Correspondence (incoming): begging letters, L

OFFICE OF J. R. LEHMAN, M.D. MOUNTVILLE, PA.

MOUNTVILLE, PA Dec. 10th, 1901

Mrs Jane L Stanford

My dear Lady - I just read in the Phila Inquirer of your grand donation to the Stanford University - it must be grand indeed to be in such circumstances as to be able to do acts of charity - it seems to me that I would be the happiest woman in the world if I should ever possess a little money that I could call my own, it must be one of happier events in our lives to inherit wealth, that will never be my good luck, I am married to

a country doctor and while we are just making a living we are not able to save any money to pay on our house which has a mortgage of $1500, it would be sweet if we had it clear and would never need to pay any interest money. I have only one boy, Ray M - who is 15 years old, a very bright boy, he is going to school, has missed only two days at school since he commenced which was at the age of 7 years old, now good kind lady do not think me a bold woman for taking the liberty of writing to you, but

after reading of your kindness, I could not refrain from writing to you, and tell you of your great goodness, and oh how often have I wished that I could do such acts of kindness, I hope you will kindly pardon me for taking the liberty of writing to you.

With best wishes for your welfare, I close.

Yours Respectfully Mrs Lehman

P.S. Should this letter not reach Mrs Stanford, please do not return it to me - our place where we live is a village of 900 inhabitants, only 6 miles from the center of Lancaster City - Mrs. L.

from Miss Zanna F. LeHane Ft. Dodge, Ia.

to Mrs. Stanford San Francisco Cal Dear Madam:

Having read an account of your generous donation to the Stanford University I was prompted to write you requesting the necessary funds for a business course at Capital City Commercial College, Des Moines, Iowa, which would cost, including tuition, board, books stationery and necessary wearing apparel, about $500

I am 21 yrs. old and have always had to work for my living since I was old enough to work, so you see I realize the value of money and am sincere

in my request.

It has always been my greatest desire to take a business course, but my friends (like myself) have been too poor to assist me.

I have inquired of different persons and find that I can do best by attending the aforesaid college.

The next term opens Jan. 6th, '02 and I would be delighted to be able to enter then.

No doubt this is only one of the many letters you receive requesting help, but as this is in behalf of an education, a very good cause, I sincerely hope you will give it your attention.

If you do not think I am in earnest I would be just as much