Franklin Co April 17^th 62
My Dear Sir

I have received your note in relation to the funeral of my esteemed friend M^r G W Johnson and am very sorry that it finds me in such a condition that it is impossible for me to speak. I got wet some days since in returning from Lexington & have been in consequence suffering with an affection of my throat, to which I am subject, & have been almost unable to make myself understood untill yesterday & then attempting to read for a few moments at a prayer meeting I became so hoarse as to be scarcely able to speak atall. I Know that were I to attempt it I should break down & perhaps produce permanent disease of my throat. It will give me a mournful satisfaction to go to the burial if the weather permits, but you will have to get some other speaker

I have been this morning informed that the Pastor of Georgetown Church told a minister a short time since who sympathizes with the South that the Church would not permit him to ask that Minister unto his pulpit & I very much fear that you will be denied the use of the house. I hope however for the sake of humanity & the good name of Christianity that no objection may be made. I will go or send to see M^r George Hunt this evening & get him to attend & I have no doubt he will take pleasure in officiating sh^d you wish it.

Please say to M^rs Johnson that she has my heartfelt sympathy. I know that no earthly consolation can reach her sorrow & I w^d not mock her with their offer. But I trust she has an interest with him who has said he is a husband to the widow.

May God protect her noble boys who are battling for their homes.

very truly yrs

C Lewis

M^r J Stoddard Johnston
Present

It will not do to rely on the uncertainty of George Hunt's acting, especially from the feeling which prevails in his church. averse to it.

I shall immediately write to Dr Rankin to see Mr Maginn the Pastor of the Reformed Church. I know he will take pleasure in officiating

J. J. S J.