Congo (167) Luebo, Congo 10/16/1927 [DCS]

Oct. 16, 1927 8:30 A.M.

Dearest homefolks:

I am a bad hand for a pen, but I want to write to Nettie and Rubye today and I have a lot to write you, too, so excuse me this time.

I got my package from the Allens about two weeks or more ago, but I kept waiting to write for I thought I'd get your package you said you were sending for Xmas. I got only the Xmas things from Nettie and there weren't any tree decorations. Now I have forgotten what I told Nettie about decorations. I thought I asked her to send them, but I may have written later and told her not to and intended to order them myself. Anyhow, I got mixed up, I reckon, and I'll have to do the best I can on nothing. The things she sent for the children were lovely and it was certainly sweet of her to take so much trouble. I will be sick if your package is lost. I have written the Allens about it and expect to hear in a few days. I waited too long to write about it, but I was afraid they had trunks they hadn't opened and I did not want to hurry them. She has been in bed once since they came. It seems foolish for her to come back to Congo to me, but she may get along all right. I did not get a letter in the last mail, the only real mail that has come since I have been in Congo without my getting at least one letter from you. I guess it was delayed some way and probably you told me about the package. You might try to trace it if you know nothing about it.

I have been doing an unusual amount of entertaining lately, and I am so tired of it. The Dr. Kings and five children are here now going through to Bulape. They are going to be with Mrs. Wharton at the birth of her baby. Mrs. Longenecker expects hers in January. You know she nearly died when her last baby came. Dr. King is one person I never mind entertaining. I'd entertain him every day to keep him here. Max is in excellent health at present. He passed a round worm yesterday, but the treatment for them is not bad, they say. I am surprised he hasn't gotten more worms. He talks about Grandmother and Granddaddy a lot, but the most interesting thing about you to him is that you have a car. I have told him that some day we are going on a boat to see you. A boat blew down at the river this A.M. and he asked if we were going to see you. I wish we were!! B.M.'s eyes are not any better, but we don't feel that we can go home in Mid-winter. We have written to mission meeting, which is in session now at Lubondai to go home in Feb. We are planning on leaving here about the middle of the month. Don't be uneasy if you hear we are coming sooner. We had intended to go to M.M., but for the last month or more, B.M. has been expecting to go to a lady oculist about a day from Lusambo in a car at the Methodist Mission at Wyimbo Nyama, but she has written that she is not prepared to fit lenses.

We have been asked to stay over this next year to take the Cleveland's place at Lubondai, but we could not think of it for more reasons than one. Don't mention this, please, to anyone. B.M. 's eyes are one reason, of course.

I don't know how things are going to be with you this winter. I hope I’m not asking too much, but I should certainly like to have about two dresses ready for me when I get out home. Some of the others said their people had them some dresses ready and it was such a pleasure to shed their old ones-and since I'm not planning to get anything new for the trip, I know it would be fine. Now all I want is for you to select the material and a way to make them. My idea is a rather nice dress (silk) to wear in the car when I go places, say to Livingston, Midway, or around in the neighborhood, and a gingham or two for around the house when I want to dress a little. Something like that olive gingham of yours with all-over embroidery you had when I was at home. Miss Cassie might be willing to select me the silk sometime when she goes to Houston and Mrs. Tucker said she would be glad to sew for me when I needed it. Of course, things may have changed with her. That was when I first came out, but you could perhaps get it made in Livingston. Mrs. Tucker certainly did my dresses reasonably when I came out, but I would like for you to select some way to make them, if you have time. Remember, I still like ruffles and frills, if they are wearing them. The dresses you have been sending me have fitted nicely, so you need not worry about that. I do not expect to be any bigger. Since I use a little coloring on my face, the color of the dress does not seem to make much difference.

I am anxious to know what you are going to do this winter. You know we may be home the last of March or the first of April if we make good connections. We still expect to go by to see Aunt Lutie, but that won't take but three or four days more. We have not decided just how much traveling we will do in Europe, either.

I guess we still have lots of time to write you things, but remember you can write us along the way at the Queen's Hotel, Antwerp, or Latham Hotel, New York. At the Latham especially I'd Iike to have a letter telling us where you think it best for us to come-to Warren, Woodville, or Livingston. Livingston is especially hard for us on account of changing trains with so much baggage. You could write this in your next letter and I think we would get it. If it makes any special difference, write it in the next two so we will be sure and get it. If we don't hear I think we will go on to Warren as the roads are always good that way. Of course, we can tell you on the wire we send from New York. Hope it gets to you straight this time.

The thing I am most sorry about in not getting that package from you is the suit pattern for Max. I wanted to start making his suits and I wanted that pattern. The one I have is too small. I didn't thank you for the rompers. I got them and they were almost too small, so I traded them to Jean for some white material to make Max two suits. She is going to hem them around the bottom and make bloomer suits for her little girl. Mother, you do not realize how big Max is, and he does not wear rompers anymore, only in the mornings. He is still trying to wear out the ones your circle made for him. They are most too small, now, but have been very serviceable. I made Max a bath robe out of bath toweling I had and trimmed it in some cord I had on an old gown we made just before I went to the hospital with a cord around the waist to match. It certainly is cute. My latest in cooking is cream puffs. I made some beauties the other day, and they stood up at least four inches. Dr. King gave me a physical examination yesterday and found me in very good condition. I still have nettle rash nearly every day, occasionally, though--not bad.

