16 October 1918

Dear Don,

I did not mean to be so slow in answering your letter. I surely do enjoy hearing from you. It's fine that you are receiving so many letters, but I know it must be rather hard to keep them answered. I don't see when you find time.

Aunt Luna wrote that your name and star have been put upon the Baptist service flag so you see they still lay claim to you. They have three silver stars and one gold star now. The later is for Dick Raymond.

I wonder if you are an influenza victim. Seems to be over the whole country and no locality seems free.

Last week the two youngsters and myself were in Missoula. I had a dress made and we just visited around generally. Minnie's husband returned the day before we left, from a 2-week hunting trip. He killed an elk that dressed about 600-lb. He gave us a quarter and Melvin has treated nearly everyone in Arlee to a meal of elk meat. We had two meals and that is enough for a while. It is too strong for a steady diet.

Your father wrote that you had sent them your picture. Haven't you one for me? When I was cleaning out my trunk since you were called, I found those two pictures of you as a youngster blowing the horn. Shall I send them on to Ruth or keep them until you return?

One of the teachers here this year is a woman whose home was formerly in Northwood and another a man from Osage, who was principal of the grade schools when Bess G. taught there. It seems good to talk to someone familiar with old times and familiar places.

I presume you have had so much experience with guns by this time that you are getting expert. I wish I could have some of these new experiences myself. Have you had target practice? How long have you been in Camp Funston? Make sure to let me know when you are moved and where.

Lovingly,
Lela

Arlee, Mont. Oct. 16, 1918.