The Nelson Chronicles *orig in Anchors Away* by Carol Foss

Edith Nelson

Edith Nelson

 

 

Admiral Harriman Nelson

Nelson Institute of Marine Research    ( Don’t you just love it when I get so formal? Tease, tease!)

Santa Barbara, CA

July 15, 1987

 

Harry dear,

 

          I found some interesting things in the family archives again. You know, that poor old attic has seen better days. Anyway, before I send these off to the historical society, I thought you might like to see photocopies of them . I’ve also had them transcribed so they’re easier to read. They’re pretty frayed and crumbly and water damaged from that blasted roof that can’t seem to stay repaired. REALLY, Harry, we need to revamp the whole place.It’s just sitting there collecting cobwebs and not doing anybody any good! Let’s fix it up and rent it out again! Or better yet, why don’t we set it up as a shelter for some poor souls?

 

          Anyway, there’s even a letter from one of your old schoolteachers! Am I glad I never had her! But you were a bit of a terror I think! Ha Ha.

          I’m really interested in somebody called Snuffy, and it seems that an old fogey named  Shamus, was a real pill!

          Well, I’m off to another charity gala in London, and I hope I don’t have to stand in the receiving line too long with a smile glued on. But it’s for a good cause though you know how much more I’d prefer puttering in a garden or listening to the Beach Boys. Okay, okay,   don’t laugh. Why even some of your own crewmen like them!

 

          Oh, yes, I’ve had good news from Shri-Lanka. The leprosy medications we sent have completely wiped it out there! For the first time in history, it looks like this plaque may be gone for good! Now all we have to do   is find cures for all the other horrible diseases out there. Also, Harry, our homeless shelters won’t do any long term good if we cant help these folks into better employment, so I’m sending a few to NIMR . I’m sure you can do something, while the foundation is trying to work out something with congress.

 

          Speaking of your precious institute, how is your submarine? Is Lee still having a grand time playing Captain Nemo? Will he ever be serious about a female of the human variety or is he still unremittingly in love with his lady of titanium? ha ha. I’ll bet he still has Angie and Katie and all the other gals at the institute fawning over him like he’s Prince Charming, he’s so gorgeous.

 

          Well, you’re probably anxious to get back to another experiment. Please try to come out for Christmas? I miss you terribly. Of course, I could always come out there and we could have Christmas dinner on Seaview in that grotto Lee told me about. Think about it? And Harry dear, you really do need a vacation!!!!And I have a very nice friend I’d like you to meet. Her name is Molly. Well, I’d better close, take care.

Love always,

 

Your “blasted pest” of a little sister(ha ha)

 

 

 

+++

 

Emily O'Brian O'Hara  Nelson

Dennisport

Massachusetts

 

 

Dear Mother,

 

I’ve left Shamus! I know  he’s rich and has been a big help to the entire family, but he’s really a brute. Oh, he’s never been unkind to me but when I see  those poor Negroes in chains! Sick, Starved   some of them, and hauled off like cargo to be sold as slaves in the South! Oh, mother, it’s  terrible, and he only laughs!

 

I’ll be staying in Boston with Ann Monroe. She’s more than happy to have me stay with her for the duration. Please don’t tell  Shamus I’m pregnant! I never want to see him again and I don’t want the poor child to either!

 

It never used to bother me, the slave trade, but I’ve changed my mind. Especially after seeing the poor girls! Ogled by all the slavers, the ship’s crew, and even Shamus. First mate Robinson even bragged about - oh, mother, it’s just so terrible! He actually took a poor girl-probably only about thirteen or so, and -well-how can  I put it politely? Had his way with her! On  the ship! In Shamus’ cabin!I’ll never forgive Robinson! And Shamus let him!

 

Oh, I’m so humiliated and angered! I  don’t think I’ll ever be able to forgiveShamus either! I  wouldn’t doubt if maybe even he did the same!

 

I’ve told Shamus there’s  still good trade in tea and he should go back to it. But he’s a stubborn man and I doubt if he’ll ever repent! He has made sure I won’t be able to divorce him. Scandal, he says! Scandal! After  what  he’s done? All right. I’ll take his money! But I’ll put it to good use! I’ll buy his slaves, bring them up here,insure their freedom and help them find profitable employment!

 

No doubt you’re weary of this long tirade. And so I’ll close with letting you know how much I love and miss you. If the child is a girl-which is what I hope for-her name will be Aroura. If it’s a boy, his name will be Harriman. Not Harry. Harriman for Shamus’  way back great great to the whatever grandfather. The man was supposedly of great compassion who gave his own life to save many others. My Harriman , if  it's  a boy, will be bring in a new line of Nelsons. Good ones!

 

 

I love you  dearly,

 

Emily

 

+++

Sea Nymph

 

 

 

          Emily, are ye daft? How many years have you gloried in my trade and the wealth it brought ye? And now there ye go, getting your feathers all a flutter, over a few slaves! It’s a thriving business and should go on awhile. Why even Thomas Jefferson kept slaves and tis rumored had a dalliance with one of them, so why should ye be so upset?

