dated 9 May 1905 in Dakar
4944
transcription: (1franc of the time is worth 20 francs from 1995)
"Dakar, May 9, 1905,
Messrs. Hersent in Paris
I received your letter from the 19th. (29) April, with the offer of a new situation in Rosario. I telegraphed you according to the agreed code that I accepted your proposal in principle and that I was ready to leave by the ship that touches Dakar on 1 July next.
I thank you very much for the feelings you have expressed to me and the benefits you offer me. I am very willing to settle with my family in Rosario for the number of years it will take if you think I can be of use to you.
But it seems essential to me, for the proper work that you intend to do, that I should not be placed even by far under Mr Pagnard's orders - this is in the conditions contained in your letter and I think it is very important.
As for the arrangement to be made, I am sure that the conditions you will make will be inspired by the same kindness that I have never lacked in your house for almost 14 years and that I have .... tried to justify by my dedication and my activity.
When I leave Dakar, I am convinced that the construction site is now in order and that the work can be completed without too much difficulty and in satisfactory conditions.
The staff's mindset is better; the people of Bizerte have brought here their habits of order, economy and discipline that were so lacking, unfortunately I could not remove any apprehension of the climate and we will have to show energy if we want to avoid some failures in the wrong season. Despite all the staff is enough to deal with any eventuality. The equipment is obviously in condition, as I say elsewhere. With the routine maintenance, which must be cared for with great care, the various construction sites can be served without difficulty.
The rocks will soon be ....................
...Relationship with the Administ. have become very cordial.
As for the direction of the site, it is certain that ................................
My family will be leaving for France by the ship of July 7th, because if we have to stay away for a few years, we need to organize our business in a way other than we had planned for a stay in Senegal.
Your devoted good
E. Hausermann"