Letter from Amos Townsend Jr. to Lewis Tappan
Description
With regard to James Covey, Amos Townsend has discussed with Benjamin Griswold whether or not Covey should stay in New Haven. Townsend concludes that he should not, however, Griswold has not yet decided. It is mentioned that last spring Townsend considered Covey's leaving "after the close of the trial, but the poor Africans...begged me...that he might remain." Covey has "been generally very attentive & has rendered valuable assistance." He has also been employed in teaching the Amistad Captives to read. Townsend writes that Covey and Stanton Pendleton have been quarreling, which has limited Covey's time with the captives. Townsend reports that communication with the captives has improved as they "can converse very intelligently in English & several of them can read in the Bible." Townsend believes that Covey's work and instruction have benefited the Captives but is unsure if Roger S. Baldwin considers his presence necessary. According to Townsend, the two will meet the next day and discuss the matter while the Captives are moved to Westville, "in consequence of the demolishing of the Old Prison." Townsend later reports in his letter that he has met with Griswold, who now agrees that Covey need not remain.