Jan 26, 1943

Dear John,

Here is that long letter. I am really ashamed of myself. I have no excuse except laziness. It won’t happen again. Well kid, I hope you are in fine health. I have gained 12 lbs. I now tip the beam at 182. The climate here has gotten warm. All the windows and doors in the house are open and I am in my shirtsleeves.

Well chum I have gotten a promotion. I am now a hustler. They call me Casey Jones the stock hustler. I was out to the alma mammy the other day and saw them beat H.S. at basketball. Old “Rut Gut” is not with the boys of the striped shirt this year and “Gummy P” is coaching at W + H.

The army put me in 4F because of my bad knee. I felt pretty bad about it. After all I am not a lilly. I have not seen Ed for some time now. I suppose he still isn’t to get married. Speaking of love, I am in it. Yes, right up to my neck. I will tell you more next time.

If you didn’t know, this letter is hand wrote. I will write you again soon.

Love,

Clifton