Letter 23, October 21, 1941

Dear Mother and Dad:

Well, what do ya know? I have finally got myself a typewriter, and still stranger, I didn't buy either an Underwood or a Royal---I bought an L.C. Smith Corona--portable. I am having a hell of a time adjusting my fingers to the key board but in the long run I will appreciate it more. It is transportable; where ever I go I can tote it if necessary, didn't cost as much as the other brands, and I liked their ad better than the others. Cost enough though, sixty five dollars all total.

Have got to hurry. I just finished a lesson and it is just about time I was taking off for work.

Thank you for your letter mother, it was swell. You asked me about the deferments from the army concerning the defence industry. They didn't take the fellow I told you about. They gave him a permanent deferment. Sounds good.

I am still hoping for a work heads job but am not quite as sure now as I was. They have brought a fellow in from the day crew to work with us. He knows a little more than I do about it and has been there two months longer. From tonight, on I am going to find out just exactly what he does know---learn it--and try to learn a little more.

I dare not read over this letter. Probably doesn't make sense. Sorry I had to hurry so and am sorry I have to quite so soon. I will write a long one over the week and you two do the same. You might even call on Vandy if you are just going to ride around. How do you like my new typewriter. Love, Tom

PS Under this new arrangement I get thirty six dollars a week.