Love to all,

Dorothy

Congo (166) Luebo, Congo 9/28/1927 [BMS]

Luebo, Sept. 28, 1927

Dear Folks:

This is the day for mail to close, only a half hour left now, but I wanted to send just a line. Dorothy hasn't had time to write today, as we have had company and interruptions many during the past few days.

Miss Virginia Allen is here on her way home; has been here since Saturday a week ago. Mr. Earl King and family came in last night to join them. They will be leaving tomorrow morning to catch the train at Mueka (about 34 miles from here), where they will be joined by Miss Frances Worth, of Bulape. From Mueka they go to Ilebo (now called Port Franqui), a distance of about 100 miles, a port on the river where they will catch a steamer for Kinshasa. This train business is new for us, and will be a help. It will not be long now till the railroad from Port Franqui to Bukama will be finished; at Bukama they connect with the railroad running to Capetown.

Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Anderson (the other Dorothy) came in Saturday, and will be leaving Thursday (tomorrow). We are always glad to see these folks; Dorothy Anderson is liked by everybody, and quite a friend of Dot's. She is the daughter of one of our missionaries to Korea (Rev. Hunt); I'm not sure just now whether they belong to the Northern or Southern Board; their home was in St. Louis.

The biggest thing in Max's life these days, and for some months past, is a car. He goes through the motions of driving a car, or cranking one, or honking, or some other part, most of the day, and often goes to sleep making a noise like one. He is doing fine, and learning to talk fast now.

What is Hickman doing these days? Haven't heard anything about him in a long time. Evidently he must be with the Snelling Grocery, as you haven't written of any change.

The folks will be leaving for the Mission Meeting soon. They leave here on the.11 th of October. The Hobsons will leave a week earlier, as he is to be at an Evangelistic Meeting of the Mission to be held a week in advance of the Mission Meeting. We had thought of going, but have decided not to.

With love to all.

B.M.

Congo (165) Luebo, Congo 9/11/1927 [DCS]

Luebo

Sept. 11, 1927

Dearest homefolks:

I made notes for your last letter but did not get to finish and now I have lost the notes and can't remember where I left off.

I do remember that I wanted to say that I was most sure Edd never burned my letters as he said he had done, but I can't see how he could hurt me with them. I am certainly surprised Dedye told you. Can you give any reason for her doing so? They may be trying to bring up something I said, perhaps about Kiam letter opening, but they have known for years we thought they did that. I told Douglas one time, I think. I am not worrying about it, you may be sure. Rubye has written me some very nice letters since I have been back this time, and I want to write her in this mail. I'm sorry I have not written since she was hurt.

I hate to think about having to learn to drive over again, but it seems that Fords will be very much out of style by the time we get home.

I am so glad Hickman and Nettie got that nice Radio. I know they will enjoy it. I never hear you speak of yours. Do you never use it?

Where is the grist mill to be, and do you mean it is to be run by water power?

Was so sorry to hear of the death of your friend, Mrs. Southern. It seems that they must be mighty close friends to have kept up with us for so many years. It hurts me to think of all the good friends I could have, too, if I would only write and keep up with them. I don't know anything I have enjoyed more lately than a letter from Miss Cassie from Kerrville.

I hope the visit from the senators will do good and I am looking forward to their articles.

I am waiting to write Nettie until the package comes, and I can write more specifically about things. I hope she has sent the bill with the things. If she made a trip to Houston to get them, I want to pay her fare, too, because it means so much to me to have them. I have made 2 large and about 6 small stars out of tin foil for decorations and they are so pretty.

As I want to write some more letters, I will close.

Love to all,

Dot

Congo (164) Luebo, Congo 8/24/1927 [DCS]

Luebo

Aug. 24, 1927

Dearest homefolks:

Your two nice letters came last night. I want to write you this A.M. even if it won’t go off for about two weeks. We don't get to answer by the same mail any more. Paper mail used to come by plane, but the second plane does not come any more and therefore we have no chance to answer. I like to write as soon as your letters come, though.

Yes, time gets closer and closer for us to leave for home, but strange to say, even though I am wild to come home, I am more contented than I was several months ago. I have torn off all the months on my calender except four --up to January, which is not on mine. After Xmas all my time will be spent in packing and selling everything except the things I can't part with. I certainly hate to sell my dishes and tea set. They are so pretty and I am so afraid I can't get what I want for the money at home. However, we could not afford to bring them home. This is such an unsettled, discouraging life. We spent time, thought, energy and put our heart in things, and then have to sell them all when we go on furlough. Take our birds, for instance. They are just doing fine. We eat or sell 50 or more squabs a month. We know them (the grown ones) all apart. Half of them we raised ourselves. Now we must sell them; perhaps someone will take the whole bunch. If not we will have to sell here and there to be killed or perhaps not cared for. My garden will likely be just at its best. I will get some good from it, of course. My flowers I will give away to my friends. Think how discouraging this would be to have to start anew every time you came back from furlough.

I wonder in the ball game, which side you were for. I am sure I would have "rooted" for the older set because I know them best.

It's good that you may get the mail route by home, but where will we go when we can't go to the P.O.? !! I I think I'll go walking in the woods. I feel like now if I could get turned loose in those woods, I could wander for hours and not get tired. Why is it I love that place out there so, and long to stay there, when it's the strong desire of so many people to trot over the globe as I do and have to stay at home., I guess it's the unfortunate disposition of lots of people to be discontented wherever they are. I wonder if that's true! !

