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Alvin Fielding and Amelia Smith Letters, Aug 1905 MSS 7952 [notes by transcriber are in brackets; preprinted text is in bold] [ltr. 1, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London Aug 1 - 05 My Own Dear Millie Tomorrow is mail day for letters leaving here, I received a letter from Joseph Saturday night also one from Frank Otterstrom Jos sent Me four copies of the Truth deferent issues, and Frank sent Me two of the L.D.S. catalogues both of which have his picture in Well Dearie I thought sure I would get a letter from You yesterday, but as it didnt come I looked for it to day, but alas it did not come so I am still watching for it there has been something wrong with the Mail Service for the past week or two [ltr. 1, p. 2] becaus my letters havent been coming on regular Mail days I guess the boats have been delayed last week the letters I should have received on Monday and Tuesday didnt come until Thursday. but I was mighty glad when they did come, Yesterday I felt kind of home sick - I went to the Depot with Sister Grant and her family and also Miss Wells they were returning to Liverpool and Miss Wells expects to return to Salt Lake this Month and will Sail from Liverpool on Aug 11 and when the train pulled out I had all kind of thoughts and as I came back to My lodge I thought of the time when I landed, here in London at the Same Station, and before coming out of the Station I saw a man who had just met his, lady friend who had but a minute before stepped from an incoming train, and how pleased He seemed to be to see Her and it caused Me to wish that I might have the pleasure of meeting My Mamma and Baby and well Dearie I cant tell you how I did feel and all the way home I pictured one thing and another in my [ltr. 1, p. 3] 3 - mind and I do really believe I was bordering on homesickness Miss Wells, I believe will call on You, I dont think She has missed seeing many of the sights of London and other places she has visited and she is apt to make a long visit when she does call, bec - aus, She is an old maid, and likes to talk, I dont know what she thinks of Me but Maby she will tell you - but she would bore Me to death in a little while if I had to be whare She is and maby I wasnt as good to her as I should have been, Sister Grant went away for four days and left her two little girls with Me and Miss Wells and she wouldnt have gone on trip if I hadnt promissed to look after them becaus She said She wouldnt dare let her Sister take the[-] out any place unless I was with the[-] so I had three children on My hands two in their first childhood and one in her second, Well I took them down town Saturday and we went through the house of Parliment and West Minister Abby and then we came home and again Sunday morning she got it into her head that she would [ltr. 1, p. 4] like to take them down the river for an outing, it was Sunday and I had Something else to do and you know how persistant an old Maid can be, if you dont, maby you will if you get as well acquainted with Her as I am, Well you see I had to tell her she couldnt take the kids unless I could go with Her and I also told her that I couldnt take any trips that day So she made up her mind to stay home the two little girls are lovely little thing, but deliver Me from old Maids, especially when they want to talk to You and You dont want to talk - Maby I am at fault, maby I was out of sorts but you know Me, but I am at fault, Maby I was out of sorts but you know Me, but I am trying to overcome My meaness and hope to conquer My self if possible, even though I dont do any thing else, I am getting tamed down pretty well - So Fred Smith came out thinking that the Mormon church was going busted, this is what Joseph tells Me and was disapointed when he found that he was miss informed so He began to write beastly storys about our people, with the aid of that dirty scoundrel F J Cannon [ltr. 1, p. 5] 5 and at the same time some of the folks have been entertaining him, well I hope they will get enough of him, It wouldnt take long for me too - and I can tell him You I would be apt to tell him just what I thought of him - we held three street meetings last night, we met some opposi - tion after our Meeting, and we actually found an Englishmen who thinks polygamy is all right and thinks it would be a good think for this country - You know we have to defend this principle although we tell the people we are not preaching or teaching it but this is the only thing. they will talk about and we at least I dont stop to argue on the street becaus I am afraid I couldnt put up with their insults - so I come home and leave them after our meetings ar over [ltr. 1, p. 6] Well Dearie this is the 1st of August and I have just been looking at My photos - and when I think that Ruth will be one year old on the 3rd and about three befor I see her again it makes me wonder if she will know me - I do love to look at yours and her pictures and they look as though they could almost talk but, they remain silent and I have to do the talking Dearie I love you with all My heart and even more than can be expressed by words and My thoughts are ever of you both and My prayers are for your wellfare - how I do long to see you and I go to bed, thinking of you wondering always how you are, Dearie kiss our baby for Papa, and tell her how much papa loves her, and Give My Love to Your Mamma Papa and Bertha and Joe and all the folks and let Ruth kiss her Mamma for Me - May the Lord bless you both is My pray for you and with lots of kisses loves and hugs for you both I remain as ever your effectionate Husband and papa Alvin [ltr. 2, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London Aug 4th 05 My Own Dear Millie I received Your letters #12 - and 13 - of the 18th and 21st You noumbered the last but not the first - Well You cant emagin how pleased I was to get them and how I did enjoy readi ng them I also got one from Mamma and one from Papa, Elder Jones and I each got 4 letters and President Hoopes and the other boys at the home here didnt get any, Hoopes wanted Me to give him one of Mine, He says if it wasnt for the hand writing on the envelopes he would think I had two wives [ltr. 2, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 3] 2 becaus I nearly always get two at a time, and He says it may be that I do have two wives and it is agreed between them in order to keep the secret that one always address the envelopes, they try very hard to Jolly Me, it usto be the first week, that their letters came first becaus mine had to go to Liverpool and then come down here but I have the laugh on them now, Well Dearie I will now answer your letters, I am glad You got the photos and am pleased that You like them and when You say that You would like to hug and kiss Me it makes Me wish [ltr. 2, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 5] 3 that you could, but You can pay Me when I come home, I am glad you think I look swager, but I thought You would like the buss style a little the best, Yes
Dearie only one tenth of My time up - tomorrow or at least to day becaus it is one oclock A.M. - it will be three months since I landed at Liverpool and Yesterday was our precious babys Birth Day - and only three and a half months since I left home - it seem like a year - and I have only payed My Tithing You might say, but it is nice to have one tenth of it behind You Yes Dearie I use the caffine it is almost gone - So Harry [ltr. 2, p. 6: blank page] 4 Harry I dont approve of him Fishing on Sunday. It is something I never did, and it is wrong, tell him He Should’nt paint either on Sunday, I think I will have him called on a Miss - sion - then he will have a chance to fish every Sunday but for a diferent kind of fish, Say Dearie You dont know how glad I am that You have a chance to go buggy Riding, and I am glad you enjoy it - I would like to See Ruth when she sees the dogs and cows, so She cant understand the ducks, I will be glad when She is through with her teeth - and I am glad you are having a little cooler weather I hope you will [ltr. 2, p. 8: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 9] 5 feel better, and I believe you will, if you can only have a change in the weather it has been storming here yester day and some to day - and the wind is howling now just like it does at home at times and - it has been quiet chilly So Ruth takes her own part it must have been cute when she struck Willard but she must try and cont roll her angry feelings, I guess she gets that trait from her Father, but