Mount Auburn Cemetery

444

April 13^th [18]69

Mrs S.A. Post, 15 Washington Place N.Y. City

Dear Madam,

I have had occasion through several recent calls made upon me for the purpose which is hereinafter stated, to examine the will of the late W^m Pelby: and a more involved piece of legal lore I have rarely met with -- speaking from a lawyer's standpoint. I have studied it severely, and learned what I could from the other sources of the parties in interest and can only say -- "It's a pity that Mr Pelby could not have looked through the maze of history of his family, and seen what it would come to -- and all but a few sentences would have been saved of this long document.

So much for preamble. I am informed that Mrs Julia Hague, and Mrs Sophia Roby -- the half sisters of Mr Pelby -- are the only surviving heirs. If I am right in this, then my business is with these two ladies alone, through you (if you please) as a friend.

When a proprietor dies, by the provisions of the Charter of our Coporation, the Board of Trustees are required to designate which one of his heirs (if he leaves more than one) shall represent his lot in the

Apr. 20^th [18]69

Mrs S.A. Post

Dear Madam,

I am sorry for the brevity of your communication in reply to mine respecting the Pelby lot. I must suppose either that Mrs Hague is indifferent to the matter, or regards me as soliciting some favor -- which is certainly not so. If Mrs H. disclaims all connection with and ownership in the tomb, it is very proper to say so, and if her sister does the same, the Trustees will then understand what course to pursue. They will order the tomb closed and regard everyone as barred from exercising any authority in regard to it. But if, on the other hand, Mrs Hague desires to retain her interest in and right over the lot, I think she should answer more particularly the questions I asked. She has indeed signed the paper sent, but has not indicated her wishes in case Mrs Roby refuses. But I first wish to know where Mrs Roby is, before I can ascertain whether she refuses. You say -- "the last she knew of her, she was living at her daughter's in Portland Maine". What is her daughter's name -- to whom married, if a married woman. I must be able to address some one, particularly in so large a place.

Now, although this is not my duty, I am willing to assist so far as you desire.

Respectfully yours

A.J. Coolidge

Did W^m R. Pelby die before his father?

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