Letter from Charles H. Abbott to Samuel B. Reed, May 17, 1860

In this letter from May 17, 1860, Charles H. Abbott writes to Samuel Reed from Chicago recommending an acquaintance for employment as a farm hand. He also notes that "we are having great times here" on account of the Republican National Convention. He teases Reed about his support of Stephen A. Douglas, writing "come up and be converted to the true Republicans of /76 or will you wait to take the chances of the Little Giant at Baltimore."

Chicago
May 17^th /60

Friend Reed

This will be handed you by Mr. Fupper, who is seeking employment as a farm hand. I have given him this letter, thinking if you did not require his services you might be able to help him to a situation with some of your neighbors. I am well acquainted with his family in Mich. and have reason to feel assured that he will make a most faithful and hasty hand to you or anyone who requires first rate help. Please do what you can to help him to a situation, and I shall esteem it a favor to myself.

Mrs. Abbott & the boys got off with a friend of mine from N.H. a week ago last Tuesday evening, and have arrived safely among our friends at Concord N.H. We have heard twice from her since she arrived. Mrs. Reed's letter to her came to hand the day she left, and will doubtly be duly replyed [sic] to, when she gets settled in her new home. Mr. & Mrs. Hazelton left the followng [sic] morning for Philadelphia. Also safely arrived, Mr. Hazelton enduring the journey very well. Immediately on receipt of Mrs. Reed's letter I went to look up the cabinet or furniture man with whom you have had so much trouble, and he had vamoused [sic] the ranche [sic] . I could not learn what had become of him. I think you have seen the worst end of a bad bargain. We are having great times here. The city is crowded to overflowing by delegates and those attracted here by the setting of the convention.

I think they will nominate the next President of these United States tomorrow or next day.

Come up and be converted to the true Republicans of /76 or will you wait to take the chances of the Little Giant at Baltimore.

Love to Mrs. Reed & dear little Anna.

I remain very truly your friend
C.H. Abbott