The Bethlehem (Penn.) Times of Monday tells this romantic story, which possibly is true: “Over 25 years ago Frederick K. Bechtel, of Maiden Creek, Berks County, a brother of Allen Bechtel, the Reading broker, who committed suicide a year or two ago by shooting himself and a brother-in-law of Mr. James Rothermel, teamster, of Macungie, becoming a widower, placed his two children, who were but a few years old, in charge of his father-in-law and left for California to seek his fortune. In the meantime his children, a son and a daughter, grew up, the son dying, however, at the age of 15. The daughter survived and was married to a Mr. Schaffer, and resides at Fleetwood, on the east Pennsylvania Railroad, about 18 miles from Allentown. Having heard nothing from the father for many years he was supposed to be dead. Several weeks ago a man ordinarily well dressed came to the house of Mr. Schaffer, who was not at home. The stranger asked for something to eat, but was refused, Mrs. Schaffer – his own daughter – stating that they were too poor and could not afford it. He then asked whether he might remain and warm himself, which request was willingly granted. Presently the man made himself known, declaring himself to be her long-lost father. The woman was naturally overjoyed with expression, and the father was no less pleased. He at once gave her a sum of money to purchase the necessaries of life, in which they were in pressing need. He remained with her a week, and upon leaving gave her a several thousand dollars, with instructions to live as comfortably as possible, and when she was in need for more money she should not hesitate to let him know. From Fleetwood he came to Macungie, and remained a day with his brother-in-law, Mr. Rothermel, also giving him some gold, and promising him that when he returned next spring to settle permanently at Macungie, he would purchase a farm for him. Mr. Bechtel had many ups and downs in the gold regions, but one day he happened to secure an interest in a valuable lode which had yielded him a fabulous sum. His relatives can hardly wait the coming of spring, when he will return and bring prosperity with him.
Submitted by Brenda.
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