Grandview, Mo.
August 14, 1911
Dear Bessie:
Got your letter yesterday but came near not getting it after it arrived. Nellie went after the mail and she decided that I shouldn't have it or anything else. I finally wheedled her out of it. They have been having a big time. We had fourteen for dinner yesterday. Almost threshing day. Everybody helped some though and it wasn't so hard.
Say, I had the -est (you can put any adjective you think strong enough) time getting home you ever read. The southbound train stood on the siding in Noel until my train passed because a freight was off the track. I got to Sulphur at 12:00 P.M. and of course had to stay over. Next morning I decided I'd get you some films down there if I could because I couldn't get to Kansas City in time. Well after going to three places (as many miles apart) I got them and was very thankful I tell you. Then I thought I'd come on home, for if the train was on time I could still see to the clover seed. Well it came into Sulphur one hour late but made up some time to Joplin-but about twenty-five or thirty miles this side of Pittsburg a freight train ran off the track while trying to get in the clear for us and we sat there three hours. I got home at 9:00 P.M. Maybe you think I didn't wish I'd stayed. I've been kicking myself ever since because I didn't. Sorry you didn't get your hay ride. It must have been some fierce booze if it was the Arkansas variety that Frank used. I feel sorry for him. I hope he's well now. I sure do want to see those pictures and would like to have some of them if you'll let me pay for 'em.
Will you please send me the plan for a tennis court. I am going to try and make one. We have a dandy place for it. Wish you could all come out in the machine while all these girls are here. If I get my court built you can come out Saturday afternoons and play in the shade all the time.
I was very glad you enjoyed the eggs, and am glad I took them if it caused such a good feeling toward me afterwards. I am going to try and get in toward the end of the week, will call you up from the city if it is all right. Write when you can as I always like to hear from you.
Sincerely, Harry