I am trying to over come such habits in My self, but it is hard at times, Yes I read in the News an account of of the county Infirmary being destroyed by fire - It was wonderful that nome of the inmates were not hurt [ltr. 2, p. 10: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 11] 6 I am glad Nonie has a nice home and I hope She wont kill herself try - ing to take care of it, but they certainly needed a new home. Well Dearie I am not surprised at Mrs Hud son Owen, I always thought Her to be that kind only she aught to have been more more lady like than to say such a thing to Bertha and Joe and I can just emag - in how disgusted Bertha was, with Her - it shows what She was thinking about, She is a “hot” squaw I always think of Her as a squaw, but I hope that she isnt so hot that the seed which has evidently been planted, will scorch and [ltr. 2, p. 12] 7 - dry up and come to naught some time ago I was reading the list of Marriages and I read theirs and Elder Brozier, who labors in the Burmingham Conference and who is here on a visit asked Me if She was any relation to Lyman I told him Yes that she was his Sister He said to Me is Hud as rotten as he usto be I said I guessed He was-well You see Elder Brazier usto be a commercial Man him self and evidently knows Lyman - and I guess his Sister takes after him as far as his passions are concerned Well I hope they have all the children they want and I wish them all the success in the world [ltr. 2, p. 14: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 15] 8 - but I should think Her Husband would call Her down for talking that way but maby he thought it was funny, Say Dearie there will be a hole bunch of our folks have kids about the same time - and every body says what a big boy Liss has got, they promissed to send me his picture but they havent done so yet, Say Dearie is Billey Murdock going to run the Coop when his father goes or will they have a new Manager - Say Mamma Dear I hope You will be able to read this letter I have ben over to Kentish town all afternoon and I was out trac[-]ing this [ltr. 2, p. 16: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 17] 9 - morning and I knew if I didnt write to you to night that I wouldnt be able to get it off to you tomorrow becaus - we have Priesthood Meeting in the morning and I wouldnt have time to write it there - I will answer Your letter # 13 early next week - so it can leave here Wednesday - Give My Love to Your Mamma Papa, Bertha Joe Al Alice Hen and Nell and all - and kiss our baby for Papa and let Her Kiss you for Me and May the Lord bless You both and all is the prayer of Your Loving Husband - with lots of love hugs and kisses I remain effectionate Husband Alvin xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx o o o o o o o o o o o o o o [ltr. 2, p. 18: blank page] [ltr. 3, obj. 1] [booklet titled Bureau Pamphlet of Information for visitors to Royal Windsor, Eton and District. Booklet contains multiple advertisements and places of interest, information and photographs of Windsor Castle] [ltr. 4, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London Aug 7 - 1905 My Own Precious Millie You cant emagin how pleased I was this morning to receive another letter from the ones I Love more dearly than anything else in this world, I was farily over joyed, and when I opened your letter and found thare in, the present you had Sent Me - it brought back to me sweet memories of times past - But I had not yet given it a thought that it was My Birthday and I didnt understand why you were sending Me Money because I had told you not to send any until I asked you for some, but as I read your sweet letter I was reminded of something of Something I had not yet thought of My self, it hadnt yet entered My Mind that this was the 7th day of August - and the anniversary of My 31st Birth Day, Yet if I had given it a thought I might have known what it was for, becaus I have never been forgotten by You since the first time we met, and although I have thought [ltr. 4, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 3] 2 of My Birthday in connection with our Precious Babys, after Hers had passed - I forgot mine and it did not dawn on me until I began to read your letter. and thank the folks for their kind wishes for Me - of many happy returns of the day -" Well Dearie your letter also revealed the fact of My Birthday to the boys through Me telling them what the $1000 bill was for so they decided between them selves to pound Me in memory of this anniversary - so when I came in the office President Hoopes came over to me and began to love me and when He got a good hold on Me He called to the rest to come on so you see I didnt tumble to this until I was almost caught in a trap, Well I put the President on his back and I went down on top then Sid Saville and Frank Cummings began to help him so we had a rough house I believe they all got worse than Me, and Hoopes is complaining about one of his ribs - and says He believes I have broken it, and He also got a brused chest - He thinks I am very rough but I had to be - I forgot all about the counsel Papa has given me time and [ltr. 4, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 5] 3 time again, but it was only a friendly scuffle and as they didnt conquer Me they have decided that I must set up the chicken Dinner, so I guess I will have to buy and old crow and have the cook fix it up for them Well Dearie this is Bank Holliday here in London and every body is celebrating although it isnt a very nice day, it has been sto - rming, but looks now like it was going to clear up, we boys may go out to chinkford forest again to day if we do I will tell you about it next time I write It has been quiet cold here the last few days, I wish you could have some of this English weather I keep My Over coats handy so I can get one when I need it becaus the weather is so changeable and I dont take any chances, I am well and I think I have been bless since I have been away from home, nearly all the other boys get fat but dont seem to be so healthy as Me - and I dont care if I never get fat if I can only keep well and as far as health is concerned I have been bless - sed very much and I feel [ltr. 4, p. 6: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 7] <4> to thank the Lord that I have been and I realize this when I see the other boys, becaus they have all been sick with colds and Etc since I have been here, I always try and remember to tell you how I am. but I guess I have forgotten to do so once or twice lately - becaus when I stop to think about it, it seems to me that I have neglected this, but I will tell you just how I am always, Say Dearie wasnt you awfully tired after going to the Park, especially when you had to walk all the way, I know you were, but I am glad you took the car home I am also glad the Baby loves Bertha and Joe - it is much better than for her to be like little Lillian, who wouldnt let any body ten her but Her mother and Father, I know just how the hot weather effects you, and it is easily 100 degrees in the sun when your thermometer will register 95 - on the porch, and I do hope You may be able to keep well You say Alice Roberts has been down, I wish you could find a cool place with out going to her place if you do go away any place take good care of yourself [ltr. 4, p. 8: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 9] 5 and if you go to Her place be sure and pay your board you know how, She served your Mamma, and imposed upon them, So Her baby looks like his Father, well I emagin from what I have heard of him what He looks like - So Joe hid your letter well just so he didnt forget to give it to you again it was alright but one of the Elders over here had one of his letters hid and didnt get it for about one year - some body slipped it in a book just for a joke and forgot all about - and He centured his wife for not writing and she centured him for not answering he[-] questions - and it was about one year later that He happened to look through that book and found it, they can joke with Me about anything and with anything but they must not fool with my letters, It was only accidently that He discovered his letter - He was’nt looking for it and He never did find out who hid it, but they must not hide any of My Mail, - Yes Dearie I am trying to get interested in My work I too want the time [ltr. 4, p. 10: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 11] 6 to swiftly pass and I often think of the lovely time we will have us three when I do come home yes we will live our honey moon