 

          But I will not divorce ye! No matter how many times ye may pester me about it! Lawyers even! I’ve done no harm to ye! I’ve been a true and loyal husband to ye. Well, as true as I could. There were a few times, and I told ye about them, when I had to indulge myself ! But ye know that you and Sea Nymph were always first with me! And no Boston lawyer will be able to prove otherwise! As for my trade-Why, tis legal in this fair land of ours. So if ye have a bone to pick, write to your  congressman! Or better yet the president himself !

 

          And why should ye be hiding young Harriman Nelson the fifth from his own father? He bears the name of a noble ancestor, and dearie, the most important name of all-mine. Remember that. The boy belongs to me and I intend to see him. Just try to have your fancy lawyer stop me!If I were a foul man, I could have brought suit against ye! And your mother for trying to keep it all a secret from me as well! There are no secrets from Shamus O’Hara Nelson dearie. None.

 

          Not only will I see the boy, but I’ll take him away with me  when he’s of an age for it! Fine life for a boy aboard such a fine craft as mine. Away from al the molly-coddling he’s sure to get if he stays too long in your care! The boy will see the world and when he returns to ye, if he decides to , he’ll be a man you’ll not be able coddle!

 

          So  get used to the idea. As fancy as your lawyer is, I can get a better one!So why not just give up. Accept the fact that I’ll never give ye a divorce and I’ll get the boy in the end!

 

          Shamus

         

+++   

 

Sea Nymph

Captain Shamus O'Hara Nelson

 

 

Delbert  & Bones

Charleston, So. Carolina

 

 

Dear John,

 

I will be arriving at your office on Monday next for the remaining payment for my cargo. I’ll be shipping out again in a fortnight for another group of heathens. Sea Nymph needs a good clean and wax after the last batch!

 

Emily has come down  with “freedom fever” and has left for Boston. Seems to be contagious there. She objects to my business dealings though  she wears the silks and diamonds I got for her because of it! Women! If it  weren’t for certain needs, why bother with them! 

 

 

Sincerely,

Shamus

+++

 

Dear Mother,

 

Snuffy will try to get this past father and into the mailbag. It’s really not that bad aboard, but I really miss you and all my friends. He  doesn’t want me to write even.

We’ll just have to figure something out. He’s got all the law on his side.

 

I’m sort of a midshipman. Those are boys in the navies of the world who run errands and learn a lot on the way to become officers.  But Sea Nymph is hardly a navy ship, let alone a boat! She leaks and she stinks. But father loves her. Must be something peculiar to captains. I met a few in Barbados that kept on talking about their ships as if they were wives! Really weird. Father’s the same.

 

I’ve got a cat aboard and Snuffy sort of helps me look after it. I just hope it doesn’t fall overboard and nobody eats it when the food gets  all moldy.

 

I know alot about navigation and have even taken the wheel a few times, but only when someone in charge was watching me. I also know alot about things I probably shouldn’t. But don’t worry. I don’t indeed to do   the same things the other boys do. There are two others aboard besides me. One is alot older and the other is about the same age. Both are having a grand time proving themselves as sailors,aboard and ashore. I may be a snot nosed kid, as father sometimes   calls me, but I still know the difference between right and wrong. You don’t have to worry about me becoming a drunken sailor or doing other things I’m sure you’re aware of as regards sailors ashore.

 

Father sometimes actually trades in tea! But there’s not as much profit in it as the slave trade. It’s awful. I’ve even complained but got the lash. Nobody is allowed to argue with the captain or to disobey him. Law of the high seas, he says.

 

I like the sea itself and if I ever have my own boat, it’ll be used for real trade and research. There are alot of interesting sea creatures and strange weather sometimes that I’d really like to learn more about. But nobody’s really interested in that sort of stuff except me.

Snfffy’s here. Got to finish. I’ll always love you.

Harriman

 

+++

 

 

Sanderson and Sons

Attorney’s at Law

Charleston, South Carolina

 

 

Mrs. Shamus O’Hara Nelson

Boston, Mass.

 

 

My dear Mrs. Nelson,

 

It is with great regret that I must inform you of the loss of Sea Nymph. The craft was apparently lost in or near an area often referred to as the Bermuda Triangle.  The Herringbone came across some  floating wreckage which identified the craft.

 

Fortunately, Harriman Nelson was in Barbados at the time  on business and has taken over the investigation of the loss which took his father. No doubt he will be in  touch with you shortly.

 

We will send a representative to you with Captain Nelson’s last will and testament. I believe you will find more than adequate provision for you and your son. As Harriman is under age, official guardianship has been tentatively granted to Captain Robinson. A formality, I’m sure, as Harriman  will be 21 shortly and a few months is hardly worth the effort for a formal grant.

 

Again, my condolences,

 

Samuel Sanderson

 

+++

 

Dear Mother,

 

          No doubt you`ve been informed of father`s loss. It grieves me , for I knew his better side. I know you may find it hard to understand, but he really wasn`t all that bad.

 

          Uncle Edward agrees with me that a legal guardianship would be rather foolish as I will be 21 in only two months  and have had my own command of one of father`s ships for three years!

