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English text

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. 

Translated by John G. Weinhardt