Existing comment:
Expressions of a Condemned Man
Convicted raider Aaron Dwight Stevens liked to fight. He fought in the Mexican War and served in the US Army until his court-martial for brawling. Stevens escaped from jail and soon joined the fight to make Kansas a free state. He then followed John Brown to Harpers Ferry only to be wounded and captured there.
Stevens sketched this charcoal drawing as he awaited executed in the Charles Town jail. Stevens also wrote many letters from his cell. He maintained a steady correspondence with Mrs. Rebecca B. Spring of New Jersey, who had visited him and the other convicted raiders in jail.
"The bouquet you sent me is very beautiful. I have hung it up south of the window, over the little table I have to write upon. It always has a smile of love and kindness... I have many letters to write to many dear friends which employ a good part of my time, and the rest is taken up in sleeping, exercise and reading. The chain only gives me room to take a half step, so you will see I cannot walk very fast, but I get some exercise that way; which gives me rest from sitting or lying... I am glad that I did not die of my wounds; for I believe that my execution upon the gallows will be a better testimony for truth and liberty.
-- ADS" |