Search

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.