Contributed by Kathleen Haynes
Contact Myrtle Bridges September 19, 2008
To Sue and Irene Tate, Morganton, NC
Monday afternoon
24 November, 1920
Dear Friends O Mine,
It's raining, I'm in bed where I've been for ten days and this afternoon I have an almost overwhelming
longing to see both of you; to have you come and tell me about yourselves, my boy, and everybody in Morganton
that I'm interested in. I think of you many times every day, but I've treated you just so badly as I feared
I would. Sometimes I'm afraid I'm going to have to stop writing at all. Am now having to grasp my pencil
between my fourth and little fingers, but, I've been really better in lots of ways. Was up all the time
my brother was at home and since then no, but caved in about ten days ago and am still down, but I hope not
quot;outquot;. I haven't told John this bother.
Miss Katie has been a just boon to us and I don't know what we would have done without her. She expects to
go home for Christmas, but cotton picking will be over then, and I think Susie will be back. Many men are
leaving cotton in the fields as it is costing more than ever to gather and isn't bringing anything like what
the fertilizer costs. You can imagine the state of the finances in this part of the country.
We've had a beautiful fall and John has written me of those beautiful mountain skies and the sunsets, and
the air that almost goes to ones head it is so exhilarating. I thought he was looking fine when he was at
home. The ladies of our church gave the men a banquet last spring, and Thanksgiving Day the men are to return
the favor with a barbecue dinner out of doors. Hope the weather will be as beautiful as it has been until today.
Miss Sue, don't think I've forgotten about the daisies. I decided it might be best to wait until spring to
transplant them. Pat is founder of his blocks you sent him than any toy he has and delights himself with spelling
out words. He is really developing into about a genius with figures. R. Jr. is already looking forward to and
talking about going to Morganton next summer. I know you miss Elizabeth, give her my love when you write her.
Yesterday was Dr. Hill's birthday. Eighty nine. At the close of his morning service when he was presented with
eight nine dollars, they told me that his acknowledgement was so beautiful, and declare that there wasn't a dry
eye in the church.
Wednesday Afternoon
I began this day before yesterday, company came in, yesterday I couldn't write and now I will just have to
finish it up with "I love you both", and tomorrow will be a sweeter and "thankfuller"day because you are my
friends. Devotedly Yours,
Bessie B. MacLean
Had a real brief card from Angus Jr. Muse today
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