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Thurs 26 April

thanks alot for everything on my birthday. I've
already beaten myself brilliantly in chess. There
are others I can play (like Herr Krauter). Good
idea & the movie projector will be really neat.
I may be sending films home undeveloped. It
does cost alot & they may not do Sears film
although its just like Kodak. Our telephone
talk dad was great. Its been a while since
I've been able to say Peters inside jokes and
hear them. It was really nice to talk with you.
I still can't believe it about Joe & Lynne.
God, it's such a surprise. I haven't got Mom's
letter about it, yet. What is everyone thinking
about it? like Tor & Church & Francie & Betty?
I hope France & Roger stick it out happily. I
just can't believe it. I must miss things. Its all
kind of shattering about our happy gourmet club
unit. Well anyway . . .

On my birthday I had lots of Frau Krauter
Kuchen and people sang for me -- though not as
well as dad did. I hope that call doesn't cost
too much -- it was worth it to me. Mary sent
me Siddhartha by Hesse (I've read it, but its nice
to have). The most surprising thing is Mrs. Down
sending me a b-day card with this letter
typed on it. She wrote jokes and drew little
[smiley face symbol] faces on it -- like we were buddy-buddies
for a long time. It was real nice of her, but
strange & funny. I got 3 rain-checks on dinner,
$ from Aunt Betty, dinner anywhere from Steve
(real nice letters from him), & one from Joe, Lynne,
& Tony. Ok I also got roses from Frau Krauter.
All in all, a successful B-day. Thanks.