over again each having two to love this time, and how I do long for this time to come but I try not to think about it becaus when I do I cant do any thing else, I would like to see our darling baby play with mock I bet she is cute, and I try to picture in My mind, those things about Her that you tell Me and when I get out her photos I can almost see her playing as you tell about I am glad they like one another, do you rem - ember how moke usto run in the bed room when ever Ruth would wake up and if you didnt go in after Her - how He would come out and look at you and the run back, and when I think of what a destructive little beast He usto be and how I usto lick him, and how defer - ent he is now and how good he is to our baby I cant help but have a bit of love for him and I often think of our mock [ltr. 4, p. 12: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 13] 7 and wonder if he will know Me when I come home, I believe he will, Say Dearie dont worry about Me being bald - I am in hopes My hair will stop coming out befor long, I am going to have faith that it will stop - although it is very thin even now - dont bother about sending Me any sage at present if it dont stop befor long I will tell You, but I hope it will - Say that old cow of your Mammas is a corker - if she intends to keep Her why dont She send her away when she comes arround - she better let her have another calf, I do hope you may be able to send ours - but it is an awful lot of bother - and if it wasnt for the baby and having good milk for her I believe it would be better to let her go - So our baby is getting long and slim - you have always felt impressed that she was going to be tall and skinny like Me and I hope she is just like her Morther, She looks like you and why shouldnt she be like you in other ways - and I realize she is the sweetest and prettiest baby in the world but then as I said before she looks [ltr. 4, p. 14: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 15] 8 like Her Mother and you know what I think of you and how I usto enjoy to sit and look at you - “why? just becaus you were the My Idol and it was a feast for My whole sole to sit and gaze at you even from the first time I saw you, and the only thing I could think of enjoying more than you alone is both You and Ruth - So you think that I would like “farce” if it was fixed like you have it Maby if it was prepared like you say - I would but I cant go anything with English milk - especially the kind we have, of course some people have good milk but they dont get the best grader here at the Mission house, when I come home you can try Me on some - prepared like it should be, I went to Sister Everards to supper last night it was fast day yesterday and She invited Me to dinner, but it was my buisy day and I could - not go - I dont expect to get as fat as Willard says He is - but I hope I can gain a little and keep it after I do, I feel fine and some of the boys think I look lots better than I did at first - although I [ltr. 4, p. 16: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 17] 9 - am not any heavier - Harry is as bad to leave his wife and family and go fishing as he usto be when I first knew him, ask Him if the fish bite as good on Sunday now days as they usto Well Dearie if I was Rulan Owen I would’nt want My wife going out to work but they can do as they please I think they are funny people, I emagin that they are a pari of genuine softys - Yes Dearie I am like you I want more room than they will have when they build - I thought they were going to buy a lot out our way - I would rather be whare we are and have room as you say, to breathe, I dont believe Henry will ever go on a farm He has been talking about it ever since I knew him, I too wish we could sell our place for a good price then we would build us a new home to suit our selves - I dont know but what we will any way, becaus we can borrow the money and rent the old place and make that pay the interest, but wait until I come home and we will see what we can do, I see that [ltr. 4, p. 18: blank page] [ltr. 4, p. 19] - 10 - uncle Sam stock is going up maby we can make something on it yet when you see Bro Nelson tell him that you dont want to sell it until he thinks it wise to do so He is in a position to know just how high it will go - I would like to see you make $100 a share on it - So Nelson is thinking of buying an Oto - He is just a doing things isnt He - I am glad Joe is getting in practice tending baby - it will come in handy for him some day - about that money I will spend it for us both - I will get you some gloves with part of it and if there is any other little thing you want that I can smuggle in a news paper tell Me and I will get it, I wish I was whare I could give you a good big hug and kiss - to pay you back this isnt very much, but it would be about all I have - Well Dearie you can give me 31 kisses and one extra to grow on when I come home for this year and continue on for each year that I am away, give my love to Your Mamma Papa and all the folks also Joe - and kiss our baby for Me and let Her kiss you, I have filled up about ten pages and havent answered your last letter but will have another reason to write all the sooner may the Lord bless You and our Baby is the wish and prayer of your loving and effectionate husband and Papa Alvin F Smith. [ltr. 5, p. 1] [letter is typewritten with handwritten corrections & signature which are indicated by bold] 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington. London, England. August 10th, 1905. MY OWN DEAR MILLIE. I received another letter from you this morning and I was just as pleased as ever, it was written on the 28th of July , and I hardly expected another until next Monday, becaus of receiving one already this week and two last, never the less I was all the more pleased becaus of not expecting it.Well Dearie I am attempting to answer you letter on the typewriter and as this is only my second attempt at using this machine I hope you will over look mistakes. I still have one letter of yours that I have not yet answered and I will try and do so at this writing. There is nothing gives me more pleasure than to learn that you are all well at home, this alone gives more pleasure than you can emagin, and when you tell me how hot it is in Salt Lake City, I sympathize with you becaus I know how it effects you and I can emagin how you sweat,but I do hope you wont get sick, You never could stand heat like I could and in the winter time I usto almost freeze when you were roasting, but fall will soon be here and I hope you will be able to stand it with out sickness another month or so,Speaking of the hard time George is having I think You are right, it is becaus he has always such a snap, as to the treatment which I have received it is similar to that which allthe elders get, and I am quiet usto it now and dont notice it like I usto Elder Cummings started to tract with me this morning so I expect to have company from now on,as to the other boys all gaining in flesh, guess they must eat more than I do, although I eat all I want an I guess I will soon begin to fatten up. SO aunt J. went to Portland with Brother Nibley, how many of her folks went with her, I thought Papa was going at least I saw by the Desert News that He was expected to go although I havent heard any thing about him going. So you dreamed that I came home , wont it be fine when I do come, or at least when YOU COME.? becaus to have you come over here and go home with me, and maby something will turn up so that you can do this befor I complete my mission. I dont want it to be like your dream when I do come home , that I have to turn right around and come back I prefer to have them keep me as long as they want me and then let me go for good I am going to stay until I am through now that I am here, and it will be a reality when I do come home. No I guess there would be no use for you to ask me to dinner , but the reason I wouldent come is becaus I cant , not becaus I wouldnt like to. I am glad your Mammas eyes are getting better, and I hope they will soon be intirely well, It brings back fond recolections when you answer my questions, yes I remember the shady nook by the running brook and the target practice we had when you beat me shooting, and do you remember how I went fishing and left you alone and the excuses I made for staying so long, or at least for not staying longer, well those were happy times and I hope to live them over some day.I am glad the folks still send the carriage to you and the baby can take a ride, You