Holograph, signed.

This manuscript consists of two partial letters. On pages 1-4 of this manuscript there is an unsigned, incomplete letter by Joseph Ricketson to Deborah Weston, dated Dec. 23, 1860. Ricketson writes: "[Wendell] Phillips is eloquent as Mirabeau, and as bold as Peter the Hermit." Ricketson quotes James Otis as saying that you can sooner "dam the Nile with bulrushes, than fetter cause of Freedom." Joseph Ricketson has never before felt more confident of success. He refers to a paper stating that 100 men were ready to go from New Bedford to defend Phillips. Willy Rotch made a fine speech before the municipal election. The colored men almost unanimously voted Republican. He tells about the large attendance at the lecture of A[ndrew] T. Foss.

On page five of this manuscript, there is a separate, partial, undated letter signed by Joseph Ricketson. Joseph Ricketson tells of the popularity of William Lloyd Garrison's young son.

On page six, there is an explanation regarding this manuscript, written in pencil by an unknown person: "Part of letter from Joseph Ricketson to Deborah Weston dated New Bedford 1861. First part of letter strictly personal."