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Vernon O. Ricker letters, 1861-1863
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This collection of eight letters chronicles a relationship and subsequent "breach of promise" case in New York during the mid-nineteenth century. Vernon O. Ricker wrote all but one of the letters, with the majority of them addressed to Miss Kate Dennis of Hillside, New York. The correspondence also includes one letter from Vernon O. Ricker to his friend Walter Shafer and another by John Gaul, Jr., of the law firm Gaul and Esselstyn to Hon. John F. Collin.
This collection of eight letters chronicles a relationship and subsequent "breach of promise" case in New York during the mid-nineteenth century. Vernon O. Ricker wrote all but one of the letters, with the majority addressed to Miss Kate Dennis of Hillside, New York. The correspondence also includes one letter from Vernon O. Ricker to his friend Walter Shafer and another by John Gaul, Jr., of the law firm Gaul and Esselstyn, to Hon. John F. Collin.
Over the period of two years, Vernon O. Ricker wrote repeatedly of his desire to see Miss Dennis again, but was continually delayed because of business travel. He often stated how he was "unworthy" of Miss Dennis's friendship and repeatedly apologized for his delay in seeing her again--though always providing an alternate date for when he will next be in town. The letters also contain news of various friends and acquaintances including a Captain Elmendorf with whom Ricker often traveled.
The final letters from Mr. Ricker chronicle the aftermath of his discussion with Miss Dennis about her belief that they were engaged and her subsequent lawsuit against him.
Vernon Ricker's letters to Kate Dennis include duplicate copies.
1861 July 23 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Kate Dennis; Rhinecliff, [New York].
4 pages
Box 62, Small Collections, Folder 31
Received letter at Germantown, New York, and understands if Kate no longer wishes to continue their friendship. Explains why he did not visit her during his recent trip to Hillsdale, New York. Mentions meeting a man for an order for trees. Admits these are "very poor excuses" and feels quite ashamed. Tells Kate she is too good for him as he is "not worthy." Would be very glad to "have you with me" and please write as soon as possible to tell him if she still wishes to continue their friendship.
1861 August 6 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Kate Dennis; Tivoli, [New York].
3 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Glad to receive Kate's letter and happy she still wishes to be friends. Hopes to spend much time in her company, but unsure when he will return to Hillsdale. May travel with Captain Elmendorf. Not surprised that Miss Dennis was "indignant" and was unsure whether she would speak to him again. Feels utterly unworthy to be one of her "dearest" friends. Will be sure to see her when he visits Hillsdale again and looking forward to spending time together alone in her "cosy little room." Discusses Sally Elmendorf and her uncle, Walter Sheldon, who does not appear to welcome her visit. Notes what great times they had with that woman and that she should be pitied as she has such a hard time. Quotes, "them that dance must pay the fiddler."
1861 September 26 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Kate Dennis; s.l.
3 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Knows Miss Dennis was looking forward to seeing him this week, but he is unable to make it on account of business obligations. Will be in Hudson at the fair next week and would be glad if she would come. He will be free to spend time with her in the evenings, though during the day he will go around to farmers and sell trees. Does not have much time to write but is very lonely. Misses her and the "pleasant room" where they "engaged ourselves."
1861 [Unknown month] 10 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Kate Dennis, Brighton, [New York].
3 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Has been occupied with business in Rochester. Met a man and his family "aboard the cars at Syracuse to go to Chicago." Sat with the man's daughter who was very talkative. Wants to return to Hillsdale. Thinks he May "grow jealous" of Miss Dennis and Mr. King. Dreamed Miss Dennis was with him and was disappointed upon awakening. "The Capt' set up for me that night that I was-you know where I hope he had a good time, for I did."
1862 April 16 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Kate Dennis; Brighton, [New York].
4 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Opened and read a letter from Hillsdale before realizing it was for his father, in which Miss Dennis notes her anxiety about the return of her watch and chain. Promises to return them as soon as possible. Had attempted to return them through Captain Elmendorf. Unable to show his face in Hillsdale after acting like a "fool." Miss Dennis says they were engaged but he does not remember proposing. Believes himself unworthy regardless. "I never loved you other than a friend and never can." Will return her letters and picture and "know [sic] one will ever know that you wrote to me." Cannot ask her to send greetings to Hillsdale friends, though they probably have shunned him.
1863[1?] October 16 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Kate Dennis; Brighton, [New York].
2 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Returned to family safely. Weather is very nice and rather than working is simply enjoying himself. Hopes to return to Hillsdale soon. People just came into the office and asked him to write labels so the letter will be short. Has so much more to tell her.
1863 February 3 . Vernon O. Ricker ALS to Walter Shafer; Poughkeepsie, [New York].
4 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Writes that Kate Dennis is suing him, which pains him greatly as he never proposed marriage nor "done anything to injure her." Believes that she was encouraged to sue him by someone else. Notes that Mr. Shafer is a good friend and "will intercede in my behalf." Says he owes $800 in bond and must "lay here" until he pays the money. Plans to visit. His arrest "almost killed" his wife. Pleads for Mr. Shafer to go see Miss Dennis to settle the matter. She will not gain anything by winning the case. Intends to see Miss Dennis once he pays bond. He did not think she would do this, as it seemed she understood the matter when they last spoke. He told her exactly what his "feelings were and she agreed to let the matter drop." Admits he has been "very neglectful" of the money he borrowed from Mr. Shafer but had planned to repay the loan on a visit after his marriage.
1863 February 21 . John Gaul, Jr., to Hon. John F. Collin; Hudson, [New York].
2 pages
Box 62, Small Collections
Received letter of John Collin with ten dollars paid towards "costs and disbursements" related to the Dennis v. Ricker case. Enclosing love letters of Mr. Ricker with this letter. Suggests holding on to them to ensure that "the note is paid." Retaining these letters will also "make Ricker more punctual in the payment of the note and deprive him of any pretence in opposition to it." Discusses legal standing of note. Will discuss remaining balance when Mr. Collin is next in Hudson.