The transcription is below, along with images of the original letter.

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A.F. has it yours in her room.

Sunday night Sept 21st, 1962.

My dear Claiborne:

My big day is one of the past. I have looked forward to this day with so much pleasure. If you could realize how the joy that you and Ed brought me and the others you’d have no regrets. Meeting you was not a disappointment. You are every thing that I expected you to be, lively, friendly. And present me is afraid of Ed. You had told me of a wealthy boy from Covington Co. looking for you. Had no idea that he might be in his 70’s. I got an invitation of A.H. Vining. I went to school in old 3rd St. Cleveland I don’t visit Joel, Walter, Charlie and Mollie Steward. Then when I was preacher at Collins Proucts I got to go [illegible] McDowell was supt. of A.S.L. for some time. I do not remember where I met you or why I don’t remember anything about him. Now that I know he is not you. Although you are safe. I don’t see why you can’t come if you can. When you do, bring Bob and Mrs. Calhoun. If Mrs. you can’t Mrs. bring her to debate against Milbrinegroton and me. Affirmand Mrs. and Charlie Vining, James and his and such a fine family. I visited Bridgeport about his class went to [illegible]. Ed. Before he died Canson Vining was such a good man. All my relatives were such true friends. My youngest brother was named Walter Anderson. He was part Indian, Water Vange and Gilk. He was in our battle in all kinds so much. Sorry that I did not get to talk to him longer (Bud) was in such a vehicle. I did not get to talk much to any body. How I can’t do to tell a long time with you. I think we could unravel things.

I can see now, why I have heard such kind things of you. You are a McDonald alright. I am remembering today among my happiest. I just can’t get Ed out of my mind. The Rodgers were fine folks, but mother such a wonderful wife, mother, friend. But Ed is a wonderful. His grand father was the great James Burd in the most. Meet Church Cemetery at Wilkerson. Maybe I remember it as it was just yesterday.

After leaving the church I visited Jap McDonald’s a year older than I. He is dying of cancer in the most end face. I didn’t want you to see him. It is very low. Can’t last many more days. So I’ll soon be going back for the funeral. I have buried so many of them. I want to live a lonely basket of friends, but he won’t be able to hold it. But his expression when I placed it was a thin bridgeway enough appreciation. Yes, I visited John’s wife Mary. She is principal, helpless. You met John some years ago. He is dead now. They told you of me. Just thinking of the wonderful day and meeting you. Just had to lash some of your voice trying to read this. Some time when the family tensions mounts a preacher Kinippley you might get them to hold a preach. I do not remember any of them. When a young preacher I held a few days meeting at Mount. But the people are all gone. [illegible] and Dr. Homie.

Just so happy to meet you.

Gus Hall

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