A letter from Canfield

10-9-1890

On October 9, 1890, George Folger Canfield writes Emily Averell from San Francisco.  This is the only letter we have in Canfield's hand, confirming his role as Emily's attorney, and advising her to acquire residency in California, potentially delaying her return home but increasing the likelihood of her successfully acquiring her divorce.  He notes the difficulty of obtaining a divorce in California that will also satisfy the technical requirements of divorce in New York, and advising her to "be brave & hold out."

Canfield suggests Emily acquire "the house on State Street, opposite to my
brother." Later letters to Emily are addressed to 1628 State Street, so it appears that Emily did in fact "acquire" the house, although whether she bought it or rented it is unclear.