March 19. Canton.



I picked this paper up at the field and evidently ink doesn't work so well. I don't know what all the Chinese characters at the top of the page mean-I guess you will have to take them for granted. Last night I attended a dance at the Canton Club-all European. I reached home at 6:00 A.M this morning. These people do not know when to end a party. I am glad I do not work in Shameen-I could not stand that pace.

I have been receiving your good letters and enjoyed every word. In fact I read them over time, time and again. I am surely sorry things are so tough and fruit isn't bringing anything. I know you say you will get by O.K. but also know how tough and hard it will be. If there is any way in the world I can help please let me know. If things continue to be bad, come over here. This house is as small as I can find and it has three large bedrooms (the one I am considering). Come over and fill those two empty rooms. I will have three servants ($16 U.S.) to wait on you hand and foot. I guarantee that we will have a good time, a fine rest and all kinds of fun. We would just buy a few more beans-that would be the only difference. You all better come over, have the boy carry you cold beers, and relax until the depression is over.

China is growing on me. I like it more and more every day. U.S. dollars go so far I am afraid I will be spoiled. It is quite splendid to be spoiled though isn't it? I know Jeannette will love it and so would you. You better come over. I haven't had much of a chance to gad about and see the city. I work until five at the field which doesn't leave much time for sightseeing. However, yesterday we were given a Chevy car for our own use so we will be getting around from now on.

Imagine me having tea. Believe me it is a lifesaver. We don't have dinner until eight so tea and sandwiches at five is a god-send. They don't know what you mean when you say "lunch" in this country. It is "tiffen". If I live here long I am going to pick up a vocabulary that will get me whipped when I return to the states. I ask you what a fellow going to do. I want lunch and the only word that will bring it is tiffen.

This will appeal to you Mother- laundry here is $1 U.S. for 100 pieces. A shirt is one piece, so is a sheet.

I am going to pick up some nice pieces for your home when I become more oriented and know value when I see it. They have beautiful things here. I have found out it will cost me $200 U.S. to furnish a home here complete and very nice. I understand that I can bring household goods back to the states duty-free. One way to pick up furnishings [that are] different, beautifully made, and cheap. I have been in some of the silk shops. It makes your mouth water. Mrs. Malley who knows silk is going to help me pick some to send you. It seems that if the silk is cut into three yard lengths and sent in an envelope there is no duty. Duty on packages from here is an item to consider.

I am not very comfortable here at the club after having a home of my own, but am saving money and that is important. I hope to save $150 U.S a month until Jeannette arrives. That would give us a nice little reserve.

It is Sunday morning in Upland now and I imagine you all having waffles. I wish I could sit down with you and chew the fat (that is not a reflection on your waffles Mother). Time seems to scoot along over here; it won't be long before I stick my feet under your table and eat you out of house and home.

I am glad Mala is getting along so well. Give them both my love. Take care of yourselves and if things get worse come over. We will have a picnic.

All my love,
Stu