Philip N. Nicholas to Thomas Jefferson Randolph
| Dear Sir, | Richmond Nov. 12th 1822— |
Since I wrote you about the negroes of my brother Lewis encumbered to the Bank, I ascertained that the chancellor had awarded an Injunction, but that I had not been apprized of it owing to the failure of the counsel I employed to write to me, which caused me a great deal of trouble. I find that the negroes were not sold, and there is nothing I presume to interfere with the rights of the Bank. I feel most sensibly for my brother Lewis & his family, but you know that I am myself involved as security of my brother and that it is out of my power to alleviate their situation. From my connection with the parties I have never interfered at the Board of Directors with the management of the debt due from my brothers, but have left it to the other Directors & [. . .] the cashier, nor can I now controul the proceedings in any manner, Mr Nekervis will probably write you by the present mail, as you are joint trustees in the case. Rives has written an official letter to this Bank stating that the marshall considers his controul over the negroes as ceasing. Mr Nekevis & yourself will have to decide under the Deed, what measures will be necessary. I wish to god some of these negroes could be Preserved to the family; but I have no controule over the subject of the Bank, debt, and most unfortunately I am not in a situation to assist them individually1 at this time being obliged to apply my means to pay my own engagements. Give my love to Jane & believe me to be
Could not my sister Mrs L Nicholas make some arrangement with the purchasers of the land as to her eventual right of dower, I wish you would reflect on that subject & see what can be done in that way. Mrs Wingfield has written on the subject of her fathers situation & I enclose a letter which I will esteem it a favor if you will contrive to her for me.