Mrs. Kate Betow

   Venice, Ohio

My Dear Cousin

The lawyer that we sent to Germany has just reported that there is no estate there for the Brandenburgs

It grieves me to make this announcement but the sad truth must be told to all

I have worked so hard upon this case, and I did hope for a different report more for the sake of others than for myself    Will you plese send word to Margrett Smith and to your Aunt Mary A. Baker.

    We will now turn our attention to Baltimore and see what is there

                    Yours Affectionately,
                         Naomi Shepard
                         Sulphur Grove, Ohio

June 13d 1889.