Only thing I ever found was when I was adding some insulation in the attic. Pulled up a board and found "The Orator's Companion", published in Boston in 1826. "This publication is principally intended for the accommodation of Teachers of Elocution". (how to write and give speeches)
Inside a child had written in pencil:
<span style="font-style: italic">I went uptown this morning, to sing a little song.
My doly sends me warning, to bring my boots along.
For the yard is paved with cinders, and the house is built of stone.
A dear face at the window, my lovely Doly Jones.
Laura Smith, Pomfret Conn.</span>
On p. 348: <span style="font-style: italic">"Divide and conquer must be the motto of every nation that either hates or fears us."</span> Lots to think about in that book.
I'm afraid all they'll find when I'm gone is some old Bentley manuals.
T.