Lafayette, 16 July 1925
Dear Parents and Siblings,
I received Papa’s sad news of Hanna’s death yesterday evening. When I saw the black border on the envelope, I knew that Hanna was no longer among the living. I have anticipated this for a long time, since you have often written that there was no hope; but the news still came as a shock. So it was our Lord’s will that I would not see Hanna again. I also now think that her death was a blessing.
Please write to me very soon and let me know how everything went. Why did you first write to me on July 2?
I have enclosed $5. Please use this to purchase a wreath with flowers, and in the middle of the wreath write something appropriate. Then place the wreath on the grave on Hanna’s birthday. I can spare the money to contribute to the decoration of the grave, even though it is late.
I am doing well. Uncle and Aunt send their condolences.