Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, October 23, 1827

[Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne at Chestnut Hill, Virginia to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Tye River Mills, Nelson [County, Virginia,] October 23, 1827. Postmarked Lynchburg October 26. 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.]

                                Chestnut Hill 23rd Oct 1827
Dear Sally

I am sorry to informa you that James is not recovering as fast as his friends a few d ays ago, had a right to expect, some symptoms I understand still remain of an unpleasant character.

[D]o not let me give you unnecessary alarm, you know I am easily alarmed in cases of sickness, & having undertaken to give you a true account of his situation I feel it a duty to do so.

My Brother Wm. was here a few days ago & requested me to inform you or rather Mr. Massie that he intended selling 12 or 15 of his negroes & among those he could most conveniently spare were Leah & her family, & if Wm. wanted to own them & it should not be convenient to pay money for them, that he would exchange them for other negroes.

We have all had a return of the ague & fever, I am very unwell myself. 

Fanny joins me in love to one & all
                                                yours sincerely
                                                     H S Langhorne
[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. "Sally" is probably a reference to their baby daughter, Sarah Massie "Sally" Langhorne (1826-1881). 

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-July 28, 1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of 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

James = James Callaway Steptoe (1781-October 24, 1827), married to Catherine "Kitty" Mitchell (1780-1858) since 1808. 

The attending Physicians probably included Dr. William Steptoe (1791-1862) and perhaps indirectly Dr. James Townes Royall (circa 1797-1860), who had married Charles Johnston's daughter Frances Steptoe Johnston (circa 1807-after 1850), in Botetourt County on December 27, 1825.

My brother William = William Callaway Langhorne (1783-1858). 

Ague = malaria or something that caused similar reactions.]

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

Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, October 18, 1827

[Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne at Chestnut Hill, Virginia to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Tye River Mills, Nelson [County, Virginia,] October 18, 1827. Postmarked Lynchburg October 19. 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.]

                                      Chestnut Hill Oct 18th 1827
Dear Sally

Miss Peggy Bradfute is with us & informs me that James is certainly on the mend & that his Physicians entertain no doubt of his recovery.

Frances has a return of the ague. Sally has recovered so far as to miss[?] her ague for the last four days.

Excuse this very short letter for I am really unwell. I have imprudently exposed myself & apprehend a relapse.

                                               yours sincerely
                                                          Henry S. Langhorne

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. "Sally" is probably a reference to their baby daughter, Sarah Massie "Sally" Langhorne (1826-1881). 

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-July 28, 1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of 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

Miss Peggy Bradfute = Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (1788-1833).

James = James Callaway Steptoe (1781-October 24, 1827), married to Catherine "Kitty" Mitchell (1780-1858) since 1808. 

The Physicians probably included Dr. William Steptoe (1791-1862) and perhaps indirectly Dr. James Townes Royall (circa 1797-1860), who had married Charles Johnston's daughter Frances Steptoe Johnston (circa 1807-after 1850), in Botetourt County on December 27, 1825.

Ague = malaria or something that caused similar reactions.]

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

Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, October 3, 1827

[Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne at Chestnut Hill, Virginia to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Tye River Mills, Nelson [County, Virginia,] October 3, 1827. Postmarked Lynchburg October 5. 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.]

                                                           Chestnut Hill 3rd Oct 1827
Dear Sally

I received by Mrs. Royal [Royall] your letter 30th ultimo & am sorry & much surprised that you have never been informed of James' situation. I intended when I wrote you to have gone up to see him last [S]unday but the [F]riday before my wife & both my little daughters were taken sick of the ague & fever & in a few hours afterwards I was taken with a most violent ague succeeded by a very high fever for about 12 hours. 

I have since had two agues & have never been clear of fever until about 2 o'clock last night.

Fanny & the children are on the mend & I am certainly much better than any person could have supposed for one who was so dreadfully sick about 18 hours ago.

