Kinda of dramatic I know. But we need to remember that in April of 1825, much of the newly created Deaf world in America was at the American Asylum in Hartford, CT. Students from all over New England and the East Coast of a new America were coming to Hartford to take part in this new fast growing educational experimental and to learn from its most prestigious teacher, Laurent.
So on April 15th of that year when Laurent tenders his letter of resignation to the Asylum board, there must have been panic throughout this tight community. Laurent had been offered a "secondary" position at the Paris institution. With the famous Abbe' Sicard just 3 years gone, the school must have been pining for earlier days.
The Asylum board sprung into action and within 13 days from receiving Laurent's letter, they had signed a 10 year contract to keep Laurent in Hartford. Power play by Laurent in some contract negotiations. A genuine desire to return home to his native land and gay Paris. Paris was approaching 1 million inhabitants and had a vibrant night life and culture. Hartford was struggling to get 7 thousand people to live there. Who could blame Laurent and Eliza for considering the offer?
Perhaps Eliza put an end to Laurent's dream and gave him the pen to sign his new contract. More likely Laurent's mission to education the Deaf of America still burned strong within him and on reflection he decided to remain. If that was so, seems that he would not have considered the Paris proposal seriously and would have never written that letter.
But, whatever reason he chose to stay were are all grateful. He was able to continue teaching and spreading the newly evolving ASL across the American nation. Ah, but if he had chosen to return, I might have finally learned French!
-Laurent-
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