250 ROBERT MOULTON GATKE
We are often enquired of by aged persons for spectacles to enable them to read the Bible. There is none to be had in Oregon. I think it within the range of doing good, to request you to send two or three dozen pair of common ones suitable for persons from middle age and onward, it will be a blessing to many. Many persons enquire of us for books. They hear of the libraries of the A. T. Soc. and of the Harpers &C and they wish to send money by us to buy some of these Libraries. Now we tell them we have libraries and books of the very best kind, and cheap too and moreover that we will have some brought out to this country soon as possible. Can you help us redeem this pledge. The only plan I know of is this. By this time you have the general Catalogus so classified as that. Family Libraries or select books calculated to enlighten the mind and sanctify the heart are set apart in Libraries for social and family use. Now Sir select a little lot of them worth at least $500. and let the Board send them to us to sell at cost. It will be a loseing matter so far as money is concerned but great gain in every other respect. Perhaps I ought to suggest a thought in refference to boxes. In every case where the article will admit of it send us our things in barrels or moderate sized casks with iron hoops seldom in boxes and never in large boxes at all and let them be made and packed so as to hold the largest amt. of goods with a measurement of the smallest no of inches. Transportation here is very difficult and large boxes or casks are unmanageable. But time fails. If my letters are full of the expressions of want and necessity they will doubtless meet the expectation of a body of men whose very existance was designed to supply them. I rejoice the mercy seat above is not so distant nor inaccessible either as our Board at home and as our spiritual necessities and supplied most abundantly by our Father in heaven doubtless you will contribute to the supply of our temporal necessities, with such counsel and advice as you may deem proper. I am D. B. Yours in Christ,
W. Roberts. Ex to E. S. Johnston Feb. 12 1849
Shawl for Hannah, Woolen Plaid 1 whole or two half pieces. 2 or 3 dozen Picket knives Phlegen, Water Proof cloth 6 to 10 yds, white hat 3y 2 brim 5 or 5^4 high 22^ circumference. Revolver 12 inches pair of Holsters with Pistols smooth bore, flint lock & saddle for Mrs. Roberts.