 

          Will you please reconsider accepting Captain Robinson in your company? He`s been a good friend, and surely, your grievance was long ago.

 

          I will attend the memorial here  in Barbados and arrive in Boston for the formal reading of the will. I'm rather surprised there is one! Whatever the outcome, you may trust me for your complete comfort.

 

          Harriman

 

+++

 

NELSON ENTERPRISES

 

                    Well, this here be me last will and testament, seeing as how me wife keeps pestering me about it. Indeed, there’s always the likelihood of falling overboard in a hurricane. But tis only for the boy’s sake that I make it.

 

                   If I should keel over before the boy’s of age, I appoint Edward Robinson, currently me first mate of Sea Nymph , to be Harriman Nelson the Fifth’s guardian. A trusted employee, he’ll make sure the boy’ll be well taught.

 

                   As for me worldly goods, I leave them all to Harriman, excepting the stipend I’ve arranged for me wife. And wife she be, even if she objects to it!  She’ll not be left peniless or nameless!

I won’t give her the satisfaction of scandalizing me mane!

 

                   Tis no pittance I leave the boy! He’s already proven he’s a good head for the figures and he’s not one for squandering me goods. Not bad for a mere lad of ten years. Hopefully, this here will won’t be read for many years to came.

 

                   So to Harriman I leave me worldly goods and a sound bit of advice. Don’t squander your gold foolishly and never trust a wife!

 

 

                   Signed in the presence of Lt. Edward Robinson.

 

          Shamus O’ Hara Nelson

 

Lt. Edward Robinson

 

Samuel Sanderson  , Attorney at Law   (Me witnesses!)

 

+++

 

 

Sanderson and sons

Attorney's at law

Charleston, south carolina

 

 

Listing of Goods  of Shamus O' Hara Nelson, deceased, upon reading of the Last Will and Testament:

 

Stipend…………………………………………..To be given by hand, the Swiss Bank account number for the maintenance of Emily O' Brian O' Hara Nelson

 

The above is a true and complete list of goods bequeathed to Mrs. Shamus O' Hara Nelson.

 

All other worldly goods are to be given unto Harriman Nelson as follows:

Sea Nymph...........................................Merchantman Ship

Swiss Bank Account...........................To be given by hand, the sealed account number and

                                                                 variables

Bonds .................................................... The Bank of England

House....................................................  Charleston, South Carolina

House....................................................  New York, New York

House....................................................  Barbadoes

 

Land......................................................  Ireland

Land......................................................  Swuitzerland

Land......................................................  Charleston, South Carolina

 

The above is a true and complete listing of the goods bequeathed to Harriman Nelson V.

 

Arnold Sanderson

 

Samuel Sanderson

+++

 

Triton, Ltd.

Barristers at Law

Wickstempt, Scotland

 

 

Mrs. Shamus O’ Hara Nelson

Boston, Massachussetts

United States of America

 

Dear Mrs. Nelson,

 

I regret to inform you of the death of your son Harriman. His vessel, the Ariel, sank in a terrible storm, very likely a hurricane. But good captain that he was, he saw to it that all of his passengers were given care first. Indeed, all thirteen survived, and most of his crew.

 

We don’t have all the eyewitness reports yet, but suffice it here to say, he acted with courage and self sacrifice in the rescuing of several passengers and crew from a blazing fire amid the shattering vessel. It was as he was trying to rescue one remaining crewman from the fast sinking craft, that he was struck by lightening and dissapeared into the depths with his ship.

 

He was well known hereabouts and had made  a will recently. We will send your barristers a copy of it  but must advise you that he had survivors you may not be aware of.

 

A child, Harriman Nelson the 6th, is only two weeks old, the result of an illicit affection Harriman the 5th had for a local girl. The girl died giving birth. If you wish, I will send you more details. But even if the child is a bastard, he may fare better in America as we are very overcrowded with mental defectives, illigitimate, and homeless children in our workhouses.

 

 Harriman the 5th  wished the the child to be named Nelson and registerd him such.But afterwards the registrar lined  through the name with red to note the base birth. Here in Scotland such  bairns are often given the mother’s name. The girl in question was known as Shannon O’Shay, and was herself bastard and barmaid.  

 

 

I am, Madam, your obeident servant,

 

 

George Nemot, Esq.

 

+++

 

Last Will and Testament of Harriman Nelson

 

Firstly, I bequeath all my worldly goods, such as they are, to Shannon. Nelson., my wife. I call her my wife because in the eyes of God she is.  As her family refused our marriage, and no clergy would  perform it, we married ourselves, speaking vows to each other in God`s own outdoors.

 

To insure her protection, I`ve made her my legal ward, and once in America, where people aren`t quite as pigheaded about social class or position, at least not as they used to be, she will not only be my wife  in heart, but also in name, even if we have to take vows again.. I`m sure my mother will understand and if anything should happen to me before it`s official, I ask her to look after Shannon as a daughter in law and help her in any way she can.

 

Secondly, I add to mother`s stipend half my stock in my South African diamond mine and a quarter of my stock in my gold mine in California.

 

Thirdly, I request my mother and Edward Robinson to meet and shake hands..  As neither will during my lifetime, I humbly ask both to set aside all their differences and honor my last request, should I predecease them.. The war between the states is over. The war between them is  still going on. 

