Scope and Contents Family affairs.

Scope and Contents Antony and Betsy, brother and sister of John Robinson; need to move from Richmond in "the sickly months."

Scope and Contents Nancy and Starkey, William and Anthony, brothers and sisters of John Robinson

Scope and Contents Marriage of Betsy, sister of John Robinson; warning him to be careful of the company he keeps.

Scope and Contents Brothers and sisters of John Robinson, living with W.M.

Scope and Contents The law training of John Robinson and his plans to marry; sending money to him.

Scope and Contents His law studies and Miss K ?

Scope and Contents The sessions of the U.S. Congress in New York.

Scope and Contents Decision of the Congress to move to Philadelphia for ten years while the new national capital is being built on Potowmac.

Scope and Contents His brother Starkey and family.

Scope and Contents Building of "accomodations for Congress" and the flourishing condition of the Union.

Scope and Contents Request that her brothers "purchase a few things" for her.

Scope and Contents The capture of a runaway slave, Nell.

Scope and Contents Family news: the return of the Negro, Nell; the  health of the sister of John Robinson; and commending Billy, the son of W.M.  .

Scope and Contents Notes that Wm. Harrison is an ensign of the Federal Troops at $18 per month, and is going South to fight the Indians. A bill is before the Congress to apportion the number of representatives from each state on the basis of the recent census.

Scope and Contents Sickness of the sister of John Robinson; concern for the son of W.M.; John Robinson's study of the law; and the sale of the Negro, Nell.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents Mrs. Mallory, the aunt of John Robinson; the Temple's ball; books and pamphlets.

Scope and Contents Her proposed marriage.

Scope and Contents "To be left at the Halfway House between York and Hampton." Advised that he sell the cows and oxen for cash, and that he send up the three boys.

Scope and Contents The drunken condition of Starkey Robinson, brother of John Robinson; of the marriage of the son of W.M.; and later of the recovery of Starkey and his sober reform.

Scope and Contents A request that John Robinson buy a copy of the first edition of the laws of Virginia.

Scope and Contents The threat of war between England and France; a visit by W. Hunter of Williamsburg; sickness in Pocoson and the return of Starkey to drink.

Scope and Contents Mrs. J. Robinson, this sister of J.M. and the two Robinson children, Moncure and Agnes.

Scope and Contents Signed by L.H. Girardin and Chiles Terrell.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents Advance of tuition for teaching French to his son, Moncure.

Scope and Contents Signed by Francis Galvan.

Scope and Contents Gives advice regarding his studies and corrects grammar and spelling; a discussion of the Polemic Society, the Library Society, and the Rhetoric Society, at the College of William and Mary; doubts the need for a library at the College; gives news from the papers of the reported destruction of the French ship "L'Epervier" by a "British 74" off Turk's Island and the ceding of "The Floridas" to England by Spain; news has just come of the death of Starkey Robinson, brother of John Robinson

Scope and Contents A thesis written by John Robinson; supplies sent down from Richmond; advice for deportment at College; news that a Navy Yard is considered for York; advice on personal cleanliness. Enclosing newspapers recording the cession of the Floridas by Spain to Great Britain; warning not to read the papers to the detriment of his studies; reports Seneca on studies; reports the control of a house fire by a line of citizens passing water. A visit with Mr. Saunders; and advice to keep well so that nothing may interfere with his studies. A thesis by Moncure Robinson on "Taste" and the College President's comments on Moncure Robinson; advises reading "Blair's Lectures" in regard to sentence structure; notes that Moncure Robinson matriculated under the usual age; greetings from his brothers, Cary and Conway.

Scope and Contents Clothes sent to him; a thesis on "Metaphor"; his roommates Lundy and Goodwin.

Scope and Contents Christmas visit with his Aunt Cary in Warwick; mention of help in mathematics from Mr. Taylor; note on the inadequacy of his preparation for college by Mr. Terrel, especially in mathematics; and advice for the studies of his brothers, Cary and Conway.

Scope and Contents Arrangements for the "Birthnight Ball" in Williamsburg; the schooling of his brothers, Cary, Conway, and Edwin; visits with Mrs. Page and Mr. Coleman.

Scope and Contents A speech to a college society and assigned thesis on "Suicide"; reports of a near duel between Mr. Douthas and Mr. M. Cabell.

Scope and Contents The suspension of lectures in Chemistry due to insult of one student by others; threat of expulsion from College by whole class unless guilty one is discovered.

Scope and Contents A meeting of parents of students attending the College in regard to the trouble in the Chemistry lectures.

Scope and Contents News that the chemistry lectures are resumed, though trouble is not over.

Scope and Contents Having completed the examinations, he is to come to Richmond by steamboat.

Scope and Contents Arrangements to board with Mr. Brown; a dinner for Dr. Jones, who had been "maltreated by the President"; fees for attending lectures, professors' fees, $45.00 library subscription and fee to Franklinian Society.

Scope and Contents Requests that John Robinson sell two of her Negro men "without sending him to a Back Woods Man, which I would not on any account do"; suggests that Moncure is staying up too late with his studying.

Scope and Contents Reports prank of night ringing of College and church bells, for which Robert Pickett, R. Donthat, and Richard Cunningham were suspended because they knew who was guilty, but refused to inform authorities; Moncure Robinson asks permission to resign from the College if he is put in such a position.

Scope and Contents Signed by Ferdinand S. Campbell, Prof. of Math and Clk. of the Society.

Scope and Contents Reports the demand of Mr. Hare that each student pay $40 for a series of lectures for a portion of the year, the usual charge being $10; requests his father's permission to leave College and to continue his reading and study privately.

Scope and Contents Detailing the situation which arose from a written remonstrance to Dr. Hare regarding his high fees, signed by Moncure Robinson and 25 other students, for which all were suspended from the College.

Scope and Contents Announces the suspension of (Moncure Robinson) son of John Robinson, due to his act in signing a "remonstrance" petition to the Chemistry Professor (Dr. Hare) for his unfair fees.

Scope and Contents Reports the events which led up to the suspension of Moncure from the College, arising from a paper signed by several students regarding Dr. Hare who "should have demanded only $10."

Scope and Contents The suspension of the students at William and Mary College; he regrets the situation but supports his son and thanks W.B. for his support and help.

Scope and Contents Reports that "it was stated by the President that in the unfortunate affair the College lost some of its brightest ornaments, among whom everyone ranked Moncure" and that a law had been enacted to prevent such demands (by professors) in the future.

Scope and Contents Property settled for Ben I. Gilbert by John Robinson; suggesting a political career for Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Moncure Robinson who is visiting his uncle Moncure, suggests that he might attempt to qualify for the position of the Secretary of the Board of Public Works.

Scope and Contents The plans of Moncure Robinson to settle in N. Y. to take lessons in perspective drafting, disappointed in this prospect, Moncure Robinson plans to visit the N. Y. canal.

Scope and Contents Introducing Moncure Robinson, a Civil Engineer who wishes to examine the Great Western Canal.

Scope and Contents Property in N. Y. purchased by John Robinson; his trip of examination of part of the canal; and his impression of the Military Academy at West Point.

Scope and Contents Hopes for employment with the John Robinson Company, but until he hears he will use his time in copying off some of the plans used in the construction of the New York Canal.

Scope and Contents While waiting word on employment by the James River company, he continues his journey to Niagra and environs; plane to go to Philadelphia to examine "specimens of mechanical ingenuity" there.

Scope and Contents He plans to proceed to New York and Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents The John Robinson Co. and Col. Gamble; prospects of a position with them for Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents A paper regarding the estate of John Taylor, signed by Charles Cocke.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents Personal letter, in which he expresses his interest in the promising future of Moncure, son of John Robinson

Scope and Contents Bank drafts; the news of the death of Lord Byron; and the destruction of the ship "Hannibal" by lightning while crossing the Atlantic.

Scope and Contents The plans of the Marquis de Lafayette to visit the U.S. and of the enmity and jealousy of him in France; the new work by Washington Irving is eagerly awaited in Europe.

Scope and Contents James River and Kanawha Canal and Chesterfield Railroad.

Scope and Contents Accounts of his visits with the President and Secretaries of State and War in Washington on his way to Europe; his examination of the docks in Havre de Grace.

Scope and Contents The sailing of Moncure Robinson on April 4; end of a fast trip by Conway Robinson to Richmond; he is now in a New York wholesale house.

Scope and Contents Describes a visit to Versailles, and attendance at the French Chamber of Deputies; relates his acquaintance with many of his fellow countrymen in Europe, even some fine people from states north of Virginia.

Scope and Contents Their father's "favorite Villa"; listing family at dinner; noting the death of Dr. Adams and Mr. Munford; family news.

Scope and Contents Moncure Robinson writes, "in practical mechanics the French must be at least one hundred years behind the English.. Here I can travel in no direction but I come across some fine specimens of art executed in this land of dull and plodding people." He goes on to describe the technical wonders of the "New London Bridge" and the Thames Tunnel, including the method of digging under the Thames River; he plans to study the canals and railroads of England and Holland before returning for the lectures on mathematics and algebra at the Sorbonne.

Scope and Contents Visit to their uncle, John Moncure, and other family news.

Scope and Contents Family news; his visit to Virginia.

Scope and Contents Capt. Eustace, who has lost a child; asking about the tunnel under the Thames in London; Pennsylvania society for internal improvement has sent Mr. Strickland to England for information on Railways and Canals; Court Martial proceedings in Washington for Comdr. Porter (Comdr. Barron, President) and Comdr. Stewart; conflict between Gov. of Georgia and Pres. of U.S. in relation to Creek Indians, Genl. Gaines dispatched to protect the Indians; Genl. Lafayette departing the U.S. after a visit of more than a year.

Scope and Contents His traveling companions, John Ambler, Seybert and Chauncey; his study of the Chirk and Pontcysyllte aqueducts; he is entertained by Lord and Lady Dungannon at tea after meeting the Lord on his estate, and shown through the colleges of Oxford by a young Oxonian that he met in the Bodlean Library; he comments on the great wealth in England and the many world schemes put into operation by English capital.

Scope and Contents Recounts his hospitable reception in Holland, where he visited Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Antwerp; he met Lefevre, a distinguished Civil Engineer of Lyon, and received a letter of introduction to Baron Dupin, the author of the famous work on the institutions and public works of England; he describes the work of Napoleon in cutting a new channel for the Rhine River to the sea.

Scope and Contents First letter received from Moncure Robinson "after nearly half a year"; the poor of England; their cousin, Henry Wood Moncure, and news of mutual friends.

Scope and Contents The problems of steam boats on the upper James River; R.H. is a candidate for the state legislature of Virginia; he reports a visit to the family of Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents Mr. R. Harrison has published some extracts of letters received from John Robinson, with his father's permission; reports that nothing will be done immediately in the improvement of the James River, but that there are opportunities for engineers on "internal improvements" elsewhere; suggestion of Moncure Robinson that a railroad be built from headwaters of the James River to the Kanawha River has been much discussed; "Your account of the Steam Waggons towing 2 or 3 others on the railways of England, & heavily loaded, seems quite fascinating to the friends of internal improvement"; news of panic in New York as a result of cotton speculations.

