To Bertha from CC Ballou – February 26th, 1927
Letterman Hospital

Dear Specks,
I got a letter from you. I forget just when, but about a week ago, I was operated under local anesthetic last Monday. The operation was long and exhausting, but not all was very painful. Well, I have had every attention, fine nurses, etcetera. The operator, Dr. Sloat, formerly of the majors, has been to see us every day and one day twice, and Wednesday, all the big guns were in. The superintendent of the hospital, Chief of Medical Service, and two _____ surgeons beside Sloat. Well, I am all right. Took the night turn that day. Of course, I am in bed and will be for three weeks. I did quite well, I believe, for an old man with such serious factors against me. The great fear was that my blood pressure would blow the top off the kettle during the operation.
I got your check today. Thanks to _____, and send it. I will send the emergency check later on. Hope you are all over _____ _____ and that you will not be too much pinched for funds. It is too bad that all taxes come right at this time of year. Well, I am tired.
Your loving old dad.
[Note: He died a year and a half later.]