Doc't Rose was sent for to visit James yesterday, he went up last night in the night & came to my house to day at ten o'clock  -- he says James is in great danger, but still thinks him in the power of medicine, your brother Wm. thinks his case I understand a very Doubtful one. 

In giving you a statement of James' situation I have concealed nothing, the way I wish my friends similarly circumstanced to act towards me.

I will by every mail write to you. I asked Mr. Nelson to write for me yesterday thinking I should not be able to day to do so, he may probably still do so unless the servant who carries this letter to the office should see him.
                                             yours sincerely
                                                    H Langhorne

P.S. Fanny desires me to say to you that Baker the Dentist is now in town & in ten days a much more celebrated Dentist by the name of Roper[?] will be here.    

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

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-July 28, 1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of 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

Dr. James Townes Royall (circa 1797-1860) had married Charles Johnston's daughter Frances Steptoe Johnston (circa 1807-after 1850), in Botetourt County on December 27, 1825.

James = James Callaway Steptoe (1781-October 24, 1827), married to Catherine "Kitty" Mitchell (1780-1858) since 1808. 

Brother Wm. = Dr. William Steptoe (1791-1862).

Ague = malaria or something that caused similar reactions.]

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

Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, May 17, 1827

[Peggy Bradfute [at or near New London/Lynchburg, Virginia], to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie [at Pharsalia, Rose Mills,] Nelson [County, Virginia,] May 17, 1827. 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.]

                                                                        May 17th 1827

Derar Sally

as I am about to pay a visit to the Country I fell a disposition to give you a short scrall [scrawl]; I send you a bunch of the Perpetual  flowers; I don't know the name as they wear [were] found in the Street; plant them in a box, I think they are beautiful & will try to find out the name for you; they have the smell of life Everlasting & i [I] think that a very good name.

Sister Maria & her Sisters spent a day with Frances last week. She was very well; & in fine Spirits. Mr. L [Langhorne] was in [R]ichmond, he has returned & I hope has brought Mrs. Midleton, as he had some hope of doing. Miss Endee has left them to there [their] joy.

[O]h my dear Sally I presume from the Papers you have seen the conduct of Seth Ward; was every misery like this Imagination cannot conceive; or Pen describe the unparalleled distress it has occationed [occasioned]. Poor old Father & Mother, Wife & Children Brothers & Sisters. [A]llmost [almost] a death blow; to all, I think it will shorten the Parents' days; excessive Grief has abated somewhat & at times a little chearful [cheerful]/ [H]e was arrested in this place & Proof was so positive was committed to jail. Stayed one knight [night], from thence to Bottetourt [Botetourt] * was try'd [tried' by Magistrate & was Baild [bailed] until Court went Home to his Family only stay'd two days & made his escape never to be heard of again. I hope what a depraved wretch. He is only five Hundred dollars. Ben became his bail. 

Mrs. Walker is mending your Friends are well your Brother William's Family is now in Town come down to see the Circus we are all well Love to all enquiring Friends how do you like your Maid I hope well pleas'd.

[E]xcuse this short Letter as I have one to write to my Sister Haz[el?] I have not written her for twelve months nor heard from her.

                  yours affectionately P Bradfure

[p.s.] [Y]ou must not fail to write; don't let my being in the country prevent as i [I] shall be at Mrs. Radfords. I beg'd Mr. Massie to let you come over & see us all & I would take the rounds with you & see all your friends but he did not promise but live in hopes he intended to perform don't failt to come I never wanted to see you as much in my life.  

[Sally = 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).

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

Seth Ward = there was a Seth Ward from Lynchburg (1798-circa 1830), but not sure of the circumstances.

Your Brother William = Dr. William Steptoe (1791-1862) and family.]

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

Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, April 8, 1827

[Peggy Bradfute [at or near New London/Lynchburg, Virginia], to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie [at Pharsalia, Rose Mills,] Nelson [County, Virginia,] April 8, 1827. 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.]