Scope and Contents News that John Tyler is Governor and John Randolph is Senator, replacing Col. Barbour, and other elections reported; news of an influenza epidemic in Richmond.

Scope and Contents His progress in French and his continued studies; his plans to visit the canals and public works of France before proceeding to Italy, where he will spend the next winter; reports that he dined with the U.S. minister, where he met General Lafayette.

Scope and Contents Describes his life in Paris, calls made on Mr. Michaux and the Baron Dupin and notes, "It is really astonishing in a country where...so many such men exist, that they body of the nation should nevertheless be so little advanced in all the useful arts"; he goes on to describe the poverty in Paris, the filth of the back streets and the like.

Scope and Contents He is studying the system of draining marshes in England, Holland, and Italy, as a basis for similar work along the seaboard of the Southern states in the U.S. and the mines of England; he reports his expenses and the joys of living in Paris.

Scope and Contents Asks his father to get some information on a Mr. Aubry for the U.S. Consul in Paris, Mr. Barbet; states the John Ambler with whom he has travelled much in England and in Europe will soon be returning to Virginia. Enclosed letter concerning Aubry, with copy of letter from L. Cany, Richmond, to Aubry, 1825 February 23. In French.

Scope and Contents His own indisposition.

Scope and Contents A brief letter sent with John Jacquelin Ambler, who was returning to Virginia.

Scope and Contents Tells of his failure to use billets to the King's Chapel where he would have been "tea-table distance" from His Majesty and the whole royal family, and of the few people he knows in Paris; he advises against his brother coming to France to make a living.

Scope and Contents The low spirits of Moncure Robinson reflected in his last letter; the embarrassed situation of Mr. Jefferson financially and of the public subscriptions for his benefit; of the visit of Mr. Monroe; of the "Hardtimes" that have hit the country; and the 50th anniversary celebration of U.S. Independence.

Scope and Contents The deaths of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson on July 4, 50th anniversary of independence of the U.S.; of the failures of the business houses of Moncure & Robinson in New York, and Moncure Robinson & Pleasants in Richmond.

Scope and Contents More details regarding the failure of the Moncure & Robinson business houses in Ricmond and New York; the drunkeness of Frederick Pleasants. An additional note is added by John Robinson, father of Moncure Robinson, urging him to return home as soon as possible.

Scope and Contents Social letters in the first two of which there is much religious advice.

Scope and Contents More regarding the failure of the family business.

Scope and Contents His trip south, describing the lot of 1,800 gallery slaves of Rochefort chained n their cells, then the beauties of the cities of Bordeaux; he is examining the canals of south France.

Scope and Contents The failure of the business house of John Robinson and of a loan to that company made by the sister of B.I.G.

Scope and Contents One more winter, then to return home after visits to England and Holland.

Scope and Contents A debt on the business house of John Robinson which has recently failed.

Scope and Contents The failure of Moncure, Robinson, and Pleasants mercantile house and urging Moncure Robinson to return home as soon as possible.

Scope and Contents Advises that John Robinson return home as soon as possible, in order to take advantage of the employment opportunities in Virginia.

Scope and Contents Possibility of action by the State Legislature on the James River Canal; enquiry regarding steam navigation.

Scope and Contents He advises his brother to stay on in Europe, to complete what he had undertaken; Conway Robinson is to undertake a law career and their father will become Clerk of the Superior Court.

Scope and Contents Recommends that Moncure Robinson stay in Europe until he finishes his course of study.

Scope and Contents Sends a remittance to Moncure Robinson and is hopeful of future mercantile success.

Scope and Contents He plans to look beyond Virginia for employment upon his return a year hence; the more he sees of France, the less he likes it.

Scope and Contents A professorship at the University of Virginia which might be available; the lessening of interest in "internal improvement" n the country, so less need for engineers; Virginia politics.

Scope and Contents Moncure Robinson has heard that the Governor is to appoint Mr. Crozet as chief engineer who "as a civil engineer is the merest pretender"; French engineering is far behind that of England and the U.S.; he expects to be free of his dependence upon Virginia when he returns.

Scope and Contents Reports that the better grounded he is in the practice of England and the theory of France (in engineering) the more completely will he insure himself of employment in "some other quarter of our Union" outside of Virginia; he is still trying to overcome the effects of the fevers he contracted while working on the James River improvement in previous years.

Scope and Contents Suggests that Moncure Robinson return in the summer because of their father's financial difficulties.

Scope and Contents Conway Robinson encourages Moncure Robinson to return and make application for a professorship at the University of Virginia; he discusses the political changes that have taken place in Virginia; John Robinson urges Moncure Robinson to apply for the position.

Scope and Contents Moncure Robinson doubts that he will be offered the position of Professor of Mathematics at Charlottesville (University of Virginia); he plans to leave at the end of the lecture period for another tour of English engineering examples; he tells of the political conflicts of France, of the King and the minister.

Scope and Contents A trip to Vichy over almost impossible roads, with humorous anecdotes of their experiences.

Scope and Contents His visit to the port engineering works at Cherbourg; fellow countrymen he has met in Paris; the election of Gen. La Fayette to the Chamber of Deputies by two votes.

Scope and Contents The members of his family in Philadelphia, whom Moncure Robinson is to meet on his return to the U.S. at the end of the summer.

Scope and Contents Interest in railways in Maryland, the election of the professor at the University of Virginia, and affairs at home; comment on the new government in Britain.

Scope and Contents The appointment of the professor at the University of Virginia; their mother's interest in the Conway family arms and the Conway Castle in Wales; the family troubles which includes the selling of the servants and real property in order to pay off the indebtedness of the failed mercantile enterprise.

Scope and Contents Includes an extract from a letter written by James Brown, U.S. Minister in Paris, in which Mr. Moncure Robinson is favorably mentioned. Franked by James Monroe.

Scope and Contents His inspection of the Navy Yard at Portsmouth, England and his visits to iron works at Merthy and Tydril, where the proprietors were quite secretive about their processes; he reports a visit to Newstead Abbey, the former home of Lord Byron, with accounts of the house, the tomb of Byron, and some of his possessions; he is headed for visits to the collieries in Newcastle and Scotland.

Scope and Contents Acknowledging letter in which word regarding Moncure Robinson in Paris is quoted.

Scope and Contents Personal comments, mentioning relationships with Moncure Robinson; Wilkes, Arnold, and Sanders are mentioned. French and translation.

Scope and Contents Announcing his arrival after a 38 day crossing from England; he plans to look for a position in the Public Works activities in Pennsylvania. Moncure Robinson to his parents; to to John Robinson, Richmond, Virginia. His visit in New York; his plan to meet the leading men in the large cities looking to employment as an engineer; and his plans to visit the Delaware and Chesapeake Canal and the Baltimore Railway line.

Scope and Contents An offer of employment by the Canal Commissioners of Pennsylvania for "a series of examinations between the waters of the Delaware and those of the North Branch of the Susquehanna with a view to their connexion by Railroad." The pay is to be $5 1/2 per day; this may lead to other employment; the country is rugged and mountainous; he is to bring his own "levelling instrument."

Scope and Contents His recommendation of Moncure Robinson to Mr. McIlvaine, and that the Commissioners had nominated Moncure Robinson for a position.

Scope and Contents Introducing Henry Chester.

Scope and Contents Congratulates Moncure Robinson on his move to "a commonwealth...whose citizens are full of energy and enterprise...as different alsmot from the Old Dominion as black is from white"; he gives news of stock sales in a railroad and a manufacturing company.

Scope and Contents Expressing affection for his parents and his high hopes of advancement in Pennsylvania, despite their suspicion of those from outisde the state.

Scope and Contents Doubts that a railroad will be built very soon along the route being surveyed by Moncure Robinson; news of the family and of difficult business conditions in New York.

Scope and Contents The settling of the mercantile debts of John Robinson, the sale of all property except the town house and "Poplar Vale," and other financial matters.

Scope and Contents Notification of deposit of $500 for Moncure Robinson; reports that "your name and fame are well known to the Governor and Secretary of State."

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Offers financial help to his father; plans to return to Philadelphia when weather in the mountains drives him in; inquires of James River Improvement and of possibility of further employment in Pennsylvania. Reports that he has been appointed Engineer of the Allegheny Division of the Pennsylvania Improvements; he is to lay out a railroad right of way between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

Scope and Contents Total cost estimate $1,068,895.34.

Scope and Contents The hospitality shown him in Philadelphia; requests that his "library of professional books" be sent to him, since he is now settled in Pennsylvania.

Scope and Contents Writes that nothing will be done by the Virginia Legislature on the subject of internal improvement.

Scope and Contents Sends money for his father and gifts of jewelry to his sisters; regarding the sale of one of the family houses, "Upton."

Scope and Contents A letter of appreciation for "gems" given to A.R. and to her sister, Octavia.

Scope and Contents Family news and news of his sale of some of his property to meet the continuing debts of his failed mercantile firm.

Scope and Contents The activities of Moncure Robinson and Conway Robinson to help meet their father's debts. Recent visit of Moncure Robinson to Richmond and visit of Conway Robinson to Williamsburg, where he was much impressed with the hospitality; and a trip with Jane to Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Settling of debts of their father and their brother Cary; the ensuing marriage of Conway Robinson; he plans to lay out the line of the LeHigh Railroad and is willing also to undertake the works on the Chesterfield Railroad.

Scope and Contents His hope to find a satisfactory route for the railroad through the Allegheny mountains, "a department of my profession, in which few American Engineers have as yet embarked"; he hopes to help Cary in New York with capital, as well as helping to pay off his father's debts.

Scope and Contents Family affairs; and reaction to a report that "the Jackson legislature of Pa. have turned out your Commissioners."

Scope and Contents Payment on a note. In French.

Scope and Contents Family affairs; congratulations on Moncure Robinson's new position.

Scope and Contents The location of the "Allegheny Portage" is nearly completed; he plans to be in Richmond in October; he has resigned his position with the Pennsylvania Canal Commissioners, but will be willing to return to execute the Allegheny Portage after he has completed the Chesterfield Railway.

Scope and Contents Family matters and the trip of Conway and Anna Jane to "the top of the Catskills."

Scope and Contents A trip made with his brother and sister, Cary and Jane, to Niagara Falls and Saratoga.

Scope and Contents Included in the text is a transcript of a letter of instructions received by Moncure Robinson from Josiah White, Acting Manager of LeHigh Co. Proposals are made for the railway line to transport coal from a mine near Mauch Chunk.

Scope and Contents "Examinations" which have been suggested, with a statement of his charge for such servies of $10 per day and expenses.

Scope and Contents Social chit-chat, an exercise in French letter-writing. In French with translation.

Scope and Contents Regret that he cannot accept an invitation to visit in Richmond; news about their mutual friend, Seybert.

Scope and Contents Enquiry regarding the pay demanded by Moncure Robinson as Engineer for a proposed railroad from coal mines to the Schuylkill River for the Schuylkill Navigation Company.

Scope and Contents An enterprise for which T.B. is to advance the cash required on which he wants advice "from a person in whom I place the utmost reliance."

Scope and Contents Signed by R. Shunke, Secy. Resolution to allow Moncure Robinson $2,250 per Annum.

