Copying Book: Secretary's Letters, 1860 (page 078)

78

counties to get from the record this information which it is
impossible to receive in any other way. In this way, too,
the Corporation are apprized of the legacies or endowments of lots
made by the dec^d proprietor.

But I need not go on enumerating the services which
have always appeared to me to be rendered necessary to do justice
to the place. Some man ought to do it, or negligence and decay
ensue. The Secretary's office (for these are records & documents)
is supposed to be the repository of this information, and he is expected
to consider the correspondence, publish orders, -

If it be asked,- can he properly attend to the duties
of his office, and (if a lawyer) find much time for other practices
I answer - No. I have no doubt I work more hours than
two thirds of the lawyers and my experience in seeking to econ-
mize labor as much as possible, in this office for more
than eight years, ought to [enable?] me to known.

If the offices of Secretary and Treasurer could be brought
together, duties could be better systematized and more economically
and effectually performed, and give general satisfaction to the Proprietors.
But of that the Trustees must Judge.-

From the nature of the case, nearly all my time is now required
for which I receive - Salary - per annum $500.
Fees for making deeds -day - $100.
Individual records & tranfers - say-- 30
$630

Of this I have to pay heat of office $150.
Care of room & postage 52. -
Fuel & lights - say 23.
225.
leaving - $405

My income for all other services cannot amount to
$100 per annum - The sum connected with the lawsuit of the Corporation
vs. J. Mann are an exception
Very respectfully,
A.J. Coolidge