Quito.
September 30th. 1894.
Mr. Fritz W. Up de Graff.
Elmira, N. Y.
My dear Fritz,
You cannot imagine how glad I was to receive your
letter. As I was in Riobamba at the time it had reached this place, it did
not come to my hands but some days after.
Well, you are an electrical engineer now, are you?
I thought you still were engaged in the canning business over in Chicago,
so I must confess I was surprised when I read your letter proposing all sorts
of electrical business....,
Now I must let you know that life in the forests
is not very enjoyable and has a number of unpleasant things that are in
connection with it. No society is to be found there, no such amusements as
shows and the like either, and one can only be there to work, and if one
is enterprising and hard-working it is a sure thing to get a good remuneration
after a time.
This country is composed of very indolent people,
and I can assure you that though there are no possibilities of making the
fabulous fortunes that are made in the States, yet it is much easier here
than there to make a handsome capital. The country is backward, very backward,
and there is an opening in almost every line. As I told you when in the States,
the climate of the interior is extremely pleasant and healthy, whilst that
of Guayaquil is unhealthy to most people, however I have been in perfect
health in both....
It is now your turn to decide. If you decide to
come, it is better to do so immediately, before Winter begins. Let me know
at once the date of your arrival in Guayaquil, and I will arrange so that
you will have no difficulties when you get there.
Hoping that I will see you soon, and that this
finds you now in perfect health,
I remain, yours in the bonds,
H. Domingo Córdovez.
