It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain any copyright clearances. Permission to publish material from this/these transcript(s) must be obtained from the Supervisor of Reference Services and/or the L. Tom Perry Special Collection Coordinating Committee. Alvin Fielding and Amelia Smith Letters, Jun 1905 MSS 7952 [notes by transcriber are in brackets; preprinted text is in bold] [ltr. 1, p. 1] Page 1 # 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington # 4th London June 2 - 05 My Own Dear Millie How pleased I was when I got up this morning to find awaiting Me two letters from You and one from Papa and also one from President Grant. I will answer the shortest one first, I have signed the delivery Order authorizing You to sign for the registered letter. I think when You get it that it will only be a canc - elation of that health policy the object of sending it by registered mail is to get an acknowledgement from [ltr. 1, p. 2] <2> from Me to show that I got the notice. It will not be necessary for You to send it over to Me, after You get it just write and tell Me if it is, what I think it is I will also enclose a note authorizing You to act as attorney for me. - How I would like to See our precious baby, I can emagin just how cute She is, I would like to see Her as you tell about just befor She gets up I showed Your’s and the babys picture to a lady while out tracting this morning, and she O, how could You leave them [ltr. 1, p. 3] 4 and chapple meeting in the evening - now for the other letter about that charge of 10¢ I didnt think that fellow knew what he was saying when He told me that I had eno - ugh postage on it but I thought it would go through alright - becaus I did put 10¢ on the envel - ope, I believe, I am afraid You are apt to have more to pay on becaus I never know when to stop when I start to write to You, it seems as tho I have so much to tell [ltr. 1, p. 4] <-3-> I had a very nice time out tracting this morn - ing. I only got turned down three times and I had 5 conversations and sold three books, I am going over the ground with My second tract, so some of the people reme mber me, and it encou rages Me to get a chance to talk with at least some of the people. We are to hold another street Meeting this evening and tomorrow is priesthood meeting, Sunday, we have Sunday School, Fast Meeting another priesthood meeting [ltr. 1, p. 5] 5 You, and as long as you dont get tired reading them I guess it is allright - but I dont want you to think that I get tired of reading Your letters, quite the contra ry, I read them over several times between mails - and I got them all out the other day and started with the first and read them over again, Yes Dearie I wish You would try and locate My bathing suit some time when You are out at the lake, and about the unions they answer the purpose we were out holding [ltr. 1, p. 6] 6 meeting the other night and it started to rain I with some of the other boys got soaked, unions and all I had to change everything, this is a great country for quick rain stormes, regarding My api tite while I was on the boat and even now - well You would be surprised to see what a pile I can and did eat, but it dont make Me very fat, I guess it makes Me poor to cary it, Well Dearie I will try and be better to You when I come home, and we will try and go out [ltr. 1, p. 7] more in (7) the future than we usto, I know that you havent had many good times of late but we will try and do better when I come home, but I usto enjoy Your comp - any better than anything else, and didnt stop to think that I was away all day and that You were at home. I guess I am selfish, but I hope I will get over it some day, there is nothing to good for My Mamma and Baby, and some day I hope to be able to show them as much of the world as I have [ltr. 1, p. 8] (8) seen, now about that kodak, have them return it to You as it is I didnt pay anything out on it when You get it You can repair the bellows by posting some kid on whare it is worn out and that will enable You to use it, but dont spend anything on it more than the express and that hadnt ought to cost You more than 50.¢ Say Dearie while I think of it Otterstrom Gun is still at Mammas I wish You would ask Hyrum to clean it up and see that Otterstrom [ltr. 1, p. 9] 9 - gets it, He can be fo[-]nd at the L D S College, tell Hyrum to drop him a postal after the gun is cleaned and he will call and get it. Yes Brother Howell told Me all about his love affaris and I have just been listening to another love story, one of the Elders who has come in to attend priesthood meeting has been telling Me how He is at the present time trying to break off with his girl who is now in New York studying Music this Elders Name is Stevens He lives in Ogden and [ltr. 1, p. 10] 10 He says the girl is to swift for him now so He is gradually breaking it off by not writing to Her only occasionaly, He usto show her a good time befor He came on a mission and was engaged to be married and when He got his call for a mission they decided to wait until after he came home, and since she got to New York She has decided that she will never be satisfied with living in Utah Again this is what she told him in the last letter, so He feels conf - ident that He can settle the thing very shortly [ltr. 1, p. 11] 11 I dont know how it is every body tells Me these things but one of the other Elders who was realeased a few days after I got here, in fact I have taken his place, I believe I told you about him, He is now on the continent but He told Me his love affairs and made me promiss that I wouldnt tell a soul and especially the boys here this Elders name is Hamilton Freebarin - and He is very much in love with Miss Minnie Taut the Singer, He tooke Me up and showed me several pictures [ltr. 1, p. 12] 12 pictures of her, after we got through He said I dont know why I told You about this, He made Me promiss again that I wouldn’t tell a soul and He said if old man Taut knew this he would fix Me but that is the way It goes We have here in london all the Taut family, and they are all good singers and furnish the music Sunday evenings, we also have Miss Arvilla Clark, and Brother Willard Andelin both stud - ying Vocal music and they are fine Singers they also help us out at times [ltr. 1, p. 13] 13 - Yes Brother Groesbecks son is here He expects to be released next month or the latter part of this month, He then e[-]pects to go on the continent befor returning home, what did the teachers have to say, did they preach to You or were they like the first ones that came to see us Say Dearie do you pay your Tithing, on the rent money You should do, pay it in Your own name, Sugar Ward - Granite Stake, You owe $150 a month - Yes Dearie Mr Chapple said He would give us a write up and I sent him one of those pictures of us 4 boys, and Willard is going to send him some of the kodak pictures to be used in connection with the story - But I dont know whether he will do it or not if He does You will get a copy of the Magazine becaus I sub - scribed for it and you should be getting them now [ltr. 1, p. 14] 14 If He does give us a write up it should be in about the August noumber. You can write and tell Me if the magazine is coming to you and how You like, and when the story of us Elders comes out, save the book as a souvenir and I will write to Mr Chappell and get him to send Me a copy I will wait however until You tell Me all about it So the time dont drag with You I guess not especially when You are house cleaning I guess you are all straight by this time, So You went down to Mrs Ostelers, I like to hear of you going riding and I cam just emagin how our precio - us little Ruth enjoyes it So the pictures of the baby were not good, I hope you have been able to get some good ones by this time and I am anciously awating one of them, I am going to have [ltr. 1, p. 15] 15 - one taken of My self especially for you I think one will be enough I wish I had have brought that hat of Hyrums the hats over here are not as good shape, I went all over town befor I bought one, but they were all alike and they all seem top heavy to Me, and I emagin that I look like I was trying to be somebody and could'nt I hope you wont make fun of it when You get it, and just as soon as You get through looking at It give it to Ruth or else put it down in the bottom of Your Trunk Regarding the Sugar Stock I am glad You got it fixed I will leave the other to You and Brother Nelson, if I was home I believe I would hold onto it a little while but if You and brother Nelson think that that 180 is all you can make on each share maby you had better let Him Sell it, but [ltr. 1, p. 16] 16 You might telephon to Ea Ashton and ask Him what option He will give You - I would like to see you make 200 a share on it, But just what ever you think best I want You to do, My Interests are Yours and I will leave every thing to You and it will be satisfactory to Me what - ever You do, Regarding Mr Poulton and England it is a pity such fellows as him cant stay as long as they want but I wouldnt trade Salt Lake City is good enough for Me and I will come home just as soon as I can - I will remember You to Sister Everard, She askes me if I have ever heard from You every time she sees Me, I am well and am taking good care of My self and Dearie You dont know how good it makes me feel to get Your letters and [ltr. 1, p. 17] 17 - to learn that You are both well Dearie this is the greatest comfort to Me, and I hope our precious baby wont be sick with Her teeth, how I would like to hear Her call papa, papa, Bless Her little soul. I would like to see her when she calls the calf, I am glad you continue to get along with the cow, are You going to rais the calf, So Nell Reed is married, Well Dearie I haven't Much use for the Reeds, they are all alike and the Tuddenhams have got to much good sense to pay any attention to the way they act, but I think if I had been Myers - My wife would have at least gone with me to call on My relatives whether She wanted to or not but it Shows just what kind of people they are, I was surprised that they had [ltr. 1, p. 18] 18 - a Mormon Bishop perform the ceremony, I was glad to learn that Calvin had come home I hope He will be a better boy from now on Well Dearie I love you with all My soul - and I hope You will continue to have good health, and remember Me to all the folks - also Joe and with lots and lots of kisses and hugs for My own precious folks - and May the Lord bless My Mamma and and baby Ruth - and preserve them from all harm and danger is the wish and prayer of Your Loving and Effectionate husband Alvin xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx PS Say Dearie I will send you a postal now and again it is quiet a fad among the Elders some them and I will get you a album to put them - the cart I am sending you to day is mild example of the actions of the people over here will send you others from time to time xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [ltr. 1, insert 1, front] Salt Lake City Jun 2 - 1905 To Whom it may concern This is to certify that Mrs Amelia A. Smith is authorized to receipt for all registered mail and act as My attorney and transact My business at all times during My absence Yours Truly Alvin F Smith [ltr. 2, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 6th - 05 My Own Dear Mamma and Ruthie - I received your two letters this morning one written on the 23 of May and the other on the 26th I also received one from Papa and yesterday I got one from Mamma one from Brother Nelson and some small pamp - lets from Papa so I have been better favored this week than any of the other boys - I will answer both of your letters this morning as it has been very stormy yesterday and to day and we dont go out tracting when it storms but we are supposed to study, and this is the way I am going to do My studying to day I hope you wont mind small writing becaus I want to make as much go for one postage as possible - Yes Dearie I have started on my missionary labors Sunday I had to take charge of - Priesthood Meeting Fast Meeting, and Hall Meeting in the evening, You can probably emagin Me doing these things, and I can tell You it is no snap, especailly for one with so little experiance as I have had but I guess I will get usto it in time, but I was pretty tired Sunday evening when I got through, I