I think the saying "absence makes the heart grow fonder" is very true.

I certainly did enjoy and appreciate the music to that song. I shall write to John about it.

I wish I had some of those fig preserves. I am sure there would not be any left if we were there to eat them. I think often when we open this sorry tinned stuff out here of the lovely preserves we had when we were in Livingston staying at the Snelling's house. There is certainly one thing I enjoyed while there and that was eating. I guess you remember. I don't think I have ever enjoyed my food as I did there and then! I often think, too, of how I would have lived without that car. I have also worried a lot about your not going, too. I realize now why, I think. It's one of my failings to see things when it's too late.

Later. Sept. 4. Sunday-

Sewing makes my mind turn toward home more these days, as a lot of the things I am making are for going home and at home. But on Sunday, I write to you and have time to think. I am working hard. Harder than I have ever worked in my life. In fact, I feel that I am learning how to work. I am busy most of the day and the wonderful part is that I am not unusually tired when night comes. Lots of times I don't even take a rest at noon. My garden is beautiful; my flowers are most all taking a rest You can't expect them to keep on forever. I have zinnias all up and down my paths again. The ones you sent are about finished, but they certainly had their days. I had a bouquet on my table all during dry season when there was nothing else.

Now shall I tell you what I have in my garden, or are you tired of it? I don't seem to have much else to tell, though. About 150 celery plants started, 20 cabbage plants out in the ground with lots of young ones coming on in raised bed, 18 tomato plants blooming and 2 sizes of young ones corning on, 10 eggplants, lots of pepper plants, and I am getting peppers from old plants. I have pole string beans, pole limas, and bush butter beans, okra, turnips in ground and some planted in beds for greens, cucumbers, squash, spinach, about 100 onion plants and plenty of lettuce. I am getting only a few tomatoes, celery, lettuce, turnip greens and peppers from my garden now. In writing all of this to you, I have had an inspiration. I have wanted for a long time to write to the Enterprise. Perhaps I will write something on gardens in the Congo.

Sept 8.

The mail closes today, so I must mail this. Mr. Longenecker has gone to lIebo [?] to meet the Allens to take them to Bulape. I hope to get my package before long.

Dot

Congo (163) Luebo, Congo 8/21/1927 [DCS]

Luebo

August 21, 1927

Dear Mother and Daddy:

You cannot know how glad I was to get that picture. It's simply splendid. It's so natural, I almost felt like kissing you. My, but it made me homesick! How much I would give to be home this winter. It just seemed that I just didn't get any winter when I was home, for I had to stay shut up in the house a lot with Max. When I went in the car, I had to sit so rigid for fear Max would cry. Now Max would have just as much fun as I. He is so full of life and such a pleasure to us. I don't say much about him except that he is either sick or well, and you don't know him as you could if I would write more about him. I am really afraid to write much for fear you will be disappointed in him when he does get home. Then, of course, he seems almost perfect to me. I am afraid to tell you what the people on the station say for fear you will think me conceited. Mr. Longenecker told B.M. yesterday that Max was a handsome fellow, & Mr. Craig had told me several times that he is the best child on the station. I consider this last a pretty good compliment, for Mr. Craig is quite a child critic being an old bachelor. Max gets a lot of attention, too much for his good, and I am so afraid it will go to his head. The trip home is going to be bad for him, for one can't discipline properly in traveling. So I can't tell how he will be when we get home. I want to say just here that certain feelings I have had about (other grandchildren) are absolutely finished. I was crossways with the whole world in those days.

I have a tailor working for me. We are making underclothes for Max. We also made three pair overalls for him yesterday. I think I shall get my underclothes made up now also.

I did not know there was anyone living at the Sam McKee place or had been for years. Is Kate still living in Camden? How is Cassie and family and where are they living?

The Hobsons are at the Kampungi place for a vacation. Excuse this--Max came asking for a pencil to write to Grandmama. It's one of his great ambitions to write you a letter. While we were at the lake, B.M. hunted a lot. Max got the craze and every once in a while, he comes in bringing a piece of wood or something telling me he has killed a monkey. He brought something the other day that reminded me of a log that I used to carry around as my baby. Do you remember it? Daddy got it and put it on the fire one day and nearly broke my heart. I'm sure he didn't do it on purpose.

We are so glad to get the clipping about John F. and Minnie. Do you know where they went?

Lucille has written and asked me to stay with her while Mr. Wilds is at church. She isn't well, so Max and I are going over.

Lots of love,

Dorothy

Congo (162) Luebo, Congo 8/11/1927 [DCS]

Luebo

August 11, 1927

Dearest homefolks:

Things are going very well with us. I believe B.M.'s eyes seem to be better. My great interest at present is my garden and it is doing so well. I am hoping to reap it before we go home. The rains won't begin before the 1st or middle of Sept. but I am getting my tomatoes, eggplants, peppers,cabbage, celery, etc., started now in raised beds. We are having turnip greens today from raised beds besides celery and lettuce. I want to raise your garden for you when I get home. I think I have the "craze." I love to watch things grow.

I wrote you a nice long letter last week so I am going to stop now and write to Mrs. Stixrud. She has had a very serious operation since she has been home but is all right now, I think. She sent us a Kodak picture of their family. It's real good. They and Stegalls are at Montreat for the summer. We hear Steg has some serious spinal trouble caused by S.S. treatment.

We are having quite a lot of entertaining to do. Two cars came in last night.