                                                         April 8 1827

My Dear Friend

I hope you will except [accept] my most Greatful [grateful] thanks for your expected favours, as I have nothing else to offer but my earnest Prayer for your present & Future Happiness; you surprise me very much when you say you did not hear from me by Ned.

I have sent to know of your Cousin Daniel he sends me word Dr. Massie carried it; no doubt you will get it; I had only time to say a few things.

I have not seen Mr, Massie as yet; I fear he will treat me as formerly as to visiting you nothing would give me more Pleasure; but you will[?] well know my objection, I don't like to give so much trouble. I flatter myself to see you this Summer or fall as you have every convenience, & I think you ought to come to see your Poor afflicted Sister; if nothing else will induce you, it seems if misfortune never comes Single; Jack Langhorne had another fit a few days past; it being the third one it was not as violent as a former one; I have not seen any of the Family since. Miss Endee is still with them. 

I wish you would come & see her; for i [I] think her an object of great pity indeed; I stayed with her several days & I cannot express my feelings; when I was coming away she seemed so loth [loath] to give me up. I was not very well & I had not seen a well day since a few days past have had the influenzy [influenza] which has taken all my Flesh; if I go to the country this Summer I shall go to see Lucy Penn; as I am under a Promise. 

Do come & go with me. I was surprised to hear of the Doct[or's] Intention; I am glad that all drive on so well; I think you don't seem to have much communication.

[G]ive my love to your Mama. I have not forgotten her that is of the receipts [recipes] i [I] send her as Proof; I have been afraid to ask until a few days ago & she gave it with the Greatest Pleasure.

I regret the death of your Rose Mrs. Brown has 3 if they live; will give you one for a yellow jessamine, I have no flower seed not can't get any. [I]s your Christanthus [Chrysanthos] alive or not if not I have some growing finely will give you some in the fall.

I am so hurried I have hardly time to give you any knews [news]. I am sorry to inform you of Old Mrs. Walker's illness; she has been ill for some time & no hopes of her recovery. [I]t is very Sickly Patrick Burton Lost his Wife this Week taken one day & died the next; Leaveing [leaving] 8 Children she was a Miss Scott. I expect you knew her. Sam Harrison has been very ill for the last week & a Number of others. 

I was Sorry [to] hear of Ally's[?] death & of your Maid's accident. I will not for your comfort give you a Statement of the Maid you have lately bought I have seen Mr. Whitlock & was particular in enquiring about her he said he would give me his candid opinion about her & said he thought her the best Servant he had; she is a[n] excellent Semstress [Seamstress] can make nice Ruffles Shirts Pantaloons & Waistcoating but don't cut out & one of the best nurses in a Sick Room & Chamber Maid he ever saw; but not accustomed to cleaning the House or waiting; he thinks her as good a Servant as he ever saw; as I fear they will call before I close must conclud[e] by saying I send you some Scaly Barkes [barks] & Thomas Some Cakes farewell my Dear Friend until I see you on this side of James River respects to all Friends & believe me, ever yours affectionately 
                                                              Peggy Bradfute 

PS the Funeral Sermon of your dear Father is at Mr. Langhorne's. I sent word last week to send it to you but they have not done so. Poor Fittilyde[?] Milly is dead a great relief to her Mother excuse this Horrid Scrall [scrawl]  

[Sally = 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).

Ned = not sure who this is.

Cousin Daniel = not sure who this is. 

Doc't = Dr. Thomas Massie II (1782-1864), married to Sarah Ann Carrington Cabell Massie (1795-1831) since 1826.

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

Patrick Burton = Dr. Philip Patrick Burton (1795-1875); his wife, Emily William Scott Burton (1790-1827), died on April 5, 1827, and was buried in Lynchburg. 

Lucy Penn = Lucinda “Lucy” Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), who married Robert Cowan Penn (1789-1854) in 1814. Their Bedford County, Virginia, estate was named "St. Helena."

