Letter from Horace Hotchkiss, 7 April 1843

Jos. Smith Esqr.

Dr. Sir— I received on saturday last a letter from Mr [Joel] Catlin notifying me that the equity of redemption in my property would be sold on the 12th. instant and asking me whether I wished it to be purchased for me— I suppose it is quite immaterial whether I or you hold the right of redeeming for if it should again come into my possession I wish it understood distinctly by them who have built upon it that I shall not attempt to take their buildings from them but shall be ready at any time to give them a lease of their lots for a very long period and at a reasonable rent— My wish as well as my interest leads me to conciliate and make them my friends instead of makeing them my enemies