Summer 1942 - The Accident - A Letter from Ella Caufield

Jim's maternal aunt, Ella McAdam Caufield wrote again in September.

Notice that she used her husband's old legislative stationary!

Waste not, Want not! 

Envelope

Letter - Page 1

"Sept 16

Dear Margaret, Jim & Barbara - This letter I have been planning to write for some time but it seems I always get something I think I must do & there it goes.  Nevertheless I often think of you all and wonder if it isn't about time that Jim is leaving there.1  At least I hope so and am anxious to see how he is when he gets straightened out on earth again.  Its been long but nice he hasn't had too much pain the last 2 mo.  

Joe2 had a fine trip & I want to thank you for all your kindness to him.  He came back ready for school but Ronnie showed up Sat. nite so stayed over until Mon. (Labor Day) P.M. so then he was about all used up again as we had to milk for Eyra & Joe got up at 4:30.  School is going pretty well he finds science (Biology) quite hard.  It is not like I used to have it - is lots harder to work out - It is rather..."    

Letter - Page 1

"...advanced ideas & a new way of working them out - He plays football at nite so is pretty tired by the time he catches a ride out.  He takes Higher Algebra, Eng., Biology, and Wood Work.  One period is physical Ed - It is new as it requires all to take athletics as touch tackle etc - It is to train the physical side that was not tho't of until now.

I canned peaches last wk.  Eyra's Dad bro't him 9 bu & Eyra bro't in about 3 or 4 from valley.  Jack has been working on silo & they have it painted now but need to make doors & something over the top. 30' x 10'."

Waldo (Bud) Caufield

"Bud3 writes about every 2 wks.  He does not give much news.  I have tho't & tho't what to send for Xmas but it is a slicker.  Sent him a box of nuts today - Will send a cheese & I've been looking for air mail paper with red envelopes but no luck.  We sent him a pen & pencil & pocket knife last yr so that about ends the "thinks".  May send him some magazines but unless I disguise them I doubt how soon they are delivered.

No news from S.A. Agnes4 has an old one eyed, stiff hired man but she says he eats just same - Ha Ha!  Much love to all.

Aunt Ella

Hope you are able to get over before the gas is rationed if it is or maybe just a scare.  Expect Aunt Agnes sees about even dropping in Oregon."

1 reference to Jim's months long stay in Sacred Heart - much of it in traction.

2 Joe Caufieed - Jim's cousin - Joe sent Jim a postcard in late August and made the trip from Tillamook to Eugene and Dexter to visit his Waning Cousin and Aunt.  Link to his postcard here.

3 Bud - AKA Waldo Caufield - Jim's cousin.

4 Agnes McAdam Ingvalson - sister to Ella and Janet .