Langhorne = Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" 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” Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818. Their only surviving daughter was Elizabeth Johnston(e) Langhorne (1821-1888). Two other brothers also lived: James (1822-1905) and Thomas (1828-1889).

Your father = James Steptoe (1750-1826).]

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

Martha Butler Johnston to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie, April 30, 1827

Morven in 2007. Near Markham, Fauquier, Virginia. Photo by Jerrye & Roy Klotz, MD via Wiki Commons.

[Martha Butler Johnston at Morven, about three miles south of Markham, Fauquier County, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Tye River Mill post office, [Nelson, Virginia,] April 30, 1827. Postmarked Farrowsville, Virginia, May 12, 1827. 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 Aunt,

I will now comply with your request that I should write to you when I arrived at this place. 

Mary & Papa started from here on Friday as they expected. I suppose they have reach'd their place of destination by this time. 

I have spent my time very agreeably since I have been here, amusing my self with reading, and playing with the children which is very fine amusement I can assure you. Mr. Ambler has some delightful books. 

Mrs. Brooks I suppose you have heard us speak of very often, was here yesterday. [S]he is visiting about in the neighborhood and when she returns home, she intends conveying me with here and from there I shall go to the Convention in Fredericksburg. I am very much pleased with the idea as you may expect. 

I have been to only one place since I have been here, I am not acquainted with any person in the neighborhood; there are no other persons in this neighborhood but Marshalls, and all that I have seen are as ugly as sin but they are very kind and hospitable people.

We called at the University as we expected, and were very much pleased with it, particularly the Rotunda, which I think is a very fine building, we stayed there about 2 hours. 

We were at a great Play the night-before we reached this place it was at Culpeper Ct. House, we arrived there about 4 o'clock in the evening, at a very good tavern, and we ascertained after we got there that there was no public house nearer that 15 miles so we thought it best to stay there all night and in the meantime go to the Play acted by a Party of Thesbians.

We met with a relation (at C. Ct. house) that we had never seen before. His name was Slaughter.

My Dear Aunt I think my little stock is now exhausted so with this, this brief and uninteresting epistle.

I must conclude with my love to Mr. Massie and Thomas and receive a share for yourself. Farewell and believe me ever your affectionate Neice.
                                                        MarB Johnston
                                                           Martha

NB I expect you will laugh heartily at this both at the writing and composition.  MBJ

[Martha = Martha Butler Johnston (1814-1836) later died on the Mrs. E.R. Tucker plantation near Natchez, Mississippi, aged twenty-one. She was twelve when she wrote this letter. 

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-July 28, 1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of 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.

Mary = Mary Morris Johnston (1810-1884). 

Papa = Charles Johnston (1769-1833). 

Mr. Ambler = Major Thomas Marshall Ambler (1791-1875), husband of Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler (1800-1888). They had four young <children> by this time, with a son on the way. 

Mrs. Brooks = family friend. 

Marshalls = relatives of Major Ambler's.  

Slaughter = Judith Steptoe Pickett (1772-1805) had married a Slaughter. The person they met in Culpeper was probably Arthur Slaughter (1798-1875) or one of Judith's other children.] 

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

Elizabeth Ann Macon Heath to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, December 21, 1827

[Elizabeth Ann Macon Heath at Richmond, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at Pharsalia, Nelson County, [Virginia]. December 21, 1827. "Politeness of Doc't Massie."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.]

                                       Richmond Dec'r 21st 1827
Dear Sally

Your kind letter by Mr. Saunders has remained unanswered much longer than I intended, in consequence of my spending the greater part of last month in the country, and finding much to employ me on my return home; together with almost constant indisposition. 

My personal situation (of which you may guess) contributes very greatly to unpleasant feelings, but in addition to this (which is hard enough to be borne) for the last fortnight, I have been troubled with the old stomach complaint, from which I have suffered considerably. I hope however if it pleases heaven to spare my unprofitable life, that a few months more will relive me, & restore to something like tolerable health again.