Lots of love,

Dot

Congo (161) Luebo, Congo 7/17/1927 [DCS]

Luebo

July 17, 1927

Dearest homefolks:

We got three good letters from you last night. I was not intending to write again, but must answer these. I mailed one only yesterday. There is a chance of this mail from the second plane not going on this steamer, however.

I should be in church now, but I'll tell you how it happened. Rowena has a Sunday School for the native children just at the edge of the village about a quarter of a mile from our house. She has the service for the children while the service for the grown folks is being held in the big shed. I have been taking Max to these services. Today is the first day of a conference for the natives and Mr. Wharton is here from Bulape to preach for us, so we were all going up there, even Rowena. I was playing on the piano, and when I got up to get Max ready for church, he wasn't to be found. B.M. was starting out to the third shed to his service and was late. He called to me that Max was up the path. Thinking that he was going to Miss Black's, whom he is crazy about, I sent a boy to call him. He couldn't find him anywhere, so I went hunting him and found him in his place at the children's service. I would have stayed and perhaps should have but I was afraid I might disturb the native who was substituting, then it was too late to go marching into the big shed.

It's a great honor to have such a smart Uncle as Uncle Jim. We hope to visit Aunt Lutie on our way home. We are thinking of getting Uncle Jim to suggest a good occulist for B.M. to go to. Do you think he would think we were trying to keep from paying, for you know doctors never charge each other? The committee pays all our expenses of that kind, you know. I am afraid Aunt Nell might criticize us anyway. B.M. went in a car that was going to Mutoto the other day to see Dr. King about his eyes. He told B.M. he didn't think it would hurt his eyes to stay until spring if he took care of them. Please tell me how he is going to take care of his eyes and most of his work book work. Nevertheless, we stay until spring. I will not come home in midwinter unless I have to. It's too much risk for Max.

I'm so glad my Xmas box is going to get here. Max will enjoy them so much. I want to have a nice Xmas for him. He is already looking forward to Santa Clause!

We hear that the Allens will get here in about five or six weeks. The stockings you are sending will certainly come in fine. My old ones are just about gone.

I will certainly write to Mrs. Drew. I got such a sweet letter from Miss Cassie. I do wish I could make myself write to my friends more often for it does me so much good to get letters like that. I want to write Mrs.Muller next for I love her, too. Miss Cassie writes that they are building a duplex house in order that August may live with them. That certainly is fine.

I enjoyed the newspaper articles so much. It's a shame about Charlie's picture. He actually looks like he is dead. Has he changed that much? Almost made me cry. The rest were pretty good for newspaper pictures. I'm so glad for Lizzie. I know you are proud of her. Wish Sarah could have had that chance, wouldn't have done our village much good, though. How and what is Alvina doing.?

We get the Enterprise regularly and do enjoy it. Wish you would send in a letter taken from mine to you. Everything is so commonplace to me, it does not seem that there is anything to write. Perhaps I will take courage some day.

You always think of my comfort and pleasure before yours. Please don't change rooms, for B.M. is not apt to stay out at Pinckney long. After two or three weeks, he is likely to start out hunting a job. I love the little room you had built for me and would love to stay in it. The whole place is beautiful as far as that goes. How I would love to stay out there if there were the least chance. I guess I love my old home too much for my good.

Mother, we could never think of taking your hard earned money for a tour of that kind. That is the reason I never mentioned it. It was sweet and like my dear mother to think of such a thing. We have saved some and are going to do some sightseeing for a few days in Europe. I expect if we leave here in February as we plan to do, it will be too cold to spend much time in Europe with their poor heating system

Max is especially well just at present. I am very much contented to stay on until spring. My seeds came and are up and looking fine. I hope to have a good garden. I am going to start sewing for Max for going home before long, and think I will enjoy it. I am looking forward to getting the patterns from Nettie.

Max and Helen get along much better than they used to; however they hardly ever play together unless he comes here or at the tennis court. Mary does not watch them if I let them go down there. It helps me to hear your ideas on the subject. I never tell her anything she does not want to know if Helen is bad! I long for a nice playmate for Max, for whatever she does, Max wants to do. She is about six months older, you know.

I know the house looks nice since you painted it and I'm sure it will still be all right when we get there, for it's only about six months before we leave! I certainly would not spend money on draperies, for the house is pretty enough without them.

I have plenty of soutache braid for Max's suits if you have not already sent it. I ordered it from Montgomery Ward. Miss Headen sent my old barrette back, so I am in no need of combs. We may not open the package until Xmas as you asked at first. It's going to be hard, though. I do not know Mr. Maroney. Livingston people are most all strangers to me. You did not enclose Aunt Nennie's letter.

Today is our wedding anniversary and we are invited down to Rowena's. I have hardly eaten a meal at home since we came back from the lake. B.M. went to Mutoto and I had a lot of invitations out. Jean stayed with me at night so I wouldn't be lonesome. It's nice to have such good friends. I am certainly going to miss them everyone when I get home.

Mr. McMurry had "Tick Fever" and had to stay at Bibanga until he was cured. He came back with the people from Mutoto last night. We are glad to see him back.

Lots of love to all,

Dorothy

Congo (160) Luebo, Congo 4/28/1927 [DCS]

Luebo

April 28, 1927

Dearest homefolks:

Your letter came in last night on a plane we were not expecting. You see, we don't know what to expect these days and we hear now that we will have two weeks air service. This will be very nice if true. Don't you think I have done better about writing to you since I have been back this time?

