Series II. Correspondence covers the years 1861 to 1890 and has been divided into four subseries.

Subseries A. Letters Between the Three Stone Brothers contains correspondence between the brothers and reveals the business activities and concerns of the brothers from the beginning of the firm until 1886. Reflected in the letters is the shift in the brothers' concerns from shipping ventures to investments in railroad and banking stocks and bonds. All correspondence between the brothers before 1860 has been filed with the Stone Family Papers (MSS 65). This subseries has been divided into Sub-Subseries 1. Letters Written to Benjamin W. containing letters by Joseph and William and Sub-Subseries 2. Letters Written by Benjamin W. to Joseph and/or William.

Subseries B. Foreign Merchants Correspondence contains letters filed alphabetically by the name of the firm. This correspondence discusses prices current, advice for sales, and ships' progress. There are a number of items that have been affected by mold; these items have been restricted. Photocopies have replaced the originals in the collection.

Subseries C. American Merchants and Agents Correspondence contains letters which discuss cargo sales and activities in ports. Some of the American merchants acted as agents for the foreign merchant (see Appendix I for a complete listing of merchants and agents).

Subseries D. Miscellaneous Business Correspondence includes letters to and from local merchants, insurance companies, and American and foreign merchants with whom the firm did not have prolonged business transactions. Moldy items from this series have been removed and placed in box 32 and oversize box 35, which are restricted.