UNITED STATES. Letter from the city of RICHMOND dated May 10 - Lot 526

UNITED STATES. Letter from the city of RICHMOND dated May 10, 1842, from a brother-in-law addressed to Mr. DECAUX in Paris: “… As for us, on March 1, 1837, we had resolved to return to France; I could have realized about two hundred thousand francs at that time, but the financial crisis that is still ravaging the country broke out like a bolt from the blue, not even giving me time to begin carrying out this plan. ” He does not dare to leave while events are unfolding so rapidly… “Here, all industries are thriving, and even though business is currently poor, bad business here is better than what is called good business in France. Even the humblest worker here lives in what we would consider great luxury back home: fine woolen suits when they go out, carpeted homes, mahogany furniture, good food, and above all, a status they do not have in Europe. Here, work is honored, and all classes walk on equal footing. There is no one—not even the President of the United States—who would dare treat him rudely or refuse to shake his hand upon approaching him. For a long time to come, this will be a country where one can make a fortune and live in great comfort: there is so much room…”