You were talking about Cisuaka. He is still with us and it seems that we will be able to keep him until we go home. Nzeba, his wife, gave birth to a baby girl this morning and they named her for me (Masinga)--I am going to make her a dress and go to see her this P.M. or tomorrow. It is certainly distressing about Beulah. It seems so strange to me that those girls had those bad ideas in their heads and hearts and that I never knew anything about it when I was growing up. They never mentioned it to me. All the missionaries who come back from furlough these days say things are terrible among the young people, high school boys and girls. I can hardly believe that all they say is true. So you see, it is not only among the Indians, but white people know how to get away with it. Times must be bad.

I was so glad the films reached you. They are good and the envelope was rather heavy. I had some fears that they would not arrive safely. Please send Lucille one of the best of Max and me to San Benito, Rural Delivery.

I planted the zinnias this morning. I was glad to get them, but hope you didn't deprive yourself. I do wish I could see the roses. I am not trying to raise any anymore. I planted my dry season garden yesterday out by the wash place. B.M. had it fenced off for me, and I laid off the rows and planted it myself--okra, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, mustard & turnip greens, cabbage, cucurnbers,and a few butter beans and string beans for soup. Water is a big problem during this dry season, but I hope I can keep it going.

It is so hard to tell what I will absolutely need; you see, I can't tell how these dresses are going to last. I would be absolutely fixed if I went home now. My idea now is a satin dress black or blue, whichever color they are wearing most. I prefer navy blue. Ito has one I am crazy about. She says it's grand for traveling and does not muss easily. The pockets and trimmings are black oil cloth and white buttons sewn on with colored thread. It has a short circular over skirt and a fancy ruffled net front. If I could get something like this that I like I would be set up. I have been looking for some nice material that won't wrinkle badly for the train and boat. In the spring, that's all I'll need with a wrap. I have something here that would do until I get to Belgium for a wrap. You could have this made in Livingston or Terrell if you go there and send it through the mail. I'll go to see Ito's dress and perhaps tell you more about it. The material is the biggest thing. I want it good,but I do, of course, like rather frilly things, not too plain.

Later. I went up to see Ito's dress this A.M. and what do you think. She insisted on my taking her dress and sending her another one for her to go home in. That's almost 2 1/2 years from now. Later, as I wrote this, I began to think that's 2 1/2 years is too long to have a debt hanging on, and if we don't come back to the mission, there is no telling where we will be, so I asked Ito to sell me the dress. She agreed to this, but wanted only $10, but I persuaded her to take $15, and I am sure I will get more good than that out of it. It's a $50 or $60 dollar dress and she got it for $27.50. All my descriptions were unnecessary, but I guess you will be interested to know what it looks like. I am trying to take good care of the rest of my clothes and I believe I will have plenty to come home in. I am going to put this one I have just gotten and the peach georgette you sent me from San Antonio in Jean's cedar chest so the roaches won't get them.

The seed you sent me are up. I hope I can keep them alive during the dry season. Thank you so much for them.

Love to you all,

Dorothy

P. S.. Tell Aunt Nennie I certainly did appreciate the violets and I would like to hear from her sometimes, even though she feels that her letters would not be interesting. I am sitting on the porch and the wind is blowing. That's the reason my letter is so blotted.

Love,

Dot

I had a nice letter from Rubye in the last mail. Glad to hear Hudson and his wife are together again--Dot.

Congo (159) Luebo, Congo 3/27/1927 [BMS] [DCS]

Luebo, March 27, 1927

Dear Folks:

It has been a couple of mails since I have written you, and now we have word that the next plane is due in a few days. With the planes coming regularly every 18 days, these mail days slip up on us before we are aware they are due. It takes us a few days to read and digest a mail, and then we think, by habit, that the next mail is· still a long ways off, and we are caught.

We are considerably less in numbers at Luebo now, 17 grown folks, whereas we were 24 only a few months ago. I suppose you have heard of Mr. Martin's sudden departure. He was planning to go about August or September of this year, but had word in the last mail that his mother was very low and might not last long and they urged him to come home immediately, which he did. His mother has T. B. As you have no doubt heard, this has been quite prevalent in their family. He had a brother to die from this, and Mr. Martin was threatened along this line himself some time back. This sudden exit has made it rather hard for the Evangelistic Department, as they have not had sufficient time to get things in order.

A little seven month's old baby died across the river last week; a child of one of the state officials, and who happens to be a Protestant, or rather his wife. So they asked the Mission to conduct the funeral. Several of us attended the burial, both Dot and myself. The baby was taken sick about 3:00 A.M. with a high fever and died at 1:00 the same day. Mrs. Shive said it could have been fever of the brain, as the temperature of that runs very high, and this child's fever went up to over 107. I should have said malaria fever of the brain. This same family lost a child 8 months old a couple of years ago. Mortality among children seems no higher here now than at home, although I remember when I first came out here it was rather high (I mean among white people), and an alarming percent of the first children of our missionaries died here. But now, with such a large number of children, we have much to be thankful for in the matter of their health. Of course, people have learned how to take care of them; two things that I believe have contributed a great deal are quinine and proper food.

Our squab plant has now gotten to a profitable stage, and we are having about all the squabs we care to eat. We have about 38 pairs of mated pigeons, and they are doing fine. Besides the profit, we both derive considerable pleasure from raising them. Besides squabs to eat, we also raise some to increase our flock or to replace some not so profitable. They are hardworking little creatures, and very interesting. It takes regular and careful attention to keep them in good condition, but only a little time each day its needed.

