Dear family,

In my last letter I failed to mention my opportunity of opening a saloon/boardinghouse. It seems to be a good idea. Me and the men a few nights ago were talking about the miners who when they do not find the gold in the mines they give up . They go to the saloons and drink and drink .Soon their gone. They run away and are never seen again . These towns are so dangerous  due to all the drinkers and every few minutes you hear the sound of a gun go off . I know it’s bad for the town but it makes me wonder how much the local saloons make. I changed my mind that a saloon in this town would make me successful .All the unlucky souls who do not find gold drink like its free and pay for their drinks .Its perfect but the problem is what the drinks due to the people like shooting for no reason .When I left the foothills there was a terrible storm .The storm was so rough it stopped me in my tracks and could not go back to Sacramento  It poured all of the next day and I could not do anything at all. My good clothes were soaked and I could not open a saloon due to me not being able to afford good clothes. I still had my cooking equipment and as soon as this rain starts to dry I will travel to Sacramento and pursue my career as a restaurant owner and part time miner when times get tough . My success I’m not successful yet .My plan will pay off. Miss you and hope to see you soon .

Love,

Harold Swartsmen