Autograph letter signed, written from Mobile, Alabama, dated August 25, 1858, addressed to family in Gilmanton, New Hampshire. Single page manuscript letter on attractive pale blue embossed stationery. A fine Southern antebellum correspondence from the prosperous Gulf port city of Mobile just a few years before the Civil War. The writer discusses local conditions in New Orleans and Mobile, references rumors of fever outbreaks and reports that “the fever is said to be decreasing at New Orleans.” He remarks that business remains active, stating he expects to soon be involved “on a larger scale than I can furnish now.” The letter also contains personal family content, mentioning relatives, hopes of visiting New England, and the loneliness of infrequent mail service: “you don’t know what a treat it is to get a letter.” An appealing and highly displayable prewar Southern letter with excellent social-history content relating to commerce, communications, and public health in the Gulf South during the late 1850s. Condition: very good overall with mailing folds, minor toning, and light wear. Ink strong and fully legible. Attractive embossed paper seal at upper corner.
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Mobile Augt 25th 58 My Dear Mother Your letter of the 16th Inst was received yesterday. I wrote to Con a few days since directing to Antoine he wrote to me from there but did not say how long he should remain. you spoke of receiving my letter saying that the fever was here. you have probably received my other telling you that the rumor was without foundation. there has been no case here yet and the fever is said to be decreasing at New Orleans. the citizens and Doctors generally think we shall escape. I shall stay here at present and when I do leave I think I shall be obliged to have something to do on a larger scale than G can furnish now. however I must hope to see you well and hardy next summer. Mr Leslie will go North in a short time. I would like to be in dear old G to see you all but the time is not yet. I hope you will write often since your influence on Con to induce him to do the same. you dont know what a treat it is to get a letter. write soon. my regards to all enquiring Friends — I will write again in a few days — send that Picture. Mrs Mlle Badger Gilmanton New Hampshire Aff your son Saml E Badger