 

Fourthly,  I leave to Edward Robinson  the Polaris as he has been a  friend in spite of our political  and moral differences.. The vessel is not too old, and has many good years left to her.

 

Fifthly,  I leave to Snuffy Smith  five shares of my railroad stock and all my ship`s logs as he alone among my family and friends, has an interest in them.

 

Sixthly,  I leave to Ulysses S. Grant one eighth of my silver stock on condition that it be used as we discussed. If not, ownership of that stock will revert to my wife.

 

Seventhly,  I  request the shareholders in Nelson Enterprise to set aside at least two of the more recent vessels for oceanographic research.  There are many secrets of the deep that haven`t even yet been studied. Ships for exploration of currents, and weather peculiar to the seas would be of great advantage to mankind, And exploration and study of sea creatures seen and captured may help to end world hunger, though I do not wish wholesale slaughter of any of them.

 

In addition, I wish that plans for the submerging boat go ahead. I ask Shannon or my mother to christen the vessel and that Verne of France be invited. The vessel is to be a scientific one, and will  undoubtedly help us discover a great deal we did not know before.

 

Well, I suppose that is all. My dear wife and mother will receive the special sealed letters from my lawyers in Boston that will address special issues. as well as my final wishes as regards my remains.

 

I am,

 

Harriman Nelson V.

 

 

+++

 

Pipps & Son

Lawyers

 

Inventory of Goods of Harriman Nelson, deceased.

 

Swiss Bank Account (sealed, to be delivered by hand to Mrs. Shamus O’Hara Nelson.)

Bonds, US(sealed, to be delivered by hand to Mrs. Shamus O’Hara Nelson

Bonds, Bank of England(sealed, to be delivered by hand to Mrs. Shamus O’Hara Nelson

 

Stock-80% Nelson Enterprises

Stock-50% Nelson-Robinson Diamond Mine

Stock-90% Nelson Gold Mine

Stock-30% Union Pacific Railroad

Stock-20% Cunnard Enterprises

 

Land-see   Migilicuty Investments, Ireland

Land-see   P& P, Barbadoes

Land-see   Nelson Enterprises,Charlestown, S.C,

Land-see   Madison Inc. N.Y.

Land-see   Villa de Fleur, Switzerland

 

House-Charlestown, S.C.

House-Madison,N.Y.

House-New York, N.Y.

House-Boston, Mass

House-Cape Cod, Mass

House- Dallas, Texas

House-San Diego,California

House-Santa Barbara, California

House-Barbadoes

House-London, England

House-Ulster, Ireland

House-Wickstempt,Scotland

House-Glasgow, Scotland

 

Sterling Silver-dining setting for 50

Sterling reserves(sealed, to be delivered by hand to Ulyssees S Grant)

Crystal-dining setting for 50

Porcelin-dining setting for 50

 

Various insundries 

+++                

 

Dear Grandma,

 

Here I am at Lake Tahoe. It’s very nice and I caught a lot of fish! Uncle Edward knows a lot about fishing but he’s not very good at camping. But he’s even worse at horseback riding! Too many years at sea I guess! Thank you for letting him bring me here. He’s been very nice and has told me a lot about father and grandfather. It’s too bad you weren’t able to see him when he came to take me on this holiday.

 

I really wish you could see how nice it is here. So clean and pure. I bet mother would have felt right at home. Sometimes I really wish I could have known mom and dad. But I sure wish they hadn’t named me Harriman! It’s so sissy! I sure won’t name any of my boys Harriman, that’s for sure! That’s if I ever have any. Of course that’s a long long way  away.

 

Uncle Edward has made sure I’ll be home for my 8th birthday, but meanwhile I’ve made freinds with some real live Indians! Uncle Edward is a little tight lipped about it, but at least has the manners to be polite in spite of himself. I really think we should do something to help this tribe. But not a handout. That’s humiliating. But we could ask Congress to give them  back their land-at least the ownership and money part of it. It was theirs first you know. But of course you do. You’ve always been so good to everyone.

 

I saw a beaver dam and a big bear up here, but so far no wolves. I sure would like to see a wolf and see how much like a dog it could be. Remember, I get to choose my own dog or cat or parrot, or other animal for a pet as soon as I hit 9. But don’t worry, I won’t bring home a bear!

 

I saw a great circus in San Diego. I was a little surprized because the town is so small. You’d like Santa Barbara too. It’s  small, but what a great  spot to look out over the ocean and the weather is wonderful! Oh I wish father’s submerging boat had worked. I can’t help thinking how nice it would be to look underwater around there. Oh, well, maybe one day somebody will invent something that will work. Or something for people to use and just walk into the sea and under it, breathing all the while.

 

Well, that’s about all for now, so I’ll mail this quick-it should get to you in about 3  weeks. A lot faster than the pony express! Actually they were pretty quick, I would have liked to have tried it but it sure didn’t last long. The railroads have really opened up America.