Scope and Contents The iron rails and spikes used on the Chesterfield R. R.,  the former being ordered from Liverpool; and a discussion of the route of the Mount Carbon R.R.

Scope and Contents Affairs in Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Enquiring regarding the terms of Moncure Robinson for the laying out and superintending the building of 17 miles of railroad, double track, on the Little Schuylkill. Further regarding the contemplated railroad.

Scope and Contents Acknowledging receipt of a loan, and other financial matters; report of a visit to Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Expressing hope that Moncure Robinson will return to Pennsylvania to pursue his engineering activities in that state.

Scope and Contents Defeat of railway appropriations in the Pennsylvania Legislation; Moncure Robinson was been appointed first Engineer of the Canal Commissioners and John Robinson hopes that he will accept.

Scope and Contents An offer of the position of Engineer to lay out a route for the railroad through the Allegheny Mountains, at the rate of $2,500 per annum.

Scope and Contents "Report of the Engineer on the Survey of a Route of the Contemplated Rail-road from Petersburg to the Roanoke." Endorsed to Moncure Robinson, Esq., Hamburg, Berks Co.

Scope and Contents He returns a check given by Moncure Robinson to pay for a carriage given by W.M. to his sister, the mother of Conway Robinson and Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents Having paid off all debts from the mercantile failures of his father and brother Cary, and having assisted Cary to start again in business in New York, he now wishes to hire an assistant for his father from his new salary of $4,000 per annum from the Chesterfield Railway.

Scope and Contents Recommends that a son of a friend be sent to "West Point of some other first rate scientific institution;" he is willing to take charge of the building of the Petersburg railway in Virginia, while still keeping his positions in Pennsylvania.

Scope and Contents His duties with the State of Pennsylvania and the Schuylkill R.R. and his elegant accomodations in a building built for him at Port Clinton by the R.R., with a servant, eight assistants, etc.; he encloses a check. His work with the Manchester and the Petersburg railroads, and with the Chesterfield R.R. as well as his duties in the Alleghenies as State Engineer; espresses interest in Eustace at West Point and offers to send Alfred to Yale, in both of which institutions he has friends on the faculty.

Scope and Contents An absurd plan of a certain colonel in a civil engineering project; and of the progress of Eustace, brother of Moncure Robinson, at the academy.

Scope and Contents He reminds his brother that he, Conway Robinson, is now in debt to his brothers to the amount of $17,000 and refuses any further advance.

Scope and Contents Asking for advice of Moncure Robinson, the consulting engineer, for the portage railroad over the Allegheny Mountains.

Scope and Contents His dispute with Col. Lay which very nearly ended in a duel. A planned visit to Richmond. Upon his return from the Richmond visit, he works on the location of the route of the Danville and Pottsville Railroad and the Little Schuylkill Rail Road.

Scope and Contents Family news, with reports of Eustace at West Point, Edwin, Cary, and Conway.

Scope and Contents A trip planned to the North by his brother, Conway, and sister, Jane.

Scope and Contents The visit of his brother, Conway, and his sisters on thier journey North; his plans to send his brother, Alfred, to the College of William and Mary in the Fall; encloses a check for his father.

Scope and Contents An ailment of Mr. Campbell.

Scope and Contents Expresses regret that he cannot attend the opening of the Little Schuylkill R.R., "built under the direction of the first Master in the United States."

Scope and Contents Included is a copy of a letter from their brother, Cary, in New York, and the answer of Conway R. regarding the debts of Cary and need for more money for his mercantile enterprises in New York.

Scope and Contents Financial problems of Cary in New York and the school problems of Eustace at West Point Military Academy. The "heavy blow" that has fallen on the family, new notes written by Cary against his brother's account, and the troubles of Eustace; the interest of Moncure Robinson in a position on the New River R.R.

Scope and Contents His debts (letter copied off by Conway R. in his letter to Moncure R.). Cary Robinson to Conway Robinson. His deteriorating financial situation. Eustace, who is one of the 25 remaining of a class of 120 who entered West Point two years before, and Alfred at William & Mary.

Scope and Contents A strong letter written to Eustace, who must graduate from West Point if he wants a career as a Civil Engineer; and regarding the Danville & Pottsville Railroad.

Scope and Contents His pleasant life at William & Mary; his studies there; of students expelled; of a duel; and of the carrying of a horse to the second floor of the building.

Scope and Contents Listing the items of the family debt to $17,000 incurred by their brother Cary and plans for the joint repayment.

Scope and Contents The letter of Edwin and debts of Cary; news of the New River Railroad and of the James River Bill passed by the Virginia Legislature; news of brothers Alfred and Eustace.

Scope and Contents Requesting some money with which to buy cakes and pies for snacks at school.

Scope and Contents The troubles of their brother, Cary, of the Lynchburg and New River Railroad and the improvement of the James and Kanawha Rivers; of Saunders and John Page in politics; and of the public examination at the college.

Scope and Contents His plans to go to Sulphur Springs for his health, then on a trip with their sister, Jane; recommending the purchase of stock in the James River Scheme; of their sister, Octavia.

Scope and Contents Reports of the college course; comment of the Cholera outbreak in Montreal, a threat to Northern cities in the U.S. * For a letter by Moncure Robinson of 7 October 1832, see addition to collection.

Scope and Contents Request for $500 for a trip to New Orleands made to brother Edwin, from which he has had no reply. His planned trip to New Orleads and need for funds to pay his debts in New York before he will be allowed to leave the city.

Scope and Contents Asking forgiveness if he has given offense; more regarding his planned trip to New Orleans.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents Answers an enquiry regarding Charles A. Jacobs; tells of the French-speaking Creole society of the city, of the many deaths from fever and cholera, the theatres, duels, and the bi-lingual state legislature; reports his own lack of success in business.

Scope and Contents His interest in Miss Charlotte Taylor; and of the prospects for the career of their cousin, Wirt, who is with Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents The cholera epidemic in the city; and of his buying tobacco in the city.

Scope and Contents C.E., Jr. asks Moncure Robinson for a job, to no effect. (See letters of 25 - 30 September 1836, which very nearly led to a duel between C.E., Jr. and Moncure Robinson).

Scope and Contents Family news, concerning the mother and the other brothers and sisters: Alfred, Edwin, Octavia, Conway, Margaret, Cornelia, Moore, Anna Jane, and Cary, and of their country house, "Poplar Vale".

Scope and Contents The ill health of Moncure Robinson; plans to take his father, John Robinson, on a extended tour of Pennsylvania and New York.

Scope and Contents Recommends travel "to expand the mind and to elevate it above prejudice."

Scope and Contents The health of Moncure Robinson, about which Conway Robinson is concerned; report that one fourth of the population of New Orleans has died to yellow fever and cholera; his business prospects in New Orleans.

Scope and Contents Signed by L.M. Bent, Clerk. Refusal of the Directors to accept the resignation of Moncure Robinson as Chief Engineer of the Rail Road Company.

Scope and Contents Horses and carriage.

Scope and Contents The Winchester and Potomac Railroad Company.

Scope and Contents Request of the Board of Directors of the WInchester and Potomac R.R. for Moncure Robinson to continue his services as Chief Engineer.

Scope and Contents His ill health, blisters to relieve his cough; and of a trip to Boston, financed by Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents Purchase of property in Virginia for a railroad; draft of letter to Thomas Green on the subject; suggestion that Alfred and Eustace be sent on a tour of Europe.

Scope and Contents Notifying Moncure Robinson of his election as principal engineer for the Lancaster and Portsmouth Rail Road.

Scope and Contents Plans to send Alfred to St. Augustine, Florida, for the winter, accompanied by their mother; prospect of marriage by Moncure Robinson * For letter by Moncure Robinson of 3 February 1835, see addition to collection.

Scope and Contents A leave of absence for the brother of Moncure Robinson, Eustace Robinson.

Scope and Contents Visit of brother Edwin; brother Eustace in the army, stationed at N.O.; the marriage of Moncure Robinson and the death of their brother Alfred, in St. Augustine, Florida.

Scope and Contents News of the suicide of Mr. Brown in Philadelphia; personal news and family news of Octavia, sister of Moncure Robinson, and Wirt Robinson, cousin of Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents The sickness of Charlotte, wife of Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Personal news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents A request that Moncure Robinson visit the N.Y. and Erie R.R.

Scope and Contents Personal news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Announces the birth of his son, John Moncure.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents $120,000 to be paid by the P.W. R.R. Moncure Robinson to Conway Robinson. Requests for the services of Moncure Robinson by the City Point & Petersburg Railroad, the Blacksford & Fredericksburg Line, and the Winchester & Staunton route; and of their "speculations." Purchase of stock in the Fredericksburg R.R. in the Swan Tavern Speculation, and in the Bermuda Hundred purchase.

Scope and Contents Acknowledgement of the receipt of a book sent by Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents A railroad to be built along the James River, and one from Richmond to Petersburg, as being before the Virginia Legislature, as well as other railroads in Virginia.

Scope and Contents Acceptance by directors of the Gaston & Raleigh Rail Road of proposition by Moncure Robinson for a salary of $3000.00 per annum as Consulting Engineer for the line.

Scope and Contents The buying and selling of stocks in railroads and of other investments; the organizational meeting of the Petersburg and Richmond Co.

Scope and Contents The scarcity of money and the favorable situation for "our object of securing a majority of the stock (of the Petersburg R.R.) in the hands of our friends." Dishes sent to his sister; and some comments about the control of a "Board" (probably of a railway). Illness of "our little Charley" and his plans to come to Richmond for a railroad meeting.

Scope and Contents The purchase of the "Bermuda Hundred" and surrounding lands.

Scope and Contents Congratulates his brother on his engagement to Miss Leigh; plans for nuptials of Conway, Edwin and Jane.

Scope and Contents His disappointments in publishing and in receiving his pay check from a New York newspaper.

Scope and Contents Moves of Moncure Robinson to get a mail contract, now being held by a steamboat line; comments on details of railway cars.

Scope and Contents Appreciation for the financial help from Moncure Robinson; reactions to France, "the French...are a despicable race...But a French woman is a delightful creature."

Scope and Contents Family news; comment on "the baby."

Scope and Contents Advice upon starting at Peugnet's School in New York.

Scope and Contents The affair between Moncure Robinson and Mr. Ellet, which threatened to come to a head in a duel.

Scope and Contents The school of Moore Robinson in New York and social matters in Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Challenges and acceptances exchanged between Moncure Robinson and C. Ellett and P.S.G. Cocke for duels which were amicably settled by their friends. (See two letters of June-July 1833, in which C. Ellett applied to Moncure Robinson for a job, which was not forthcoming.)

Scope and Contents Report of the dismissal of Charles Ellett, Jr. from the New York and Erie Railroad Company in July 1835, and the reasons for it.

Scope and Contents Family news; Moncure Robinson is to sail for Europe; sister Anna Jane is married.

Scope and Contents Congratulations on the amicable settlement of the threatened duel.

Scope and Contents Family news, including "Your cousin John R. is gone to William & Mary College, which has opened this season with much finer prospects than usual."

Scope and Contents The six months that Moncure Robinson is to be away; news of business uncertainty in the country; family and social news.

Scope and Contents Trouble on the Winchester Railroad; the war with the Indians; and Bonaparte's war in Europe; family news.