went to the Theatre Saturday night with some of the other boys, it cost us a shilling we were away up in the top whare [ltr. 2, p. 2] we almost had to look straight down and below us were dozens of women with low cuts, infact we saw the greatest assortment of breast works I ever saw befor it was disgusting we could see almost to their belly buttons, and it is really amusing how they like to show them selves, it was at the Savoy Theatre whare Miss Maxine Elliotts is playing - “Her Own Way -“ the same piece we saw her in at home. She is just as good as ever this makes three theatres I have been to since I come to London, it is only a few of the shows that are cheaper than at home, for a seat as good as we pay 100 for at home will cost 250 here, seats as good as our first circle cost 200 so you see they charge plenty, it is only those extra large show houses like the Hippodrome whare you more than your moneys worth in this country thers is a show now going, called the Royal opera at the covent Gardens whare the Royal Family go and the best seats cost about 6000 and the cheapest seats cost 250 they are whare you cant and you have to listen carefully even to hear but I dont think I will blow in My mony on anything like that well Millie Dear I am glad you can [ltr. 2, p. 3] go to the Theatre now and again I wish you could go to see Mr Southern but I guess it wont be our turn when something good like that is on the boards, I dont wonder at him having a small house 300 is too much. I am glad you enjoyed - seeing Nat Goodwin. He is no slouch, You know He is Maxine Elliotts husband it is quiet funny that you should see him away out home almost at the same time that I am seeing his wife over here - I wonder if people like that are happy when they are separated and playing pieces whare other fellows are making love to them. I can tell You I could'nt stand anything like that, I am of too jealous a dis - position, the fact of the matter is I want Mine to My self, and I am willing to let the other fellow share his wife if with the other fellow if he wants, but not Me. Dearie when we see how corrupt society is it makes us feel thankful, that the Lord has blessed us with his glorious Gospel which teaches us how to live better lives and and take [ltr. 2, p. 4] of those loved ones he has given us and how thankful we should be to know that they are not only ours for this life but for the life to come and we cant wonder at the actions of some people who dont believe in a hereafter those who think this life will be the end, I often think and wonder if they ever give it a thought what will become of them after they are dead and wonder if they ever give it a thought what will become of them after they are dead and especially those who do love their wives and children - what happiness will there be for them in the next world to be separated from their loved ones, how thankful we should be to think that the Gospel which has been restored, and by comp - lying with its teachings we are Sealed to one another for all time and eturnity by a Servant of the most high God having authority to efficiate in the ordinances of the Gospel when we think that this has been our happy lot how thank - ful we should be and Dearie I am thankful, what happin ess would there be for Me if I [ltr. 2, p. 5] 5 thought this life would separate Me from My loving Mamma and baby for ever, what would there be worth lifving for, if we had any such ideas, the thoughts of the hereafter and the knowlege that we will have our loved ones with us is what encourages us to go onward and upward and it is this one fact that encour - ages Me. You are Dearer to Me than anything, You are Dearer to Me than everything and I love My Mamma and baby better than anybody, how I would like to see You I dremp about you the other night, I thought I went into Your Mammas dining room with My grip and thare you sat and how good you did look to Me, I thought that You Met Me and as you got up from the chair to come over towards Me thare I saw our precious little Ruth standing by the chair you had been occupying, and I thought She began to walk around the chair by holding to it, and I [ltr. 2, p. 6] 6 thought she also tried to come to Me. She knew her Papa and I had you both in My arms when I awakened up, I was some what disapointed, but it left a happy feeling with Me it was just as real as if it had actually happened Well Dearie I guess you have had enough of this kind of writing, So will begin again to answer the letters. Yes there are lots of poar people over here, and again there are lots of wealthy, but the great contrasts are so noticable, and more beggers than can be found anyother place in the world I believe, I to am glad that I dont have to live here all My life, give Me My little home with You and Rutch, and good health that I may provide for you, and I will be happy, Brother Groesbeck has made the remark that He wished his mother was here to look after his washing and mending, and when I think that these are things that I will now have to look after [ltr. 2, p. 7] 7 It makes us appreciate our loved ones at home, just think how much easier it is for us when we have some one to relieve us of all these cares and when I think of the many responsibilities that you had when I was home and the many more you now have It is truly said that the Mamma has the hardest time, the wife in My judgement always has the hardest row to hoe and I thank My Heavenly Father that I have been so blessed with one that can look after Me and Mine so well, Yes Dearie when we see some of the world and the misery and starvation I too feel that we are blessed but the Lord has promissed us that if we will remember him He will remember us - so Dearie pay your tithing no matter how small the ammount, one tenth belongs to him, and let us give it to him every year since I began to work I have paid My tithing and every year I have paid more [ltr. 2, p. 8] 8 showing that the Lord will bless us if we will obey his commandments, I was not very good at attending to My church duties but I always tried to remember and give the Lord what belonged to him and I have always found that it is better to pay it as you get it then you dont for get it - He should have his 10% then the other 90 % is ours to do as we please with and I can vouch for the fact that the money will go farther after you have paid your tithing, - I wrote to you a few days ago about Frank Otterstroms Gun, I am sorry He didnt get it befor I left home Yes Dearie I got a letter from Brother Nelson - I wrote you a few days ago about the stock I want you and him to use Your best judgement in handeling the new Issue of Stock I was glad you had made two shares clear profit I hope you can do as well again only I would like to see [ltr. 2, p. 9] 9 - you make 200 per share it is quoted in all the papers at 1200 I guess you had better sell it as they issue it especially if you can make even 190 or 180 per share but always get as much as possible, we will keep the old stock, as I under - stand it we have as follows me 43 shares fully paid for you and Ruth 11 shares fully paid making 65 shares that we have paid for Brother Nelson holds My note for $100000 with 30000 paid by me and 1500 paid by you leaving a balance due the bank of 68500 I dont want to sell the stock Bro Nelson has it payes it’s own interest and something on the principle each <3 months> month so let us keep this and Maby if Brother Nelson can carry us until I get home I can fund some way to pay for the stock and in this way save it, I am sending you another paper authorizing You to act as My attorney You figur out the above and tell Me if I am right - and Say Dearie how does the assesm [ltr. 2, p. 10] 10 ent of our property compare with last year compare them and if it is anymore get David to kick about it, give him the notices and I believe he will be able to get the assessor to make it the same as last year we shouldnt paay any more, I am glad you had the Stock made out to You and Ruth you had better have the next issue done the same You are welcome to it and I will make My Mamma and baby a present of My share - becaus I want You to have something of Your own and this will be a start You Tell Me in one letter that You are going to have a hat and in the other that you have decided not to, Dearie go and get you one, You havent had but one Since we were Married and I think You are entitled to one I am sure you have made your Red one look very nice but I would like you to have a new one I wish you were over [ltr. 2, p. 11] 11 here a few Minutes You could get a nice one for about half what You have to pay home, I am going shopping with Sister Everard one of these days and if I seee something I think would Suit you I will buy it and Send it home, I dont know whether I could buy a hat that would suit you or not Elder Yound and My self went with Sister Everard to Madame Tussaud Wax Works and saw all the Kings Queens and crimin- als - of the history of England She is mighty good to Me I told her You sent her your love and She was pleased, - I am glad house cleaning is done - Say Dearie wouldnt You like Me to buy some trimming for the babys coat - I tell you what You do, You get some samples of what You would like and send them to Me in a letter with the prices marked on and I will see if I cant get it for You much cheaper [ltr. 2, p. 12] 12 over here will you do this, You ought to get Henry to varnish the babys buggy now so as it will match the new shade Tell Rutha Dad, Dad, Dad, loves his precious little darling I know she is cute - I saw her in My dream I am sorry the cow isnt all right it will be such a Job to get her away again It wont be long befor Ruth will feed the chickens for You I would like to hear her call the calf - I can emagin how She does it - So She has started to drink Milk and eat well She could drink farely well long befor I left and I dont think good cows Milk will hurt Her, how I wish we could get some over here, the milk we get never saw a cow it is mostly manufactured - some from lard grease and I dont know what else only it is nasty. I . do know that, how is your dinner do you still have plenty So you weigh 126 lbs what else did you have besides the baby, when you got on the scale, I would like to see [ltr. 2, p. 13] 13 - those big teeth they must look cute - I hope Arvil wont get last but He always was a tough little chap - and I guess he does keep Alice buisy look - ing after him - I do take care of My self Dearie I have gotten rid of My cold and have been swimming once since, after Priest - hood meeting all of we Elders went down and had a fine swim I have learned to love the boys, they are a fine crowd of boys, I have a little book and each time a new one comes here I get him to write his name in it so I will always have it - Your letter was the first to bring the news of Mamie I am glad she is getting along nicely - you had quiet a walk clear down town and then down to Mammas - I do hope the babys picture will be good it is strange She should get scared at Savage - if you dont succeed in getting a good one this time maby you had better take her down to Fox Symons Tell Famey I mailed her tray and cups that she sent with Me So Mrs Roberts has at last [ltr. 2, p. 14] 14 got a baby boy good for Her Mocha still loves the baby and does she still think as much of him, I guess it is better at times to let him go with You becaus he is liable to try and find you after you have gone and in that way get lost and really I would hate to have him lost or anything happen to him even if he did usto be such a nusance I am glad to hear that Joe is going to build I wish He would go down our way, I guess when He does build it will be on the old lot near his brother, So Swensen has been caught trying to Steel well Dearie I said something to You about him in one of My other letters, I have always believed him dishonest and I am afraid that some day his wife will come to grief I dont believe He loves Her, I hope however that such will not be the case, Yes Deare I to hope that you can make enough on Uncle Sam to bring you over here befor [ltr. 2, p. 15] 15 I come home and would like to hear of You selling that Stock for a good price - wouldnt it be nice if it went to 100 well maby by the time I have been over her 22 or 23 months I hope Something will have turned up So that you can come over and