This collection consists of a single letter written by Francis B. Deane, Jr., a Virginia legislator representing Campbell County. Written in Richmond on June 28, 1857, the letter is addressed to William Ballard Preston in Washington, D. C. Deane writes concerning Preston's recent appointment as a commissioner to negotiate a direct, commercial steamship line between Norfolk, Virginia and Europe. Deane advises Preston to meet with "Mr. Hunter" [U. S. Senator Robert Mercer Taliaferro Hunter] and enlist his assistance: "If the state is to take any part in raising the capital to establish a line of steamers, it is of the first importance to secure the cooperation of Mr[.] Hunters [sic] friends in the Legislature." Deane further advises Preston on where he can obtain reliable regional trade figures in negotiating the line's establishment.