can handle that State Bank check the same as you did the last , by depositing it in the Bank to your self [ltr. 5, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 5, p. 3] 2 You can then draw it out to suit your convenience and there willbe no questi on, regarding your authority to indorse the check , how about the sugar dividend, and what about the new stock have they issued any more yet I hope you will be able to make a share or two more on that, and you and Ruth have what ever you can make on it and the interest on my stock will continue to pay the interest on the borrowed money. Whare did Harry and Gates go fishing , when you say that Gates lost his watch it reminded me of Elder Jones , some of us boys went out to the market place last Friday and while passing through the crowd Jones was fleeced out of his watch , you have to watch every thing you have, in this mans town or you will loose it, his was a nice gold one, say Dearie I got a letter from Mrs Carmen this morning she dident get my letter for about two weeks after it was written becaus she had moved from whare she usto live , the Elders have called on her ,and she tells me that she is going to Utah next month and wants me to find out what it will cost her if she goes with our people so I am going to find out for her if I can Now I will look over your letter noumber 13 and briefly answer it so you saw fatty Aldous out to the Lake say hello to him the next time you see him for me , I guess that man Duncan you speak about will win out if he keeps on and I hope he will I am satisfied he will get a fine wife if he gets Eva. so you have been to calle on Mrs Bell, I was sorry to hear that Mrs Field was sick again , say Dearie you had better burn that gay postal up,no ,some missionaries are no better than ordinary people but you know the failing of all men, there is nothing so beautiful as a woman. Yes Dearie I would like is see and hear our Precious Baby try to talk bless her. well Dearie I believe I have Told you about all I can think of may the Lord bless you both, give my love to your Papa and MAma and all of the folks With lots and lots of LOVE and KISSES for You both I remain YOUR LOVING and EFFECTIONATE HUSBAND Alvin F Smith xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 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 O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O OO [ltr. 5, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London Aug 15th - 05 My Own Dear Millie Yesterday I received a nice letter from J. F. Odell and this morning I got Your letter of Aug 3rd written on our precious babys Birthday It pleases Me all over when I get a letter from You and thereby learn that you are both well I also got Berthas letter tell Her that I will answer it one of these days Fred Odell tells Me they are very buisy, and that Miss Levy has quit Her job, so it makes it that much harder on Him, I some times feel as as though I would like to get back to work, but I have [ltr. 6, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 3] 2 got a job that will last me for a while, He tells Me that Charley Pratt is going to be married, befor long, and that Jennie is the same old girl and that She wanted to be remembered to Me, Poor Jennie I wonder if she will ever find any body that wants Her - Well Dearie I have spent some of the money you sent me for shows I have been twice once to the Alhambra to see an opera. it was a special performance given in honor of the French Naval Officers You know England is having a visit of the French fleet it was a very good show - an opera of course, and they had tableaus, representing the di[---], countrys including [ltr. 6, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 5] 3 our own, we, Elder Hansen Jones, Young and My self were in the party and it was last Saturday evening that we were thare, and last night we went to the Dalys Theatre and saw another opera called the little Michus, it was just a medium show, You see the regular show season hasnt yet started, so we took in about the best, that is running at this time, Saturday afternoon we went out to the Blackwell Tunnel, they have made a large tunnel under the Thames River it is about two miles long with a foot path on each side and a road way wide enough for two teams to pass one going either way - it is lit up with [ltr. 6, p. 6: blank page] 4 electric lights, and the noise from the horses and busses - on the cobble pavement almost deafens you while you are going through it, after going through we went over to the Greenwich Park whare we saw the wonderful 24 hour clock that sets the time for the world and while thare, we had an English smart ellick come up and ask us if we were Americans I said we dont look like Englishmen do we, Well He thought we were just over, so He began to explain some of the things to us and offered his services to show us arround and He pointed out a large building, which is used for a Naval academy. and He said that building is the home of King Henry the VIII I spoke up and said Say we didnt arrive yesterday I said we expect to be here some time yet, we have seen cons - iderable of your city and I pointed to the building and told him that if that was King Henry the 8 home I said what was Hampton Court used for - well we had [ltr. 6, p. 8: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 9] 5 him going, then I asked him if He knew what that building was used for and He didnt know, well I told him, and then I said I guess you dont know quiet as much about those things as you think You do, well He didnt want to show us arround, I guess He thought at first He could work us, but his little game would'nt work, Saturday is our holliday and we usually go out sight seeing, and having a good time - So you finally got the Kodak what did they do to it is it any worse than when I took it away Maby you can sell it to some junk man, some day, I am glad Bro McIntyre is improv- ing - Yes Dearie I believe My whiskers are getting thicker and it is as you say - My hair is still getting thinner, I am rubb -ing My head with carbolized Vasoline now, with the hopes that it will do it some good No Dearie I havent been sick and I guess My pale fase is only natural, So Elizabeth has left Hyrums, I heard she was [ltr. 6, p. 10: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 11] 5 6 going to and I believe I said something to you about it the last time I wrote I believe I also mentioned that I heard that that Miss Cook was going to work for them I dont know whare she got the information that I was home sick when when she left I didnt see Her that I remember if I did however see Bro and Sister Frewin and I believe She went over with them maby they told her how I felt Well Dearie - I guess maby it does make me feel homesick to see others going, in fact when ever I think of you and home I have this feeling, but I try not to worry about it, but You know Me"? Say why didnt You send that letter back to me I would like to have had it - I wonder whare it has been all this time Well you can keep it and give it to me when I come home I am glad you get that money from Bro Nelson - I hear that He has bought an "auto" I am also glad your Uncle Sam stock is payind Dividends - hope you will make some money out of it [ltr. 6, p. 12: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 13] 6 7 I also see by the Des News that the Suagr Co are going to issue all the treasury stock and that it is to be taken up by the 15th of Aug, that means to day I hope You can make something more out of this Issue, I believe I mentioned something about this also in My last letter but I didnt know about this until Yesterday when we received the Paper, we all enjoy reading the 'News" and we usually get two issues a week, How is it that the Telephone Co continue to send you that bill I told them to change it and You remember we had the phone taken out befor we moved, I guess Maby if you told Joe Bull he will have it changed Yes I know him, He usto live near us, it was his father that I had the time with at the shop over the printing I believe I told You about it, Which one of Lillions Sisters was it that got married one of them is engaged to John Shurtleff, Well if she is like the balance of the Emerys and I guess guess she is, there isnt much doubt but what She will have a good size family, with what she has [ltr. 6, p. 14: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 15] 8 adopted - I see you have ans - wered a question in this letter that I asked You in my last, about who went, with Aunt J. to the Fair, I am glad