spend a month here befor I go home, Say Dearie You know that Man Brown the police man not the one that has the game chickens but the one that wastalking to on Godbes corner the night we went down to Nells the one that was here on a Mission well he had his wife with him thaey a baby born to them - He left here owing the Mission $3000 Sister Everard 2500 and She gave him 500 and then when He got to Liverpool he wrote back and wanted to borrow another 2500 and She wouldnt lend it to him He promissed to pay it back as soon as he got home, He has been home 8 months and none of them have heard a word from him since and he is pretty well known around here, and [ltr. 2, p. 16] 16 Sister Everard says she has written to her attorney to call on him and called it if it takes twice the ammount to get it I tell you a person is known for good or bad after he leaves here Well I am getting off the track I was talking about making some Money, if something dont turn up by that time we will borrow it becaus I have made up My mind to have you come over befor I come home. It seems an awful long time to want but the boys who have been over her over a year say it only seems a month or two I dont know as it will ever seem like this to Me, becaus It seems a Year already since I saw you any way I hope the time may spedily pass so that I can have the pleasure of seeing You, and I hope that it wont always seem as long as the last two month have been Yes I see by the paper this morning an account of Hamptons death - well I dont [ltr. 2, p. 17] 17 - want any mining in Mine - You ask Me if I need some money not yet think I have enough to last several months yet have I told you what it costs to live over here - I believe I did - but if not tell Me and I will tell you but dont send any money to Me until I ask for it So they are ripping up South Temple - I hope it will be finished by the time I get home, the last time I was away it was the story of the old house and You know I got home befor that was moved so I wou - ld'nt be surprised if I got home befor they finished the street. Well Dearie I think I have told you almost all I can think of and have asked enough qustions for once Remember Me to Al, Alice Henry, Nell, Bertha, Joe Harry and Lan, Your Papa [ltr. 2, p. 18] 18 - and Mamma and all the folks - and may the Lord Bless You and our Precious little Ruth is the prayer of Your loving Husband - with lots and lots of Love hugs and xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx for You both Papa PS I had some single sheets thought I could finish on one, but you see befor I got through it took three of them - hope You can make out all I have written and hope you wont get tired of it I am yours effectionatly Alvin [ltr. 3, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 10th My Own Dear Millie This is Saturday morn - ing, and it looks very much like it would storm we have only had one decent day this week, the balance of the time it has been raining, the good weather I have spoken of from time to time has gone and I guess for good I have only been out tract - ing one day but I have been to the Theatre twice both times with Sister Grant, who is spending a few days here, Brother Grant was also here yester - day, He is on his way to Visit some of the conferences in Scandonevaa, He had just returned from the Bristol conference, whare He attended conference at [ltr. 3, p. 2] chittenham He saw chase Chase has been sent down into Wales to labor among the welsh people He dont know yet how He will like it, but I guess He will get along all right He has a Brother Cluff of Arzona who has been over here almost two years, Well Dearie Bob Hampton the Doctor called here yesterday He is a brother to Grant and the one that was killed He is on his way home He sails this morning for New York. He has his wife and her Mother with him You know He married a Miss Howatt, a sister to Fred Odells wife Well Dearie I went to the Covent Gardens Theatres last night to see Grand Opera the piece was Townhouses and it was grand we occupied the top circle [ltr. 3, p. 3] at a cast of 2 - 6 or about 60¢ I enjoyed it very much the place was still decorated in honor of the King of Spain - this is the theatre that I told You about and the same seats that we had last night sold at 250 the night the King was thare and other seats at 6000 dollars I will send you the paper giving an account of it So you can judge about what it was like, Well Dearie tomorrow is Sunday and I will have to get on My best behavor again, Sunday comes often enough although it Seems months since I left home, when I look back it seems an awful long time, and coming home last night I told Sister Grant that I was going to begin from now on and figure on having You come over to go home with Me, I said [ltr. 3, p. 4] although it is a long time to look forward to but She like all the rest said it would soon pass and She thought it would be a fine thing if I could I guess You dont care if I sport around with old Maried wimen do you they are the only ones I get a chance to go with and Brother Grant dont seem to worry so I guess you wont need to but how I wish It was You - but lets be patient Dearie and maby I will have this privilege I have been chewed up with flees, they dont bother Me only at night - and when I awake up in the morning I find several new bites and if I am not careful they make sares, talk about England being a nicer place than U.S. people who make such a statement - [ltr. 3, p. 5] 5 - are crazy besides what ails them, one only has to live away from home and loved ones, to make him appreciate them, Well Dearie we have two New Elders here in this conference a Brother Laugton and also a Brother Jones both old Men, compared to Me I was the baby until they come, I have to be kind - of dignafied but we had a crowd of the Elders here the other night and just after Supper while we were still at the table I presented them both with a baby comfort telling them it was customary for these things to be handed down from generation to gener - ation and as they had come into the world since Me that I was no longer the baby so would present them with the small comfort [ltr. 3, p. 6] You should have seen them My goodness they didnt know how to take it coming from Me, but the crowd all laughed about it, so they finally accepted them I can tell you it seems good not to be the last one in the field, we have to do something like this at times to make things lively, Well Dearie I am going down town this after noon just to look around wish you were with Me, but you will be some da[-]y and I hope the time will speedily pass so this time can come How is our precious little baby and her Mamma - say Dearie I love you better than all this world, and I long for the time when I can have My Mamma and baby with Me, how is all at [ltr. 3, p. 7] home, give My love to your Mamma, Papa Bertha Al Alice, Harry, Nell Lon and Harry, and Joe and in fact every body who - I know, Say Dearie I sent You one of those collars it was wrapped in a News paper if the custom officer gets hold of it dont you pay very much to get it becaus the orriginal cost was only 50¢, I sent it to My self - maby it will go thr - ough without them catching it but eveen if it dont - It wont be much loss, so dont you let them hold You up, I havent had My Photo taken yet, I cant hardly make up My mind too besides I hate the thought of the silk hat part, I hope you wont be disapointed with Your old Man when you see what a gock He loks in his new uniform [ltr. 3, p. 8] My hair still comes out - I dont know whether I will have any left when You "come over" or not I havent had the nose bleed since I left home. I am still wearing the buds - Well Dearie it is almost time for Me to post this letter so it will go out to day so will say by bye with lots and lots of love kisses and hugs for My precious baby Ruth and her loving Mamma I am your affectionate husband Alvin x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x My fingers are so cold I can hardly write. this is a beastly damp country [ltr. 4, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 13th 05 My Own Dear Millie I received Your most welcome letter this morning, The President brought it up to Me befor I was up merely, I think so that he could have an excuse to throw Me out of bed, but the fellows arround here have found that it isn’t so easy I have had several scuffles since I landed and managed to come out best Man more times than I have been bested “Hyrum Groesbeck is the hardest tussell I have had yet, and if He was’nt so confou - nded big I believe I could man - age him - He only weighs 203 lbs while I weigh 133 - and I usually get tired out befor I conquer him, but the other fellows have quit monkeying with Me - even the President was ready to quit when I got hold of him I didn’t get up until after I had read your letter and when I got dressed it was eight oclock [ltr. 4, p. 2] Yours was the only letter I received this Mail. I am glad you like to get My letters even tho You dont like to answer them Yes Dearie I do like to write letters, I have changed consider - able in this respect, I have enjoyed writing to you both since and befor you were My very own, although befor this time, I believe I was the poorest hand on earth to write letters, while Hyrum was on his mission I only wrote to him twice, but since I have been separated from home I know how it seems, and if it was’nt for the letters you send Me I dont know what I would do So You must not get tired of writing to Me, Dearie two Years is a long time to be away from home, yet if it wasnt for the letters you write Me, I am afraid it would seem much longer, tharefore, Dearie, bear with Me - and shorten the [ltr. 4, p. 3] time as much as possible by continuing in the good start you have made - I must have at least one letter a week from you, even tho it is a short one, but I do like long ones like you have been sending Me, and then I have to read them over three and four times between mails I hope you, dont get tired of reading the long letters that I have written. It seems as though when I start to write to you I cant stop short of six or seven pages and sometimes twice this many, the paper gets filled up even though I dont say very much, but Dearie if I had hold of you a few Minutes I believe I could convince you that I do love You, even tho you do try to Make fun of Me for saying So. I dont care who knows it I am prowd of You and why should’nt I be and I [ltr. 4, p. 4] am going to Tell you so more and more each time I write Maby you think I am soft, and Maby I am, but I cant help it, there is something besides pleasure in being out in the world away from those you love, Missionary work is not so easy for Me maby as it is or some and I am afraid you think I am getting along better than I am. I havent found it such a snap as some say it is I can tell you it is pretty hard for Me and when it comes to making a preacher I am afraid that in this I will make a failure - Yes Millie Dear tell Bertha that it would be more in My line to take tracks from the back door down to the barn door than to take tracts from door to door, there is a slight diference, as can be detected after you do both [ltr. 4, p. 5] 5 Elder Groesbeck expects to be released this month, and then he expects to spend six weeks on the Continent after which He will return home, and maby he will call and see You, but you cant tell, Elders forget after they get home that they made any promises befor they left, F J Cannons Son is laboring in Germany I thought that I had told you but I guess I intended to do so and forgot He has been over here about 28 Months He only had a leave of absense to come to Meet the b[--]t and spend a few days with his Mother and father while they were here, He dont have anything to Say about his father, and in fact his father encour - ages him in his mission - ary work. I think Cannon know what he is doing it is Papa He has a grudge aga - inst, and in order to fight [ltr. 4, p. 6] Papa He has to slander the whole Church, I see by the Des News He is expected to go back as editor of the Tribune I also see that old Peray Heath is back in Salt Lake, somebody ought to take the pair of them out and hang them I am glad you got the Photo yes that Photographer did try to cut some of Chases gow off, “He did’ that”, if he had left it natural I think it would have