 

Oh yes, our private RR car is very nice. But all the ladies make a fuss over me and it’s very hard to be polite when I’d like to bash their bustles  in and ask them to stop treating me like a baby! There is one lady though, who treats me nice, like a real person, and not a kid. She’s Mrs. Molly Brown, and believe it or not, survived a great flood as a baby! She’s really nice. 

 

Uncle Edward is motioning me to hurry up, so goodby for now. I love you. See you soon.

 

Harry.

( You don’t mind if I sign as Harry do you?)

 

+++

Inside this Newsletter                BOSTON NEIGHBORS

 

 1 Passing of “St. Emily”
Mrs. Shamus O’Hara Nelson died at her home after a  sudden illness. She was known for her many good works.

 2 Jules Verne visits

      Mr. Jules Verne of literary fame will sign autographs today and tomorrow at Bookman’s Store.

 

 

Mrs. Shamus O’Hara Nelson dead  in bed.

    

Mrs. Nelson, the former Emily O’Brian, was found dead in her bed last night. Death seems to be from natural causes as there is no indication otherwise and she was said to be in her 90’s.       The estranged wife of Shamus O’Hara Nelson, she was a heroine to several slaves during the civil war and helped many to escape and begin new lives here in the free North. She was also involved in many social causes, such as sheltering unwed mothers, and the redemption of prostitutes.Outspoken against slavery as an institution, she parted with her husband and became a vital member of the “underground railroad”.  She also stated that most unwed mothers wouldn’t be, if men took the stand of responsibility. As for prostitutes, she claimed the poor girls were simply hoodwinked into it. She was also an advocate of better education for women  and admission as practicing lawyers and medical doctors. Always outspoken, she was firmly supported by her son Harriman Nelson V, sadly deceased several years ago, and more recently her grandson, Harriman Nelson VI, who’s staunch support of women’s sufferage has earned him unkind notiriety in society.

 

Funeral services will be held on Sunday and all are invited to pay their last respects to “Saint Emily” as she has long been regarded by people of good will.

 

Harriman Nelson will say a few words and  his wife and children Thomas and Edithanne will be present at the reception following.

 

Jules Verne visit controversy as he signs his latest novels amid the protests of  activists.

Jules Verne, author of several books of fiction and amateur scientist, has come under fire by a few local zealots who object to the hero of one of his novels marrying an Indian girl. Verne was surprized at the attitude, claiming he thought Americans were against such prejudice. But good natured, he will sign his novels for anyone who desires it at Bookman’s Store today and tomorrow. Verne is here for a private meeting with Harriman Nelson, the son of a great admirer of his that he had not the opportunity to meet. Verne is an amateur scientist and often ridiculed for his firm belief in undersea voyaging and trips to the stars. Told to keep to his books, he smiles politely and holds his tongue, no doubt hoping for his fiction to become fact. Harriman Nelson is a great advocate of Verne and has purchased property in the swampland of Florida, as it was claimed by Verne to be at the correct meridian for Spaceship launches. Nelson has also spent hours in conference with Verne and one can only wonder what strange things are discussed and planned.  As for Verne’s vacation here, he spends most of his free time at the library with Nelson,  at the opera house or with the Nelson children, as a sort of uncle. Of course, the death of Emily Nelson has put a damper on things, and Verne no doubt has been a great help to the greiving family.

+++

 

THE BOSTON TATTLER   

 

  SCANDAL IN THE CITY-AN EDITORIAL

 

When will it stop? We have been plagued with juvenile delinquency as many cities are, but when one of our favored sons has become a leader of such acts as defacing public property and talking back to his elders,  it's time to act. We must set aside our leniency toward these youths and especially Thomas Nelson. We seem to hesitate to do anything substantial because of his parentage and wealth.

 

He must learn, as his friends, that money cannot protect one from morality or the law.

 

But it has been to no avail. Just yesterday, this teen heaped a pail of rubbish on the statue of Captain Robinson and claimed the noted man  had stolen money from his family and had been a womanizer and a pimp! Absurd accusations against such a pillar of the community! Surely Robinson is turning over in his grave.

 

When confronted with the news, his father, weary no doubt, from yet another act of disobedience, simply said he’d take care of it. Granted, the boy was made to clean up the statue, but is that all he’ll be punished with?

 

How can this youth, who has a long record of disobedience, intend to go to law school? From marbles in the public library as a child, to kissing Katrina Kitman in Church, now he defaces property and has even  ventured into the seedy side of town “to learn about real life”.  Women, no doubt!

 

He even came to the defense of one of the prostitutes accused of theft and claimed her occupation had no bearing on weather she was guilty or not! Perhaps not, but this editor hesitates to trust a whore’s word of honor!

 

The Nelsons have been known to be rather eccentric, ever since Emily Nelson got involved with a lot of strange causes. Perhaps it runs in the family.

 

But this editor says, Thomas Nelson needs a good licking or a stint at a military school!

 

+++

 

Sherwood Military Academy

Willow Run, Ohio

 

Dear Mom and Dad,

 

It really isn’t so bad here once you get used to it, and with all the rumblings going on, I have a feeling I’ll be putting some of this military stuff to use against Kaiser Bill.  The worst part about the place is all the shouting. I’m sure my ears are permanently damaged!