It always affords me real pleasure to hear from you, and I was particularly gratified to learn by my brother Miles & the Doc't that you were as well as usual when they left you.I have tho' been recently pained by the Doct['s] information concerning your late attack; which the old gentleman wrote him , had been quite a severe one, & had left you much debilitated, I sincerely hope that in this, you have recovered from it, & that with care, you may get through the winter tolerably well.

This my dear friend, is a life of sorrow & suffering under almost any circumstances, and it behooves us, while we are so frequently reminded bu sickness, of an eternal state to prepare seriously for it. O' may it be the happy lot of you & I, to do so, that when death comes, we shall meet it with composure, & not dread.

The buckskin jackett [jacket] that you requested to be sent for, has been ordered from New York, but I fear has not arrived. [T]he Doc't told me yesterday, that he understood from Mr. Hale it was on its way here; if it does not come to day, in time for him to carry, it can go when John (who I suppose will ride down with his master) returns, or by Mr. Saunders, who expects to visit you about the 1st of January. I hope it will suit, & that you will find it beneficial.

I was pleased to find, from Sarah's letter, that she took such interest in her Mama & the baby. I am sure from all I hear that the Doc'r['s] wife will do every thing in her power to make his children happy & contented, & it is the least they can do, to requite it, by kindness to herself & offspring.

You expressed a wish in your last to hear something from our friend in Italy. [W]e received about two months since,a letter from Mr. Cocke, informing us, that he intended to spend this winter & spring in Rome. [H]is health is still very delicate, but hers has been perfectly good, since she left home they write in as good spirits as can be expected, have seen a great deal to amuse & instruct them, but do not speak of returning to their native land, for some time yet. [T]he prospect of seeing them again, will you know, afford me, unspeakable pleasure.

Mr. Heath's ankle has for six weeks past, been improving very much. [H]e walks about the house with the assistance of a cane quite smartly, and altho' it is frequently thrown back by little twists or slips of the foot, yet I hope, after a while. he will get the entire use of it.

My two older boys are quite hearty -- they both go to school now, which is a great relief to me. James is well, except for an eruption, which has nearly covered his face, & I fear will shock his body -- it is very uncomfortable to him I suppose, for he is fretful enough.

Write to me when you are all able. I feel anxious to hear how you have gotten. Mr. Heath unites me in best wishes for the health & happiness of you all, & believe me your sincere friend.
                                                          E A Heath

PS When John comes down, if you have any commissions to execute here, let me know & I will attend to them with pleasure.

[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.

Elizabeth Ann Macon Heath (1801-1868), spouse of James Ewell Heath (1792-1862), Virginia state (commonwealth) auditor, author and editor. Associate of Edgar Allan Poe's (1809-1849). 

Children = William (1821-1836), Richard (1822-1856) and Ellen Heath (1837-1860). James may have been another son who died young. 

Brother Miles = Miles Cary Macon (1791-1852). Miles Cary Macon, Jr. (1836-1865), a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, died at Appomattox the day before Lee's surrender.

Sarah = Sarah Maria Massie (circa 1810-1844),  daughter of "the Doc't" Dr. Thomas Massie II (1782-1864) and stepdaughter of Sarah Ann Carrington Cabell Massie (1795-1831) since 1826. The baby referred to was Annie Cabell Massie (August 10, 1827-February 1829).]

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

Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, November 23, 1827

[Peggy Bradfute [at or near New London, Virginia], to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie [at Pharsalia, Rose Mills,] Nelson [County, Virginia,] November 23, 1827. 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 23 1827

Dear Sally

I was agreeably surprised this morning, to have my Old Friend Mr. Massie to Breakfast with us & I soon commenced a quarrel at you; but he told me to cease for he had a Letter for me; he seemed quite astonish'd when I told him I had written you 3 Letters, & had never received a line; I wrote you about 3 Weeks ago my Mail a Melancholy Letter; which I presume as Mr. Massie knew nothing about it it has gone to the Courthouse.

