and he served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866). 

Papa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

Jack = not sure who this is. 

Cate Reid = Catherine "Cate" Reid = probably related to, Major John Reid (1784-January 18, 1816), aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson, born in or near New London, Virginia, then based in Tennessee; and Maria Frances Thompson Reid (died January 1816?). They apparently had a daughter named Sophia Reid. Jack Reid was directly related to Nathan Reid (1753-1830), who had married Sophia Thorpe in 1784. Other Reid family members lived around New London and Lynchburg, Virginia. Jack Reid was working on a biography of Andrew Jackson at the time of his death.

Uncle Tom Callaway =   Thomas Callaway (1789-1877).]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Charles Clement Johnston to John Preston, February 8, 1824

[Charles Clement Johnston at Abingdon to Gen'l John Preston via Cloverdale post office, Botetourt County Virginia, February 8, 1824. Box 25, Folder 5, Robert Morton Hughes Papers, Special Collections and University Archives, Patricia W. and J. Douglas Perry Library, Old Dominion University Libraries, Norfolk, VA 23529. This is my rough transcription. Instances of the "long s" in the original have been modernized and paragraph breaks added for easier reading.]

My Dear Sir

To do away any uneasiness you and the family may feel about my wife, I write to assure you of her rapid convalescence she is now so well that she sets up nearly the whole day in an easy chair without either difficulty or fatigue. Your Grandson (for I believe we claim the credit of giving you the first and only one) is, according to all the gossips, quite a large, fine boy, and he already exhibited the usual prognostics of future genius: he is however at present more remarkable for a greediness that can't be satisfied, than any thing else.

My wife begs that you will send up her grey mare and saddle by the first safe opportunity. Susan expects to accompany Mrs. McDowell on her return and the mare will probably be waiting for her. As I have no use for the large horse I hope you will keep him as long as yu have any use for him. Hyder Ally has recovered almost entirely from his founder, but his eyes are still clouded and the best ferriers here think he will never regain use of his eyes, and that he will probably be entirely blind in a few months: he is now well enough to travel. What shall be done with him?

Present me affectionately to the family and believe me yours sincerely
                                                              Ch.s C. Johnston  

[Eliza Madison Preston Johnston (1803-1828) married Charles Clement Johnston (1795-1832), probably at Greenfield, on December 29, 1822. 
Their son, John Preston Johnston (1824-1847), was born on February 1, 1824, at or near Abingdon.
John Preston (1764-1827) = Eliza's father.
Susan = Susanna Smith Preston (1805-1857)
Mrs. McDowell = probably Susanna Smith Preston McDowell (1800-1847), a daughter of Francis Smith Preston (1765-1835) and wife of James McDowell (1795-1851). 
Horse named for Hyder Ally (circa 1720-1782), a ruler in Mysore, India, in the previous century.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]

Charles Clement Johnston to Mary Valentine Wood Johnston, July 14, 1824

[Charles Clement Johnston at Greenfield (near Fincastle) to Mary Valentine Wood Johnston (at Panecillo) near Abingdon, Virginia, July 14, 1825. Box 25, Folder 5, Robert Morton Hughes Papers, Special Collections and University Archives, Patricia W. and J. Douglas Perry Library, Old Dominion University Libraries, Norfolk, VA 23529.]

My Dear Mother,

As my wife seems rather slow in performing the promise I made to you for her, I feel bound to comply with it myself. We reached Greenfield Tuesday week after a journey as pleasant as could well be considering that we were melted to a jelly during the day and kept awake all night by poor little John who was quite ill during much of our progress.

The major went to the springs the morning after our arrival here in the hope of meeting with my father but learned that he had left them the day before, for home.

John has been for several days rapidly recovering from a bowel complaint that alarmed us for a time: he is now quite well and is recovering his strength & spirits very fast. I think he has been indebted for his cure to a change we made in his nurse, since he began to mend immediately from that day.

We went to the Springs last Saturday and spent the day there, leaving Sister Louisa who returned to day bringing the girls with her: I am glad to see her in fine spirits; I think that her health has improved even in this short time.

Some company has begun to collect at the springs: there are now there about 10 or 15 principally from South Carolina. Among them is Dr. Huger who has brought a letter from Major Garden to my father whom he supposed at the Springs.

I expect that we shall reach home this day fortnight. Eliza & Louisa send their love to you, my father, and the family.