 

I know you really didn’t want to send me away, and actually it's good to get away from all the fuddy duddies in Boston. I really like Ohio and may want to live here someday.

 

I’m afraid I’m pretty behind in everything and I’m especially bad in all the military stuff. I’m not cut out to be a soldier, but I guess nobody is. But I will pass, and am giving it my best shot. Get it? Shot? ha ha.

 

If war does come to pass, I’ll have an advantage at boot camp that’s for sure. At least I’ll know how to shine my boots! Some of the guys are real pro’s. Probably officer candidates! I don’t know if I’d like the responsibility. Oh, I’d do my duty and all that, but to take the responsibility for somebody’s life, well, that’s not something I think I’m cut out for.

 

There’s a dance here next week and I might be able to go if I don’t get anymore demerits! Those are points they mark you down for doing a bad job. So I’m really trying to do better. These Ohio girls, I’ve seen a few on visitor’s day with their fellas, and are they ever wholesome! Really healthy and very pretty. Of course, anything dressed in something other than a uniform looks great to me!

 

So I’m back to peeling potatoes to try to work off some of my demerits and you can tell the Boston busybodies to clam up!

 

Tell Edithanne some of the guys sure like her  photo so she might have a fun time if she came out here for a visit. They’d all have to behave themselves or its a stint in the brig-that’s a kind of jail-or extra march duty in full pack-and nobody wants that.

 

 Well, gotta go.

 

 Love, Tom

 

+++

 

Dear Mom and Dad,

 

Here I am at a typewriter  in a tent in France. It’s pooring outside and the colonel has a batch of mail going out  so here’s a chance to write.

 

Tell Edithanne that Roger is okay. He’s in a field hospital and the fever is a lot better. But you’d better get her used to the idea that he may loose that leg.

 

I can’t believe how awful it all is. This sure had better be the war to end all wars, because if it isn’t I don’t think anybody will be around much longer.

 

I’m very strong from all that marching at Sherwood and I guess it did me some good as well. When an officer tells me to do something, I do it  right away because if I don’t I might get killed.

 

When we get out of this mess, I want  to go back to Ohio. And not just to see Sandra. It’s a very nice state and I’d like to go to law school there.

 

Well, I better close.

 

Love to you all,

 

Tom

+++

 

Dear Mom and Dad,

 

Well, finally there’s a  a baby in the house! It sure took a long time and people think we’re grandparents instead of brand new parents of a newborn! Sandra and I are really looking forward to our first Christmas with little Harriman and I hope you won’t spoil him too much! And please, no gum drops! He’ll eat them non-stop!

 

Really strange isn’t it, us naming him Harriman  after all the arguments you gave us against it. But really, it’s a family name and old Harriman of family legend was supposed to be quite a hero. But does anybody actually have anything to base it on? I sure’ve never seen any old archives from the middle ages!

 

Anyway, Sandra likes the name, so that settled it. Poor kid,At least we’ll call him Harry in front of his friends-when he’s old enough to have any. It shouldn’t be too long, he’s growing so fast. But his fussing and crying is driving us nuts! I’m really tempted to get a nanny to take care of all the disagreeable jobs, especially listening to his powerful lungs all night long!

 

Sandra might even agree to it, though  she really wanted to act like a normal  mother. But all her friends think she ought to enjoy a few of the luxuries money buys. ha ha.

 

They don’t seem to realize that I intend my law practice to survive on it’s own and not the Nelson family funds. But it is nice to have a “ security blanket” so to speak.

 

I suppose we could live “high on the hog” if we wanted to and mingle with the Rockefellers--just kidding--though we could-we really could, the properties have really profited. In fact, I wish I could bring old Shamus Nelson back from the grave and thank him for opening up a Swiss Bank Account in the first place! No bank collapses there! We’ve been very, very fortunate.

 

I’ve put up a special fund for Harry, just in case all those flittering financial wizards are wrong again.

 

Poor Edithanne. Battle Fatigue is real. Believe me, I know. I still have nightmares now and then and sometimes I just start to shake and cry without any provocation. But I’ve called it an allergic reaction so my employees don’t get too upset. Roger will survive it. So will I, but I’m begining to think we were all a little too optomistic. Already there are power-greedy men in Europe and I can only hope nothing will come of it. Enough  gore.

 

I’m  so glad you’re coming out here to Ohio for the holidays. So put away the tux and evening gown, and bring a sunbonnet and overalls!

 

Love, Tom

+++

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Nelson

Briarwood Estate

Olivia, Ohio

 

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Nelson,

 

I am writing to you about Harriman. Three times now he’s been in a fight with some of his schoolmates. Each time he apologized and said it would never happen again. This is the final straw so I am informing you that if it happens again, he will be suspended.

 

I realize that boys will be boys, and that Harriman is small for his age but he seems to be the instigator of the fights, at least he starts the punches. Some of the other children stated that he had been teased about his size and his name but that is no excuse to come to blows.

 

In addition, Harriman has played several pranks, including putting castor oil in the principal’s coffee and frogs in  some of the desks, including mine. He’s also put  lizards in Sally Ann’s hair! I also understand that he was not sick with  and ear infection, but playing hooky and catching catfish in Simpson’s Stream!