Scope and Contents Poblems with the Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Petersburg Railroad, a day and a half late on the run from Fredericksburg to Richmond and other similar lost schedules, need for more engines, etc.

Scope and Contents Written the day after her Ball; she gives a list of the chief guests.

Scope and Contents Lists the many complaints regarding "our Rail Road concern" made by passengers from the South; engines out of order, no wood or water for engines, road badly built, etc.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents includes letter from Charlotte, wife of Moncure Robinson Family news; congratulations on the success of Moncure Robinson in England in "obtaining a million" there.

Scope and Contents Disturbed by reports sent by Conway Robinson of the Richmond and Fredericksburg Rail Road; he reports that new engines are being made and sent from England; need for a "locomotive engine manufactory" in Richmond; attempt to enlist engineers and mechanics in England for the Richmond road; other railway matters.

Scope and Contents A recent severe illness; Conway Robinson talks of giving up the presidency of the railroad, due to the trouble he has had; and of a dress and bonnet from Paris. Charlotte Robinson to Moncure Robinson, London. The baby and the expected return of Moncure Robinson in March. Has received no letter since December 25; news of Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents The effect of the cold Northern climate on Moncure Robinson at his school in New York; family news.

Scope and Contents Advice to the brother in school; plans to leave there at the end of April, arriving in the U.S. in June.

Scope and Contents Reports that Moncure R. has arrived in England after a 16 day passage; news of other members of the family.

Scope and Contents Includes a letter from his sister, Margaret Robinson. Included is a poem from A.C.R.

Scope and Contents Her plans to give a ball; and her pride in his success in London (in raising money for railroads).

Scope and Contents The recent ball given by Charlotte, wife of Moncure Robinson; congratulations on the success of his mission to England.

Scope and Contents Enclosing a check for pocket money; news of the scattered family.

Scope and Contents Advice regarding the hardships necessarily experienced at school; he is employed now on the Lake Michigan and Illinois Canal.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Expressed delight at the success of Moncure Robinson in raising investment capital in England; notes that a new engine has been received by the R.R.; his purchase of the R.R. stock.

Scope and Contents A request for the advice regardnig methods, costs, etc., for "They are aware that the extension of the Railway System has been carried further in the United States than in any other country."

Scope and Contents The arrival of Mr. Robinson; scheduling of a meeting and a dinner with a few railroad engineers to meet Mr. R. In French

Scope and Contents Recommends that he vote for Mr. Sheppard as President of the Railroad, rather than Hopkins; family news.

Scope and Contents Authorizing Moncure Robinson to sell stock in England, on which is he allowed 2 1/2 percent commission. 2 copies.

Scope and Contents Trouble with Negroes on the plantation and the problem raised by the idea that they have, "that Miss Charlotte (Mrs. Moncure Robinson) says they are not to be whipped."

Scope and Contents Included is a note from their father, John Robinson. Little sister Fan; visit of Moncure R. to New York; other family news.

Scope and Contents Farm affairs and especially the oversight of the Negroes there.

Scope and Contents Plans to send his brother to William and Mary in the fall term, where he can get all the necessary courses in two years.

Scope and Contents Requesting the signature of Moncure Robinson on several notes for $5,000 each, as part of a liquidation of his business.

Scope and Contents A communication for Pres. Dew enclosing a resolution of the Board of Visitors of the College "for preventing the students from purchasing articles on credit" in Williamsburg.

Scope and Contents Her return to Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Requesting more financial support for his business houses in Richmond and Baltimore; reports the marriage of their sister, Octavia.

Scope and Contents The sending of half a barrel of apples via an oysterman.

Scope and Contents The sale of some woodlands adjoining the plantation; and other business matters.

Scope and Contents Authorizing Moncure Robinson to contract for a loan for the R.R.

Scope and Contents Railroad and other business. Conway Robinson to Moncure Robinson, Philadelphia. Affairs of the Richmond and Petersburg R. R. and of state assistance.

Scope and Contents News of the "family circle."

Scope and Contents Advice given by Moncure Robinson and W.R. regarding the continuation of the railroad lines.

Scope and Contents Farm business, profits from crops, and drafts for payments.

Scope and Contents Family news with a postscript by "your cousin, Virginia...Miss B.T."

Scope and Contents Business of the railroad, including an accident involving Mr. Brown on H. Street, Richmond.

Scope and Contents Advice, socially and financially; mention of Prof. Saunders and Prof. Millington of the faculty of W & M. Plans for Moore to leave the College at the end of the current session to start work; a recent assault on Moncure by Waller; advice regarding the circumstances in which a gentleman must offer a challenge and disqualification for state office of anyone involved in a duel.

Scope and Contents Financial matters and the current depression in prices for farm products.

Scope and Contents Destruction in the Harvard Chapel and bank scandals in Boston.

Scope and Contents Social and family affairs; Moncure is with them in Richmond for a short visit.

Scope and Contents Disappointment expressed by the acquittal of Waller, who had attacked Moncure Robinson in Richmond; railroad business and need of more engines from England.

Scope and Contents Announcing the birth of a second son, at which their mother had been present.

Scope and Contents Advice and family news.

Scope and Contents Waller case; railroad business and need for more engines.

Scope and Contents Edmund Randolph Robinson, new son of Moncure Robinson; other family news.

Scope and Contents Connections of the railroad with the steamboats; influence to be exerted on the new railroad lines in Virginia.

Scope and Contents Through tickets to Baltimore and New York, via the Richmond & Petersburg R.R.

Scope and Contents Appreciation for advice given by Moncure Robinson regarding railroad construction and the use of engines in America; acknowledgment of his offer to assist th enew company in any way, even by a trip to the continent if required.

Scope and Contents Need for new rails; negotiations for notes on through tickets from New Orleans to New York. Enclosure: telegram from S.L. Fremont, Wilmington, NC, to Moncure Robinson regarding through tickets.

Scope and Contents Letter received from "a small stockholder"; suggests newspaper articles on the Richmond & Petersburg R.R. and the Raleigh & Eastern R.R. which "would aid materially the sale of our bonds in England." Enclosure: "A small stockholder," Richmond, to Elihu Chauncey, Philadelphia (1838 April 24). Complaint about the management of stock in the hands of Moncure Robinson; and the high salaries paid to the President and his assistants.

Scope and Contents William A. Bradley as author of anonymous letter; newspaper article; railroad bonds. 

Scope and Contents Social and family news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Buying of stock in the Winchester & Potomac R.R.; receipts of $10,000 in June on R.F. & P. R.R.; competing activity of the Louisa Line. Copy of letter from Jos. M. Sheppard regarding coal company which Moncure Robinson is forming.

Scope and Contents Manipulation of railways on the route to Washington and New York; selling to tickets in N. Y. . Enclosure: article "Is Virginia a Repudiating State," written by Moncure Robinson for insertion by E.R. in the Virginia Papers. The guarantee by the State that the Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac R.R. would have no competitors on the Richmond-Washington route.

Scope and Contents A meeting to be held in Baltimore; Moore R. is leaving the springs. Moncure Robinson, Philadelphia, to Conway Robinson, Halifax Ct. House, Va. The resignation of Conway Robinson as (President of the R.R.) and of his successor, Marx or Hopkins, and of the way that the election should be controlled.

Scope and Contents Through tickets and competition of Jackson in New York, where a "battle of handbills" is being waged; purchase of the Potomac Steamship Co.

Scope and Contents Instructs him to take an extended journey by horseback, to visit relatives and improve his health; his brothers will decide later whether Moore is to study medicine.

Scope and Contents Family affairs; investment of Moncure Robinson in the Reading Railroad; Charlotte Robinson has again forbidden the overseer, Jenkins, to whip any of the Negroes.

Scope and Contents Land in Illinois held under a soldier's right which would bring a profit of $5,000.

Scope and Contents Purchase of steamboat companies; competition with the Gordonsville R.R.; buying into the Baltimore & Potomac R.R.; letters ot the papers on R.R. problems.

Scope and Contents Negotiations for through tickets; plans to go to court on the matter of Virginia's original charter to the R.F. & P. R.R.; great grief at the death of wife of Edwin Robinson; offer to take the two daughters.

Scope and Contents Purchase of Turnpike stock; through tickets on Railroadand other Railroad business.

Scope and Contents Decision by his brother that Moore is to study medicine and his objection to it; other family news.

Scope and Contents Purchase from the Biddles, and other investments.

Scope and Contents Social letter mentioning Latrade, Strickland, and Mrs. Taylor, mother-in-law of Moncure Robinson; the policies of Van Buren; the reception of Lord Durham in N. Y. . In French. Mentions Guy Lussac; John, son of Moncure Robinson; and Moore, brother of Moncure Robinson; discusses political situation in N. Y. In French.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Publication of a pamphlet in R.R. competition; problems with Peter Daniel of Richmond & Petersburg R.R., Sanford, and Felton; R.R. conferences at Chatanooga; control of stock of the Seaboard & Roanoke R.R.; problems of through tickets.

Scope and Contents The election of Dr. Sheppard as President of the R.F. & P. R.R.; Moncure Robinson to be chief engineer of the Brunswick & Florida R.R. in Georgia; purchase of property in Richmond; building of the Southwestern R.R.

Scope and Contents His plan to study medicine; other family news.

Scope and Contents Requesting Moncure Robinson to make a statement to support the claims of the children of Robert Fulton, then pending before Congress.

Scope and Contents Negotiations with Daniel, Joynes, Jackson, and Fremont on through tickets; purchase of bridge and turnpike in Baltimore.

Scope and Contents Through tickets; Felton of the Baltimore and Ohio R.R.; article by Daniel. 

Scope and Contents News concerning the wife of Moncure Robinson, his two children, John Moncure nd Edmund, his brother, Moore, and a nephew of Susan B. Taylor; Peter Daniel; newspaper article quoted which derided the James River Company.

Scope and Contents Sent with a watch; family news.

Scope and Contents Social news.

Scope and Contents Pamphlet and newspaper articles; opinions of Daniel, Felton, Sanford, and Tyler in through ticket negotiations.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Receipts of the Potomac Steamship Co., negotiations with the Board of Public works; baggage checked through.

Scope and Contents Railroad business which is not clear from this one letter.

Scope and Contents The death of a grandson, and other family affairs.

Scope and Contents Can hardly leave the city to visit home for fear of being arrested by some of his creditors.

Scope and Contents Cost of through tickets; New York ticket office; purchase of rails for the R.R.; dividend return of 3 1/2 percent.

Scope and Contents Plans made by him and Conway Robinson "not to breathe this to anyone"; expenditures made to kept the equipment up to the increasing business. (Sheppard was President of the Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac R.R.)

Scope and Contents Rails for the road; other railroad business.

Scope and Contents A position under Moncure Robinson for Eston, son of Randolph Harrison.

Scope and Contents Proposal to accompany the father of Moncure Robinson on a visit to Philadelphia; other social news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Possibility of selling "Elmington" and "Ballston" plantations; family news.

Scope and Contents Results of the Railroad Convention at Washington; negotiations for mail contracts; competition of steamboats from Baltimore to Richmond; through ticket negotiations.

Scope and Contents Social news from Boston.