looked better, I havent made up My mind to have Mine taken it seems as tho when I have the clothes on the weather is stormy and it is such a job to get dressed up - especially for that - Maby you will say I am lazy but I will have it taken one of these days. If you cant get Savage to finsh the picture of the baby whare she is smiling send Me the proof tone one up and send it to [ltr. 4, p. 7] Me, It makes Me homesick to see our precious little darling when you tell Me of the many cute things she does, I try to emagin what she is like and I can see Her just as plane, as she was, when I left her, and I am glad Mocha is so good to her Joe and Bertha stood the jollying alright when they were met wheeling the baby - I expect I will hear one of these days of them getting married and then they will get one of their own and then we will hear of the soft things Joe does - but tell him it is good practice and to keep it up and about the time He gets as far along as we have they will send him on another Mission and then he will have anoth er pleasant trip, He wont have the same kind of sickness but it will be almost as bad, Say Dearie dont talk about [ltr. 4, p. 8] getting a square meal in a resturant in England, they dont know what a square meal is, You can get more and better grub - at home for 35¢ than you can here for 75¢ but I guess I wont starve we have one cooked meal a day, we had boiled rice this morning - and bread and butter Say Dearie I wont be hard to cook for when I get home, I will be able to eat any old thing and maby I will be able to do without all together, it dont take much for the majority of the people over here - beer is the main diet, Never in all My life have seen such a contrast between people as there is here - there is such a diference between the rich and the poar it is both extrea - - ams - all you have to do to see the contrast is to attend the Theatre and then go to the slums, you would have to [ltr. 4, p. 9] 9 - see it before you would know what it was like So Hyrums horse has stumbled again and fell on him - why in thunder dont He be more careful I think He aught to sell the critter and get a decent horse - So you are having summer, with a vengence - the weather has been disagreeable over here, very stormy and I cant hardly keep warm, but I guess I will get usto it some day I would’nt mind some good Salt Lake summer weather I believe I could stand it for a while Groesbeck Young and My self went out to the races Saturday, talk about horse races, they say the English men are great Sports and I guess they are, it was the bumest racing I ever saw they have a straight course and the race track is one green meadow and it costs you [ltr. 4, p. 10] 25¢ to stand out side of the track whare you are obliged to get on a hill a block and half from the race to see it or 500 to get in the Grand Stand besides it rained all the time the races were going on we like thousands of others got soaked - we got all we wanted befor they were half through and came home I have had all the English horse racing I want, I emagin it would take a sport to enjoy these conditions and this kindof sports - maby I am prejudiced some what but I am not stuck on Old England, we went out to the forest last Monday or Yesterday - every thing seems a long time to Me - Well Dearie it was what they call Whit Monday and is a holliday I cant begin to describe it to you I saw some of the worst sights I ever saw [ltr. 4, p. 11] all the street girls assemble thare on Hollidays and dance sing and get drunk - Next August is when they have what is called bank holliday and they say that yesterday wasnt anything like it will be then - so we are going to go out and take some pictures of them and if we are successful I will send you some - Well Deare I dont suppose this kind of stuff interests you - so will try and tell you something else, we went to the theatre again the other night making the fifth I have been to since I landed in London and I guess it will be the last for some time becaus I cant affor very much of this kind of busi - ness - it was to see Willie Collin , in the Dictator Mis Ads Dwyer is in the company and takes the part of a spanish [ltr. 4, p. 12] girl, it was quiet funy and had a tendency to cheer one up a bit - and to day one, of the Saints died, an old Man the conference has to bury him so we all had to dig up a few pennies, I am not yet broke and dont want you to send Me any money until I ask you for it Say Dearie you ought to see the way they bury people over here - eight and ten people in one hole and gradually fill it uf by piling one on top of another just as you would stack up a pile of bricks each time a coffin is put the hole just enough clay is put over it to cover it and the hole is left open for the next - see I am at it again this letter maby will sound like on big bunch of fault finding but maby I am in a bad humor - I didnt [ltr. 4, p. 13] 13 - have very good treatment out tracting this morning and maby this is the reason but I cant help it, I cant always feel like singing I wish I could but I get the blues now and again. in spite of Myself Well Mamma Dear if you can stand this long fault finding letter this time I will try and do better next time maby I will be able to tell you something of more interest next time but you know how it is we usually wrtie according to our feelings and maby I dont feel very good but I can help it - I wish I could see You and our precious little Ruth - I hope you are both happy and well and may the lord bless you continually and may the time speedily pass that I may again return [ltr. 4, p. 14] to you are that you may come to Me then I will show you whether or not I care for you - You are more to me than - any thing in this world and dont you begin to get tired of writing this early in the game - Well Dearie give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and Bertha and all - and kiss our precious little Ruth for Papa and let her kiss you for Me - with lots and lots of love kisses & Hugs for you both and with prayers for your welfare I remain your loving husband Alvin xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [ltr. 5, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 17th 05 My Own Dear Millie I received a letter from Papa Thursday morning He also sent Me My blessing which was given to Me by Brother Lyman He told Me he had sent chase and I some money so all I will have to do is send to Liverpool for it when I want it. I am going out to the Crystal Palace to day and I will describe it to you after I see it or the next time I write to you, we have had good weather again this week until this morning but this is a a beast of a day it is raining like the duce but it is usually like this if a person wants to go any place, in fact you cant tell what minute it is liable to rain, so the best thing to do is always be prepared for it - I am still wearing My winter underwear - I dont know [ltr. 5, p. 2] what I will do next winter if I have to wear them all summer I hope it wont get so warm out home that you cant stand it, I would be willing to change some of this weather for some like you are having I do hope and pray that our little darling will not be any the worse on a/c of her teeth, I tell You Dearie it is the happiest thought I can have, that you are well, and how thankful we should be for good health I went over Sister Everards the other day and found her sick in bed but She is up again and I am going over to take dinner with her next Sunday, She asks me how you are and tell her that you wish to be remembered to her, She is very good to Me and I like to call on her becaus she has a nice home and I am always welcome, [ltr. 5, p. 3] Sister Arvilla Clark gave My self and Elder Groesbeck a ticket to Aeolian Music hall Thursday after noon to hear Frances Rogers the American Baritone - it started at 3 PM and we enjoyed it very much He is certainly a very fine singer, He had a swell audience and after it was over we took a strole through Oxford, Regent, and Bond street this is whare the swell shops are and the people down thare look more like they do at home in fact a great many of them are Americans, it was a grand sight, some day I hope you and I can see these things together, I some times wish I had a kodak, I think I will have to borrow one becaus I must have some pictures of these things to send home to you, Miss Grace Grant a daughter of Bro H J Grant has one and she has promissed [ltr. 5, p. 4] to let Me take it if she can ever think to bring it arround it is just like our old one I havent heard a word from George as yet, and I have only had one letter from Willard I wrote to Bill again yesterday and told him that I was wait - ing for some of the pictures He took of us coming across If he ever sends then I will forward them on to you It is two months to day Dearie since I left home only two months, will the time ever go, Say Dearie there is a Sister Cook, one of the Saints from this conference coming to Salt Lake this month she will leave here on the 21st Maby she will call and see you, I am not very well acquainted with her only the Saints are good to us over here so show her all the court - - esys you can, I believe She is going to live at Dougalls, Bro [ltr. 5, p. 5] 5 Trewin will also be going home on the some boat and he has promissed to call and see you - Well Dearie how is every thing at home and how do you like tracking back and forth from the farm, are you sure that it dont interfer with with your tending our little dar - ling, I wouldnt have her neglected for all the cows in the country -, and I sometimes wish you didnt have to bother with the Cow, how I wish I could be doing it for you and how I would like a good drink of milk like you have at home, I cant go the stuff they have over here It is like the eggs and every thing els they have half a dozen diferent grades - just think three or four diferent grades of milk, you can get most any kind you [ltr. 5, p. 6] want except good milk the boys all drink morm - on tea over here, but I cant go it yet although they make fun of Me and tell Me that I will come to it, maby I will but I prefer cold water we had boiled eggs for breakfast this morning one of the Elders found a - fall chicken in his when he broke it open, I think it must have been a fall chicken becaus it was to stale to be a spring one but say Dearie I weigh 1½ lbs more than I did a month ago how is that you wont know me I will be so fat after while, You cant notice the change very much just yet, but the fellows think I ought to raise a beard to help fill out My face, I tell them that I dont want to shame [ltr. 5, p. 7] them becaus I know they would be jealous of Me if I did let Mine grow It is the same now as it was when I was sparking You I have to shave three times a week regular they seem to grow faster in this damp country - I will send you a picture of four of the boys Elder Cattrell Young Stephens and Stratford how would you like to see me with a bucnh of whiskers like Cattrel has, Cattrell is the man with the whiskers - Young is the little fat fellow next on his left Stephens is the
