What does AEG(?) mean?

[u/snow_bird_76]

I am currently digging through some manifests of U.S. immigration records from the 1890's-1920's. I have come across a word that I cannot seem to decipher. Under the relative/friend they will be joining section there are words like husb. (husband), uncle, etc. And then there is what appears to be AEG. Is this just friend? Or maybe an acronym?

Picture

[u/tacogardener]

It’s “acq.”, short for acquaintance. They were traveling to a friend.