(seq. 12)

February 9, 1938

Russell McWilliams,
#5661-E,
Box 1112,
Joliet, Illinois.

Dear Russell:

This is a short letter for I do not wish to
wait any longer until there might be time for a better one.

I am sorry for your report but it was not
serious. No one, it seems to me, could have a better record than
yours. You wrote about it so amusingly. But those things are not
easy to go through, however, lightly you mention it. Your letters
become more and more interesting and better in style. I can't
help wishing they might be published some time.

This one made me sad. You spoke of living
in a sepulchre and that God had shown more mercy to Mr. Sayles.

Russell, let me say this, out of my own ex-
perience, personal, and knowing about the troubles of others.
Everyone has to say this at some time in life. It isn't only the
ones in prison. Your lot is hard. Even if you were free the same
cry would burst from your lips, so what you were feeling when you
wrote your letter is not surprising. Only you must keep up courage.
I wish I could explain what I mean so it would not seem just words.
probably your own thoughts have already turned you to renewed hope
and courage.

Prof. Fitzgibbon answered my letter. He says
I can send you books in his care. That is very good of him. When
an official answers a letter I am grateful. Officials are human
and have their troubles, too. Anact of courtesy should never be
overlooked.

I am taking advantage of this opportunity to
send you two books - one on English, another on Gardening.

Since beginning this letter, yours has arrived.
I shall answer it soon but will send this off today.

As to spelling you certainly caught me in a