 

I must ask you if he has also been sick with diphtheria and the flu-for I don’t know if I should believe his notes. The signature is very very good  and you know how advanced he is in penmanship.

 

He’s very advanced in arithmetic and finds it boring. In fact he finds all school boring and daydreams a great deal. I suggest you have a firm talk with him before he turns into a juvenile delinquent!

 

Sincerely,

 

Mrs. Penrose

+++

Dear Mrs. Penrose

 

Rest assured that Harriman will no longer be a problem. We are removing him from your class and your school.

 

Why should he be punished by boredom and ridicule? If he’s advanced and bored, he needs something to do! And if he defends himself against bullies, good for him!

 

As for his skipping school, I’m sure he won’t while he’s a special student at a university! Of course he’s bored! He was tested by Yale and scored as a college sophomore! In fact, Yale is vieing with Harvard for Harry as a full time student. We have not decided which yet, but as he has been given his elementary certificate, his high  school diploma,and he will not be seeing you again, unless you’ll be one of his students!

 

Why on earth didn’t anyone at your school notice his brains! As for his bullies, perhaps they’re the ones that need a good talking to!

 

Tom and Sandra Nelson

+++

 

Cleopatra Hotel

Luxor, Egypt

 

Harriman Nelson

Midshipman 4th Class

United States Naval Academy

Annapolis, MD

USA

 

Dear Harry,

 

Well Harry, you have a little sister! Mom was with me on a dig nearby and without warning, pop, out the baby comes! So unlike you! We have to go to Cairo to the US embassy so the baby won’t be classified as an Eygyptian citizen! Maybe we should name her Cleo!ha ha.

 

Sure is nice to have one of our own planes handy! That was a good idea of yours and I’m thinking of installing a fully equiped bar! Oops, shouldn’t say that to a sailor! 

 

How’s it going son? You know how very proud we are of you. It really took guts on your part! Pestering the Navy and Congress so much that they finally let you in! I’m sure they were just nervous. After all ,Harry, you already have a few degrees and they could have  just sent you to Officer Candidate School. Insisting on going through the full four years of Annapolis as a regular middie, well , son, it probably won’t happen again in a million years.! But how  are you going to fill in the spaces for classes you’ve already taken? Probably spend the time practicing naval manuvers and experimenting in the labratories!

 

We know how much you wanted to get in on the action of the war son, but you were only 14 and they would have made you come home. But even if the war is over, you will still be of great service to your country.

 

Just remember to enjoy yourself with boys of your same age. I know it hasn’t been easy for you having been so advanced. But now, you’re finally one of the thousands with no special treatment I’m positive!

 

Mother has your picture on the mantle and everyone comments how good you look in uniform. Are you absolutly sure you’re more interested in submarines than other ships? You always were a strange one, ever since you took that field trip to that fancy aquarium. But son, submarines don’t have windows, except the little peephole periscopes that only the captain gets to look through!

 

Okay, you decide your own path, but whatever you decide, be assured we’re right behind you. Looking forward to hearing about how well you do on the track! And son, never let your short stature ever interfere with your determination.

 

Love, Dad

+++

Smythe & Sons

Wilbur Smythe, Attorney at Law

ttt

New York, New York t USA

 

 

Lt. Harriman Nelson

SSN Stinger

C/O US Navy Submarine Base

Norfolk, VA

 

 

CONCERNING MISS EDITH NELSON

 

Official custody of your sister has been approved without objection . She will be flying out to Norfolk as you requested and will be accompanied by one of the airline staff as she is only 10.

 

As per your instructions, Miss Edith Nelson has been registered in the Sunnyville Academy. Miss Halfdan has arranged to meet both of you for an informal orientation.

 

According to the Reverend Rumbone, Edith  has been handling the tragic deaths of your parents and all your other relatives from the automobile accident rather well,  considering. 

 

All papers and other documents have been sent to the local courthouse and  both you and Miss Nelson are requested to appear for the reading of the will and other official matters.

 

Our sincerest condolences for your loss.

 

 

Wilbur Smythe

+++

 

Well, this is my last will and testament. I leave everything to Sandra. But,  Should we both kick the bucket, we leave everything to our children, Harriman Nelson and Edith Nelson.

 

There’s a lot of money and properties and I know my family will be well taken care of, but I want them to remember that while money isn’t evil, if it becomes the driving force in life, it soon becomes so.

 

So, don’t squander it. Use it wisely, help others like good old Edith Nelson of long ago.

 

Sandra,if you survive me,  I want you to marry again, but only if you’re sure the guy you choose is not a gigolo.

 

 Harry, I want you to look after your mother and sister, And go ahead with your plans for a private submarine when you have a chance. It doesn’t matter what anybody thinks, just do what you think is best. I sure hope I won’t kick the bucket till after I see your fabulous dream in fact.

 

Edith, I hope I live well long enough to walk youdown the aisle and have grandchildren, for I doubt if Harry will ever take the time to become a family man, he’s so enamored of science instead of women-at least that what he says.

