Architectural Rooms of S. V. Shipman
230 to 236 LaSalle Street

Chicago, January 20, 1888

My dear Draper:

By the newspapers I see that Gen'l C. P. Chapman has published two Volumes of Roster of the Wisconsin Regiments in the War of the Rebellion; and I would much like to have a copy of the work in my library, as a source of information for future reference. Can you inform me how to proceed in order to obtain a copy?

Also, do you know about the financial condition of A. J. Bruce, an old-time Auctioneer of Madison? He came to me for money, to pay a Board bill and enable him to get back to his home in Madison, and I could not refuse him, as he represented himself as sick and temporarily without means to get home.

By the published report of Annual Meeting, I am glad to note the prosperity of the State Historical Society.

Did you sell your Stock in the "Ashland" and "Germania" mines while the "boom" was on? I hope so. There is a limit to the bed of ore in all the Mines in that region, and it will not require much more time to exhaust it within the lines of ground owned by the Companies. Others may have the "bonanza" after a short time.

How is your health this winter, and are you making fine progress with your historical works?

I wish you would come to Chicago, and make us a visit, and take an observation of Chicago.

Our friend Hager made himself unpopular with the active men in the Chicago Historical Society, and Judge Moses was elected Secretary and Librarian at the last annual election. Mr. H. had outlived his usefulness.

Have you any duplicates of the last Legislative Manual or your State. Bross promised me a copy, but I have never received it.

Business is good, and I am loaded with important work, for the year.

With kind regards to Mrs. Draper; and the hope you may be spared to complete all of the important works you have so long had in hand, I remain

Faithfully your friend,

S. V. Shipman