Oct. 17, 1948

Dear Parents,

Everything is fine here. Gordon is still alive. Today it has been hot, wet, and muggy. It rained a little. I watered. Teena had the day off, so Linda had to try to cook. She’s OK I suppose, although not very regular with her meals.

The business at hand concerns an engine for the Fordy. I took the front fenders off last night, and while it is too bad not to have fenders, she looks very much better. Really not bad. But the engine. Rod Smythe will sell his engine for $85. The engine is a 33 V-8, he has had it rebored, new mains poured, crank ground. The price includes all accessories, heads, pan, generator, starter, intake and exhaust manifolds, muffler, carburetor, water pumps, transmission, radiator. However, pistons, rings, valves, new connecting rods, and con rod bearings must be bought. And heads remodeled. This would cost perhaps $75 more. To rebuild the present motor, the B, would cost $60. Or more, I do not know exactly. Also, the B can be sold for $55. There is a market for B’s. I would like to get his engine. I will even buy it out of my allowance, but would appreciate some assistance. Smythe will let me have it on credit, he is in no need for money. Would you please let me know what you think of this, as I would like to get to work on it? It does not seem like such a bad deal. Pretty good in fact, with all the accessories that are necessary and cost a good deal. The engine will be somewhat more powerful than a [precursor?] Mercury engine.

Linda has finished her beds, and we have put one of them up. We are having a lot of fun with Norton. I picked up Crellin on Friday night. Linda went Folk dancing Saturday with David Beadle. Say Mom, please advise what perfume to what girl. Girls are Elenor Benioff, Dagmar Benioff, Amneka Went, and Ava von Hume. Smells are: 2 noirs, Chinchilla, and Antelope. I would like a similar present for Judy [Rodekah?].

We all hope you have a wonderful time and come back soon. Love from us all,

Peter