March 28, 1927

Dorothy mentioned the fact that another boat had been added to the service from Belgium to the Congo. However, this is not a first class passenger boat and the officials state it will not carry mail. It is a boat that will carry only cargo and second-class passengers for the Congo, but no mail, at least so they report. There are quite a number of people coming to the Congo in second class; a large number of state officials, according to rank, are required to come second class. The names of the four boats coming are as follows: THYSVILLE (the one we came out on this time), Anversville (the one we went home on last time), ELIZABETHVILLE; these are the three first class passenger boats; then the STANLEYVILLE, is a new boat just put in service, and which I refer to above as the one carrying only second class passengers. This last named is smaller, and above as the one carrying only second class passengers. This last named is smaller, and takes 22 days for the trip, whereas the others only take 18 days. I doubt if we can count on mail coming more frequently at this time. We will let you know if we hear further.

I note what you say about Max's rupture, and hope you have not been worrying about it, for he has suffered very little (practically none as far as we can tell) from it. And now it seems to have almost disappeared. Dr. Cousar says that it is not something to worry over unless it gets to an enlarged stage, for he claims that over half the men have this trouble or have had it as children. He has had quite a bit of experience at Johns Hopkins, which as you know, is no mean hospital. Mrs. Stegall's little baby had it too, but it was about like Max's and Dr. Stixrud did not consider it serious. So I believe you will be safe in scratching this off your list of worries.

One of the government officials is living here in our village now collecting taxes and information among the natives. They are quite pleasant; the Madame speaks right good English, and he speaks some. She is here visiting Dorothy this morning.

We had a birthday party at the Longeneckers Sat. evening in honor of little Dorothy; she is about five, I believe. Max enjoyed it tremendously as well as the rest of us.

It's time to quit, as I have lots of other things to do. Trust this finds everybody well, and with love to all.

As ever,

B.M.

P. S. Please excuse my writing on both sides, but our letter is getting heavy.

We have just had word that the Allens hope to start back to the Congo in July. They expect to have their medical exam about May. Of course, it all depends on this report. She had dormant or inactive for a long time previous to this, Personally I doubt if they will be permitted to return so soon; but that's humanly speaking. If the Lord wants them back now, it isn't with the doctors? ?

Dorothy

Congo (158) Luebo, Congo 3/20/1927 [DCS]

Luebo March 20, 1927

Sunday

Dear homefolks:

Your letter was a surprise after our trip to the lake yesterday. It seems that perhaps since their putting on two extra boats from Antwerp that we will likely get mail more often. A plane came in but I did not expect mail. We left yesterday morning at nearly 8:00 A. M. in the truck for Kampungi. There were 8 grown people and four children. The children took hammocks from Kampungi, a distance of about four miles, except Max rode on the wheel with B.M. The rest of us walked. I enjoyed it until in the afternoon, and the walk back to the car tired me. It was all forgotten soon, though. The Morrisons were at the lake and they had gotten things fixed up real nice. We took the children in wading after dinner. Max did enjoy it so much. Then what do you suppose I did. I wonder if you will be surprised. I got Kemp to bob my hair!!! I like it much better than I did before, guess I knew more about how I wanted it. I think it's going to look nice. Now don't tell me in your next letter you are sorry as they are wearing long hair again!! Jean and Mary have both bobbed their hair, too.

B.M. was just as much against it as he was before, I think, but he gave his consent and I believe he likes it now. I have it up in the back, but have left enough on top to pull down over my forehead. I let Miss Headen have my barrette and now I have to use B.M.'s tie pin. That was the best barrette I ever saw. I got it at Gerlachs. I wish you could enclose me one in a letter; would that be against the rules? It had purple glass sets and two wires underneath like myoid bow holder, and about 1 1/2 inches across. I have some small barrette I got across the river, but I can't get them to fasten. I asked Squeak to send mine back. but I am afraid she won't. She said she liked it too well!

I am sorry I did not mention the stockings sent from Gerlachs for I got them, and I don't know how I would have gotten along without them. They were all nice. I couldn't help wondering where you got your news about Albert Mathews. There are certain people out our way whom I believe wouldn't mind telling tales on him.

Max is sitting here on the porch playing church. He sings awhile, then covers his eyes for a short prayer. The only word I understand is "amen." I take him every Sunday to our English service at 5:00 o'clock. He gets mighty restless sometimes. I have been fixing up his baby book this week. I think it is very good for the time I have spent on it and the pictures have helped out wonderfully. I am hoping to hear in your next letter that you have received pictures and films we sent.

I can't think of any more news, my main object in this letter was telling you about my hair. My plan for the next week is sewing. The slips you and Aunt Nennie made for me have gone to rags. I expect to make about four more, three gowns, (pink crepe), and some bath towels. I brought toweling instead of towels this time. I may make me a dress or two for everyday wear. I want me a "ballcan [?] blouse" suit. They remind me of the beautiful ones you made for me when I went to Missouri to school.

Love to you all,

Dorothy

Congo (157) Luebo, Congo 3/8/1927 [DCS]

Luebo, March 8, 1927

Dear homefolks:

I am in a big hurry this A. M. as it's the beginning of the rainy season after a short dry spell, and we are trying to get things started in the garden and yard. It rained a good rain last night and so it's a fine time to plant. I planted out about 30 tomato plants from raised beds and a few eggplants, but spent most of my time on flowers. I am planting zinnias, cosmos, and a few other things I got at Lubondai up and down both my front paths, most were only transplants and thinned. The one zinnia I got from the seeds you sent is living, but I fear it's been too shaded on the porch. The mail come in last night, got two letters from you and Daddy's enclosure.

