SHSND Home > North Dakota History > Unit 3: Commerce Culture, and Conflict, 1800-1878 > Set 5: Fred Gerard & The Fur Trade > Documents - Letter 2

Unit 3: Set 5: Fred Gerard & The Fur Trade - Documents - Letter 2

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Fort Abe Lincoln May 1st 1876

My Dear Daughters

Your three letters were duly received, Ihave been so busy that when night came I was so tired that I could not write, I am sorry that you should feel homesick & want to leave school, on a visit home, you of course do not think of the cost & must think that I have money to spare that I could afford to bring you home for a few days pleasure & then send you back when Ibring you home I intend you shall stay, you are at school to obtain an english education, the sooner you accomplish it the earlier you will re­turn, so write no more of being homesick, you should be thankful that you have been so favored as to remain there as long as you have

The expedition will probably leave here about the 15th May and will remain out at least three months Iwill however write to you from time to time to let you know how Iam getting on

I have not heard from Fort Berthold for over six weeks

I have taken out a Life Insurance in the New York Life Insurance Company for $1,500 in case of my death, the policy is in favor of you three, that is $500.00 a piece & I have also bought in your names two lots in Bismarck, the money for the lots was fur­nished by your Mother. This property I have bought in trust, that is I am to have the use of it during my life time, I mention these things to you in case of any accident happening to me while you are at school & in case of my death be very careful what papers you put your names to.

Mrs Seip is now living in Bismark and has a Son

Write me upon receipt of this letter

With much love Your Affectionate Father

F.F. Gerard

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