Scope and Contents .

Scope and Contents Reporting the exchange of bonds payable in London for domestic seven percent bonds.

Scope and Contents Mention of Mrs. Edwin Robinson (second wife), and other social news.

Scope and Contents Things have not gone well with him and he is unable to make the payment on his debt to Moncure Robinson that Moncure Robinson has requested; the opportunity for their brother, Moore, to practice medicine in New Orleans.

Scope and Contents Report on the completion of the rail road route between Brunswick and Chatahoochie.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents News that the Philadelphia banks "are suspending specie payments."

Scope and Contents Family news; brother Eustace has returned home from the West and recommends that Moore practice medicine in the West.

Scope and Contents "You and the officers of the Railroad company must manage the affairs. I must stick to the law. . .gradually diminish my debts"; lot in Richmond purchased with a loan from Moncure Robinson Enclosed a form of receipt to be signed by Moncure Robinson (not signed).

Scope and Contents The purchaser of "Poplar Vale," the Robinson country house, agrees to execute notes to Moncure Robinson who is anxious to raise some money; "the banks are doing very little."

Scope and Contents Expressing hope that Eustace has left Richmond for Washington in order to speed his recovery.

Scope and Contents The possible sale of "Elmington."

Scope and Contents Stockholder's meeting of the railroad; need to borrow $25,000 to pay the running expenses of the road; suggestion that he, Conway Robinson, resign from the Board of Directors and that Moncure Robinson become the President of both Richmond & Petersburg and Richmond & Fredericksburg R.R. Co's.

Scope and Contents Charlotte (Mrs. Moncure Robinson) and "her sweet children."

Scope and Contents The collection of notes due Moncure Robinson

Scope and Contents The Winchester & Potomac R.R. Co. and an application to Congress for an increase in mail pay.

Scope and Contents Her children, Agnes and Philip and her nephew, Conway; other family news. Octave (Octavia Robinson Haxall), Richmond, to Moore Robinson, Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Difficulties in getting a translation of Chevalier's work published in New York.

Scope and Contents Offer to accept the situation proposed by Moncure Robinson; has letters of recommendation to show to Mr. Byrd, President of the Company.

Scope and Contents Bills before the state legislature concerning the extension of railroads in Pennsylvania.

Scope and Contents His application to Mr. Bird, President of the Petersburg & Roanoke Railroad Co., for a position as his assistant. Moncure Robinson, Philadelphia, to Henry D. Bird, President Petersburg R.R. Co., Petersburg, Va. Enclosed in letter to Eustace Robinson with a recommendation.

Scope and Contents The railroad bill which is before the state legislature; the visit of Mr. Clay to Richmond; letter of resignation to be presented by Joseph M. Sheppard.

Scope and Contents Notifying him of his election of the Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac Railroad Co., resignation of Conway Robinson and appointment of Joseph M. Sheppard in his place. Included on same sheet: notification of the election of Moncure Robinson to be President of the Railroad; signed by Hilary Baker, Clerk.

Scope and Contents A bill before the State Legislature for the building of a railroad from Pottsville to Tuscarora, with an amendment by Andrew B. White that the Philadelphia & Reading R.R. Co. be authorized to build the same.

Scope and Contents Returning an offensive letter, Eustace Robinson asks " the termination of all intercourse hereafter."

Scope and Contents Appreciation for hospitality during his sojourn in America. In French.

Scope and Contents Requesting information on some problems connected with a railroad from Halle to Cologne, noting that Mocure Robinson "would not be unwilling to undertake the construction of the railroad."

Scope and Contents Trouble with Dr. Cocke and notices from the Farmers and Merchants Bank of notes of Moncure Robinson coming due.

Scope and Contents Social letter, mentioning Guy Lussac, Malexieux, Latrade, Colonel Melnikoff. In French.

Scope and Contents Further questions from the Postmaster General in Berlin concerning American railroads.

Scope and Contents Brief note.

Scope and Contents Documents from France that M. Chevalier has asked him to deliver to Moncure Robinson. In French.

Scope and Contents The health of Moore and a visit to "Elmington."

Scope and Contents Family news; Charlotte (Mrs. Moncure Robinson) is to spend the winter with them.

Scope and Contents Instructions to Moore Concerning his movements with a check for $20.00.

Scope and Contents Place of Moore Robinson in the hospital; wagers on the Presidential election; Whig Rally on Bunker Hill with Webster speaking; the Phi Beta Kappa dinner at Harvard.

Scope and Contents The recovery of Moore Robinson from an eye injury.

Scope and Contents The accident, injuring the eye of Moore Robinson.

Scope and Contents Sympathy for the loss of an eye in an accident.

Scope and Contents Reporting that news has just reached Richmond of the death of the President; and family news.

Scope and Contents News of small pox in Philadelphia; family news. Her reading while ill; family news.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Family news; greetings to his two grandsons, children of Moore Robinson.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents Family affairs.

Scope and Contents Expresses concern for the health of his brother.

Scope and Contents Family news.

Scope and Contents More hopeful about his health; interested in the possibility of an appointment to the hospital.

Scope and Contents Family affairs; with a letter of 1 March 1841.

Scope and Contents Advice on way to achieve an appointment at the hospital.

Scope and Contents The failure of the Girard Bank in Philadelphia; family news.

Scope and Contents Appointing them commissioners to determine the advisability of expanding the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Scope and Contents The letter is sent by Moncure Robinson, as Moore is sailing for Europe; news about the family at "Poplar Vale" and elsewhere.

Scope and Contents Reports of a trip through Europe.

Scope and Contents Recommends Moncure Robinson as a consulting engineer for railroad construction in the Austrian Empire. In French, with translation.

Scope and Contents Leaving "Dogwood" House to his son, Eustace, who is occupying same, "Poplar Vales" to his son-in-law, John N. Shields, the remainder of the estate to be administered by his sons, Moncure and Conway for the benefit of all the family.

Scope and Contents Expressing opposition to the purchase of a house in Philadelphia, which she considers a "comfortless, gloomy place."

Scope and Contents Desire of Moncure Robinson for Mrs. S.B. Taylor to be with them.

Scope and Contents Her respect for her father; family news.

Scope and Contents Their long friendship.

Scope and Contents The slow recovery of Charlotte, wife of Moncure Robinson, from a severe illness.

Scope and Contents Asking the opinion of Moncure Robinson on "the proposed Rail Road from Harrisburg to Pittsburg, as a means of connecting Philadelphia with the Valley of the Mississippi."

Scope and Contents The illness of her mother and herself, and her children who are being cared for by Cornelia Robinson.

Scope and Contents Trouble with Bird about through tickets and Fontaine on Louisa Railroads connections; Moncure Robinson will agree only to rent telegraph wires erected by the R.R., or work them in shares with Mr. Kendall's company.

Scope and Contents Urges Edwin Robinson to influence the Governor, Board of Public Works, and legislators against supporting the telegraph lines of Kendall; opposing influence of Bird in Petersburg; against election of Wickham to the Railroad Board of Directors; proxies for stockholders meeting; 3 1/2 percent dividend; Mr. Sharp supervising Railroad rolling stock; all negotiations fro through ticket notes to be handled by Moncure Robinson; article by Moncure Robinson on telegraph in Railroad Journal.

Scope and Contents Mount Vernon Line and the River and Bay Line Steamboat Companies, as opposed to the Piney Point Line of Moncure Robinson, opposing election of Wickham to Railroad Directors, enclosing letter "to the editors of The Whig" opposing a steamboat race.

Scope and Contents Negotiations for mail control renewals, with refusal to take Virginia local mail unless through mail also on their railroad; machinations of Kendall; through ticket negotiations; relations with soon to be opened Louisa Line, the Portsmouth Road and Bird; instructs Edwin Robinson to charge double for corpses and encloses the copy for an advertisement of the Railroad; "am so anxious for the success of your administration that I suggest ... everything that comes in my mind."

Scope and Contents Opposing Bird; reducing the fare on the Piney Point line to meet the fare on the Bay Line; Railroad financing negotiations with Fontaine and "Old Cove."

Scope and Contents Mail controls, with threat that the "mail would be thrown off the road," rates for through tickets; purchase of a steamboat; affairs of the Daville Railroad. Gen. MacRae and through tickets; mail contract; purchase of a steamboat.

Scope and Contents Plans for a visit to Richmond to see the Governor and Henshaw; articles to be inserted in the Richmond papers; the health of Charlotte, his wife.

Scope and Contents Mail contracts and problems with the papers of Richmond and the Pennsylvanian and Ledge r in Philadelphia; the ill health of his sons, John and Edmund.

Scope and Contents Included a resolution to be presented to the Senate. Competition with stages and steamboats in conveying the mail "we have only to be firm...and the mail must come to us," the opposition of "Old Cove, Mayo Co.," plans to prepare a bill to be presented by Goggin. 

Scope and Contents Social affairs.

Scope and Contents Financial matters; family affairs, providing money for the family.

Scope and Contents The death of a child and the expected birth of another.

Scope and Contents The birth of a fourth son Moncure Robinson and "recent affliction" (death of a daughter); affairs of the steamboat company; through ticket notes.

Scope and Contents Stockholders; the bill before Congress; and family affairs.

Scope and Contents Payment on bonds. J.C.R. Taylor, Jefferson County, Charlestown, W. Va., to Moncure Robinson. More payments.

Scope and Contents Purchase of Bay Stock; opposition to Bird; visit of his son Edmund to the grandparent in Richmond.

Scope and Contents A visit from Edmund, son of Moncure Robinson; family news.

Scope and Contents Railroad business and details of running the road.

Scope and Contents Arrangements for through tickets between New York or Philadelphia and Charleston, S. C.

Scope and Contents Complaining about troubles in remodelling an old house that they have bought. Written while on a visit to her brother's house. Jane Randolph, a cousin.

Scope and Contents A servant, Joshua, who is working to buy his freedom.

Scope and Contents A letter to Governor Smith; difficulties with Bird; affairs before the Virginia Legislature that Moncure Robinson is attempting to influence.

Scope and Contents Illness of their mother, Mrs. Agnes Robinson, with contents of her will copied in the letters.

Scope and Contents Improved health of Mrs. Agnes Robinson, matters of Moncure Robinson; affairs of Public Works; "Bird...is plainly convicted, not only of duplicity, but of actual falsehood."

Scope and Contents Her youngest son, Conway; social news.

Scope and Contents An interview with the new Post Master General. Mail pay to the railroad line; the steamboat lines are able to pay a 14 percent dividend; Affairs of the stockholders, advice that Edwin close out his mercantile house and devote full time to position of President of the Railroad.

Scope and Contents The railroad rates for freight and passengers; mail contracts; railroad finances.

Scope and Contents The support of a program of plank road building in Virginia.

Scope and Contents Repairs to a ship, Georgia .

Issuing of additional stock; stock manipulation on appeal of legal case.

Scope and Contents Railroad stock prices and sales.

Scope and Contents Family news. Their sons, John and Eddy.

Scope and Contents Activity to influence the Virginia State Legislature; defeat of Fontaine in action taken there; enclosing copy of a bill to be presented to the legislature.

Scope and Contents A ticket exchange. Forwarded to Edwin Robinson with instructions to sell some of the stock of Moncure Robinson "who has little else" in the way of railroadstock.

