Original 1818 Rev Lemuel Capen Letter to Sterling MA Congregation Debts Finances For Sale
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Original 1818 Rev Lemuel Capen Letter to Sterling MA Congregation Debts Finances:
$50.00
Great old handwritten letter: both sides of 3 sheets of paper, so 6 handwritten pages, the last of which is only about 1/4 full. Bound together by \'sewn\' string.Dated: Sterling, November 2nd 1818. Written and signed by (Reverend) Lemuel Capen.
Begins: To the inhabitants of Sterling - the people of my minsterial charge. My Christian friends.
\"The time has arrived, when it becomes and indispensible, though most painful duty to lay before you a statement of my affairs, of the kind which I have expected sooner or later to ber obliged to exhibit since I consented to settle amoung you in the gospel ministry.\"He then goes on to give a listing of his pay, expenses and debts. His debts come out to be over $2,000 - a huge amount in 1818!
\"You may well suppose that it has been a subject of the most heartfelt grief to me, a burdun most insupportable, ever since I have gained an accurate & definite knowledge of my embarrassments. It will afford me much relief to consider that they are no longer secrets of my own bosom. I submit them to your most candid examination & reflection and shall patiently wait your advice and direcetions.\"
He then writes out about a page and a half of explanations, etc.
Historically interesting letter!
Expected age and wear including age discoloration, creasing, crease tears (some of which are a several inches), etc. Please see photos as they are part of description. Has been stored and will be shipped folded.