young fellow on the right and Stratford Stands between Young and Cattrell Stratford looks about like I do with My top had or maby He looks a little better, this was taken in our back yard Sister Grant took it - [ltr. 5, p. 8] Well My own Dear Mamma it is almost mail time this must be posted by 1150 or at wont go out to day and it is now 1130 so will say by bye - give My love to all the folks and kiss our precious little baby Ruth for Me - and tell her how much Papa loves you both with big kisses and hugs and lots and lots of love for You both I remain your effectionate and Loving husband and Papa Alvin how many letters have you had to pray extra postage on [ltr. 6, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stake Newington London June 19-20th 05 My Own Dear Millie It was mail day to day it will be one week tomorrow since I received your last letter, It was one day late last week, becaus of Monday being a holliday, Monday and Wednesd - ay - are our regular mail days for letters coming this way and Wednesdays and Saturdays are the days we have to get our letters out to You, I am not going to post this however until tomorrow or next day becaus I hope to receive one from you it may be that, it has been delayed, I received a letter from Mamma this morn - ing and one from Martha and was glad to learn that they were all well, Say Dearie I went out to the Crystal Palace, It is certainly [ltr. 6, p. 2] a wonderful place I will Send you a post card of it, It is the largest glass structure in the world and and we shot the schootes and rode the switch back and I hope you wont say I am crazy when I tell you that I looped the loop Yes several of us boys and some of Brother Tauts girls including Brother Taut looped the loop, It is a very pecular sensation one has when he does it, the enclo - sed card shows what the loope is like and what the cars are like that you do the feat in, I never went so swift befor in My life and once seems to satisfy almost every body - once is enough for Me when you come down the first incline it seems as tho every thing had dropped from in under you and [ltr. 6, p. 3] and it is impossible to exp - lain the sensation you have, it is all over in less than a minute, this is a fool thing to do but I thou - ght I could stand it if the rest of them could so we all took a chance, then we strolled around the grounds seeing the deferent Sights and in the evening we watched one of the most beautiful displays of fire works I ever saw, one of the main features was a large naval battle showing the big battle ships and torpedo boats in action, and gradually being sunk again they showed a buildind on fire - and the fire department make the run with engine hose &Etc one fireman went up the ladder into the window While another fireman - connected the hose - and shot a stream of fire on the [ltr. 6, p. 4] building which represented water, It was so natural that one would almost think it was real - I was tired out when I got home - we also saw and heard a choir of 5000 children and heard them sing more than a dozen songs this was also a fine sight - but it is awful tireing to be in a big crowd all day - there was an emense big crowd and we were in this kind of a jam all after noon until 10 oclock at night and it was almost impossible to get to the train but I mana - ged to get through with only My self to look after it was about 12 oclock when we got home and I had to get up early in the morning and study the Sunday school lesson becaus the president an found a letter awaiting him here, calling him out of town and I had to take charge, I went [ltr. 6, p. 5] 5 - to Sister Everards in the after - noon had dinner with her then she took Me for a nice drive we were gone about two hours then we returned had lunch and went to Meeting in the evening, and after Meeting Elders Young Cattrell and My Self went home with Her to Supper - this is the way Sister Everard treats Me She stands all the expe - nse when ever we go anyplace, and I make My self at home when ever I go thare, She says She is going out tracting with one of these days, and I can tell you She is a pretty good missionary, and She is very good to all the Elders She is very plain spoken however and if she does'nt like a person She makes no bones about telling them and She often speaks of Kesler [ltr. 6, p. 6] and in a way that is not very complimentary Well Dearie I went out tracting this morning and never had one turn down had one good conversation and It made me fell a little better satisfied, it is the strangest thing in the world - how one day you will meet with all kinds of treatment and then again - You are treated with civility the next day and that too by some who refused You the first time, I dont believe I will ever get usto it - I dread it just as much now as I did the very first day went out to day a woman took the tract from Me and the first time I called She slammed the door in My face, just emagin how you would feel going up to a door whare you had received a turn down, expect - ing of course to get the same [ltr. 6, p. 7] thing again, it is'nt a very pleasant feeling while you stand thare after knock- ing - awaiting Some one to answer the knock but this is what we are here for and at times a person feels almost discouraged, the thought often comes to Me "I wonder if I am doing Some good " from all appea - rance "No" but then you cant tell the Lord might put it in to the hearts of Some of those I come in contact with, to read the mes - sage I have brought to them and even though I dont remain to see the results of My canvassing Some one else who comes after Me May see the fruits of My Labors I hope that I may be the means of doing some good to some body, while I am here even though it may not be brought directly to My attention - It is the Lords [ltr. 6, p. 8] work and to him is the credit due, and My greatest wish is that I may honor the call that has been made of Me and be a credit to the church I represent, Well Dearie You are apt to get tired if I dont let up I will finish this letter in time to mail it on the boat leaving here Next Wednesday evening - how is our precious little Ruth kiss her for Papa and let her kiss Mamma for Me I wish I could be whare I could kiss you both say Dearie - I will be wors than ever when I get back two years with out a kiss unless I go and do it to some old man and I think under these circu mstance's I can wait but I am saving them for you and Ruth I intend to make up for lost time - So there will be nothing lost in the end only it is a long time to wait [ltr. 6, p. 9] 9 - June 20 - 1905 Well My Own Dear Millie You dont know how happy I have been to day, this morning I received your letters # 1 and # 2 - they were just what I want - ed of course I want them all but I was ancious for a letter and it was from You that I wanted it, and I was more than delighted when I found that there was two and they were such good letters - well Dearie they are all such good letters, but you know how it is some times they seem extra good and these are - that kind, I have been noumbering your letters, these two make 14 inc - luding the one that got lost I have counted that one although it has never shown up - I guess it has gone to the dead letter office I dont know how many letters I hadve written but when you tell Me I dont think that is very many for the long time I have been gone but I have kept track since May 24 and this will make 10 since that date, I began to keep track from the letter that yours of Jun 6th is in [ltr. 6, p. 10] 10 - is in reply to - So Ruth liked the rabbits, I can just emagin how - She enjoyed the fun and I can almost hear her laugh you know how she usto laugh at us when she was alittle bit of a baby, do you remember how romped and laughed at Me in bed that time, when She got so awfuly excited - bless her little darling self how I would like to see her So Mis Tarbet and McIntyre think's Ruth is a beautiful baby, there is nothing strange about that is there, anybody who is'nt stone blind couldnt help but see that, Dearie She is the best, prettiest and sweetest baby in this big world - and every body whom I have showed her picture to over here think they never saw a more beautiful picture, neither have and it is the same with yours, the only thing they say about your picture is, that they dont see how She ever decided to have Me, but I can stand all these kind of remarks, I know that [ltr. 6, p. 11] 11 I have the best Mamma and baby in the world and I will put them up against anybodys Dearie, I am one of the most bless ed Men in the world in this regard, and I love My Mamma and baby best of anything in this world - they are dearer to me than anything and every thing and I pray night and Morning and in fact I am continually asking our Heavenly Father to look after you and bless you at all times and I feel and know that he will look after You, Dearie the Lord has been very good to us and let us try and remember to always thank him for the many blessings we enjoy, it is from him that all good comes, thare fore let us give him the thanks of our hearts both night and morning - let us not forget him and then He will not forget us, Yes Dearie the fellows arround here have quit trying to jolly Me - about letters since you began to send them direct to Me here I get more than any of them - I received [ltr. 6, p. 12] 12 Your two and also one from Papa this morning and one from Mamma yesterday, So you see they dont make fun of Me any more I havent had to wait like you did, but I hope you - wont have to wait that long again - just think two weeks Dearie. I dont think I could stand to wait that long, but it wasnt My fault, and I will try and not let it happen again - but I get the advantage of you esp - ecially when I receive two letters together then I answer them both in one but I try and tell you all the news and I manage to fill up Several sheets befor I get through and I some times wonder if you get tired of reading them, but I guess you dont, becaus I have to read your letters two and three times each and I cant say there is any thing stingey about them either but I guess it would be the same way if they contained 50 pages each, I read on the lines the first time, between the lines the second time and both [ltr. 6, p. 13] 13 on and between the lines the third time - Now about that letter from Timbey - I will write to Hyrum to give it to you I htink however He will do so the first time He sees you I will also write to the Con Wagon Co and tell them to send all My letters to you, I did tell them to do this befor I left home but there is so many of them down at the office, that handle the mail probably they didnt all know about it, I gave J. F. Odell your address and He promised to send every thing for Me up to you, I sent you a letter authorizing you to act for Me in any capacity - I also told you about the Sugar Stock hold on to the orriginal Stock and use your best judgement in disposing of of the new issue I hope you may be able to clear up one or two more shares on it I see that it is Still quoted at $1200 but if when the next call is made You can do as well as you did last time go a head and sell it, this will save borrowing any more money, - and you [ltr. 6, p. 14] 14 can continue to apply the interest on My Stock on the note Bro Nelson has the as you did last time unless you need the money for something else, if you do keep all but what is necessary to pay the interest, So Ruth has another tooth, good for Her, you havent begun to slap Her hands yet have you, becaus you know what I said I would do if you spanked our baby - does She bite you Dearie when she gets her dinner and do you have plenty of dinner for Her - So you dont think you will go to the Beehive to dinner, no I guess they dont want you half as bad as they make, alth - ough I do believe that Papa likes to have you call thare becaus He told Me how glad He was to see you and Ruth when you did call and again He tells Me when He sees you at the Theatre It is a long walk for you to take the baby down town and back but I can just emagin how much She likes to go She always did like to go out doors and I am glad she still enjoys those long [ltr. 6, p. 15] 15 sleeps in the day time - Yes Dearie I have been sleeping with Elder Young He is almost over his cough it is not whooping cough though, He is awful fat and on top of that he caught cold and it seemed to swell his tonsils until it would shut off his wind but we hope he will soon be better, I believe I told you that I had seen Bob Hampton - how is Harry and the Implement business by this time, So you havent seen Lillian lately - when you do see her tell her that her old sweet heart Albert J. Jones has been realeased and has been spending a few days here in London, So Minerva borrow ed Your coat pattern, that is pret ty good evidence that there is some - thing wrong, goodness what lots of changes there will be before I get home, Minerva is apt to have two before then, and Emily of course She will also be wearing her silk coat by this time, I should think Mrs Ashton would get a new wrapper, can she run as fast now as she usto, of cours you are not whare you can [ltr. 6, p. 16] 16 see Her like we usto, but I guess if she is anything like she was befor she cant move quiet so fast - So Ed has finally got his board fence up I wonder if it keeps his neighbors out, I guess they all spend some of their time at Mrs Farrs now, becaus she will no doubt enjoy their comp any - but they are the wrong kind of neighbors for Me to do much visiting with - So you saw Will Davis, when you see him again say hello to him for Me I wrote him a postal