Duelm, Benton Co. MN, ? March 1900
To Wilhelm Diekamper Merfeld
In reply to yours of the 4th inst., which I received on
the 20th, I would like to say that all preparations have been completed, and if nothing else comes up,
the three of us will leave here on April 16th or 17th to travel via Canada to Portland/Maine, where we
will take the steamer “Tunisian” on the 21st, passing by Ireland, to Liverpool/England. From
Liverpool per train through England to London and then from London to Bremen or Hamburg. This will
take a little longer than from New York to Bremen directly, but I would like to use this opportunity
to visit these countries and places, particularly, since the ticket-price is the same, except for the
cost of staying in different places. It is difficult to say at this point, when exactly we will be
arriving, but will let you know the time of our arrival as soon as I get a chance. According to my
estimation we should be arriving in Duelmen between the 3rd and 5th of May. Given the circumstances,
it might be later since we want to do some sightseeing. We will be able to communicate with everyone,
wherever we are going. Please do not make any special efforts on our behalf, I.e. checking on all the
trains etc. I will get in touch with you in good time. Should you not be in Duelmen to meet us, we
will find our way, as you know. I should mention that the steamer “Tunisian” belongs to the
Allan Steamship Co., with head-quarters in Glasgow/Scotland. Until then, more in person.
With greetings to all of you from all of us,
Clemens.
God willing, we will find you in the best of health.
Translated by Dori