[Y]ou will now admit I can assure you my heart is often with you & my inclination; but haveing [having] been 5 months from Home feel loth [loathe] to Leave it again Soon.

Grace desires her Love to you [and] thanks you kindly for your invitation; & says [it would] give her great pleausure to visit you, but the inconvenience of geting [getting] their [there] & back prevents her & is a great objection with me also.

I told Mr. Massie I had tir[e]d him out befor[e] he would not acknowled [acknowledged] it, I must give you a short letter as it is 9 O Clock; & my Eyes are very dim having had Sore Eyes Lately.

I told Mr. Massie to tell you if you wanted me to write you often; you must make ma a present of a Pair of Spectacles; & you will see by this scrall [scrawl] that is no joke so you need not expect but a Short Letter.

[P]lease present my Love to Sarah & say I searched the town for the Lace, & have sent her the best I could get; I fear it is not wide enough; could have gotten a plenty of very wide but hope that will answer; I must now conclude by saying i [I] believe it will be useless to say any thing to the Miss Tasses[?] on the Subject you mentioned; for I don't think they would seperate [separate].

[Y]or Friends are all well as far as I know. I understand poor Lucy Penn is in a thriveing [thriving] condition. Fanny L [Langhorne's] Agues are better but looks badly. I was sorry to hear your health is still delicate;  no time for knews [news] yours affectionately

                                                              Peggy Bradfute  

[Sally = 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).

Grace = Grace Bradfute (1792-1861). She married Peyton Leftwich (1768/9-1859) at Lynchburg in 1831.

Sarah = Sarah Maria Massie (circa 1810-1844),  daughter of Dr. Thomas Massie II (1782-1864) and stepdaughter of Sarah Ann Carrington Cabell Massie (1795-1831) since 1826.

Lucy Penn = Lucinda “Lucy” Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), who married Robert Cowan Penn (1789-1854) in 1814. Their Bedford County, Virginia, estate was named "St. Helena."]

Fanny L = Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" 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. Their only surviving daughter was Elizabeth Johnston(e) Langhorne (1821-1888). Two other brothers also lived: James (1822-1905) and Thomas (1828-1889).

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

Elizabeth Ann Macon Heath to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, March 24, 1827

Sarah Maria Massie, circa 1825, first posted by Leroy Keller (via Ancestry)

[Elizabeth Ann Macon Heath at Richmond, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Tye River Mills, Nelson County, [Virginia]. March 24, 1827. Postmarked Richmond, March 29, 1827. 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.]

                                            Richmond March 24th 1827
Dear Sally,

You have doubtless thought ere this, that I meant to pay you in your own coin by not replying sooner to your letter; but I assure you a spirit of retaliation has not at all actuated me. I have been intending to write for several weeks past, but something or other has prevented me doing so; However I hope you will not judge of me as a correspondent from the specimen I have given, but will promise to be more punctual in future.

You have probably seen Mrs. Waller who has told you all the news, for the members generally carry it all with them, and since their departure the town has been emphatically dull. I believe she was on the whole pleased with her visit here, tho' towards the last was anxious to return home: Eliza Garland was quite admired, but I have not heard that her beaux intend visiting New Glasgow.

I was much pleased to learn that Mr. Massie's health had so much improved & yours also pretty good. The medicine which has relieved him, I tried last summer, before I went up the country, but did not find much beneficial from it, which proves, that our complaints were not exactly of the same character.

[I]f he continues to fatten at the same ratio you mention, I think he will find it difficult to get a horse (even over the mountain) large & strong enough to carry him.

My health I am happy to inform you has continued to be good during the winter. I have had but three attacks since my return home, & those not very severe. I have been able to eat almost any thing with impunity --  my appetite tho' has been quite moderate, not as it was with you last summer almost voracious; so there is not much danger of over eating myself.