Mr. Martin has gotten a call home on account of his mother's weak condition and they want to have a family reunion. It has put in my head the idea of going home. Just to think I could be with you in a little over a month and during your vacation, too, but I have no excuse at all, as I am unusually well for Congo, but of course it was at the beginning of my third year that I began to feel it the last time. B.M. would have been willing, I believe, if I had had more time to get ready. This is just the time of year I want to come home, too. I must forget it though, and look forward to coming home next year about this time. B.M. is having some trouble with his eyes and if they get worse we will certainly come home on that account, for if we stay at home and I think we will, our keep would depend on his eyes. He can't afford to run any risk. We are not expecting to come, of course, but I just wanted to warn you that if you heard we were in New York, you would not be uneasy. Max has hadthe"Flu" but is well again now. I believe every child on the station has had it.

The Stegalls and Rochesters left on the Lapsley last week & Mr. Martin is hoping to catch the same boat from Matadi. If Mr. M. is not as enthusiastic about us as you expect him to be, it is because we are the Hobson's best friends. He and Kemp are in the same department and although I have heard of no serious misunderstandings, they have very different ideas along some lines. We seem to have "clicks" on this station; It can't seem to be avoided on a large station and Mr. M. is very partial to his particular friends. There has been no disagreement, and things are running smoother than usual. I like Mr. Martin very much.He is a fine and most interesting man. I hope you will be able to hear him speak. The Allens and Vinsons are special friends of his.

We are keeping Stegall's Victrola and enjoy it. We have a record in the native language sung by Mr. McKee in England. It isn't very good, I don't think. We may bring ours home. There is a story on the Congo written by Annie M. Barnes. She has not been to Congo, but got her descriptions, etc., from members of our mission and the M. E. C. M. It isn't supposed to be true but is rather interesting. I want us to read it together when I am at home. There are some mistakes naturally. I think I will write and have a copy sent to you. Don't read it until I come. "The Lost Treasure of Umdilla" is the name of it.

The Morrisons are going to our new lake near Kampungi tomorrow for a two weeks vacation. Hobsons will be off the road until Mr. Martin comes back.

I can't think of any news and it's most time to mail this. How I would love to be coming in the place of this, but it's much better to come in a year with a clear conscience.

Love to all,

Dot

Congo (156) Luebo, Congo 2/16/1927 [BMS]

Feb. 16, 1927

Dear Folks:

There is no special significance in the color of this ribbon I am using [red] except that the blue is very faint and this is so much plainer.

The plane came in this afternoon and brought us one good long letter from you. About every third mail, so Dorothy figures, we get only one letter 'from you, due to the fact that the previous letter was just in time to catch the other boat, and the following letter just too late for this one. Then we will probably get three letters in the next mail. We know just what day to look for the mail now--every eighteen days, regularly.

Everything is moving along quite smoothly with us. All in good health, especially the important branch of the family -Maximum. He just has a good time most of the time. We went on a picnic Saturday, and went in Mr. Longenecker's truck; coming back I drove and Dot and Max sat on the front seat with me. Tonight at supper Max had an old tricycle, and had turned it over and was using one of the wheels for a steering wheel, and now and then, he would reach under the wheel to manipulate the spark and gas levers. I am going to use Stegall's old Excelsior motorcycle while he is on furlough, and have been riding it some lately; of course Max is very much excited over this. It will be a help to me also, in getting out.

When Mr. Priest left here I gave him my good watch to leave in Belgium, with our agents there, to be repaired and sent out. But I understand he did not have time to attend to this, as he had only a day or two in Belgium. Not having heard anything from him about this watch, I am writing him in this mail and asking him to send it to you in case he still has it. So if it comes to you will ask that you just keep it for me, for I doubt if it is worth sending out here again; I've had so much trouble with it.

Our garden has been suffering for rain, as this is supposed to be the rainy season, but yesterday and today are the first real good rains we have had in about a month. Things will now pick up in that line. Dorothy has done real well with her garden this year.

Our pigeons are also doing well, and we are beginning to enjoy squabs quite frequently. We both enjoy watching them and get quite a bit of pleasure from handling them. We now have about 35 pairs that are at work. It has taken us some time to get to the present place, as we have had several severe setbacks, but they look very promising just now.

Did we tell you that Gus, that's Ida's son who lost their little girl Xmas before last, have a new daughter, born in November.

Trust this finds all of you well, and with love to all.

As ever,

B.M.

Congo (155) Luebo, Congo [BMS]

Luebo, Dec. 12, 1926

Dear Mother & Daddy:

Here we are back at Luebo. While we enjoyed our vacation and we believe all of us profited by it, still it feels good to be back at home again. Especially after having to stop and pack up again so much on our way back from the Lake. As I don't know what Dorothy has written, or will write in this letter, we may duplicate our remarks. But she is at church just now, and the "Lapsley" leaves tomorrow morning, so we must get our letter ready today.

