MS01.01.01 - Box 01 - Folder 04 - General Correspondence, 1972 October - December

P.O. Box 1039 Monrovia, Liberia December 14, 1972

Dear Brother Dave, I want to believe that by now you have safely returned home and enjoying a very happy reunion with your family, friends and colleagues.

It was indeed very unfortunate that during your brief visit with us, the activities for both of us could not permit discussion of some of my personal plans.

For some years now, it had been my strong desire to further my education in the U.S. In order to remain in good "shape" for studies,

(2) I remained in the teaching field (high school) for over ten years.

Perhaps, from your African associates, you might have heard about the problem of the "extended family" that we encounter -- caring for other relatives. At present, the only way I can overcome the problem, and hope to further my education, is to immigrate to U.S., work awhile to save some money to cover at least the tuition for two academic years.

Another strong desire of mine is to establish contact with a well established food processing company, an industrialist, or a financier

(3) who is interested in agriculture, livestock, or commerce in West Africa.

Also I am looking for a research institute or company or pharmaceutical company. I know of a very rare plant that produces small berries, which when sucked (only one) leaves a sugary sweet effect in one's mouth or on the tongue for sometime.

I feel that research into the properties of the berry might tap an unknown view in the preparation of sweeteners for diabetic patients or other drugs.

(4)

There are so many virgin fields for research or investment in West Africa that I spend must of the time dreaming dreams and waiting to get in contact with the right person.

I was very sorry that we could not discuss some of these dreams while you were here. However, I feel that you could help me out. As an educator, you know so many groups and get in contact with so many individuals that it won't be diffi-

(5) cult for you to spot out an interested group or person, preferably a black financier or company, already established along the line or lines of my thinking. If not, I will be very grateful for whatever suggestions you could make or help me one way or the other. I hope you will manifest your personal interest in these propositions I am putting forth to you.