Mary Lincoln to Leonard Swett

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Title

Mary Lincoln to Leonard Swett

Description

Mary Lincoln informs Leonard Swett that she cannot continue in her present residence with her present means, even practicing "the most rigid economy." She states that if she must give it up her pride would not allow her "to remain in a land, under so many obligations to [her] noble husband."

Creator

Lincoln, Mary Todd

Publisher

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Date

[1866]-09-13

Format

pdf

Language

en

Identifier

300102
T1866.09.13

Has Version

Turner, pp. 388-89

Transcription

Chicago 13th Sept

Hon. L. Swett:

My Dear Sir:

You will pardon me about being solicitous about hearing from the results of your communications, with the friends to whom you proposed writing. With the most rigid economy which I am compelled to practise, I find it will be absolutely impossible to continue housekeeping on my present means two mont[h]s longer. Seeking retirement as a necessity, with my great sorrow upon me, it would be to me the greatest conceivable pain, that I should have to rent this place, to assist me, in living. With the sum, with the amount


of which you are apprised. I cannot attempt to struggle through the coming winter, with the requirements, which the winter necessarily brings. All I desire to know is, what prospect, there is of a change, or if you have been advised of any, please inform me so that I may make my arrangements. I can assure you, it will add, another pang, to my afflictions, if I have to give up for want of means to keep it up, my present situation. If so, my pride would not allow me to remain in a land, under so many obligations to my noble husband. I would go, with my son, where I could live retired & at less expense, far distant from here. Without hesitation in case of nothing being done, I shall proceed in a few weeks, to dispose of all my personal effects, which in the future will not be required. Please write me if you have heard any thing.

[continued on page 1 written sideways in margin]

believe me

most respectfully

Mary Lincoln.

Status

Complete

Percent Completed

100

Weight

20

Original Format

paper and ink
2 p
21 x 14 cm

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