Lavallette, N.J.,
July 12, 1921.
Dear Frances,
This letter was intended to be written long ago but something has always deferre deferred that resolution. First of all the Mt. Holly house was sold as well as some personally. In preparation for the sale of goods carpets had to be taken up and cleaned, furniture stored and those to be sold were carted downstairs (the sale was held out-doors)[.] Then after we finally moved down here we have entertained or rather tried to our cousins. Probably by this time you are staying at your New Hampshire farm far away from the sweltering rays which are so keenly experienced in the cities, and swimming in the cool fresh waters of mountain lakes. If you are an enthusiastic angler you know where to go for fish.
Last year Mr. McMeekan taught me how to cast a line in the surf but that has not been of much importance for no matter what kind of a reel you have, if the fish are not hungry and do not happen to be in your locality, you are doomed to disappointment. It is rather early yet for fishing but during the latter part of this month there should be plenty of croakers, flounders and weakfish. At present the pounds are catching weakfish. So if one isn't successful with his bait, he uses silver bait which never fails.
The ocean is very warm and the bathing must be appreciated by the excursionists who travel down here on hot days spending their time in the surf. Usually the water isn't warm until the latter part of August.
Well, we didn't get the Cadillac but will wait another year until it is more reasonably priced. Instead Father bought a Ford sedan which serves the purpose of an auto, namely its utility.
Next month I expect to tease the soil into yielding an abundant crop on sister Helen's farm. Trying to separate the cow from the milk is a more difficult task than it appears to the amateur.
I don't intend to return to Columbia in the fall as I am going to study in Father's office.
How much does your nephew weigh now? Are Kenneth and your sister staying in their N.Y. apartment or is Kenneth enjoying his morning rush to the commuter's train?
Enclosed are these pictures long ago taken in the wooded vicinity of Yonkers. I still contend that I am a better photographer than you. The ones marked I and II I think are the best. [These snapshots are not marked with a I or a II.]
Did you go to the commencement exercises this year? I suppose I should have gone as this year was the observance of the centennial of Amherst's founding. I will have to learn from an eye witness what transpired last month, but I do happen to know that some one characterized "Lord Jeff."
Did you realize as much as expected from the rummage sales held the days following the dramatization of "Adam Bede"?
It would be fine if you and K's family could come down here for a few day's rest. If Father rents the cottage for August, that pleasure will have to be deferred until September which really is the best month here. Lavallette is only 65 miles from N.Y. a short distance for an aut a pleasant auto ride.
I want to thank you and Kenneth for the hospitality that I experienced in Yonkers, and hope I can return the same. That little trip we had one Saturday I enjoyed and am sorry that we didn't go again.
Regards to K and Katherine,
Sincerely,
Tom.