[Letter with no date, but in envelope LP has marked 1931]
Wednesday at 7.30
Dearest lovely sweet heart;
Your nice little note came today. How are you? This morning I was miserable and worried. Linus had coughed all night and Jeff was sniffly. I too had a miserably sore throat, so I had Dr. McMillan come. He restored me to a more normal state. I do like him. He said Jeff would recover and gave me some cough medicine for Linus. I'll take it, too, to ease my throat.
I went to Dr. Whipple this afternoon. He polished and cleaned until I feel [sic] very new and shiny, but very sore.
I'm so happy to think that there are only three more miserable nights. I'll come with White if every thing is all right here.
Perhaps I'll write another note tomorrow.
About Linus I've decided after thinking very long about him, to try for one month not to punish him. I mean spank him. I believe he has grown immune to that sort of punishment and is definitely antagonistic. He likes now to see me get excited. It will take time and patience, but I know spanking isn't doing one bit of good. Mamma complicates things greatly but maybe she'll go home after while.
I didn't get much sleep last night so I'm going to bed tonight.
You are a dear boy and I love you more than anything.
I opened Uncle Jim's letter. It is a shame that babies used to cause parents such misery. We've lost scarcely any sleep, have we? I thought Uncle Jim was writing about the money which is why I let my curiosity get the better of me.
You be sure and telegraph if you do decide to stay away longer. I'm afraid of the party in the offing.
Goodnight, sweet boy,
Your girl,
Ava Helen
April
15, 1931