Scope and Contents A portrait of Moncure Robinson by Sully and one of his wife; draft of an article written against a bill to make a loan to the Louisa Co.; a bill incorporating the Chesapeake Steamship Co.; settlement of an insurance claim; stock sales by Prof. Tucker; special trains, return tickets, steamboat schedules; introducing Mr. Mariani, an Italian.

Scope and Contents Quotation of stock prices in the papers in competition with the Louisa Line; reprimanding Edwin Robinson for not agreeing with Moncure Robinson on stock manipulation; railroad expenses and need for economy; expressing concern for the health of their father.

Scope and Contents Purchase of rails in England for extending the railroad from Richmond to the junction; increase in price of the railroad stock and attempt to keep down price of Fontaine's stock; competition of steamship line of Moncure Robinson with the B. & O. R.R.

Scope and Contents Purchases of iron for rails and other railroad business; instructions to Worthington, agent for steamboat freight; stock owned by Moncure Robinson under other names; the health of his wife, Charlotte.

Scope and Contents Attempts to bring down the price of Fontaine's stocks; regrets at the dismissal of an employer by Edwin Robinson; threatened resignation of Captain McCausland of the Piney Point Line; opposition to "the Alexandria Bill" in Washginton.

Scope and Contents An attempt to hold up the extension of the Louisa Road until after Supreme Court decision, and "to keep it in a crippled condition"; the railroad stock of Moncure Robinson increasing in value; an article recommending a plank road from Richmond to Staunton.

Scope and Contents Acknowledgement of donations of two volumes to the library by Conway Robinson.

Scope and Contents Sale of R.F. & P. R.R. stock by Chauncey at 98; hope to retard extension of Louisa Line at meeting of their stockholders; collecting proxies for Richmond and Petersburg R.R. meeting; competing with Rives, Bolling and Bird.

Scope and Contents Return of Charlotte from a trip to Richmond; move to influence the North Carolina Legislature for a railroad to connect with Danville, Va.; the best route from Richmond to the Ohio; the plank road to Charlottesville.

Scope and Contents Pressure of Louisa Line, includes a memorial to the Legislature to be signed by "residents of Charlottesville etc."; sends Edwin Robinson explicit instructions. His reply to Rives.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents Negotiations with Parker of the B. & O. R.R. on through tickets to N. Y. ; claims of the Louisa Co. (Central R.R.) and suit against the insurance company; draft of a bill for the Virginia Legislature; newspaper reports to hurt value of Central R.R. stocks.

Scope and Contents Letter received from Dr. Collins, which he encloses. William Collins, Portsmouth, to Charles W. Falls. The building of a railroad line from the Carolina border; and some problems with W. Rives.

Scope and Contents Requesting her brother to come to act in her father's place to "give her away" in marriage. Cornelia Robinson to Moncure Robinson. The marriage to Mr. Cunningham; and the checks sent by Moncure Robinson, one of which is returned.

Scope and Contents Battle with Fontaine of the Louisa R.R., hoping to bring it to bankruptcy, but fear that it will win in the Virginia Legislature; court troubles; negotiations with Parker.

Scope and Contents An invitation to a Wistar party.

Scope and Contents Stockholders meeting held at Norfolk; issuing of bonds; building of two new boats.

Scope and Contents Recommending economics in running the R.R.; opposition to Bird and Fontaine, "no prospect of rest from Fontaine until U. S. ? road gets into a delapidated condition"; schedules for connecting trains in Washington, D.C.; introducing Julius Contin, a representative of the French Government who is making a study of railroads in America.

Scope and Contents Prices for tickets over the R.R. of Moncure Robinson; printed page of "A Catalogue of Routes, Places, Time and Rates of Fares from Boston."

Scope and Contents Traveling with his mother (father has died), and death of daughter of his brother, Conway; negotiating mail contracts with Post Master General Dundas; Piney Point Line with letter from Geo. Mattingly enclosed.

Scope and Contents A defense of his regimes as President of the railroad; and complaint of the manner and attitude of Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Negotiations with Fontaine of Central R.R., Parker of the B. & O., and the Alexandria and Fredericksburg R.R. and Gordonsville Road; selling of R.F. & P. R.R. stock and purchase of N.Y. & Erie R.R. stock.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents An inquiry concerning John Moncure; including a power of attorney; hoping for a visit from his sister Charlotte and the rest of the family.

Scope and Contents John, son of Moncure Robinson, advising that he be allowed to pursue a scientific direction rather than a classical one in his studies.

Scope and Contents Success of an application by his son John to VMI and the distress caused by this to his wife Charlotte; settlement with Parker of the B. & O. R.R. on through tickets; mail contracts still pending.

Scope and Contents Sent with a printed pamphlet autobiography. Draft of a reply of Moncure Robinson to Pierce Butler. Sympathetic with his problems.

Scope and Contents

Scope and Contents Payment on a note from Moncure Robinson; family affairs.

Scope and Contents Social news; report of tight money in Boston, "the cause is no doubt this wicked tariff."

Scope and Contents He has taken John, son of Moncure Robinson, to the Va. Military Institute.

Scope and Contents Finances of the railroad line and purchase of more rails; attempts to undermine newspaper support of Central railroad line west of Richmond; shipment of claret wine for friends and for use on Washington and Fredericksburg steamboat line.

Scope and Contents Need for the purchases of more rails, "the old portion of our road is breaking up rapidly."

Scope and Contents Notice to yield possession of a house he is renting from Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Railroad. Details of tickets, routes, etc.

Scope and Contents Draft of letter for Edwin Robinson to write to Gen. MacRae concerning through baggage; the business of the Bay Line negotiations with Parker Falls and Dundas; trip with his wife, Charlotte, to visit their son, John, at VMI.

Scope and Contents Best route to Lexington via train or other conveyance.

Scope and Contents Sent to Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Cordial social letter.

Scope and Contents A meeting of the railroad presidents called by the Post Master General; transport of passengers and baggage in Washington, D.C.; schedules to the south; need for an ice boat; Fontaine seeking a loan of $200,000 for his R.R., "we ought to put some blocks in the way of it."

Scope and Contents Through tickets, ice boat, profits of the Piney Point Line, buying railroad stock; negotiations with Parker of the B. & O. R.R. and Fontaine of the Central R.R. (Louisa Line).

Scope and Contents Mail contracts, through tickets; transfer of passengers in Washington; Capt. Macausland of the Steamboat Line and Gen. MacRae of a competing R.R.

Scope and Contents Railroad financing and the Piney Point Line with newspaper advertisement enclosed.

Scope and Contents The Petersburg and Richmond railroad bill before the Virginia legislature; expenses of the railroad cutting profits; trouble with Geo. Mattingly.

Scope and Contents Trouble made by Falls; attempt to rouse the Petersburg people against him; manipulation of stocks.

Scope and Contents Negotiations with Parker of the B. & O. R.R. for through tickets; the Ice Boat Bill; the Louisa Case before the courts; Fontaine, Bird, and MacRae. Family affairs--death of their sister, Cornelia; a box of clothes sent to John, son of Moncure Robinson, at VMI.

Scope and Contents Employees of the steamboat line with letter from Geo. Mattingly enclosed; trouble with Falls of the Bay Line.

Scope and Contents Visit with John, son of Moncure Robinson, at VMI; defeat of Ice Boat Bill; bills before legislature of N. Carolina and S. Carolina; trouble with Falls about through tickets.

Scope and Contents Steamboat schedules from Richmond; attempt to buy Seaboard of Roanoke stock at a depressed price; reprimanding Edwin Robinson for changing railroad schedules; a resolution to be presented to the Virginia Legislature; Edwin Robinson is running for the Virginia State.

Scope and Contents Signed by J.H. Smith, Superintendant.

Scope and Contents Appreciation for "kind favors"; but still thinks that he is entitled to redress in the suit against the railroad.

Scope and Contents Urging passing of a resolution which will corner Alexandria trader for the Piney Point Line; enclosing copy from William Parker, stating that B. & O. R.R. will return to old arrangement on through tickets; the R.F. & P. stockholders to control Falls; through tickets from the south and connections at Alexandria.

Scope and Contents Mail contracts; government ice boat on the Potomac; negotiations with MacRae, Falls, and the Lynchburg & Tenn. R.R.; problems with employees Sharp and Macausland opposing increase in salaries with enclosed letter from L.H. Minor supporting increase in salaries; urges work to pass Richmond and Petersburg R.R. line with draft of letter for Edwin Robinson to send.

Scope and Contents E. Caylus has suggested to Ch. Sedgewick that Moncure Robinson be asked to be director of the "Universal Exposition" planned for New York, and has been empowered to ask confidentially whether he will accept the position. Endorsement refers to it as "International Mining Engineers Exposition."

Scope and Contents Request for a meeting to iron out problems.

Scope and Contents Regrets that Moncure Robinson is not interested in the position of Director of the New York Exposition. He is embarking on a wine importing business for which he seeks some capital from Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Instructions to Capt. Macausland of the steamboat and steamboat expenses; passage of Ice Boat Bill in the Senate; schedule changes by Parker of the B. & O. R.R.

Scope and Contents The demerits received by his son, John.

Scope and Contents The Directors for the new Richmond and Petersburg R.R.; bills before the Virginia Legislature; opposition of Rives.

Scope and Contents Examination of his John, before the Board of Visitors, and the risks of his dismissal.

Scope and Contents Reduced fares on through tickets; the organization of the Potomac and Bay Steamship Company.

Scope and Contents Regrets at not being able to attend a "symposium."

Scope and Contents Introducing Samuel Keifer, Chief Engineer of the Board of Public Works in Canada.

Scope and Contents Expressing his willingness to accept a position on the condition that "its duties will be discharged by me independently, according to my conscientious convictions."

Scope and Contents Trouble with Parker on  arrangments for through tickets.

Scope and Contents Which are to be continued despite Parker; a recent railroad accident; problems of employees Macausland and Sharp; details of steamboat line management.

Scope and Contents Salary of Moncure Robinson as Pres. of the W. & F. Steamboat Col; details of management; seeking control of the Bay and Seaboard Route and the Seaboard and Roanoke Line.

Scope and Contents Enclosed with an article that he sends.

Scope and Contents A planned visit of her son Edmund.

Scope and Contents Secret purchases of stock to gain control of Bay Line and "S. & R."; reprimands Edwin Robinson on his negotiations for through tickets; trouble with Parker; mention on Peter Daniel, new president of the R.F. & P. R.R.

Scope and Contents His visit to England and on friends of Moncure Robinson; visit to Eton College with description of the whipping stool; description of Hampton Court. Notes the election of Peter Daniel as president of the R.F. & P. R.R.

Scope and Contents Purchase of stock.

Scope and Contents Richmond & Petersburg R.R. in relation to the R.F. & P. R.R.; more trouble with Falls in connection with Seaboard and Bay stock; stock purchases by Prof. Tucker and Mr. Haxall; mail contracts; telegraph line; through tickets; John at Cambridge (Harvard University).

Scope and Contents Problems with Falls and Parker; baggage handling; Rogers and a new telegraph line.

Scope and Contents The cornering of stocks; problems with McHaffey.

