On May 9, 1899, Paul Laurence Dunbar was recovering from pneumonia in New York City. Paul's wife Alice frequently wrote to his mother Matilda in Washington, D. C., giving her updates on his condition. Alice's letters imply that Paul was instructed by a doctor to consume a lot of meat and alcohol.
Paul is asleep so I am going to drop you a little line and let you know how we gay New Yorkers are getting on. The doctor says Paul is behaving nicely, and he has not long had a mutton chop and a glass of ale. If he continues to eat beef and mutton and drink ale and nice little milk punches and toddies such as I make for him, you'll find us sitting up home some day while you're gallivanting around.
Alice Moore Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, May 9, 1899. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
Paul had a very good night last night, and is very high today, drinking champagne and eating champagne jelly. Doctor says he's going to give me a diploma for nursing.
Alice Moore Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, May 10, 1899. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
I am sparing no money to make Paul comfortable and to ensure his speedy and complete recovery. Whiskey at a dollar a pint, champagne every day, two dollars and more each day for medicines, water bags, rubber sheets, bed pans, expensive meat nourishments, doctor coming often, a consultation of doctors, my board, his board and room rent, errand boys, all these things count up, as you know.
Alice Moore Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, May 12, 1899. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
Paul is doing very nicely this day. His temperature has been normal and he had oatmeal and cream for breakfast and beefsteak and ale at noon. He is in good spirits.
Alice Moore Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, May 30, 1899. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
Paul has been able to put on his slippers and take some steps today. He is out-eating Mrs. Jarvis and drinking beer. I think he will get on very well.
Alice Moore Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, June 5, 1899. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).
After several weeks of illness, Paul was well enough to write to Matilda himself. He told her that an Episcopal bishop had sent gift baskets that contained more alcohol.
I am sitting up by the window and thought I would try to write my first letter to you. I have got on my coat for the first time and feel very good. Yesterday two baskets were sent to me by Bishop Potter. Here's what they contained: marmalade, California cherries, Saratoga chips, butter, eggs, oranges, lemons, apricots, 2 [bottles] port wine, 2 [bottles] whiskey. All this from the bishop. I am living easy.
Paul Laurence Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, June 8, 1899. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 2).