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Sandusky
April 19, 1864
My Dear Jay
Mr. White called on me today desiring some direction respecting
the kitchen & wood house part of your chateau. I am almost ashamed
to say that he found me somewhat ill in bed. He was in haste and
I told him as soon as I felt able I would get up & write you on
the subject. The arrangement is now something like this (drawing
outline of house).
The
tower and the main body are located on the highest ground on the
Island & require no excavation except for the foundation & for
the val (?) of the material for grading. This (arrow) rear of
the main building extends exactly back to a ravine almost perpendicular
& deep enough almost for the cellar. The wood house will occupy
the same level. Now he desires to know whether he shall not raise
the wood house to the same height with the kitchen - make the
kitchen itself in the upper part & dining room off the kitchen.
He says it will require only the same roofing & cost about $150
more. Talk with Pitt about this and direct me as you think best.
I am too old to give advice - but as this is to be only a summer
resort I don't see the necessity of a wood house at all. You have
not even a wood house at the Cedars.
Excuse illegible writing as I have to write at arms end on the
back of my portfolio. I cannot lean forward without pain. I must
have taken a sort of dum, undemonstrative cold last Thursday on
the Island - as I began losing appetite shortly after until Sunday,
when it entirely left me & still refuses to return. I am much
better to day however. The Docts prescription bids fair to act
like a charm - and I doubt not I shall be well again in a few
days. Don't tell Mother I have been a little ill as she will worry
about it.
Your
building will cost you terribly. White saw Pitts scow man this
morning from Port Clinton, who wont carry over the stone for less
than $4.00 the cord & mechanics most of them - insist on $3 &
board to go out there. Unless you strike for & win some out side
gains - of some magnitude -- I fear you will rue the job. I will
render you all the assistance in my power in the matter and save
where it can be saved. I hope Pitt will strike for the sale of
his Preston before the excitement tapers off & come home with
the Commission in his pocket. After he returns and I get well
you may possibly hear of me near the green mountains once again.
Write me immediately on the subject of this letter. Verity (?)
they all sail tomorrow - does Wm G go? It is dangerous time -
after so cold a winter - Icebergs are said to be numerous (?)-
Give best love to Lizzie dear & the children.
Ever
affy yr father, EC
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