New Orleans, La., Sunday, Dec. 12 [1859].
Dear General: .
. . Late last night I got the dispatch that the books have been shipped; so I
think we may safely count on them in time. I could only after long search find
four of the French grammars required by Monsieur St. Ange. So of necessity had
to telegraph for one hundred. The steamer leaves New York to-day and ought to
be here the 22nd and at Alexandria by the 1st - rather close cutting for us.
All other things I have purchased here. Many things went on
Friday by the “Rapides.” I will bring some tomorrow in the “Telegram” and
balance will follow next week in the “Rapides.” I have paid in full all bills
but furniture and have paid $1,000 toward furniture out of about $1,500. I have
drawn only $1,920, but will buy about $50 more of little odds and ends, and
bring with me in cash to make up the $2,500. The balance will remain to your
credit, and I think you had better meet me at the Seminary about Friday to
examine the bills and receipts, to receive the cash I bring up, and to see the
kind and quality of furniture. I hear your letter-press, book, brush, etc.,
cost about $13. You had better come with your buggy and receive it. It had, for
convenience, to go with our packages. I have sent up a cooking range, cost
$175, and want Jarreau forthwith to move one or more servants out to clean up
and get ready.
Many of these items of purchase were hard to find, and my
time has been too much taken up to enable me to attempt to make acquaintances.
I dined yesterday with your friends, the Frerets, who had many kind inquiries
for you.
I have a drum and drummer, also a fife, but thus far have
failed to get a tailor or shoemaker. I have examined shoes, boots, clothing,
cloth, etc., and know exactly how to order when the time comes.
I have a letter from Bragg which I will show you; he coincides
with you in the necessity of making a military academy by law, and wants you to
meet him in January at Baton Rouge. Our first paramount duty is to start on
present economical basis and enlarge as means are provided. It is easy to
increase, but hard to curtail. Unless it be convenient for you to come over,
write me at the Seminary, to bring in your press, money, and accounts, and
appoint a day and hour, for I must work smart as you know.
SOURCES: Walter L. Fleming, General W.T.
Sherman as College President, p. 74-5
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