card on May 24th did He say He got it - So A.st. wife is going to have a baby good for them You say they have moved I thou - ght they owned the other place they had - but I guess they were only renting - So you manage to go to Fast meeting I am glad if you can, Mamma told Me she Saw you, but that she didnt get a chance to speak to you beca - us of your having to hurry home to the baby and Ruth slept until half past tem what a good little darling - from the way all the folks write Me about Melena’s boy [ltr. 6, p. 17] 17 He dont sleep any more than He should - He must be a hot headed little chap - I guess that comes from that red head He has, Mamma says He is a regular little terror - but that He is growing like a weed So Dr Talmage was glad to see you, well Dearie He is a fine man - and give My best regards to him the next time you see him, and remember Me to all inq - uiring friends, Yes Dearie Elder Groesbeck has been a partner of Mine for a short time, but He reached Money from home this Morning to pay for a trip on the continent, but he hasnt got his release yet, however he is ancio - usly awaiting it, and I guess He will be on his way home before long no I dont want to get as fat as him, but then he is a big fellow and dont look so fat as some people - I am very sorry to hear of your mammas trouble I do hope it wont be anything serious, I hope she will go to the best oculist she can find - becaus She cant afford to take any chances how are your eyes do they bother you, have you been to [ltr. 6, p. 18] 18 see anybody I dont want you sewing and doing things to strane your eyes becaus Dearie you know your eyes were bothering you some befor I left and I dont want you to neglect looking after them if they bother you - I guess I look alright in my new clothes Dearie until I get under the silk hat - that is what spoils it all but Maby before I get through I wont want to wear anything els, that is the way some of them are. I am glad the Finns kept well preserved - I su[-]plied them from Some of the green houses out to Kew Gardens, So Val Snow’s wife has got a baby girl, good for them, I guess I will send him a card congratulating him and tell him I didnt think it was in him, I wonder how that would look on a postal card, So you went to hear Miss Gates sing, I guess She is like Nannie Taut, I dont think she sings so well as She did the first time I saw and heard her, but I guess I am not educated up to it - did [ltr. 6, p. 19] 19 the folks send you tickets or did you pay your way if I do and all the Bowmans were thare they must have had comps - I am sorry that Hyr - um foot is no better, I think He had better get rid of that horse I think He had better sell him to some sausage maker becaus if He dont the brute is liable to hurt some one else - I am sorry you have been obliged to wait so long for the babys pictures, but that is the way especially if they think they dont have to hurry but I will be patient and hope to receive it by the next mail, So my letter actually sounded like I had the blues, I guess I did have them Dearie I do get that way once in a while, but every body is good to Me over here and I try not to show to them that I am home sick at times and I guess there will always be times when a person feels that way but I know that I can write to you just as I feel and that in you I have some one to share [ltr. 6, p. 20] 20 with me my feelings and I can tell you things that I cant tell anybody els Say Dearie dont take any notice of the dates, It is only about half the time that I know what days it is, every day Seems the same to Me now I came very near dating this letter wrong, but I try to get it some whare near I hope Bertha wont feel offended at Me jollying her - what did She say about it - So Ruth loves Bertha I am glad that will make it easier for you and again it is good practice for Bertha - I would like to see Her in the tub - “Not Bertha”, but Ruth - So She dont like her face washed yet I should think by this time she would be usto it, No Dearie there isnt anybody knows better than us what a precious, sweet baby we have - although you know how people usto make remarks about Her when we had her on the car some people know a pretty baby when they see one I do, but I havent seen one since [ltr. 6, p. 21] 21 I came over here and I always take a good look at them when they come My way and there are lots of babys in this country but they are punny little starved things - and dont look like ours So Uncle Sam has declared a dividend, good for Uncle Sam the Stock is in My name and maby this will have a tendency to advance the price, I hope so, I dont suppose it will be much of a dividend but you can use it as you think best, maby you had better put it in the Bank to go along with Stock its self - to help pay your expences when you come over here - I wish it would send the stock up to 100 then maby that would be sufficient to do it - You are the “Boss” do with it as you think best the Stock is in My name 300 Shares of it and I hope they will be able to pay a dividend each Month like they usto and when Brother Nelson thinks it is a good time to sell you had better let go becaus He is in aposition [ltr. 6, p. 22] 22 to know all about it, and mining stocks are very uncertain things, What did you do about that dress of Nanies did She decide to have one or is She contented with the old Style Mother Hubbards So you think that picture makes me look pale - Maby it does Dearie I have looked that way more than once since I came over here but for all that I am well - So Ida has Adopted the English Style of dress for her baby, Well if she could see the kids over here she would put long Stockings on her’s I dont like the custom it is a beastly one they it is carried on over here it is a good way to try and kill your babys and of all people in the world, to do a thing like this is for Ida to dress her baby that way she has been scarred all her life to let the baby have a breath of fresh air, but of course she dont breathe through her legs, and maby it is none of My business, dont say that [ltr. 6, p. 23] 23 I said anything about it, but when they have Her out to the lake and are caught in a storm they will think of the McCane baby - I tell you Dearie I dont want to take any chances it is a fool way of dressing a baby, and it dont look nearly so good as full stockings, Maby I am prejudice, So you are raising more chickens what does Mocha think of them and is Ruth as frightened of them as She usto be - you ask if we wear our long laces and top hats to hold street meeting not very often I havent worn Mine out to a Street Meeting yet I am wearing the clothes that I brought with Me on all occasions only the Sabath on our way home last night we were talk about what our folks would think to see us standing on the street corner prea - ching to a crowd I dont suppose you can emagin Me doing this but I do, Maby you will have a chance sone day to see just how we carry on a street Meeting I hope you may [ltr. 6, p. 24] -24- Well Dearie I have got down to the word of wisdom question I am not going to preach about it to day - I really didnt know I had - I know you dont take those things I spoke about to axcess - I thought I was only telling you about conditions over here, but I believe we are better off with out them Well Dearie I will have to ring off or it will take you a week to read all this give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and kiss our precious little Ruth for Papa You say she dont like to be kissed She usto when she was little but I am saving lots of them for you “so you You had better practice up on one another” “but on no one else” - Well Millie Dear May the Lord bless you both and look after you at all times is the wish and prayer of your loving husband Alvin With lots of loves hugs and kisses for you both xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [ltr. 7, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 23 - 05 My Own Dear Millie - here it is Friday, we have had lovely weather for the past 5 or 6 days and to day it is just like Summer at home it is quiet warm and and yesterday it was actually hot, I took a good cold water bath and left off My un[-]ions and if this kind of weather keeps up I will be able to do with out them alright well Millie Dear I went and had My Picture taken this afternoon with My top hat and long Tail Coat Monday I will get the proofs and if they are any good you can expect a picture of Me about a week after You get this letter becaus the Photographer says He can have some of them ready for Me by a week from Saturday if the weather will say good it depends now upon the weather - we have had it so fine this week that it is liable to rain all next to make up for it, but any [ltr. 7, p. 2] way you shall have one just as soon as they are ready so then you can see what Your own sweet heart looks like on Sundays, it will no doubt be a little diferent to what I usto look like most of the time, on Sunday at home the clothes are diferent but but it is the same old fellow inside of thme, Some times I think I would like to get dressed up in the other unifo -rm for a change, Say Dearie Yesterday the President and My self went out to Lunch - Sister Arvilla Clark and Brother Grants daughter got up a nice Lunch and invited us it was just like an american tea party they had tomato Salad - with nice lettuce and nice strawber -ries and cream, nice nut cake like Bertha makes, home made chocolate drops, and we spent a very nice afternoon there were five of us Sister Clark, Sister Grant, President Hoopes Willard Andoline, and Myself after dinner, they sang for [ltr. 7, p. 3] us until 730 then we had to leave becaus we hold our Cottage Meetings at 8 -PM and I have to take charge we spent two hours with them and it was a real treat We are beginning to live on Strawberrys now this is the Season for them over here and - they are very plentiful and cheap, and I think of you when I am eating them and wonder if you are having any at home, this is about the only fruit that can be had over here at a reasonable price, Well Dearie there hasnt been any thing exciting happen this week I have been tracting every day so far - I was sitting in the park to day just after I had been out or finished My tract ing and a Lady and Her Mother came and set down on the bench I was on they had a little baby, a boy - baby 3 months old, they were well dressed people, and the baby looked clean only it had big [ltr. 7, p. 4] Sleepers in its eyes it was quiet a bright little fellow but it didnt look like our baby I asked them how old it was they told Me and then I showed them My baby, they both at once exclaimed what a nice baby “ I tell you I am a prowd “dad” and I like to Show Your pictures to everybody I have had some mighty nice compliments - payed Me on My Wife & Baby Well Dearie I I got a letter from George this afternoon the first I have had - He has been sick for a week with lagrippe, He says they have appointed him Secretary of the Conference and Chair leader - He is in Ostermalm, Sundsville - Sweden there are 17 Elders laboring in the conference whare He is, He says the people are very predujice towards them but that condition can be found almost anyplace He says the weather is very cold and tells of one Baptism since He landed [ltr. 7, p. 5] 5 and how it was necessary to cut through 28 inches of Ice in order to get to the water that must have been a pretty cold proposition - He says He is 250 miles east of willard and that the sun only goes down for about an hour each day, at this season of the year and that it dos’nt get dark at all - He says they have 7½ months of winter and that the Baltic Sea is still frozen up so that a ship cannot enter - He says the people are very poor - and on account of the short seasons the people cant raise very much for their support, that is whare they had the famine a few years ago He tells how the Ministers go about and warn the people against them this is only natural we have the same conditions to meet here in England, I guess He is up against a hard proposition. I guess I have been fortunate, I thought this was pretty hard, but [ltr. 7, p. 6] 6 I have’nt had to hunt a boarding house yet, besides this is easy over here, the people are ancious to get Mormon boarders although they hate us as a people, one woman advertised for boarders the other day and stated at the