374
AMERICAN HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION.
Mr. Hawkins is a lawyer of the [highest] standing in this place- he is not rich-but he has a most generous heart-he has made me this offer-if I will remain with him he will board me, permit me the use of his books, and money for clothes, give me all the instruction in his power until I am well fitted to commence the practice of law in this country-for my board and the use of his books he will charge nothing, and for the money he adva.nces he will wait until I make enough by my profession to repay him; an offer so generous and from a man who two months ago was a stranger to me, has almost made me change ruy opinion of the human race.. There are however two obstacles in the way; one is that I shall earn nothing to help you with, for at least 18 months; another is that perhaps those I owe in Missouri mny prosecute here; it will do them no good I have nothing-all the property I had in Arkansas, I gave to Father. If I am left alone a few years I may get up and pay all off; it will take me 18 months to become acquainted with civil law which is in force in this country and learn the French language-that once done I then shall have the means of fortune within my reach. I am de- termined to accept of Hawkins offer. I have been engaged in aiding to edit a newspaper, the "Louisiana Advertiser" I have sent some numbers to Post .Master Herculaneum which you now doubt can get Your Son
GALLAHER TO STEPHEN F. AUSTIN
Washington Cty [Missouri] 20 th January 1821
D.SIR I now imbrase the opportunity of informing you that times are very hard and money very scarce in this country and as fortune has frowned on me; and as I nm informed smiled on you, T Flatter myself you will assist me with a part; if not all of the money which I lent you; I gave to Mr Wm Perry your note last spring when he was leaving this place for Orleenes and as he has not ~turned yet :( do not know wheather he saw you or not, or what he done with the note, if you saw him and have paid it I hop you will Excuse this demand, If not I hope you wil1 send by ·wm Bruffy all or as much of it as you can; and his receipt to you shaJl be good for the amt received; DAVID GALLAHER [Addressed :l His Excellency S. F. Austin Provence Taxes
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