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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Kleber, A. (fl. 1860) to Paul J. Semmes

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00572.13 Author/Creator: Kleber, A. (fl. 1860) Place Written: New Orleans, Louisiana Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 August 1860 Pagination: 1 p. : docket ; 27 x 20.5 cm. Order a Copy

Letter from a mercenary Semmes was considering hiring to train the Georgia troops. Kleber asks for $75 a month plus board and lodging. Also requests that his passage be paid and that he receive an $80 advance. Kleber was recommended by Semmes's brother (see GLC00572.12). Addressed to General Semmes. Docketed by Semmes.

New Orleans August 20th 1860
General Semmes
Dear Sir
Yours of the 14th Inst addressed to Mr. A.G. Semmes has just been received According to your request I will make no other engagement before hearing from you. As for my propositions they are as follows:
I would ask seventy five ($75) Dollars per month with board and lodging; Secondly I would desire to have my passage paid to your place and also I would like to have a certain sum say $80 Dollars advanced to me that I may be able to meet with some obligations I have here. Hoping that all will be satisfactory to you and to the Company and that I will soon hear from you
I remain, Dear General, your most obedient
Major Kleber
P.S. Would my proposition meet with your approbation, I would thank you to let me know it as soon as possible.
Having nothing to do for the present in New Orleans I would be very glad to leave as soon as possible. I will also on meeting you be able to furnish you with all reference you might desire. Major Kleber

Kleber, A., fl. 1860
Semmes, Paul Jones, 1815-1863

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