Correspondence (incoming): begging letters, M

Buffalo, N.Y.

Dec. 16, 1901

Mrs. Stanford,_

Dear Madam,_

Seeing your picture and reading of your wonderful generosity in giving away millions for a good cause. I can't resist writing and telling you my situation. Eight years ago I was left entirely alone on my

own resources. In fact penniless. I have kept a private boarding house, had to go into debt for furniture and every thing to open my house with. And have barely made a living, have never been able to pay my debts. It is just wearing me out am on the verge of nervous prostration.

Pardon me for addressin you in this manner, but all I can say is that you, like my self are a part of humanity.

Here is a list of names

Mr. L. J. Bennett, P. J. Lockie, F. Busch.

Hoping and praying this meets your approval. I am,

Very Respectfully -

(over)

Mrs. M. G. McPhail

#6 Parker Ave.

Buffalo, N.Y.

2112 W. 101st Place

(Tracy)

Chicago, Cook Co Ill,

Dec 12/01

Mrs Leland Stanford

Madam

I take the liberty of asking you, what chance or opportunity there is for a boy when he leaves the Public Grammar Schools here in Chicago for a Practical business Education in the great University which bears your name, I have a boy we call "Stanford" bet. 10 & 11 & as soon as he is out of the Grammar School here I would like to give him a brief practical Education as I cant afford nor can he afford to wait much longer than 14 to 15 years