Abner Fawcett Letter 1828-02-24

Febry 24th Harrisonburg, Va

Mf.. Lyle B. Fawcett Richmond

Harrisonburg 24th Feby 1828

Dear Branson,

Your letter of the 18th Instant is to hand and in pursuance of its suggestions I have rode several days in search of cattle but found none. Crawford’s and Bowma’s were sold just the day before I called with a view of buying them, nor is there one left on Sinules Creek or Smiths creek. so far as I can learn, it is said that there are some good cattle on the south Branch, but I have no money. I have therefore concluded to buy some sheep. I shall probably set out on Tuseday [sic] or Wednesday next with from fifty to eighty sheep. let Noland & Co. know that I will be in Richmond by next Tuseday [sic] week. also write to Frank Price at Petersburg apprizing him of the time I expect to be with you. you may tell them that these sheep are real good..

I have learned that one of the Bowmans in the forrest [sic] has a fine lot of 117 sheep. I am not personally acquainted with him and shall if I buy them be obliged to pay him money. If you think the speculation an object you may provid [sic] yourself with as much money as will buy them and pay expenses of one half of them, and I will furnish the money for the other half and will markent

father has done nothing yet with respect to settlement. he is still unwilling to remain here under the cold supercillious [sic] contempt of his old associates. I saw Rader the day before yesterday. he is willing to let us have the stand and a few acres of land for cultivation, but the Idea of having to hold in here among our old creditors and with Raders depotism

All well,

Abner Fawcett

P.S. from your remarks on the subject of Peter father has directed Col. Kenny to advertise him for sale at the April court, together with the balance of the other property. father desires you will not act too precipately [sic] with respect to the house, possibly Allen would aid you in establishing your self rather than let you leve [sic]  the house, but at the same time he does not want you to persavere [sic]  against hope. the Idea of getting into the sheriffship [sic] at Moorefield he thinks not a bad one. A. F.