Topeka, July 22 1880



My Dear Sister:



Yesterday I sent you a newspaper which contained a notice that Gov. Crawford had bought lot

no. 121 Kansas Avenue for $3500.  The lot lies just north of yours and is worth just as much and

no more.  There is a little wooden building on it worth $50.  I could get the same for yours if we

were in condition to sell, But I think there is no need of hurrying.  If things go on for the next six

months as they have been for the past, it would not surprise me if we could get $5000. for it. Still

$3500. is a very big price for a piece of ground 25 by 150 feet.



The Gov. is going to build a very fine three story building on the lot 135 feet deep.  He wants you

to give him the privilege of building half of his wall on your lot, that is to say he will build a two

foot wall on the line.  I suppose you have no objection to that as it is for the interest of both

parties.  You agree that when you build you will pay him half of the cost of the wall.  I am in

hopes before long to be in condition to build.  I can get $5000 to build with just as soon as I can

get the lot clear.



This [...] of Crawford's I consider worth $500. to your lot.  We will hvae the best block on these

lots there is in the city -- some thing that you would take great pride in if you should ever come

here.  I think that lot with a three story building on it would be better property than a $20000.

dollar farm in New Hampshire.  Plese sign the enclosed contract and have it acknowledged

before Jduge Bellows and return as the Gov. wants to go right to work.  I suppose Mother must

be getting along well as I have not heard from her.



Your brother,



Charlie.