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EAP to John Allan,  August 10, 1829

Baltimore, August 10th 1829

Dear Pa,

I received yours this morning which relieved me from more trouble than you can well imagine -- I was afraid that you were offended & although I knew that I had done nothing to deserve your anger, I was in a most uncomfortable situation -- without one cent of money -- in a strange place & so quickly engaged in difficulties after the serious misfortunes which I have just escaped -- My grandmother is extremely poor & ill (paralytic). My aunt Maria if possible still worse & Henry entirely given up to drink & unable to help himself, much less me –

I am unwilling to appear obstinate as regards the substitute so will say nothing more concerning it -- only remarking that they will no longer enlist men for the residue of anothers' enlistment as formerly, consequently my substitute was enlisted for 5 years not 3 –

I stated in my last letter (to which I refer you) that Mr. Eaton gave me strong hopes for Sept. at any rate that the appt could be obtained for June next -- I can obtain decent board lodging & washing with other expenses of mending &c for 5 & perhaps even for 4 1/2 $ per week –

If I obtain the appt by the last of Sept. the amount of expense would be at most $30 -- appt at W. Point: unless you will write to Mr. Eaton himself who well be at most $30 -- If I should be unfortunate & not obtain it until June I will not desire you to allow as much as that per week because by engaging for a longer period at a cheap boarding house I can do with much less -- say even 10 even 8 $ per month -- any thing with which you think it possible to exist -- I am not so anxious of obtaining money from your good nature as of preserving your good will –

I am extremely anxious that you should believe that I have not attempted to impose upon you -- I will in the meantime (if you wish it) write you often, but pledge myself to apply for no other assistance than what you shall think proper to allow –

I left behind me in Richmond a small trunk containing books & some letters -- will you forward it on to Baltimore to the care of H. W. Bool Jr & if you think I may ask so much perhaps you will put in it for me some few clothes as I am nearly without –

Give my love to Miss Valentine—

I remain Dear Pa

Edgar A. Poe

Enemies: Allan Griswold

POE: Influences Friends Enemies Women

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