|
|
|
|
|
 |
 | | | Raymond, Fred & Bobby Emonet | | | |
The first letter from Michel is dated May 26, 1842.
Dear Brother-in-law and Dear Sister,
You will be surprised to receive a letter from me that is coming from Bordeaux. When I wrote to you at the time of Napoleon's departure, I had promised you a letter about 15 days afterwards. It's a little later than that, but never mind - better late than never. Now you will probably not receive one before six months because the voyage upon which I am about to embark is somewhat long.
I'm sure you've heard about it. In case of the contrary, this is what is happening. You know that I have a changing character. For some time now the urge to travel has raced through my head. I have written to our cousin, Joseph Conseil, who as you know is in America. It will be easy for me to join him, upon his very obliging reply, that I could go - that he would await my arrival with infinite pleasure - that he even had a place all ready for me in the house where he lives. I decided to accompany a friend, about the same age as me, who lives near Lyon, to cross the ocean to join him (Joseph Conseil). Here I am in Bordeaux for a few days awaiting the departure of the ship La Zone which is due to leave the 1st of June and upon which I will make the crossing that will take at least two months. Do not be angry with me that I didn't let you know sooner. It could have happened that such events might have detained its occurrence or to have rendered it impossible, and I wanted to be certain that it would take place. I even had the intention of going to see you before, but time didn't permit it. It would have given me much satisfaction after so long a separation, and probably on the eve of an even longer one yet. Finally, do not trouble yourself with my lot. I hope that all will go for the better. If I don't make my fortune, at least I'll have seen the country. It is true that I was not unhappy in Paris, but I saw no chance before me to make a solid future for myself. Right now it's possible that the country of my birth doesn't present any such advantages. I will try. If I don't succeed, at least I won't lose anything, since I have nothing.
I pray do not speak of my departure to our poor mother. I wrote to her before leaving Paris, but I didn't mention it to her in view of the fact that it will sadden her too much. She would think I am lost. As soon as I arrive in America, I will write to her. It will probably be less painful for her seeing that I have arrived safe and sound. Alas, I am very afraid of never seeing her again. This thought often makes me shed tears. At times those memories make me lose all courage. Sad is the courage to say that one is leaving his parents. But is hope not there? It is what makes one endure the greatest deprivations. It is hope too, that gives me the courage to overcome the perils to leave all that is dear to me. I might sound egotistical, but that isn't so. The well-being of my parents is for me an object of solitude as much as my very own. My wish will be to return among you, and to find you all in good health. If only the bad genie that persues our family can finally let go. I will not tell you to answer (this letter) at Bordeaux. You won't have time. but I pray that you do not forget me in your prayers. Even though I am not very religious, I haven't completely lost my faith, and I think it can be useful to me in a foreign place. Please hug all of your children for me. Say my name now and then in front of them, so that they might remember me - so that I won't be a total stranger upon my return.
If you'd like to write to me in about 15 days, you need only send your letter to Bordeaux at the home of Mr. Baptiste, Sol-rue Palais Gallien #7. He will make sure I get it by way of the ship "La Caglion" that is due to leave in three weeks. It will be necessary to forward it (the letter) to Bordeaux because without that I won't receive it. You should put it in an envelope for me. Here is the address: M. Emonet - in care of Mr. Elie - merchant at Tampico, Mexico. Having said this, if you are willing, I will count on and await impatiently the arrival of that ship. In the meantime I am your brother and friend for life.
Michel Emonet
|
|
|
Kris, Ron, Mark & Scott Emonet (2005 SEC Football Championship.)
|
|
|
|
|
