In November 1901, Ann is 73 years old and living in Lincoln with her daughter Ella. It seems that Ann is still a woman of independent means. In this letter, she is seeking her son’s advice on purchasing an 80-acre farm, but a farm offered by Mr. Watson is too expensive. She seems anxious to invest her cash, since “money is so slipry” and “land can’t run away.”
She’s hinting about not feeling well; it turns out she has less than six months to live.
Lincoln
Nov 28 1901Dear Children
Ella received your letter. Glad you are all well.
Mr. Watson has gone too high for me. It would not pay and I would not make payments that way to much care. He must get getting big rent for it, what does Mrs. Bradbsby ask for hers and what will it rent for and what are taxes on an 80? You see I have to calculate so I get a living. $200 is all I can calculate on not allways that taxes must be paid, 6 percent would be as good but money is so slipry. Land can’t run away. I want to be safe.
I did not intend to come down till things were green and the weather warm. I take cold so easy and I have not been as well since the rains. I was glad Ella got down. She enjoyed her visit. I have not been to Woodlawn since we moved. You let me know what she asks as soon as you get this or as soon as you can. If she will sell and what she will take if she is within my reach I will come down.
I hope you did not eat too much dinner. You are having a good time to build.
Love to all
from Mother
