Holograph, signed.

John Parker Hale apologizes for the delay in replying to Miss Weston's invitation to attend her tea party in Weymouth; it is doubtful that he will be able to attend. He remarks that he is "but a politician, looking for the developments of public opinion such as the ballot box gives us, and trusting mainly to that source for an effectual...reformation of the people." He does not, however, disparage "the efforts made in other directions," and pays tribute to the pioneers in the anti-slavery movement.

For a response to Hale's letter, see Call No. Ms.A.9.2 v.22, p.88C for a rough draft of a letter of a letter by Caroline Weston.