 

Well, I’m off to get this notarized and hope it never has to get read-not for a very very long time.

 

 

My love to you all.

 

Dad

Aka Thomas Nelson

 

+++

 

 

Dear Harry,

How do you like this fancy writing? I’m supposed to practice, so we’ll both just have to put up with it. Yuk! So Prissy!

I’m so glad you’re getting assigned to San Diego again! I can hardly wait! And I don’t want any of your bossiness about what I wear to the beach either! I’ll remind you Harry dear, that I’ll be 12 next Tuesday and in the middle ages they got married at that age-so don’t fuss if I wear a bikini!

 

I’m really bored with Sunnyville! Can’t I change schools? Especially now that we’ll be on the other coast!

 

Also, I think I’m old enough now to handle some of the family funds! There are alot of projects I’d really like to get started on and you know my bookkeeping is outstanding! What I don’t like is everybody telling me I should just go off to the Rivera and tell people what to do! It’s not easy being an heiress, believe me, even if I don’t see much of the money! A lot of people only like me for the thought of all those millions in the bank. I only have a few real friends, but we’ll be friends forever.

Well, this fancy writing hurts, Can hardly wait to move!

Love,

Edith

 

+++

 

 

Well,  back to the present.  Except, just look at these last peices! Just found them!

 

            Also,Harry dear, I just had to include  one of my early letters! I was a litle difficult wasn’t I. But big brother, so were  you! So protective!

 

            Speakig of protective, look at those ancient posters! I found them just as I was getting ready to send you all these copies. They were in an old metal box that was rusting away and it was only duty  that made me open it before I threw it out.

 

Looks like Harriman of old was real after all! Maybe he had friends in Sherwood Forest? Just kidding. But still, what a find. As for the box, I’m sending it to the historical society too. Who knows what else may lurk in a secret compartment or some such thing.

 

I’ve always wondered where your name came from! Well, luv, I have to go. Enjoy looking through a few  peices of family history. I wonder  what else might be hidden away all cobweby and forgotten.

 

Say hi to Lee and give his lady fair a pat on the bulkhead for me.

 

Love,

 

Edith

 

+++++

 

REWARD

     20 Gold pieces for the capture alive or 10 gold pieces for the body of the bandit known hereabouts as HairyMan.

      This criminal has stolen from several lords of the realm, including the king. He is easily recognised by his futile attempts at disguise by plastering dog’s hair on his already hairy face, hands and body, an known indication of madness.

 

      He is in fact, Nell’s son, and she whill be held at Nottingham Castle until the matter is resoled one way or another.  Her tavern is closed.

 

      HairyMan is known to be involved with other bandits in defiance of the tax laws and has been seen aiding those in the stocks to escape. Anyone caught trying to evade the King’s law will be punished.

 

      By order of John, King of England

+++

 

 

REWARD

 

5O Gold Pieces for the capture alive or dead of Hairyman, Nell’s son. This bandit and his friends stormed Nottingham Castle and released all prisoners held there, including Nell, hostage by command of King John.

 

Anyone caught or believed to have aided these brigands will have their tongues torn out and taken to Gallows Hill where they won’t be able to aid any criminal again.

 

20 gold Pieces for the capture of Nell herself, unharmed and unmolested.

 

by order of John, King of England

 

+++

REWARD

100 GOLD PIECES

 

for the capture, alive or dead, of Hairyman. This brigand has again rescued prisoners of the King, stolen the King’s horses, his jewels, his revenues, and defiled a statue of the king by removing it from its pedestal and dumping it into the Nottingham Castle cesspit!

 

It is also known that this brigand has publicly defiled the king and called for all Englishmen to do the same!

 

He has also caused public rioting in other parts of England and is believed to have gone to Scotland for an alliance against England.

He not only is a criminal, he is also dense in the head, for he claims King Richard is alive. Harriman is a very great threat to all.

 

As for his mother, Nell, she has been apprehended and awaits hanging for placing her loyalty to her son instead of to the king. She could have had jewels and the comfort of a lady under the king’s protection, but she is dense in the head as well, and a definite danger to others.

 

Anyone thought to have helped Hairyman, Nell’s son, or his fellow brigands, will be immediately executed.

 

By order of John, King of England

 

 

Declaration

 

The Crown declares a day of mourning for Hairyman. It has come to the crown’s knowledge that Nell’s son acted in the best interest of his fellow Englishmen.

 

Not only did he rescue several hundred villagers from the great fire in the village, he also rescued those trapped in Nottingham Castle. Whilst rumor claims he himself set the fires to release prisoners in the castle’s dungeon, the crown believes he did not. In a further act of simple compassion, he rescued Prince John from the inferno, and died shortly after.

 

The crown wishes to pardon Hairyman, Nell’s son of any wrongdoing against the crown in recognition of his valor, and grants to Nell the best acreage of the dell, 200 gold pieces, and the wardship of the crown for her grandson.

 

The crown also pardons Nell for her disloyalty to the crown as a mother’s loyalty is always first to her children.

 

 

All others arrested and made prisoners for following Hairyman are also given a general pardon in the spirit of compassion by their king.

 

by order of Richard, King of England