This letter is dated 28 May 1839 and has a copy of an earlier letter that it is discussing with the recipient written on the other side. This letter used almost every part of the paper. It was folded in such a way as it could be addressed – forgoing the need for an envelope.
The earlier letter annotated with the word "copy."
Copy St. Louis May 16, 1839
Messrs. Smith Night Lyon & Co.
Gent(leme)n
Our attorney at Alton informs us he has obtained judgement in your favor (in our Name) against E & A Ayres & they propose giving up real estate & goods paper which they say the can get from R. Ayres sufficient to pay about 85 cents on the Dollar. You will therefore write Mr. Davis what should be done in your behalf in the promises or instruct us what to say to him on the subject.
Yrs T.
Hungerford & Livingston
__________ (?)
New York 28 May 1839
G. T. M. Davis Esq.
D Sir,
We refer you to the annexed letter rec’d this day from Hungerford & Livingston. And would suggest to you that if you can make the money out of E & A Ayres forthwith to do so, but if you think them properly inadequate to meet the demand & that it would advisable to take what they propose giving from R. Ayres then take that course. Of course we want to get paid in full if possible & by the shortest method. And we leave you to do the best for our interest in the matter, advising us of your proceedings when completed. Your _____ (attention?) Will oblige.
Yours respectfully,
Smith Night Lyon
________
The company can be located at Hungerford & Livingston (CMP1).
The Hungerford referenced in the company's name is William Spencer Hungerford (SH144)
Submitted by Richard Hungerford at 2:45 PM on October 27, 2020.