On 14 July 1849 Poe, who had just arrived in Richmond, wrote to his wife's mother, Mrs. Maria Clemm: “I am indebted for more than life itself to B— [Burr]. Never forget him, Mother, while you live. When all failed me, he stood my friend, got me money, and saw me off in the cars for Richmond.” Poe had left New York on 29 June. In Philadelphia he had gone on a spree and been seriously ill. Burr with the help of one or two others looked after the sick poet until he was able to resume his journey to Richmond. Poe was on his way back to New York when he died in Baltimore on 7 October of the same year.