Scope and Contents Printing of hand bills and advertisements.

Scope and Contents Payment on a note to Moncure Robinson and plans to move.

Scope and Contents Financial reports; passenger complaints on fares charged on the boats; mail connections; "contemptible course of Falls in his effort to monopolize through travel."

Scope and Contents News that Conway Robinson sailed from Europe--expected in New York on October 11; news of other members of the Robinson family.

Scope and Contents Purchase of stocks and real estate; reports that travel has never been so good on the line as it has been this season.

Scope and Contents Purchase of stock; note owned by Caylus.

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Scope and Contents Loss (death of a child ?) sustained by Moncure Robinson and his wife Charlotte; accounts and schedules of the R.R.

Scope and Contents Accounts; a mail bill before Congress which would reduce payments to the railroads.

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Scope and Contents Schedules of steamboats; Capt. Macausland and Worthington; extension of Balto. & Wash. R.R. to the river; through tickets; stock sale; Daniel, Pres. of R.F. & P. R.R.

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Scope and Contents Mr. Daniel and negotiations with Mr. Falls.

Scope and Contents Connecting trains and boats with enclosure from H.D. Bird and telegram from J.F. Simmons, Welden, to H.D. Bird; advice to Edwin Robinson on running the schedules; difficulty with Macausland; reason for Moncure Robinson's lack of confidence in Edwin Robinson.

Scope and Contents Railroad stocks and a meeting in Baltimore.

Scope and Contents Professional duties and high fees paid by Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Steamboat schedules; extension of the Washington road to the Potomac; insurance on the boats; opposition to the Central R.R.; Capt. Peck appointed for the line, but to be kept secret until after the Baltimore meeting. .

Scope and Contents Iron for rails for extension of the R.R. past the Junction; collection of tickets on trains and boats; countermanding decisions of Edwin Robinson; supporting Worthington; extension of the Washington Line to the Potomac; railroad investments and dividends.

Scope and Contents Price for transporting flour on the boats; competition of agents in Alexandria; uniformity of freight rates.

Scope and Contents Support for Capt. Peck against Mattingly; income of steam boat company reduced "owing to the times throughout the country"; strictest economy being observed.

Scope and Contents Lack of cost kept by Edwin Robinson for railroad iron; financial affairs of the Bay Co., Line; negotiations for Savage to buy out Falls; instructions for Bragg to get detailed instructions from Moncure Robinson for "mode of connecting the rails."

Scope and Contents Meeting of the Board of the steamboat line; conflict over election of a director, finances, etc.

Scope and Contents A trip to Norfolk and Richmond, where he wishes to meet Edwin Robinson and Mr. Daniel, President of the R.F. & P. R.R.; Parker of the B. & O. R.R. has now suggested through conductors from New York to Richmond, as well as through tickets.

Scope and Contents Mail contract and Bd. of Public Works; competition with the Central R.R. from Washington; negotiations with Dove of the Philadelphia and Baltimore R.R.; difficult relations with Peter Daniel, President of the R.F. & P. R.R.,and "his board"; number of accidents suggests that trains are running faster than they should. 

Scope and Contents Mail contracts; through tickets and Parker of the B. & O. R.R.; enclosing list of stockholders in the R.F. & P. R.R. who own no R. & P. R.R. stock, urging Edwin Robinson to get they to buy in order to control both roads; criticism of the way rails were laid; more train accidents.

Scope and Contents Mail contracts; influence with Board of Public Works directors and stockholders meetings; conflict with Rives; R.R. and steamboat line finances; newspaper schedule advertisements of connecting trains. 

Scope and Contents Purchase of iron for tracks; R.R. and steamboat finances; R.F. & P. R.R. stock down to 70.

Scope and Contents Advice concerning studies leading to an engineering degree under Prof. Eustis; comparison of the abilities of John M. Robinson with those of his brother, Edmund, who is studying at the same place (Harvard University); enclosing a check for each son.

Scope and Contents Enclosing $100 to get John M. Robinson out of debt; advice on studies and criticism of letters; greetings of Agnes, Bev, and mother of John and Edmund. Advice concerning unworthy friends, especially Crawley, who has left a bill at the Brattle House; quoting scene from "Hamlet" at length; enclosing checks for John and Edmund.

Scope and Contents Enclosing a check for John and his brother, Edmund, that might have to be cashed in Boston; advice on expenditures; advises that if he cannot graduate cum laude in January, that he wait another term. Advice on studies leading to graduation in July. Request for more money "creates in me a good deal of surprise"; "unfortunate companions at Cambridge and "you may have vices I have not before suspected"; asks for an itemized statement. Candor of last letter from John M. Robinson; advice on expenses, studies and plans for graduation.

Scope and Contents Bills to be presented to the Virginia Legislature; the sharing of mail contracts with other lines; troubles with Fontaine of the Louisa Co., and with officials of other competing lines; financial problems of the R.F. & P. R.R.

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Scope and Contents Reprimand of Edwin Robinson on money matters; increasing financial problems; bill before the Virginia Senate and others before the Maryland Legislature; injunction case before the courts; enclosing letter from Anne W. Coleman and draft of letter from Moncure Robinson to C.W. MacMurdo, Jr. 

Scope and Contents Degree to be received in July from Cambridge, working under Prof. Eustis; check enclosed for John and Edmund.

Scope and Contents Bills before the Virginia and Maryland legislatures; railroad finances, railroad stocks and bonds; enclosed articles on railroad rates, problems of lost baggage, and danger of speed of 35 mph.

Scope and Contents Railroad bonds; bills before the Legislature; iron for rails.

Scope and Contents Enclosing check; advice on study; problem of Edmund and pistols.

Scope and Contents Effort of Falls to direct passengers to the Bay Line; an agent in the North to sell through tickets.

Scope and Contents Advice on ompanions and study; check enclosed for Edmund. Moncure Robinson, Philadelphia, to his son, John M. Robinson. Letter from Charles Wadsworth concerning the Ecole des Mines, where John M. Robinson may go after taking his Bachelor of Science degree at Harvard.

Scope and Contents The future career of John M. Robinson and the possibility of his going to the School of Mines in France.

Scope and Contents Possibility that John M. Robinson will not get his degree; advice on a "conversation" with Prof. Eustis in this direction.

Scope and Contents Advice on the coming examination; comment on the assault of Brooks on Sumner and the pro-slavery feeling of the Southern members of Congress. Enclosing letter from Prof. Eustis giving assurance of a degree for John, which is to be kept secret from Edmund. Encouraging John M. Robinson; enclosing check.

Scope and Contents Reporting that Thompson Brown is recovering with the nursing Fanny; economy on railroad and boat line; contracts for rails and spikes; through tickets; plan to go to "the new Philadelphia Bathing Place, Atlantic City."

Scope and Contents A mistake in interest payment made to Moncure Robinson by C.W. MacMurdo.

Scope and Contents An attempt to influence Fillmore vs. Buchanan votes by block-voting of the stockholders if R.F. & P. R.R. does not receive mail contract; selling bonds to meet the bills for rails purchased.

Scope and Contents Expressing confidence in his son; suggesting the possibility of an engineering position in Chile.

Scope and Contents Unanswered letter to Mr. MacMurdo.

Scope and Contents Offer of position for John M. Robinson on the Philadelphia and Reading R.R. by G.A. Niolls, General Superintendent; advice on smoking and drinking.

Scope and Contents His volunteer labor to gain experience; enclosing check. Moncure Robinson to his son, John M. Robinson. Value of field work experience to an engineer. Value of learning the practical use of instruments. More advice with a check enclosed.

Scope and Contents Recommends that he enter University of Virginia for the next term for a course of general studies; enclosing two checks.

Scope and Contents Complaints about arrangements made by Edwin Robinson for baggage transportation and for through tickets from New York.

Scope and Contents Railroad finances and dividends; the impossibility of meeting current expenses out of current income; importance of the injunction case in court.

Scope and Contents The lectures of Professors McGuffey and Maupin (at the University of Virginia); the degree conferred on him at Harvard; arrangements for living with his uncle John. Opportunities in the Northwest.

Scope and Contents Course in chemistry under Dr. Maupin who is "often unsuccessful in his experiments" and Dr. McGuffey in belles lettres.

Scope and Contents The increased expenses and diminished income of the railroad.; need for retrenchment; negotiations of railroad bonds.

Scope and Contents A tip for Dan on leaving Charlottesville. Announcing the death of their old "Mammy"; advice on studies and religion.

Scope and Contents Finances; notes for payment to Reeves, Buch & Co., for rails; mail contracts, insurance policies; injunction case; need to raise fares in order to meet railroad costs.

Scope and Contents Returning letter of John M. Robinson with spelling and punctuation corrected. More advice on rhetoric; John M. Robinson will be with his grandmother in Richmond for Christmas. Moncure Robinson to his son, John M. Robinson. Thankfulness for escape of John M. Robinson from injury in an accident; religious comments.

Scope and Contents Railroad finances, urging increase of rates and reduction of expenses; Increase in railroad accidents; mortal injuries to Sam Brown in Central R.R. accident, train going at excessive speed of 35 mph; danger of serious accident where Fontaine's Central R.R. crosses the R.F. & P. R.R. at level crossing; attempt of Falls to take over Seaboard and Roanoke R.R. through stockholders of the Bay Line; slaves killed while working on R.R.; mail contracts, with enclosed newspaper article on "The Great Southern Mail Route."

Scope and Contents Absence from lectures at University of Virginia; more on rhetoric. A coming ball in Philadelphia; chance that John M. Robinson will give "his protection" to Miss McFarland on the trip; check enclosed.

Scope and Contents Failure of mail due to "the interruption of the railroads"; Edmund is occupied with his law books; visit of John M. Robinson to Philadelphia. Enclosing a pass for the R.R.; asks John M. Robinson to pick up a nail brush he left at a hotel a month before.

Scope and Contents Trouble between Malcolm Macever and Beyland; Edmund accompanied Miss MacFarland to Richmond; advice on studies and recommending the reading of Addison for style in writing. Comment on essay sent to Moncure Robinson by John M. Robinson; Edmund plans to continue his preparation in law at Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

Scope and Contents Plans to send Edmund to France for the summer; the return of John M. Robinson from the University in the summer. Many meetings of the railroad and steamboat companies; correction of essay sent by John M. Robinson; riot at the University and type of young man there.

Scope and Contents Corrections made on a letter from John M. Robinson; sale of his mare to his uncle John Moncure. The possibility of a position for John M. Robinson after he leaves the University. Future plans for John M. Robinson; Democrats won election in Virginia, defeating Edwin Robinson, brother of Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents Reply to a letter from Edwin Robinson which "has given me...a great deal of pain." Edwin Robinson is dissatisfied with the attitude of Moncure Robinson and has been "placed in charge of the work at my instance." Recommending more economy and defending the interests of the stockholders.

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Scope and Contents Rejected plans for a "horse railroad" from the University to Charlottesville; the disappointment of Moncure Robinson in his investment in the "Fredericksburg rail-road" (the R.F. & P. R.R.) due to the fact that Virginia did not keep faith to the company.

Scope and Contents Storm damage to the railroad line; threat to sell out his stock (in the R.F. & P. R.R.) if the vote does not go his way, a vote involving Dr. Haxall.

