Dear Family,

I went to California to strike it rich. I’m not doing so well. I have only found one nugget of gold worth $7.00. Hope you have some money. I had staked a claim, but someone took it. I’m having a hard time in The Golden State, I can’t find any gold. I’m thinking about opening a store. I might get at least some gold that way. Nothing here is in good condition .  Not even the tents. I can’t afford anything. I share a tent with a friend. I can hear the Cling! Cling! Cling! of gold pans. I smell dirt and sweat. I taste sweat and dirt even in the food. I feel sad because i’m not getting enough gold. I see people striking it rich. All around me there are lucky people who find some gold while I’m having a tough time. It just doesn’t seem fair.

Love,

Will