Koeln: 22 June 1851
Dear Carl
At last your eighty-four-year-old father takes up the pen, perhaps for the last time, in order to reply to your letter and at the same time to tell your about our present family affairs. First of all, my hearty congratulations and paternal blessing on your matrimonial union, and may it be God's will to bless this marriage and your life over there uninterruptedly with the greatest happiness. However, inexplicable to me is your longing to see me again once more. You can satisfy this desire by coming over here soon, in order to call for your poor children, settle your business affairs in Hessen, and visit with us, for daily gentlemen from New York are listed in the local Visitors' Register. How easy, therefore, such a little trip? Well, come soon, otherwise you will not find me any more.
As a matter of fact, when I look back and realize that I have raised six children with much trouble, expense and untold sacrifices to the present hour, this is to me a benevolent circumstance ordered by providence. Only our good, splendid Julchen gave me some active assistance, which I still gratefully acknowledge. But regardless of all this, it is at my advanced age truly a most gratifying and joyful thought to see my children provided for and secure from want.
1. Asbeck and Julchen are happy together. They have two fine girls and a good business.
2. Edward is inspector of taxes at Lindlar, has a good salary, and has already bought an estate in the country.
3. Rudolph has married a fine girl from Schwelm, by the name of Heilenbeck, with quite a little money, and a flourishing business.
4. Robert at last has entered a large commercial house here. His salary is 600 Thaler. He is well-behaved, and his conduct is quite good and irreproachable.
The memory of my poor, unhappy Emilie is still unforgettable to me. I watched at her bedside for three months, day and night. Her wish to die at home, attended by her good sister, Julchen, was gratified. You have probably received the last letter from Asbeck.
Now, dear Carl! farewell to you and your dear wife. I greet you and her a thousand times. Julchen, Asbeck, Rudolph and wife, as also Robert, join me in my greeting, and I look forward to your arrival with the greatest longing.
Your old Father, who loves you unto death
© 1993-2008 Helen Glenn Court | All rights reserved