Text: Elizabeth F. Ellet to Edgar Allan Poe — about December 15, 1845

Presidency of So. Ga. College

It might be well to mention the fact admitted in all the Southern papers — that Revd Dr Henry was removed simply on the ground that he was “unpopular” without a single charge being alleged against his character, qualifications or scholarship. In the latter he has no equal in the state. To be “unpopular” in South Carolina is as fatal as the cry of “mad dog” or the accusation of “pride” at the west. The Legislature, two years since, spurned at the idea of Mr Preston, for the Presidency, on the same ground precisely. It might do also to mention how much the Trustees are featured by their fear of not pleasing the Legislature. A bill was before that august body not long since to prohibit the college professors from leaving the State at any time — without express permission from the legislature — but it is not necessary to mention that. I would write the article, but am afraid of displeasing Dr E. as the Broadway Journal goes to Columbia — & I should be discovered at once. E. [page 2:]

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