Scope and Contents Stay of John M. Robinson in New York and Boston.

Scope and Contents A steam carriage for turnpikes which he is to see demonstrated at "the Novelty Works."

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Scope and Contents Care for his grandmother Robinson in Richmond. The purpose of his stay in Richmond--"making yourself as thoroughly acquainted as possible with everything connected with the rail-road management." His return to Philadelphia.

Scope and Contents Handbills announcing the route from Washington to Richmond via Fredericksburg. Draft of the above.

Scope and Contents Handbills; the competition of the Orange R.R. Co.; and the discussions with Mr. Jackson in New York.

Scope and Contents The care of John M. Robinson for his sister, Agnes, at Atlantic City. Advice concerning his inferior position with the Philadelphia and Baltimore Rail Road; an account of the first work that Moncure Robinson did in railroad works; discussion of opportunities in Chile and Brazil.

Scope and Contents His interest in "Lee's machine," a test of it on their line; resolutions of the R.F. & P. R.R. Co.; investigation of steamboat building yards.

Scope and Contents Comparative advantages to the stockholders of the Seaboard & Roanoke and Bay Line, the "upper route," R.F. & P. R.R., and the Richmond and Petersburg Co., of through tickets which preferred one route over another.

Scope and Contents Report of amount due to R.F. & P. R.R. on through tickets sold at New York during the month of March 1859.

Scope and Contents Notification of the shipment of iron to Richmond.

Scope and Contents His meeting Mr. Bradford, the "great English reformer," discussing Mr. Chevalier; summer plans.

Scope and Contents Good reports of the railroad and the Bay Line; his plans to go into the office of Biddle upon graduation.

Scope and Contents Social letter; concern about Virginia and "fanatics south of Mason and Dixon's Line."

Scope and Contents Laments the rejection of Mr. Crittenden's proposition; believes the central states should mediate between the Cotton States and the New England States; "if the Union must be dissolved, let it be with dignity"; preparations for the family to be protected in case of war; he has finished his law course at Cambridge (Harvard).

Scope and Contents Insurance on a new boat which is to be opened to the public; instructions for Mattingly and Cap. Reynolds.

Scope and Contents The new position of John M. Robinson in Portsmouth, supervising the steamboat line and S. & R. R.R. activities at that place; no trains to run on Sunday; mention of Tazewell Taylor.

Scope and Contents An injunction received by action of the Court of Appeals; railroad and Bay Co. business; enclosed resolution about the debt of the railroadcompany in England.

Scope and Contents R.F. & P. R.R. stock; purchase of rails for the railroad; through tickets.

Scope and Contents Interest of John M. Robinson in the prosperity of the Petersburg R.R. and willingness of Mr. Sanford to acquaint him with his system; a limit on the number of free tickets; general advice. Relations with the Raleigh road and the Seaboardline; purchase of a new steamboat and repairs to an old one; Conway Robinson in court involving the Maryland turnpike; other R.R. and steamboat business.

Scope and Contents Through tickets to the South.

Scope and Contents Trouble with their competitors over through tickets; iron for rails; railroad finances; arrangments with S. M. Felton and Peter V. Daniel.

Scope and Contents Relationship between the Bay Line, S. & R. R.R., and the Baltimore line; mentions Wilson, Falls, Savage and Jackson; special notes of return tickets.

Scope and Contents Issuing of free tickets; and stock of the lines.

Scope and Contents Relationship of the Baltimore R.R. with the Seaboard line in carrying freight; concerning matters on the farm; relationship of the Bay Co. with the S. & R. R.R.

Scope and Contents Freight brought over the Petersburg R.R. to their road and ships; good financial condition of their enterprise. Freight; S. & R. R.R. bonds; advice.

Scope and Contents Calling him home to take care of farm business. Relationship of the Seaford Line and the Bay Line with the Seaboard R.R.; the steamboats on their line; a planned new line.

Scope and Contents A report of the visit of the Prince to Cambridge and discussion of the possible results of the recent election of Lincoln, danger to the Union.

Scope and Contents Freight business "provided the present relations between Virginia and the northern states continue"; mass meeting to be held in Independence Square to support the Union.

Scope and Contents His success in the management of the railroad and steamship company.

Scope and Contents Request for a power of attorney for shares of R.F. & P. R.R. stock held in the name of John M. Robinson.

Scope and Contents Problems raised by the imminence of "flagrant hositlities," including the seizure of the boats of the Potomac Steamboat Company, impounding of assets, etc.

Scope and Contents Drafts for payment of railroad accounts.

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Scope and Contents He considers that the dissolution of the Union is impossible, but dreads a fratricidal war which seems now about to be inaugurated.

Scope and Contents A letter sent by flag of truce to Norfolk, Va. Edmund, brother of John M. Robinson, who is practicing law in New York; Bay Co., and railroad stocks and dividend payments.

Scope and Contents Finances of the Bay Co., and dividends to be paid; the confiscation Bill which has passed the U.S. Congress.

Scope and Contents Regret at inability to send dividends due to the war and English blockade of the Southern ports. The letter was sent via Tampico, Mexico.

Scope and Contents Dividends paid on English railroad bonds in reply to letter from Daniel via Mexico.

Scope and Contents Payment of dividends on English railroad bonds in reply to letter from Thomas Hankey & Co.

Scope and Contents Norfolk is about to be evacuated; new hope under George Randolph as Secretary of War; Moncure Robinson has been declared an enemy alien and his property transferred to his son, John M. Robinson, who is in the Confederate Forces, aide de camp to Maj. Gen. Loring with rank of Captain; farewell.

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Scope and Contents Original letter withdrawn by Lydia Robinson and given to the Bermuda Historical Society. Son of Moncure Robinson whom he has seen in Richmond and who sends his regards to his brother, Edmund Robinson, in New York; suggestions concerning the affairs of Moncure Robinson. In French, typed translation included.

Scope and Contents Announcing the death of his grandmother, mother of Moncure Robinson.

Scope and Contents John. M. Robinson has been placed in charge of the movement of stores from Portsmouth before it is abandoned to the Northern Forces; His battle in the Confederate Legislature to have his father's property come to him as a loyal southerner; his experiences at battle at Roanoke Island with a map of the island and the area around it.

Scope and Contents Report on his activities with the Confederate forces before being sent to Europe to procure railroad supplies for the Confederacy; his journey from Spain to England; the property of Moncure Robinson in the South, held by John M. Robinson. His business in England; chance that England may enter the war against the U.S.; has seen his uncle, Edwin Robinson, in London; letters from his brother, Edmund.

Scope and Contents His acquaintances in London, including Russell, Blake, Hankey, and Lord Somers; sympathy widespread for the South; English interest payments on railroad bonds.

Scope and Contents Reports that the case before Judge Haliburton has been decided in favor of John M. Robinson, so that all the assets of Moncure Robinson, Edmund and Beverly revert to John M. Robinson; railroad finances and management in the South; activities with the Confederate forces.

Scope and Contents Report of the attack on Petersburg by Grant, topped by the forces of Lee; destruction of Sheridan; thieving expeditions of Hunter; hope that "the crazy people of the United States will come to their senses in the coming Presidential campaign," but willingness to fight on for five more years; report on activities of Cary, and death of Willy; settlement of railroad finances; hope to go to Europe if war ends in defeat of the South.

Scope and Contents The management of the affairs of the S. & R. R.R. and the R.F. & P. R.R.; his activity as General Military Supt. of railroads; the war's progress.

Scope and Contents Sons in war; railroad stock transactions; members of the family (names hidden because of war censorship).

Scope and Contents Dividends of the Seaboard and Roanoke Co.; concerning "this useless war," the hope that the November election will "disclose the fact that the majority have had enough of this mode of restoring the Union."

Scope and Contents Dividends and other affairs of the Seaboard line; negotiations with Rives, cousin Wirt Robinson and Wilson.

Scope and Contents Dividends of the S. & R. R.R. Co.

Scope and Contents Written via Barbados; shares of the R.F. & P. Co.; desire to rid self of interests in Virginia; possibility that family will reside in Europe after the war; Beverley's residence in Paris.

Scope and Contents A nephew, Henry, who had been taken a prisoner of war. Henry Robinson, Steamer Santiago de Cuba, to Mr. Walke. Enclosed with the above recounting his condition as a prisoner.

Scope and Contents Settlement of debts owed by John M. Robinson in the south; prospect of end of the war; suggestion that profits could be made by forming a company in England to run the blockade.

Scope and Contents Incomplete.

Scope and Contents Finances.

Scope and Contents Troubles of R.F. & P. R.R., trains over a day late; lack of engines, repair facilities; need for financing.

Scope and Contents Welcoming a son and daughter of his old friend, Moncure Robinson, upon their arrival in England, and inviting them to visit him in France. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents Affairs of the R.F. & P. R.R. and the Pot. S.B. Co., of which companies Moncure Robinson is a large stockholder.

Scope and Contents Appreciation for a memoir of Mr. Chevalier read by Moncure Robinson at the Philosophical Society.

Scope and Contents Enclosing some copies of "The Ledger" in which there is a notice of a work by Moncure Robinson.

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Scope and Contents A discussion of the charter of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Co.

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Scope and Contents Acknowledging the news of the death in America of her guardian, Mr. Seybert, and expressing grief. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents An inheritance left to her by Mr. Seybert. Enclosed is a copy of an article on the cremation of Seybert. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents Information for an article by Moncure Robinson on Mr. Seybert. In French, translation included. Lucie de Saivre, Paris, to Moncure Robinson. Requesting a copy of the will of Seybert. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents More concerning the will of Mr. Seybert. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents Appreciation for the memoir of Mr. Seybert written by Moncure Robinson. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents Social letter. In French, translation included. Incomplete.

Scope and Contents Condolences for the death of the brother of Moncure Robinson, Conway Robinson. In French, translation included.

Scope and Contents The death of the father of Leigh Robinson; mention of an article in the Albany Law Journal.

Scope and Contents Settlement of debt to Moncure Robinson by widow and children of Conway Robinson; Moncure Robinson has refused to accept land for the debt.

Scope and Contents Arrangements to mortgage "Vinelands" for $20,000 in order to pay cash to Moncure Robinson.

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Scope and Contents The settlement of debts of Conway Robinson to his brother, Moncure Robinson, by the widow and children of Conway Robinson, for $20,000 cash; appreciation for the generosity of this settlement.

Scope and Contents Recommending that son of Moncure Robinson, Jr., be "president of the company." Incomplete.

Scope and Contents The name for a new company which is to benefit Petersburg and Richmond. Incomplete.

Scope and Contents The commencement of work on a new railroad.

Scope and Contents A problem of their sister Cornelia, who wishes to marry a man of whom the family does not approve.

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Scope and Contents The transactions of Moncure Robinson as President of the Potomac Steamboat Co., and as attorney for stockholders in the Baltimore Steam Packet Co.

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Scope and Contents Social note.

Scope and Contents Notification of his election to the Story Association of Harvard University.

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Scope and Contents Concerning the meeting with his future wife, Charlotte Taylor.

Scope and Contents Concerning his marriage to Charlotte Taylor.

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