                                            I remain your affectionate
                                                                 Ch.s C. Johnston 

[Mary Valentine Wood Johnston (1769-June 17, 1825). On the lookout for letters written by her. 
My father = Peter Johnston, Jr. (1763-1831)
Charles Clement Johnston (1795-1832)
My wife = Eliza aka Elizabeth Madison Preston Johnston (1803-1828)
John = John Preston Johnston (1824-1847)
Greenfield = Preston estate near Fincastle, Virginia.
The major = Peter Carr Johnston (1793-1877)
The Springs = Charles Johnston's Botetourt Springs, only twelve or thirteen miles from Fincastle.
Sister Louisa = Louisa Smith Bowen Johnston (1800-1873)
The girls = probably Susan = Susanna Smith Preston (1805-1857) and Sarah = Sarah Radford Preston (1806-1848)
Dr. Huger = Dr. Francis Kinlock Huger (1773-1855)
Major Garden = Alexander Garden (1757-1829)]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]

Charles Clement Johnston to John Preston, May 13, 1824

[Charles Clement Johnston at Wythe Court-house, to Gen'l John Preston, Cloverdale post office, Botetourt County, Virginia. Box 25, Folder 5, Robert Morton Hughes Papers, Special Collections and University Archives, Patricia W. and J. Douglas Perry Library, Old Dominion University Libraries, Norfolk, VA 23529.]

My Dear Sir

Continued absence on my spring circuit has prevented me from sooner answering your last.

I have not yet succeeded in obtaining from Shugart and Wife their Deed for the "White house": he is illy disposed, obstinate, and very hard to manage. I have tried several different expedients with him and hope now to succeed in the course of two or three weeks. As soon as I do so you shall be duly informed.

I have been extremely sorry that it has been proved to be entirely out of my power to attend the present term of the Chancery Court in Richmond. I had hoped that I might be able to do so and had made an arrangement of my business for that purpose, but unexpected and important professional engagements have put it completely out of my power.

I do not think it however at all likely that our cause will come in for trial this Term: if it does not, it will be in my power to attend the term of the Court in January. In the meantime, if there is any testimony to be taken in the country on referring me to the names of the witnesses and the facts wished to be proved, I will in person attend the examination of the witnesses.

Edward is progressing in his studies, not rapidly as he might do, but evidently to advantage. For the last three months I have not been able to superintend or control him, as I have generally been absent from home. I will however soon have more leisure, and can and will give him more assistance and attention.

Since in your last letter to Edward you have favoured us fully with your future views in relation to him (which if I may be allowed to express an opinion, seems to me to be very judicious) I shall think it advisable to change in some respects his course of studies. I prefer to direct his chief attention and efforts to those branches of study most essentially necessary to qualify him for the course at West Point. Which, therefore, I could by no means have him neglect his Latin (a grammatical acquaintance with which is absolutely necessary) yet think it would better that he should particularly endeavor to read with facilty and distinctness, to write fast legibly and well, and to become well versed in arithmetic. Let him learn not merely to do these things, but to do them well and they form the most solid foundation for an education practically valuable. 

I hope these opinions are suited to your views: if they are not, or if at any time you wish changes made respecting Edward, I beg that you will tell me candidly and promptly and your wishes, whatever they may be will be cheerfully complied with. I have concluded on sending Edward to Walker on account of his excellence in the branches of education just mentioned.

John Floyd, who was here on yesterday, informs me that Mrs. Floyd has been very ill with a bilious fever: the crisis of her disease is now thought to be over.

Eliza, Edward, John and all your friends are [well]. I leave it to my wife to tell you all well [rapi]dly your namesake grows and how sprightly and garrulous (I mean noisy, for he can't quite talk yet) he is.  

Present me affectionately to Mrs. Preston, Susan and Sarah and to William and his family and believe me with respect & affection

                                                                   your obd't
                                                                         Ch. C. Johnston

[p.s.] We are for Jackson as well as you -- tomorrow we have in Abingdon a Town Meeting for him. 

[John Preston (1764-1827), a brother of Francis Smith Preston (1765-1836).  Her was a brigadier general in the militia and, until 1819, Treasurer of Virginia. By this time, his finances were in disarray and he owed the Commonwealth a vast amount of money.  
Charles Clement Johnston (1795-1832)
Eliza aka Elizabeth Madison Preston Johnston (1803-1828)
John Preston Johnston (1824-1847)
Shugart = Zacharia Shugart (1764-1835)

Edward = Edward Carrington Preston (1812-1836). Probably as a political favor to John Preston, Andrew Jackson sent a recommendation on his behalf to John Caldwell Calhoun, for entry into the US Military Academy at West Point, when he was still fourteen! I think he ended up at Georgetown and later moved to Louisiana, where he died at age 25.  

John Floyd (1783-1837)
Mrs. Floyd = Letitia Preston Floyd (1776-1852), a sister of John Preston and Francis Smith Preston. 

Mrs. Preston = Elizabeth Ann Carrington Mayo Preston (1768-1839)
Susan = Susanna Smith Preston (1805-1857)
Sarah = Sarah Radford Preston (1806-1848)
William = William Radford Preston (1798-1846)]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]