Aunt Mary invited you to go with Her to the Show I am going to write to her one of these days and I will thank her, how is she now, - I am also glad that you go to the Lake now and again, and there is nothing that would please me more than to see our Baby while she is enjoying her self on the Merry go Round - I try to picture Her in My Mind and I know she is the cutest baby in the world how do you find it out at the Lake is it so hot as it is at home I am glad You stayed all day I guess I will sure have to learn to dance, I guess if Ruth goes to the Lake with Her Mamma very often after she can toddle, She will know how to waltz befor Her Papa Well I wish I knew how without learning, it is like every thing els the longer you leave it the harder it gets, Yes Dearie I thought of My last trip to the lake in fact I have thought of it many times [ltr. 6, p. 16: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 17] 8 9 - and there is no telling how long it will be, befor I go out thare again - Never Mind about those twins Dearie, I was only joking however we will do our best to have as many as we can and one at a time is fast enough and when the folks tell me about our baby and how well she is cared for - and how clean she always looks, and how I need have no worry, about you, and when I think of the twins in our family and how they always looked I soon come to the conclusion that we dont want more at atime than we can properly take care of besides I dont think Emily cares how her kids look, She would sooner read a novel any day than care for her kids - and I often think how hot I made the Beehive people when I bragged on My folks, - but I may well brag on them, becaus they are something to brag on, and even if we were to have twins in our family I know they would both look just as our Precious Baby Ruth always looked, these fellows over here think I am a corker, becaus when ever they begin to brag about [ltr. 6, p. 18: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 19] 9 10 about their families I show them Mine and they shut up this is an acknowledgement that they are beat, and they usually admit that I have a mighty fine looking wife and baby - and the way they try to get even with me is by saying, I dont see whare she got her choice “ but I can stand these kind of things Say Dearie is it only the hot weather that has made You loose in weight - You must be almost as thin as me to loose 5 lbs I hope You wont get sick - and I hope You havent been sick I am well in fact I never felt better physically than I do now only I believe if any thing I am lighter than I was when I came, although every body tells me I am looking better Yes Dearie I saw by the Paper that the Tomato crop was a failure, it is to bad, How is Harrys crop - is his a destroyed after all of the labor he has put on it and the trouble He has taken, Yes Dearie I believe as You do that Packs are responsible for the condition of Farrell - I believe that it is nothing else but hard work that has brought it on him - I have often felt sorry for [ltr. 6, p. 20: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 21] 11 for that poor boy - it is a good thing to try and lay it to a snake story, but, they them selves are responsible - Yes Dearie I would like to hear Ruth try to talk - does she try to walk yet, and she only weighs 19 lbs I guess the hot weather is also responsible for that - I am glad Geraldine is getting better - So Minnie Mangum is married, who too - well I am glad she is married becaus I had doubts about Her, you well know what I mean becaus I told you I be lieve” Tell Alfred Peterson hello for me the next time you see [-]him Say Dearie I heard that Miss Horn had quit “Bud” how about it I thought He would soon be getting married, becaus I believe He was very sweet on Her Well Dearie I have written so much that you are liable to get tired of reading it - and I dont know whether you will be able to make it out or not Say Hello to all My Friends for Me, And give My Love to Your Mamma Papa, Bertha, Joe Al, Alice, Arvil, Alice Nell, Hen, and the boys - and dont forget [ltr. 6, p. 22: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 23] 12 to Kiss our Precious Baby for Papa when you get this and let her kiss Her Mamma for Me, and may the Lord bless - My own Mamma and Baby Ruth - and protect them from all harm, danger and sickness of every nature - and may He bless all of you at home is my prayer continually for you with lots of big hugs and Kisses for you both, I remain your Loving Husband Alvin F. Smith 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 [ltr. 6, p. 24: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 1] #97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London Aug 18th - 1905 My Own Dear Millie Tomarrow is mail day there hasnt been anything, very exciting happen the last few days and I cant think of anything only that I love You better than anything else in the world, and I am almost home sick to see You both, Elder Groesbeck is here and is going to sail for home on the 25th - there is another Elder staying here for a few days, by the name of Kenner who expects to sail with the same boat as Groesbeck He is just a Young fellow and a married man, His wife is going to Meet him in Boston Joseph Nibley and his wife are alson here in London, they are just returning from the continent whare they have been on their honey moon, I believe I told You when they called here on their way over, His wife was a Duesenberry - from Provo - and she is acquainted with Melissa Well they expect to sail for home [ltr. 7, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 3] 2 on the 22 I believe, I wish I was going with them but if I am patient I guess My turn will come some day I received a letter from Her last Night also one from John Bowman, they were both fine letters, and You can tell Henry that I will answer it, one of these days when I have lots to think about, Well Dearie we are having regular Fall weather over here now it is quiet cold and I guess winter will soon be here just think of it, all this winter all Next Summer all next winter and all next summer, by june that is a long while to look forward to - Yes Dearie I sent a little piece of Japanese silk home by Brother Winder, I thought it would make Ruth a little dress for summer but summer will be over befor you get it I am afraid, I also sent one of those collars, like yours for Your Mamma - and that piece of imbrodery I believe that is what you call it -, there was a fellow selling , reminant pieces - the President bought some so I bought that piece it only cost 5¢ a yard I think that was what I payed either 5 or 6¢ - I dont know [ltr. 7, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 5] 3 - whether it is worth it or not - if it isnt we are not out much but I thought maby you could find some use for it, - Say Dearie I have sent some beads home by the Grant girls, they are quiet pretty and only cost 9¢ a string - they are quiet fashonable over here and I thought they would be nice for the kids for a Christmas present I dont supposeyou will get them until October some time and I thought You could give them to our kid, they will be as nice as anything, the regular price of each string was 50¢ - but I got them at a sale, Elder Jones and I each got six strands and many of the grown people over here wear them, Say Dearie we had a regular American dinner on Tuesday - Elder Young and My self and Willard Andelin bought some chickens and Miss Clark cooked them for us in regular American style with milk gravey - we all had a birthday this Month - so we clubbed together and had a chicken dinner the chickens cost us $125 each, they were nothing extra but we enjoyed them - chickens [ltr. 7, p. 6: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 7] 4 cost money in this town but we dont often have their so we thought we would have one good fill up, Miss Clark made some lemmon pies - every body had been bragging her up, so I expected something wonderful, when they began to brag - I told them that I was a good judge becaus My Wife could make the best Lemmon pies that I ever tasted, and that ever were made - so when we sampled the pies, it was an easy matter to tell who could make the best - these She made would do if a person never tasted any better and they said now arent those as good as your wife makes - and I made no bones about telling them, I wish I could have had one of yours for them after they had eaten this, - I tell You Dearie I haven't eaten any Lemmon pies in My life like You make, Well I often wish I could drop