bottom of the ad - Mormons preferred" Well Dearie all the Elders will be here at the head quarters on the 4th of July we are going out to the Park and have a picnic the married Men are going to play the Single Men a game of base ball I guess I will do the catching for the married Men, I hope I dont get a block up this time, I wish I had brought those gloves with Me I would have had a chance to use them, Well Dearie I have got to go out on the the Street with the boys to hold Meeting It makes me sick to think of it, it is the funnyest thing how the thoughts of a street meeting will physic Me, It wouldnt matter how [ltr. 7, p. 7] constipated I might be if they said street meeting I would have to go to the closet befor going out on the street and then some times befor we get started it makes me feel just like I would have to - go dump again but I am alright after we get started this is a funny thing but that is the way street meetings serve Me, this wont interest You, and I dont know why I wanted to tell you, but never mind Deary you dont have to tell anybody what I tell you. I will finish this when I come back Well Dearie this is Saturday morning we held our meeting Elder Cummings and Myself before we were through two wimen, in the crowd began to quarrell and almost got to fighting, until the crowd made such a disturbance that we were obliged to close our meeting one of the women wad drunk, and as soon as we were through [ltr. 7, p. 8] a fellow, began to denounce us and his son followed us home and we had a chance to talk to him and we got him up a tree and proved to him that he didnt know what he was talking about he was more favorable towards us befor we got through with him and we gave him some tracts and he promissed to read them, I dont know if he will becaus they are so predijuce that we cant trust them at all, this is about the way we get it every time we go out, we are the only people who meet with oppos - ition over here but it has been that way every since the Gospel was on the Earth and knowing what our parents have stood for the Gospel's sake we ought to stand the more slight opposition that we meet with over here - we get along pretty well until we mention the Prophet Joseph Smith's name then the crowd, get crazy - that name alone will caus more trouble [ltr. 7, p. 9] 9 trouble than any thing else we can say, I tell you Dearie it is a picnic and I have to be careful, I some times feel like I would like to turn loose on some of them and beat the daylights of them, they are the biggest cowards I ever saw, although I guess if a mob of them were to over power a person they would kick him to death, kicking is their method of fighting they try and get a person down then they kick him until he is unc - onsious, we have to control our feelings and when they disturbe us the only thing we can do is to move away from them, I saw two Men fighting the other night one a big fellow other a small man the big fellow had the little one down on the ground kicking him unmerciful when I got to whare they were the big fellow had started up the Street and the other one was bleeding like a stuck [ltr. 7, p. 10] pig - and no body inters with them, unless a police man happens to see it - and the wimen are even worse than the men, they are not such big cowards and when they get started the best thing bystanders can do is to leave them to it, it dont pay to interfer becaus they are both liable to start on you, this is a great place for these conditions they talk about the poor Mormon women, and how they are abused , but never in the history of the Mormons could you find the women treated like they are in these parts, and how tankful we should be, that we were born whare we were and of good parents, Well Dearie it is cloudy today - a good job I had My photo taken yesterday becaus it is liable to storm for a week when it starts how is everything, how are You and the baby, what does our baby want for a birth day present, just think Dearie almost a year old - how I would [ltr. 7, p. 11] like to give her a big hug on her birthday, bless Her little darling self and of course I would'nt like to Hug you, you know that, I havent had any practice at this for some time but I havent forgotten how it is done, neither do I expect to forget and some day I will make up for lost time, Dearie I love you with all My Soul and I am always thinking of My Mamma and baby You dont know how precious You are to Me I want to get something for Ruth wish you would tell Me what you would like - have you made Her coat yet, I bet She will look cute in it, becaus She is cute in anything. Well Mamma Dear take good care of Your Self and our little darling Ruth - dont neglect Her or your self Say Dearie what about that Swelling you had on your nostrell - is it any better [ltr. 7, p. 12] if not I wish you would go to some good Doctor and See about it, dont neglect Your self Dearie - tell Me all about your self, dont withhold anything from Me, I want to know all about you both - "remember what is yours, is mine and what is Mine is My own" and I want to know all about you how you are I tell you everything and I want you to tell Me everyth - ing - now dont forget - Well Dearie give My love to your Mamma I hope Her eyes are better, also give My love to Your Papa, Bertha and all the folks - and kiss our precious little baby for Me and tell her to kiss her Mamma for Papa, I wish I could do it for My self I will some day, with lots of love, kisses and big hugs for You both and with prayers for your welfare - I remain your Loving and effectionate husband Alvin [ltr. 8, p. 1] 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 27 - 05 My Own Dear Millie I received your most welcome letter yesterday morning, and I was just as pleased as ever - how I do like to get your letters "You cant emagin what a comfort it is to Me and I look forward for Monday and Tuesday to come - with great interest I could see from your letter that you had been worrying about Me. - Now dont worry Dearie, I am well and if anything gets wrong with Me I will tell you, but I know how it is with you, we are very much alike I guess becaus I worry at times, I cant keep it, some times I am worse than others but I am always thinking of You and Ruth and - I can tell you that it makes Me happy when I get your [ltr. 8, p. 2] letters and learn that you are both well, Dearie there is nothing gives Me more comfort than such a knowlege and I want you to neglect everything else you have to do if necessary, in order to take care of your self and Ruth, Dearie I want you to always look after your Selves, first and last, I dont care anything about the other things so long as You are not neglected, I do hope our precious little doll wont be sick with Her teeth, but I know you wont slight our baby and I dont know why I should tell you not too, but maby it is becaus I am worrying a little, I do hope it will not get much hotter for you and I wish to that you could have some of our cool English weather, I have’nt received the babys pictures yet, but I guess they will be here next Monday or Tuesday, I cant [ltr. 8, p. 3] emagin why they didnt come with this letter of yours becaus you say that you are sending them, maby they dont travel quiet as fast as first class mail matter, I think Savage has treated you kind of shabby on this lot of pictures, at least you have been put to considerable trouble, how many did you order and how much did they cost you, did he change You anymore, on account of having to use the more expensive paper- I will Send you with this the proofs of My Self dressed up in My “rags” and as soon as I can get the pictures finished I will send you one each I expect it will be next Saturday, however befor I get them, I hope you will like the appearance of your Missionary Husband, I believe the photo looks consid - erable better than the orriginal in this case, but then you know, I wouldnt like them [ltr. 8, p. 4] if they didnt flatter Me a little Dearie You tell how you are glad that I went to Sister Everards to dinner and how you wish I could have come to See you if I have had the Same wish once I have had it a thousand times, since I left home, there is never a Sunday comes, that I dont wonder what My Mamma and baby are doing, and I have to try and think of something in order to keep from getting home sick, and the fellows often look at Me and tell Me to come back to England” I guess maby they can tell whare My thoughts are - Yes Dearie we still hold Street Meetings, every night except Tuesdays and Thursdays if the weather will permit Tuesdays you know we have Mutual and Thursdays - cottage Meeting, and we try to hold two meetings each night we are out - in diferent parts [ltr. 8, p. 5] 5 of town I didnt get any letters from the folks this Mail. I am glad you get to see them once in awhile so you can tell Me how they are I have only had one letter from Hyrum - maby He is going to get even with Me. I am glad Geo A Davis is getting along so nicely I was sorry to hear of his trouble, Say Dearie is Burt Davis home from the Islands, the reason I asked is becaus I saw He had been chosen as one of the Bishopric of Center ward I got this information from the Deseret News - So there is $371 in the Bank belonging to us - You had better get Brother Nelson to let you have it - or if you will get a blank check on the Utah National Bank and send it to Me I will draw you a check for this Amount and you can put it in the Savings Bank for our Ruthys birth day present, “Has David and [ltr. 8, p. 6] Emily been to take you for that buggy ride they promissed you last spring remember Me to them the next time you see them I am sorry Your Mamma Isnt any better I do hope she wont have a very Serious time with Her eye, tell her to be careful and you girls make Her Mind you” You know your Momma dont take as good care of her self as She ought to and she cant stand as much as she could when She was younger, I guess the Poison Ivy is a annual trouble - the blame stuff seems to effect her every season, but I hope she will be over both troubles by this time You ask Me how it seems to go to Meeting so much - Dearie I dont believe I will ever get usto it, it is a new thing for Me as You - are aware and it is very hard work [ltr. 8, p. 7] So Mrs Field is thinking of coming to Salt Lake I hope She can - when you write to her give her My kind regards, I would like to see our baby in her new bon[-]ets I bet she is cute - but then she would be cute in any - thing that She had on - I am ancious to get the pictures of her I think I will like them alright they dont know how to take pictures in this country but I hope you will like the ones I am going to send you and I want you to tell Me just what you think of them I havent seen Sister Everard Since last Wednesday - She invited Me to dinner last Sunday but Brother Roake - had envited Me first so I had to go to his house So I will begoing to sister Everards next Sunday I guess - She wished Me to remember her to you when I wrote -, Well Dearie [ltr. 8, p. 8] I am still pegging away the time goes very slow every day seems almost the same I havent heard from Willard yet I believe I told you that George had written to Me - I havent heard from Chase for some time but I guess he is well Say Millie Dear I love you and Ruth better than anyth - ing in this world - how I would like to see you both wont it be nice when we can have the privilege of seeing oneanother again two years is a long time to wait but let us hope that the time will speedily go so that we can again enjoy the company of each other again well Dearie give My love to all the folks, Your Papa and Mamma and all and May the Lord bless you all at home is the disir of your Loving Husband with lots of Kisses, hugs, and Loves for you and Ruth I am as ever yours effectionally (Alvin) [ltr. 8, insert 1, p. 1] [portrait photograph of Alvin] [ltr. 8, insert 1, p. 2] I hope these wont fade out before you get them [ltr. 8, insert 1, p. 3] [full body photograph of Alvin with a top hat on] [ltr. 8, insert 1, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 9, p. 1] 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London June 29th 05 My Own Dear Millie You dont know how pleased I was - to receive another letter from you last night and also the picture of the baby Dearie I could hardly wait until the postman got to the door, I saw him coming