Letter to Overseer of Poor of West Cambridge --- concerning Mrs. Eastbrook [Nov. 10, 1853] "To the Overseer of the Poor, West Cambridge, Gentlemen, Mary Eastbrook, wife of Leonard Eastbrook, is an honest and industrious woman, who, during the summer months succeeds in supporting herself and her two small children. But at the present time, in consequence of the week (?) sickness of her children, and the high price of provisions and fuel, she is in need of immediate help. Her own earnings with the assistance of her friends are barely sufficient to to provide food and clothing. Her husband, who long ago deserted her, is a native of West Cambridge, and consequently, the Overssers of the Poor in this city, say that she must look to you for the help she needs. I think she could get through the winter comfortably if she could be furnished with fuel. And as your Board have once before, at my request, rendered her with aid, I have been induced to make the above statement, trusting that it will be the means of providing for her the needed assistance. Respectfully Yours, 13 Pleasant St. Cambridgeport } November 10th, 1853 } A. L. Webber M.D."