in and have a good home made meal like we usto have, We have located a fine resturant - it is one of the swellest places I was ever in and it is cheaper than some of [ltr. 7, p. 8: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 9] 5 Cheap joints, you can get a good beef steak and you know how I like beef steak, for 40¢ you can get a very good dinner it is the best place I have struck and I am not going to forget whare this place is and I expect to go and have a good meal once in a while. - Bertha tells Me that I wont need to get a leave of absence to Meet her on her honeymoon - She Says She isnt going on one - well I am glad they are figuring on getting married this year - how large a house are they going to build - tell them to make it big enough while they are about it and not to forget to have a room like that one Mrs Hudson Owen spoke about, tell Joe to figure out a nice plan and then we will borrow it some day Bertha wants to know how I like Street Meetings, tell her not very well I would rather have a beating any day, tell her that our street Meetings over here differ in these respects from the Salvation Army, "we meet opposition" and some times have our meetings broken up, and some times get mobbed [ltr. 7, p. 10: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 11] 6 again we never pass arround the tamberine for collections and we got in a hot mix up the other night I believe I told You about it We had two or three hundred people arround us, and about one third of the crowd were yelling at us and calling us all kind of vile names and finally they broke up our meeting and if ever I felt like fighting I did that night, Well the Salvation army dont have any of these trouble, neither do any of the other denominations Well Dearie I guess I had better tell You that I am well while I think of it - and I hope and pray that You are both well, I do hope that You may soon have a change in the weather, becaus I am satisfied that You will both feel better when the weather gets cooler, It is trying to storm here to day, so we are not going out tracting, Well Dearie say hello to all My friends, for Me and Give My Love to your Papa and Mamma, Bertha and Joe, Al and Alice Henry and Nell and also Mr and Mrs. Tuddenham and the Girls. I havent written to Bro Nelson Yet, and I owe owe several letters to diferent people of the family I expect to answer them all some day [ltr. 7, p. 12: blank page] [ltr. 7, p. 13] 7 so if any body tells you that I owe them a letter You tell them how it is, Well Dearie I believe I have told You about all I can think of at present only I am going down town this afternoon to Meet Jos Nibley and His wife, and dont know what I will do after that but I will tell You next time I write - Tell Ruth how much Papa Loves Her and how He would like to Her and watch her do the cute things You tell about, and You can also tell Her how much Her Papa Loves You Dearie My love for you both can not be described, and often My thoughts wonder back across the mighty deep, which seperates us and I long for the time when I can again be united with You, and May the Lord Bless you continually with Health and Strength and a knowledge of My well fare and Me of Yours - and May we alwa - ys put our trust in Him, becaus He knows the desires of our hearts, so let us ever live, that we may merit His blessings, and acknowledge his hand in all things - may this be our happy lot with lots and lots of Love and kisses for You both I remain as ever Your Loving Husband and Papa - Alvin [ltr. 7, p. 14: blank page] [ltr. 8, p. 1] [five-page letter; pgs 1-2 are typewritten with a hand written note; pgs 3-6 are handwritten] 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington. London, N. England. Aug. 19th,05 MY OWN DEAR MILLIE. Well Dearie yesterday I went down to the HOTEL CECIL, to visit Joseph Nibley and his wife, and they showed Me a good time . This Hotel is about the swellest one in London,and it is whare most of the Americans stop and it takes money to live thare, the first thing we did after I got thare was to was to call a hansome and go down to Harrods apartment store , it is one of the largest in London, I baught you four pair of gloves, which I am going to send home by them,they have your address and telephone noumber and they are very ancious to see you, so you can expect them to call you up by phone befor coming up becaus they want to see you, Nibleys wife has heard a great deal of you, through some of your old sweet hearts, especially A.W. Well Dearie three pair of the gloves, are guaranteed, so if any of them , rip tare or bust I want you to send them back to me and I will make them change them, there is one pair of Dent street gloves, one pair of white dress gloves on pair of brown dress gloves, and one pair of yellow ones, this last pair were not guaranteed,the others are supposed to be the best that can be had I hope they will fit you and that they will be servicable, Well Dearie after we got through shopping we went back to the Hotell anh I stopped and took dinner with them, we had the following courses, Cantelspe,. fresh fish and dressing, but befor we had the fish we had soup, then the fish , then a small piece of steak and potatoes , then we had wild duck with nice fried potatoes, the first potatoes were boiled,then we had ice cream and cake , then fruit and candy, then finger bowls,it was the swellest dinner I have had since I came to this country, Then after dinner we went to the show ,to see Leah Kleschna,it is one of Charles Frohmans playes,and i it was very good,after the show I bid them good bye and came home , they offered to take me home with them ifI would go but I thought I had better wait untill I was released, I guess this will reach you about the time that they get in Salt Lake, so you can tell them how I enjoyed my afternoon with them . Elder Groesbeck leaves England next week for home ,He says he will call on you and I told him that I would write and tell you to give him a good bowl of milk and bread to eat for me ,they think I am a corker becaus I am always making fun of the kind of meals we have and am always talking about how I would like a good meal that was seasoned right, that is one thing about these cooks over here, they never season any thing, and you know how a dinner tasts when it isnt seasoned in the cooking, Well Dearie how are you and the baby ,I am well as usual and just as fat as ever, but not any fatter ,I got a letter from Chase this morning, He is well and wishes to be remembered to you and Ruth,He tells me that his mamma has been quiet sick,he didnt say any thing about his wife but I guess he will be a papa befor long, how is Alice Atkins ,I guessI will have lots of new relatives when I get home, I wont know half of them will I. Well Dearie I dont expect to post this letter until next week becaus themail dont leave here until next Wednesday, by that time I may have a lot more to tell you by that time so will say by bye for this time. [handwritten text perpendicular along right side of page] Say Dearie, I couldnt get anything but button gloves , the others dont seem to be styleesh for dress purposes I hope you will like them [ltr. 8, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 8, p. 3] 2 Well Dearie can you emagin my joy and happiness at receiving your lovely letter last night , the yankee mail got in Friday and I got your letter about five oclock, the rest of the boys didnt get theirs untill nine so you see I beat them again,it did however make me home sick to read it and I was reminded of those days that you mention, or rather those evenings when as you say ,we usto sit on the step ,but you dont tell what we usto do, but that of course is well known to both of us, wasnt those happy times, and wont they be happier when I can increase the little party to three,when you tell me that you have been wheeling the Baby back and forth in the moon light and that she has gone to sleep and that she is now where you can watch over Her while you write to me, it causes me to picture in my mind the picture of the happy mother that hangs just inside of the door, and how you are watching over the most precious little soul to us that ever lived, yes Dearie your letter brings back to me many happy thoughts of our earley acquaintance and how we usto sit alone in the moon light until the last car had gone and even then how hard it was for me to leave You even then I usto think that it would be impossible to be happier than I was then, but as the time rolled on and we were blessed with our darling baby, my happiness was