Letter from Joseph G. Osborn to George S. Harris, April 19, 1872

In this April 19, 1872 letter from Joseph E. Osborn to George S. Harris, Osborn describes the immigrants headed to Burlington and Missouri River Railroad lands in Nebraska and Iowa as being "as poor as church rats."

Göteborg,
April 19, 1872

Geo. S. Harris, Esq.
Land Commiss. B & M R
Burlington, Iowa

Dear Sir,

There leaves to day several hundred emigrants among them a small party for Burlington, with at least one land buyer. His name is Jos. August Anderson and carries with him a letter to you. Also a draft which I have drawn on you for $236.34 Gold #2 19/4/72 signed by me. I enclose his signatures. He has besides relatives that can identify him in Burlington. He is the first one among the many hundred emigrants that have left here with so much cash. They are as poor as church rats. Thus far none with means have emigrated this year, not but prepaids and laborers. They are all supplied with circulars and when these poor rats have some money I am confident some will find their way to your office. I shall cease to advertise as soon as the present advertisements have been inserted for the contracted time. It does not pay. For coming year I have new plans which in the future I will have the pleasure of laying before you.

Very Truly Yours,
Joseph G. Osborn

I forward papers with advertisements by tomorrows mail
Adieu