Letter from Thomas M. Isett and William C. Brewster to Samuel B. Reed, August 20, 1860

In this letter from August 20, 1860, Thomas M. Isett and William C. Brewster write to Samuel Reed seeking his opinion of a business proposition made to them by the Keokuk and Des Moines Valley Railroad.

T. M. ISETT,W. C. BREWSTER. Banking and Exchange Office –OF– ISETT AND BREWSTER.

Muscatine, Iowa
Aug 20^th 1860

S. B. Reed Esq.

Dear Sir

We have your favor of with stated inclosures W^m T. Smith of Askaloosa [sic] called on us a day or two since, saying that a propasition [sic] had been made to the people of that place by the Keokuck [sic] Rail Road Co proposing to run their road by way of Askaloosa [sic] providing $30,000 in stock could be taken. They claim that our tracts of land would be materially advanced in value could such an arrangement be consumated.

We said to W Smith that so far as we were concerned we would be willing to subscribe stock in proportion as our interests would be enhanced in value thereby that in case the depot was placed upon our lands, to suit us, we would subscribe to providing parties, interested with us, would consent to do the same. C. Reed now holds the Patterson interest, and thinks favourably [sic] of this arrangement. We told Smith we would write you, and get your view, in relation to the same, so soon as they can ascertain whether or not they can raise the necessary amt. including what they would expect from us. They will write us. What we subscribe will have to be paid up in money in order to complete the work. Please let us hear your [reply] immediately.

Yours Truly
Isett & Brewster