increased beyond expression. and the burning of that love within me for you continues to grow day by day, and I cant help, at times but long for the day when we can enjoy one anothers company again. Yes I wish I was whare I could accept of a kiss from each of you as a birth - day present, there is nothing I would like better than a chance to hug and kiss you both for a while, I am so glad that you go to fast meeting and I was glad you found a letter from me especially if it makes you feel like it does me and I guess it does ,there is nothing gives me more pleasure this and there by learning that you are well, this to me is a great comfort So our little doll has seven teeth I guess they are cute, I will be glad when she is through teething, so she likes you to hold her while she tries towalk, I emagine that woild be tireing,I hope she will soon be able to go all alone, but then she will have to be watched closer than ever, in order to keep her from falling down and hearting her self,how I would like to change off with you and tend her a little while, I guess she will be quiet a chatter box befor long if she keeps on,I would like to hear her ask for her dinner,she calls it NANNA, does she, well it is a very good name for it, is she learning to eat or does she nurse mostly, I am glad she likes milk I guess she gets that from her Papa. I have just noticed up a few lines that I say that I would like to change off with you , but I dont bean our present positions, I mean that I would like to relieve you only,or help you tend her. well Dearie I have just got back from Sister Everards , I had a fine dinner, I wasnt thare last Sunday afternoon and when she saw me at meeting in the evening she wanted to know why I didnt come to dinner, well I hadnt any excuse only that she didnt invite me so she told me that she wanted me to come every Sunday and not wait until I was invited so from now on I will go thare every Sunday . Well Dearie ht is meeting time so I will finish this letter latter on. [ltr. 8, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 8, p. 5] 3 Well Dearie I will now finish your letter, that is, “My letter to You - I begun it Saturday last, writing one page, on Saturday another on Sunday, this is now Tuesday, two pages typewritten and and the balance by pen. I got one letter from Mamma yesterday and two from Papa - was glad to learn that they were well - You aske Me why I dont show the the Cook how to make sherbert - Well Dearie, in the first place we hav’nt a got a Ice cream freezer, next thing, Ice is very scarce, it costs about 6 pence a pound, So we have no way of making it, I would like a dish like you make, Mamma told Me how she enjoyed that She had with You, the people dont know what nice things are over here, the Ice cream they make isnt fit to eat, this Dearie is only My opinion, lots of people eat it so I guess - I am predujiced However I dont like it, So you think if I was like David You would have Me sent to Japan Well Dearie if You were like Emily you would’nt, - becaus [ltr. 8, p. 6: blank page] [ltr. 6, p. 7] 4 she seems to like it, well Dearie I hope, we can have about half dozen or more, one at a time and two or three years between times, I do like babys, especially, when they are My own Yes Dearie I think Ruth looks like you but then you know some people think we look alike, so if we do then she must look like me also, but it more probable that she looks like You becaus she is the sweetst and prettiest baby in the world. So Mrs Field is troubled with Dropsey, I feel sorry for Her it is to bad that she has to live away off thare - seperated from all who are near and dear to Her, of course she has him but then He dont seem to care very much about Her happiness I guess he loves her, but I dont know how to express it. well He is a strange fellow and and I dont think suited for Her I guess She would like to come back to Salt Lake to live, You are the, best friend She has and I believe she loves You more than she does him [ltr. 8, p. 8: blank page] [ltr. 8, p. 9] 5 Yes Dearie the - Release come Groesbeck has been quiet diferent since He got it He left here yesterday, on his way home, I expect He will call and see you - at least He said He would, but you cant always tell, when they promiss they will whether they will do it or not, I dont perpose to promiss anybody that I will call on their folks, then they wont say that like they do about most of the Elders, That He never intended to when He said He would.” I told Groesbeck He could kiss the sweetest baby in the world for Me when He called on You and He said - Yes and she wont be the only one I will kiss, but I told him I guessed you would have something to say about it - we were only jollying of course, it makes me homesick to see the boys go home, Dearie I am so glad You and Ruth are well I am glad You got the Sugar Dividends - I dont blame you for not going [ltr. 8, p. 10: blank page] [ltr. 8, p. 11] 6 down town when it is so hot and I was so pleased when You told Me about Auerbach Excursion, that You were not out thare with the baby It must have been terrible It was a lucky thing Your Mamma got home alright Well Dearie I am alright got weighed this morning with My Clothes on - I weighed 145 lbs, how is that for a heavy weght - I hope you will soon begin to pick up and regain that 5 lbs you lost - Well Dearie Give My love to all the folks and kiss our precious darling baby for Me, and let her hug You for Me, May the Lord continue to bless You - and protect You from all Harm and danger is the prayer of your loving and effectionate Husband - with lots of love Hugs and Kisses for you both I am as ever - Papa xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx [ltr. 8, p. 12: blank page] [ltr. 9, p. 1] [preprinted letterhead text is in bold font and is noted as “The London Conference” on following pages] THE LONDON CONFERENCE. 97, Farleigh Road, LATTER-DAY SAINTS. Stoke Newington, N. London,.....Aug 26th...............1905 My Own Dear Millie, Last night after spending the afternoon, with some of the Elders, over in Kentish town, I cam home and when I got here I found your most welcome letter # 18 I was the only boy here at the house who received. Yankee Mail, there was however three letters for Elder Jones - He lives in Kentish town and is one of the boys I spent the after noon with, so You see I am a head of them again, they are looking for their letters to day, I also received a nice post card from Elder Groesbeck this morning written, while on the boat, telling Me that He was bound for a land which beat this all to h-ll and biding us a last farewell and he says in about three years he will look for My home coming, Well Dearie it is the same old thing, from day to day, I got a card from Le Grand Richards yesterday He is well and tells Me He is trying hard to get on the top of the Dutch language, He says the time is flying passed so rapidly that he cant keep track of it - not so with Me, it seems ages since I left those I love so dearly I am pleased to hear that it is some cooler at home, hope it will continue, we have had quiet a change over here - it is quiet cold, Fall is coming, the leaves are already begi - ning to fall, and I begin to notice the diference, I am so glad, our baby is well also that You are well, this is a great comfort to Me, I am so glad our baby likes to go for a ride, and more so becaus she has the privelege of doing so, I would like to see her pat her hands and try to talk, bless her she is the darlingest baby in this big world, she takes after her Mamma, Yes Dearie if You could see Me You might think I needed something [ltr. 9, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 9, p. 3] [The London Conference letterhead] 2- in the seat of My trousers, I never expect to be very fat - and I dont care much so long as I have good health and I am enjoying that, at present, From Your letter I would emagin You think I have been to severe on ElderGroesbeck, maby I have, but - for a time befor He got his release he was as cross as a bear with a sore head, since that time however he has been very nice, only he does have some of that feeling about him “That He is It” however I am not acquainted with his family, out side of his father and what I know of him His son somes honestly by this trait, However his Father may be diferent, when he comes arround in the capacity of a teacher to what He was when I first met him never, mind You will have a chance to get acqu - ainted with him, becaus He has promissed to call on You. So You are not very favorably impressed with the Chapple