Gold Rush Era Letters

I have heard that Sam Lewis was coming out here. Mr Shipley told me, and he got his news from a man to whom Sam wrote a letter.

How I should like to ask him the questions now that he asked me just before I left home, to come out here which were as follows. After I told him that I thought of coming, he asked "What I was coming to California for?" and "what I thought I could do here?" I told him in reply that I guessed I could make a living here if I only had my health.

It would perhaps have been easier for me to have told him what I couldn't do, as it was very evident that I could not fool away $10,000 which was left me as he did. But never mind, with all his learning, and money, I do not think he "will ever set the sun afire" Do you?

I have written these few lines in a hurry as you will readily perceive, but you must excuse the bad looks. Give my love to C. and H. I will try and answer H's letter (which was very acceptable) by next mail. I shall send C. a Paper by this mail as usual.

Hoping that you are enjoying health and happiness. I remain Your affct [affectionate] Son

H. A. Parker [Henry A. Parker]