Har'g [Harrisburg] Dec.[ember] 9th 63
Dear Callie,

I wrote to you yesterday, but I have a matter on hand I wish to consult you about. Mrs. McClure (1) has sold the home we live in to Mr. Brady tavern keeper. I understand he intends to raise the rent on us. When Hampy (2) was at home I talked of going to boarding as I am old & not healthy. He urged me to keep home for when he comes home he wants a home to come to. If I wanted to go to our own home I could not turn the parties out, or compel them to give up possession before Oct.[ober]. I do not wish to pay more rent. Besides Andy Jones (3) has rented away his home for an eating house, and I see none but negroes about the house. They peep into our windows at night from the balcony - & every morning almost, Nancy (4) complains of oysters, segars (sic) & etc. being thrown into our yard. Further than this, all sorts of company stand on the balcony & gaze about. I have been thinking about the matter, and I find I can get the house Mr. Cox (5) lives in (which is larger & better) & I can save a hundred dollars a year, in rent. It is in a better neighborhood & nearer to my office. If I live till spring, I must get some new carpet, and it would hardly be worthwhile to get it for the home we live in for one year, for then we must go out.

I wish you to think this over, for one night, and then let me know what you think about it. I do not wish to quit house keeping if we can get along all together comfortably. I would like to have all the children around me for the few days I have to stay here.

Yours truly,
Herman Alricks.