after forwarding the root collected, found there was
no longer any market for it in Philadelphia.
Suspecting the person to whom he had previously sold
was deceiving him, in order to drive a profitable
bargain with him, he determined to go himself with
his venture to China. This he did, and, making
so handsome a business of it, he returned and immediately
went to work to procure a much larger amount for another
venture. This he likewise accomplished, but was
less fortunate than before, though he made some money.
He was now twenty-one years of age, and had been twice
to China; but had not contracted much love for commerce
or voyaging upon the sea. He married soon after
his return, read medicine, and commenced the practice
of it in Kentucky. Forming an intimacy with Mr.
Clay, they soon became close friends, being nearly
of the same age, and very like in character.
After some years’ residence in Kentucky as a
physician, he determined on emigrating to Louisiana,
and embarking in the business of sugar-planting.
Purchasing Belle Isle, an island off the coast of
Attakapas, he removed his family there about 1824.
He was successful in his new vocation; but not liking
an island residence, where he was twenty miles from
a neighbor, he purchased a residence upon Berwick’s
Bay, and a portion of Tiger Island, which was immediately
opposite, and there made a new plantation, which is
now the site of Brashear City. At this place
he lies buried, by his children, all of whom, save
one daughter, are there with him.
For many years he was a member of the Legislature
of the State of his adoption, an honest and efficient
one, of fine abilities, and great will. He usually
triumphed in what he undertook. His fine social
qualities attached to him many friends. His devotion
to them was unflinching, and he rather preferred to
fight for these than play with any others. His
courage was truly chivalrous, and he is remembered
by all who knew him, and yet live, as the man who
never felt the sensation of fear.
An unfortunate difficulty with a neighbor, Dr. Tolls,
brought on a personal rencontre. His antagonist
was known to be brave and physically powerful; but
in this affair, Brashear, after receiving a number
of blows, wrested away his enemy’s cane, and
would soon have had the better of the fight, but persons
interposing prevented it.
“Doctor,” said Brashear, “this is
not the way for gentlemen to settle their difficulties.
As soon as I can bind up my head, which you have battered
pretty severely, I shall be in the street armed.
If you are as brave a man as your friends claim you
to be, you will meet me there prepared to fight me
as a gentleman.”
“In forty minutes from this time, if you please,”
said his enemy.