"I have lately returned from Harpers Ferry, to which place I was suddenly called, on the 17th instant, by causes the most disturbing and destructive to the peace and safety of this State"

Henry A. Wise's quote is referring to a sudden and unanticipated event that happened in Harpers Ferry, Virginia on the 17th of the month. This event was so disruptive and harmful to the peace and safety of the state that Wise was contacted us to the location to investigate. The occasion was likely a conflict in between 2 or more parties, or a natural catastrophe, that caused a good deal of damage and mayhem. Wise's presence at the scene recommends that he was in a position of authority and was accountable for bring back order and security to the location. His quote implies that the event was major enough to require his immediate attention which the circumstance was alarming. It is most likely that the occasion had a lasting effect on the state and its residents, which Wise was instrumental in helping to bring the scenario under control.