The farm is prospering. The cattle have had good weight gain with the early spring. Helmon and Isaac are the same; obstinate, overbearing, and resistant to new ideas. They will never change. There’s talk of war with Denmark. The Jews, as usual, are being blamed for the unrest by those who need to do so.
Helmon said to tell you hello. Isaac is still angry at you. I’m thinking seriously about coming to America. Helmon and Isaac will never leave the farm. I have been reading everything I can on the United States, and missing you. I believe Father was right that night in the kitchen when he selected you to go. You are the right choice. I keep hearing his words, “America is the future. Where there is land, there is opportunity.” I will write you soon again.
Love
Your Brother, Erik
Reuben looked at the date. Erik must have posted it soon after he and Johannes had arrived in St. Louis, maybe while they were still on the train between New York and Missouri.