into outlandish postures - form of tap dance.
But wait! - wonder of wonders - the last on the
program - a dramatic sort of man spoke several
patriotic nonsenses and then - he presented part
of Dan Websters' speech - the latter part - beginning -
There is sadness in being a man - but a proud thing too
and to a dramatic end - God save the U.S. and
these men who shall make them [?] free. He did it
fairly well too - though [?] studying him - I gathered it was
just a recitation to him - something popular in a
patriotic sense that would go over - it did go over
big too - they liked it and I was so taken out of
myself - because it is a beautiful thing - he did
change a few lines - suppose he thought them too subtle
for the crowd. He said they have robbed the nations
of their freedom - that is true of course - but the line
is - they have crushed freedom with their hands and
cast her out of the nations. I like that better
it has a meaning - not only in reference to nations.
Many of us have freedom in our hands and then?
- well perhaps some never regret or are too dazed to
think - but there are others who look down at the
pieces [?]- and realize what they have destroyed - and
are mortaly hurt and benumbed - gradually
perhaps they may salvage a few broken ends and
knit them together - just to find a little peace
with themselves - and live on.
I believe the poem about the trees in winter
that you referred to is Courage.
The tall stark trees - though [?] tossed by wind and cold
and storm -
yet stand erect.
You are right - they do endure - even here in the
city where there is so little space.
Your visit was a happy memory - kind lady -
knowing all your work and responsibilities - I am honored
EN