Magazine, I guess it isnt up to much, Say Dearie - why dont you renew Your subscription to the Ladies Home Journal. I think My self that it is one of the best magazines published, Yes Mrs Brown was real nice to Me I have not called on her for some time but I intend doing so befor long, Say Dearie, I am afraid you are to stingy with your self,- I dont want You to - deprive Your self of things by using your money to pay that note, I see you, are using your own money in addition to the regular interest, I would much rather You keep the $665 if You need it, I am glad however that You have good prospects of making something out of the last issue of stock, I am glad Bro Nelson is going to hold it, a while, wouldnt it be nice if we didnt have [ltr. 9, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 9, p. 5] [The London Conference letterhead] 3 - to sell it, I hope you will at least be able to make 9 shares of stock out of it, that will be pretty good, I feel that we are being blessed, and I hope in the future we may be as well blessed, try and pay your tithing Dearie becaus the Lord will bless us all if we do this, So you have had a chance to sell the calf, well Dearie I dont know really what she is worth, not much if You have to take care of her, becaus I would rather give her away than have You tending to her this winter, get Hen to look at her and get all you can for her, She is good blooded animel and will make just as good a cow as her mother, but Dearie do the best you can I could about what she was worth if I knew how big she was, but I feel satisfied that You can probably do as well as I could if I was thare, Say they did have a time at the lake I saw the account of it in the paper, I am so glad You were not thare, Yes Dearie our precious darling baby will soon be big enough to write to Me, I can see her now sitting on your lap while you are writing to Me bless her little soul I would like to see you both Say Dearie I have two of the prettiest little canary birds You ever, saw I gave 30-¢ each for them, if I can get anybody to take them, home they are very cheap over here maby you wouldnt care for them, you are apt to think that I, think you have nothing to do, I guess you have choirs enough to do without tending to birds but they are little beauties, Well Dearie I am well and glad that My Mamma and baby are also, May they continue so - and May the Lord bless you continually - give My Love to all the Folks - with lots and lots of Love Hugs and Kisses for you both I remain your Loving and affectionate Husband and Papa Alvin F Smith [ltr. 10, p. 1] [The London Conference letterhead] Aug 29 1905 My Own Dear Millie Mutual is over and the saints have gone gone home, it is eleven oclock, tomorrow is mail day, So I must say hello to you, It seems such along time since I heard from you and it was only last Friday, Since I got Your letter, but I have been thinking of you all day, the rainy season has started I guess, becaus it has been doing it for three days we have been cooped up in the house all day to day, the leaves are begining to fall and we will have winter, pretty quick over here, I dread the thoughts of it, becaus every body tells how disagreeable winter is in this country, maby it will be diferent, however this season becaus, every told me what nasty weather they always had in London, but this summer has been very nice, we have not had very much rain, but the tempiture is very changeable, and I am nearly crazy with flee bites, I would rather have 100 mosquito’s than one flee they seem to poison Me and and every bite feels just like a big boil, there is no need of Me trying to tell you how it is to have a boil, of course these are nothing compared with - what You suffered with - but I have, six large lumps on My left shoulder and a large raw place in the middle of My back, and several on my legs, I am doping them with, alchol and carbolic vaseline, but it dont seem to mprove them [ltr. 10, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 10, p. 3] [The London Conference letterhead] 2 very much, out side of this little trouble Dearie I am fine, am enjoying My self pretty well, Say Dearie tell Joe we have a little Germon girl here in London by the name of Helen Ladewig, She is stopping here at the conference house, awaiting, a letter that is a long time coming, She knows Bro Jos Tuddenham, so tell Joe, if the fellow who made love to her while on his mission, dont send her the money for her emigration, She is going to borrow it and come to Salt Lake, and maby she will look him up, I hope he wont have the same trouble with her as he had with the last one, I told her that Joe’s wife at present was living at the same place as mine so She could get him to take her down to see You, It is like this Dearie some fellow, I cant for the life of Me think of his name “ but he lives in Idaho some place he is a widdower,, and evidently fell in love with this Miss Ladewig, She told President Hoopes that she, had not missed receiving a letter from him every week since he got home until the last two weeks, She has been here at the house one week, She quit the position She had here in London, in a good family, all she was required to do was teach the kids German, this fellow wrote and wanted her to come out and marry him and if She would he would send Her the money, So She wrote and told him She would accept the proposition, and for him to send the money, and she told him she would be ready [ltr. 10, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 10, p. 5] [The London Conference letterhead] 3 to sail the latter part of August becaus he had made this request, She also told him that she was perfectly willing to get a position in Salt Lake, work until she had payed him back then if he still wanted her for his wife, She would be willing to have him, Well he has not answered her letter yet, She quit her position, and is here awaiting the money to take her to Salt Lake she seems a nice girl, what little I know of her and she is almost heart broken, becaus she dont get a letter from him, I dont know how it will come out, but will tell you about it, when I know more, her old Landlady told her that if he didnt send the money to her She would loan it to her, She is bound to go to Salt Lake her parents have disowned her on account of her religion, She has been in the church about <8> eight years - and I guess that fellow fell in love with her when he was on a mission - So
You can tell Joe she is coming I dont think however that he need have much worry about it becaus, I dont talk very good German and believe She thinks from what I told her that he is married, She has quiet a noumber of friends in Salt Lake from what I hear, Well Dearie how is My pre cious baby Ruth and My own Dear Sweetheart, are you both all right, how I would like to see you both a few minutes, how are you getting along with every thing, how do You manage with the choirs, tell Me all about it Say Dearie there is a - Bramwell visiting here at [ltr. 10, p. 6: blank page] [ltr. 10, p. 7] [The London Conference letterhead] 4 London he is from Legrand Oregon, He usto live in PlaneCity, I thought he would probably know Your folks, but he says he dont, have they a son about My age overe her on a mission, It seems to Me I have heard You speak of the Bramwells or have I got our old milk customer mixed up with some one els orsone one else with her, I guess I must be mixed, I hope you will be able to read this letter, I have been trying to write and at the same time answer questions for a Bro Davis, He is an Elder that has been transferred from the swiss Mission to Liverpool and is here on a short visit before going thare, and I dont know hardly what I have said, I will read it over and try and make it pain enough so You can probably make it out by guessing. Well Dearie give My love to Your Mamma and Papa and Bertha say hello to Joe and all the rest of the family, I believe I told You I had a letter from ‘Henry” I will answer it some of these days tell him I am still alive and wish I had him over here with Me, tell Nell I thing I will try and have him come over on a mission Well Dearie Kiss our Precious Darling baby for Me and let her kiss You for Me, I would like to do this for My self but will have to be satisfied with having You do it for Me, May the Lord bless You both, and protect You from all harm danger and Sickness is the prayer of Your Loving and effectionate husband and Papa Alvin PS. Lots and Lots of Kisses and hugs for you both xxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [ltr. 10, p. 8: blank page]