Don’t worry, this is not a classified ad! Not too long ago, the Archives received some records from New Richmond Pastoral Charge in Québec. One of the gems in the collection was the following letter written in 1848. A man by the name of James Dick was offering his house, barn, and garden for St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (later to become St. Andrew’s United Church) to rent. My favorite part of the letter is the description of the never failing spring. What do you think, does he make a convincing case? The handwritten is hard to decipher at times so I’ve included a transcription after the image.
June 25, 1849
Dear Sir,
On reply to your esteemed favor of 22 inst.; respecting my house, barn, and garden, I beg to say that I would prefer having a respectable tenant in to it being unoccupied, but am afraid I could scarcely give up all the barn as I still have some cattle at New Richmond, unless the rent would be sufficient inducement for me to part with the stock. However, the barn is large and might accommodate us both, as I would prefer the hay to be consumed on the farm. But as it is my wish to accommodate the congregation, and their pastor, as much as in my power, if the partial occupation of the same by me was objected to, I could make arrangements for the removal of the stock and with reference to rent, I do not think it would be asking too much to say [illegible].10 pounds per annum for the house, garden, and part of the barn, or 10 pounds per annum for the house, barn, and garden without any reservation. You are aware that the place is convenient and there is a never failing spring with excellent water attached. Mrs. (J?) intends going down by this chance and if your meeting takes place before her return, please let me know then your [ultimation], as if we come upon terms, I shall go down and put the house in order when it is wanted.
I am, Dear Sir,
Yours very truly,
James Dick
