Letter from John Emerson to Thomas Lawson (1838)

Fort Jesup, Louisiana
July 10th 1838

Dear Sir

During your absence in Florida I made application to Dr King Acting Surgeon General for a change of station to Fort Snelling. I had never mentioned to him my reasons for being so urgent in my applications, they being of a private nature which should not as I considered interfere with my public duties, at the desire of Surgeon Craig. I have come to the conclusion of stating them to you candidly hoping they may be to you a sufficient apology for troubling the department and procuring from you the change of posts I solicit.

While stationed at Fort Armstrong, Illinois, I entered considerable of land on the east side of the Mississippi and purchased a claim of 640 acres on the west side of said river in the immediate vicinity of Rock Island which lands have become very valuable. Since my arrival at this port, suit has been commenced against me for the purpose of getting possession of my place by persons who can have no claims against me. They have filed a bill in chancery against me for land I entered three years ago in Galena thinking I could not defend myself until they obtained a decree of court putting them in possession of my place. An agent whom I appointed to attend to my business sold a valuable farm of mine for half its value. Even one of my negroes in Saint Louis has sued me for his freedom.

If you would have me ordered to some post on the Upper Mississippi even for a short time I should feel extremely thankful. I could or would be nearer to attend to my private concerns. If I could get ordered either to Fort Crawford or Snelling I would be much pleased and will promise not to trouble you again. When I left Fort Snelling last October, I had to come down the river three hundred miles in a canoe and was consequently compelled to leave every thing after me at that post. I am even without my books and other things necessary. Let me again entreat you if my request can be complied with to have me ordered to either of the above named posts. I have done my duty faithfully and punctually since I have been attached to the medical staff and hope and trust you will not deny me the request I now make. If I could get to either of the posts I could settle my private affairs and attend to my public duties.

Very Respectfully I remain
Dear Sir your obedient servant
John Emerson
Assistant Surgeon

Doctor Thomas Lawson
Surgeon General
U.S. Army