I shall ever attribute my recovery (with the blessing of God) to the kind treatment & good medical advice I received among you. I hope I shall ever feel gratified for the same. I often think of the pleasant hours I spent with you & almost wish I could recall them.

How did you manage to keep yourself warm during the severe weather we experienced this winter? [I]t was a difficult nature with the largest fires we could make to be comfortable here & it must have been colder in your country, particularly at your delightful summer habitation. I frequently thought of the Big Mountain, & the keen winds it would send upon you -- if you escaped getting cold then I think you need not fear in future. 

I am sorry to tell you that Mr. Heath is still on crutches & I am afraid is likely to be so for some time yet, for I do not perceive that his ankle gains much strength; I hope however time will restore it. [H]is general health is pretty good. My children are all well, but you will be surprised to hear that James does not walk yet.

The Bishop returned home a fortnight since after an absence of nearly five months. [H]e has been detained at the North all that time by a severe illness which liked to have proved fatal. [H]is children & friends were rejoiced to see him again & I feel a hope now, that his health will be reestablished.

Sarah received a letter from her Mama a few weeks ago. I was sorry to hear she had been indisposed, but hope ere this she has recovered. [R]emember me to her, & the Doc't when you see them, & tell her, I think she had better come down in the Spring for Sarah. I should be much pleased to see her.

I do not know how Sarah will make out with the solitude of Nelson, after the gaiety of of this winter, of which she has partaken pretty largely; I do not think she likes the idea of returning home much.

A most horrible transaction took place here a few days since; Samuel Parkhill, for a very slight provocation, threw a man down named Smythers, & cut his throat so much that his life was despaired of some time; but he is considered at present out of danger. Parkhill has made his escape, & it is probable he will not be caught tho' the Governor has offered a reward of $250 for him.

Very great excitement has existed in town, on the subject of religion for the last six months, numbers have been added to the Presbyterian, Baptist & Methodist churches; Mr. Charlton is at present stationed among the latter. [H]e has a large congregation to hear him. I go whenever I can to his church, & take much pleasure in his preaching.

I suppose Mr. Massie will be down this way in the summer to sell his tobacco, & what do you say to accompany him? [N]eed I tell you it will give me real pleasure to see you at my house, & that I will do every thing in my power to make your time agreeable. [D]o think of it, & moreover put it in execution. I know of nothing to keep you at home, particularly as you have such a good housekeeper. 

Mr. Heath desires to be remembered to you all. [R]emember me to Mr. Massie & Thomas if he is with you, also the old lady and gentleman, & accept for yourself the assurance of sincere regard from your friend --                                                                                             E. A. Heath

P.S. Do write to me soon it affords me much pleasure to hear from you. If you have any commission to execute I will attend to it cheerfully.        

[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.

Elizabeth Ann Macon Heath (1801-1868), spouse of James Ewell Heath (1792-1862), Virginia state (commonwealth) auditor, author and editor. Associate of Edgar Allan Poe's. 

My children = William (1821-1836), Richard (1822-1856) and Ellen Heath (1837-1860). James may have been another son who died young. 

Eliza Garland = Eliza Virginia Garland (circa 1811-1841), later married George Kuhn Cabell (1799-1873). 

The Bishop = Episcopal Bishop Richard Channing Moore (1762-1841), based at Richmond's Monumental Church, 1814-1841. 

Sarah and her mama = Sarah Maria Massie (circa 1810-1844),  daughter of Dr. Thomas Massie II (1782-1864) and stepdaughter of Sarah Ann Carrington Cabell Massie (1795-1831) since 1826.

Samuel Parkhill and Smythers = Samuel Parkhill and James S. Smithers. Mentioned in newspaper accounts at the time.  

The Governor = either William Branch Giles (1762-1830), who assumed office on March 4, 1827; or John Tyler (1790-1862), Virginia governor from 1825 until March 4, 1827.]

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