and I knew the package was for Me, and I wasnt long openi - ing it up I can tell you I wanted to “ball” I was so pleased and I think all of them are just fine Dearie She is the prettiest and sweetest and best baby in the world and these pictures look like they could almost talk to you, and O what lots of Compliments I have had already - I showed them to all the boys and also to Sister Clark and think we have a lovely baby Dearie I am going to have the large one framed so It wont get dirty, and the one whare She is laughing [ltr. 9, p. 2] it is just as natural as can be, She has got some big teeth and dont they look cute, I think they are just fine, but Say Dearie what did they cost you, and how many did you have finished - they are just lovely and I would like to give you a big hug and kiss for them, I haven’t much else that I could give you but I would give you plenty of these if I was whare I could So Joe thinks you write to Me every day, Dearie you tell Joe - never to mind how often you write I can stand it alright, the other fellows dont make any more fun of Me, and I can tell you they are a sorce of great comfort to Me, Yes Dearie we have plenty of Strawberries now they are quiet cheap - 4 8 - and 12¢ per pound they sell them by the pound over here but we dont get any nice cream like you mention, Some of the boys [ltr. 9, p. 3] eat English Milk on them but I just take plain berries and sugar and they always Serve them with the stems on and we have to pick them over our selves they are about this much behind the times in every thing over here, that Kodak aught to be home by now but dont worry about it and pay more than 75¢ for it becaus the freight or Express Shouldnt be anymore than than this, Otterstrom got his gun Mamma told Me he had been and got it Yes Dearie that Man Stevens is here again and I asked him about his girl He says She has quit writting to him and Elder Freebairn is back from the continent and He Says He loves Miss Nannie Faut just as much as ever the Touts are good Musicians but they wouldnt do for Me they are a very slouchy people, and that wonderful dress that we heard - was [ltr. 9, p. 4] given to Nannie by the Queen is a mistake - Mr Taut bought it him self and it was one of the Foster boys who started the Queen Story - He was over here on a Mission and there wasnt anybody liked him and if the Elders word’s can be taken, Foster was none to truthful but the Tauts never denied the story although they acknowlege that the Story is false No Freebairn hasnt told the girl that He loves her but, He says He is going to - She is only 20 years old - but She looks like 25 - Say Dearie you know that Foster He is a sort of a singer himself and very conceited none of the boys could get along with him when He was over here Well Dearie do you know, what happened two years ago tomorrow just think tomorrow is our wedding day - two years since we were married [ltr. 9, p. 5] 5 - We celebrated our wedding day last year, by having the folks down to Dinner but I guess It will be at least three more years before we will be able to entertain our folks on our wedding day again, how little can we tell two years ahead and what a long time it is to look forward to just think Dearie two years - is an awful long time but I hope every month wont be as long as the two last have been it does seem such a long time since I left My Mamma and baby - and how glad I will be when I can again have the pleasure of again enjoy - ing your company - You ask Me how it is that Arvella Clark is Studying here in London, I dont know unless it is that she can visit more with the people who are in the church You know college students in Germany no matter what they are studying, if they go to our meeting and [ltr. 9, p. 6] and take part in any way they are banished they wont allow Miss Read to help out in any of the meetings She usto be the organist until the college people and authorities made so much trouble for her that She had to leave off doing this is what I have heard Since I have been over here I dont know how correct it is I haven’t heard Sister Clark say anything - but we have a Mr Wilcox here in London he came here about two weeks ago He was banished from Germany on account of the part he took when he was thare in attending our meetings He was Studying the Violine and is now taking lessons over here in London, - you cant go arround thare with a Sign on Your back that You are a Mormon I understand the secret of the German Missionaries is to keep the fact unknown [ltr. 9, p. 7] Hyrum Groesbeck that I want to look out for h[-]is Father becaus He says he is a terror for Women folks but I told him I wasnt afraid - of any Groesbeck He says he father likes to go teaching whare there are young folks and after seeing your picture He thinks probably his father will like to go to your house - So tell Joe he had better look out for the old man - or he is liable to be attracted by Bertha - I quiet insulted Elder Groesbeck the other day, it was like this we were talking about the game of ball we are going to play on the 4th and some of these single fellows were telling what they were going to do with us and I spoke up and said - Well I have just enough conciet to think we can beat you fellows and Groesbeck is a sarcastic fellow, and he spoke up and said ‘yes you have got conceit [ltr. 9, p. 8] enough” we know that so I spoke up and told him Yes” that all I lacked was his face to go along with it and I would’nt have to work anymore well Dearie He shut up - two or three of the boys laughed at him but he didnt say a word, I try to give them just as good as they send - So you have only had one months rent, well I hope they wont want you to want much longer than two months at a time only he is liable whare he does pay you to give you two or three months in advance this is what he said he might do, I hope he will it is better to have it in advance Say Dearie do you give them a receipt I believe if you havent already done so that it would be a good plane to get a receipt book and give them a receipt each time they pay you so there will [ltr. 9, p. 9] -9- be no question they are liable to think they have paid you when they haven’t and by giving a receipt and and filling out out the stub of the receipt each time you will both have a record of just the amount that has been paid - So you havent received the chapple Magazine yet Well Dearie I will write and ask him why He dont send it I have the receipt and will get after them - I never had very much faith in him although I sent him one of the pictures becaus I had promissed him one I dont believe he will give us a write up although he took and wrote down all the information we gave him, but I will just spend 5¢ to find out from the National Magazine Co of Boston why the paper dosnt go to you and I will request them to advise us both the reason [ltr. 9, p. 10] No Dearie I am afriad I dont look quiet as swell as you think I do, And you wont have to walk on the other Side of the Street - neither when I come home, I will wait until you get the picture and then you can tell me how you think I would look walking down the Streets at home So Ruth is a good scolder I would like to hear her, it Must be cute - when She gets mad and begins to Kick what do you do - I guess she will make us all mind her - I fancy I can see her and these pictures they are just fine, Sister Grant came down to London to night and I showed them to Her, She thinks we have a mighty lovely baby and I can tell you Dearie there is none like her - and I do hope She wont get sick with her teeth I know you will take good care of Her - and I do [ltr. 9, p. 11] hope the weather wont get too hot, how do you manage to keep her in the house, when She likes to go out so well is this what makes her scold you I would like to hear her call her Mmama and I would also like to hear her say Papa when I look at these pictures they Seem almost real enough to talk, I wont give any of them away becaus I want them all - Say Dearie are the folks going to Sell the old hom, if they do I hope they get a good price for it - Brother Nelson told Me there was likely to be a boom in real estate and if this is the case that piece of property aught to bring a good price - I think My Self it would be a good thing for the folks, if they could sell it and get a nice comfortable little home, but I guess they wont like to leave the old place, but there are not many comforts thare for them and they could [ltr. 9, p. 12] get a nice modern house large enough for them and then have plenty to keep them comf - ortably for years and years to come, I am glad Farrs are taking good care of our place and I am glad Harry has planted the lot next to ashtons, I wrote to Harry and Al Some time ago I guess they got My letters So you think Alice is coming up just tell her that She wont have to hid from Me this time do you remember how she usto get set down at the table and stay thare, with out moving for fear that I would see her, Say Dearie none of them can fool the public and their friends like you did, and when I think of how sick you usto be and how you were able to with hold your feelings at all times, I dont believe there is any of the rest of them that could do it but I am glad, Yes Dearie I have thanked the Lord that you [ltr. 9, p. 13] 13 and I had our prayers answered - you know what I mean - although when I think what big chances I took but Dearie you know what I am like and I hope that I will be more careful in the future, all men are alike and I guess I am no worse than the rest but none of us have much consideration for our, betters in this regard, and some times I think that Some of them are even worse than I have been, but I think Alice has been very fortunate I would now like to hear of Nelle being that way, I think I will have to write and tell Harry that He will have to call in the teachers, “Ha Ha Ha” just tell Nell, if you think She wont feel offended, Say Dearie Mamma Must be gadding about considerable - She has been to Provo, Fillmore, Ogden and now She is going to Oregon well I hope she can I wish we could go with them [ltr. 9, p. 14] we are having another rain Storm and it looks as though it was good for two or three days when it starts it usually lasts Several days - Say Dearie I will send you a card showing one of the old Roman Ampha Theatre whare they usto put the Christens to death Elder Freebairn gave it to Me, portions of it still stands in Rome and He had the pleasure of going inside of it you will see how Many of them are tied to poles with brush and Sticks wrapped around them and then set fire, again how the wild animels are turned loose and allowed to slaughteer them and how many people were allowed to witness such cruelty it was no wonder the Lord destroyed the City finally - a Christion had but few chances in those days - If I can get that card of the Crystal palace in this letter I will also send it, it is very interresting to [ltr. 9, p. 15] hear the boys relate their ecperiances while on the Continent I would like to take the trip My self some day, Well Dearie I haven’t been out Sight Seeing lately I dont know when I will go again there is lots to see and I guess I have got lots of time yet, I hate to go alone and most of the boys have seen pretty much all of London and dont care to go again Well Dearie I manage to Keep well although I am not yet usto the work - there is one consolation I am in a position whare I do the calling - So the other fellows have to look out for Me of course I have to take charge and I have to make a few remarks every time and you aught to hear Me Sing hymns, Say Dearie I am corker - the President is the only Man in this branch among the Elders [ltr. 9, p. 16] that can sing at all and when He Isnt here at Sunday school and Thursday night Meetings, it is up to Me I find that a person can do lots of things when he has to - but of course I am not going to tell You how I do them You know with out Me telling you what a plug Singer I am Well Mamma Dear I guess I have told you about all I can think of - give My love to Your Mamma and Papa and all the folks and and tell Ruth that Papa Papa Papa would like to hug his baby and Her Mamma - May the Lord bless You both and with lots of love and Kisses and Hugs for You both I remain Your Loving and effectionate Husband Alvin xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx