John Surratt, Jr.

[Pamela]

Interesting...and I'm glad you mentioned John Brophy. I've re-read John's Rockville lecture. Originally I assumed it was largely fictional self serving story telling, but now I think he included some fascinating details. From his lecture:

" Things continued in this way for some time, until I could stand the suspense no longer. I determined to send a messenger to Washington for that purpose, and secured the services of an intelligent and educated gentleman. I started him off immediately, I paying all expenses. I gave him a letter to a friend of mine in Washington, with instructions to say to him to put himself in communication with the counsel for the defense, and to make a correct report to me as to how the case stood; if there was any danger; and also, to communicate with me if my presence was necessary, and inform me without delay; with an urgent request that he would see and inquire for himself how matters stood. He left me, and God alone knows the suspense and anxiety of my mind during the days of his absence. I imagined and thought all kinds of things; yet I was powerless to act. At last he returned, and so bright and cheerful was his countenance that I confess one-half of my fears were dispelled. He represented everything as progressing well, and brought me the message from the gentleman in Washington to whom I had sent him:

'Be under no apprehension as to any serious consequences. Remain perfectly quiet, as any action on your part would only tend to make matters worse. If you can be of any service to us, we will let you know; but keep quiet.'

These were the instructions I received from my friend in Washington, in whom I felt the utmost reliance, and who I thought would never deceive me."

Who was this friend? John Brophy? Brophy was John's friend from seminary college who knew Louis Weichmann as well. If Mary asked Brophy to lie to her son about the trial that could explain why Brophy went to such extreme lengths to prevent the inevitable, her execution. Not only did Brophy care about Mary, but he assured his friend (John) that her life wasn't in danger, and John acted or didn't take action based on what Brophy conveyed to him. Brophy, if it was him, was put in a horrible situation by the Surratts. John used Brophy's position as a trusted friend to get information to relieve his anxiety while he was being hidden by Catholic priests in Canada. Mary used Brophy to deceive her son so John wouldn't endanger himself. Brophy made a desperate attempt to neutralize Weichmann's testimony with his affidavit that was printed in all the newspapers, but when push came to shove, he did not want to testify under oath about his allegations.