Will try to give you some idea of our trip. We got the use of the Station (Ford) truck, which is being used by Stegall, and packed all our belongings in that. It has a rain-proof top, with curtains for the sides, so we were prepared for rain. We left here on Monday, Nov. 15th, and traveled that day about 120 miles, and stopped for the night in a native village; we left there early the next morning and reached Lubondai, our newest station, at 11 :15 A. M. It was our intention to go by Mutoto instead of Lubondai, but as one of the bridges was in bad shape we thought it best to go around. Then we had not planned to go by Lubondai, but a ferry on the Lulua river was reported to be in bad shape, so we went around by Lubondai, which is somewhere between 80 and 90 miles farther than the other way. However, we enjoyed our stop at Lubondai, where we spent the remainder of that day, and left again the next morning about 6:30. That morning we traveled till 11 :15, and stopped to feed Mrs. Shive's baby and discovered that we had lost our suitcase, containing nearly all the baby's clothes. Of course, this upset us considerably, and naturally Dorothy was very much worried. We turned and went back for about 12 or 15 miles, hoping we had just lost it. However, as our gas supply was limited for our return to Luebo, we decided to go on to the Lake, and send back word to Lubondai station and ask them to send out messengers to look for it. We fortunately met a Mutoto messenger on his way to Lubondai. So we went on to the Lake that day, reaching there about 7:30 P. M. The Smiths, who were to join us at the Lake had just reached there that afternoon. We would have arrived about 4:00 P. M. if we had not lost the time looking for the suitcase. But before I go further, I'll tell you the remainder of the story about the suitcase. While at the Lake we had word from Lubondai that they had sent out messengers all along the road we had traveled but had found no trace of the suitcase. Of course that made things look blue. Dorothy Anderson, though, sent Dorothy quite a number of clothes that just fit Max, so that helped considerably. We had faint hopes of finding the suitcase on our way back, so when we reached the place about where we thought we had lost it, we began to make inquiries; so after a bit we saw a white man, who is working a gang on the railroad being built through here, and he informed me that the State Officer about 36 miles away, and on our road to Lubondai, had sent a notice out stating that he had found a suitcase. So we followed this up, and found the State Officer, who duly turned the suitcase over to us, and with every article intact. We had lost it about 23 miles from Lubondai. You may know there was rejoicing in the family when we got the suitcase. And so it happened that we returned with all our possessions!! This event, though, almost made us feel like giving up our vacation,but of course, we became reconciled to it, for a great deal worse could happen than the loss of a few possessions.

We found the lake a splendid place, and had a fine time, including Max. It is one of the best bathing places I have ever been in. The water is very clear, and always remains at an even temperature, which makes it fine for a swim before breakfast; it has a sandy bottom. They have a boat, with an "Evinrude" attached, so we had lots of boat riding. There are lots of wild ducks and we had ducks to eat nearly every day. Shive and I each killed a large antelope, which has fine meat. The Lake itself is a beautiful sight; it is about 2 miles long, and a mile wide on the ends and about 2 miles in the middle; they have sounded it and found it about 140 feet deep in the middle, and 100 feet deep in most places. The shape is somewhat like two "y'"s joined end to end. There are very few trees as it is out in the middle of a great plain. It is surrounded by a high, but sloping ridge of hills, and on some of these hills you get magnificent views of both the lake and the surrounding country. There are no native villages close, as they have had superstitious legends about the water swallowing a village, and have always been afraid to build near it.

We left the Lake on Thursday, Dec. 2nd, taking the Smith family (Mr. & Mrs., Ruth, age 4 years, and the baby), with us to Lubondai. We reached Lubondai that evening about 6:30 (but don't forget that we found our suitcase just about an hour before reaching Lubondai!!) quite happy. We stayed at Lubondai until Tuesday morning, and had a most enjoyable visit with our Lubondai brethren (and sisters). We had planned to leave Monday morning but they persuaded us to stay until Tuesday, which proved to be better, for we had expected to spend a night on the road and reach Luebo the following day, as Monday is a hard day to get away early. But instead, we got an early start Tuesday and reached Luebo about 6:00 P.M. that day. The Lubondai missionaries are: Mr. & Mrs. Cleveland & family; Dr. & Mrs. Cousar, Mr. & Mrs. W. J. Anderson (Dorothy Anderson), Mr. McKinnon, and Miss Uston (nurse, and I believe has a little place on that family tree of yours, or some of her relatives; she is a relative of our first missionary, Samuel Lapsley). They have a beautiful site for a station, in a densely populated territory, and the best soil for farming of any of our stations.

We found our house and belongings in fair shape. Our pigeons, naturally, not prospering greatly as we had a native to look after and feed them, but they are in good shape and all here, and we have already begun to get them straightened out, and hope to have plenty of squabs soon. We were eating them right along before we left. We get a great deal of pleasure from them, as well as profit.

Have never told you much about Mission Meeting. The most important change, as far as we are concerned, is that the Printing Office was turned over to Mr. Longenecker, editor of our native paper, the Lumu lua Bena Kasai, in order that he might give his whole time to that work; he made a study of photo engraving while at home, and expects to print lots of pictures in the native paper. He had no special work when he came back, for he was at Bibanga his last term and did not go back there, so this job fits him very well as he can give his whole time to it, and which needs a missionary's whole time. And you may be surprised to know that I am to take over the day school here at Luebo the first of the year. We are hoping to get out an educational man this coming year, a Mr. Gordon, who is ready and anxious to come. But in the meantime, I will have the school, as well as the work of Station Treasurer.

The "Lapsley" is leaving tomorrow morning, and the following are going down with it, for furlough: Mr. & Mrs. Savels, and Miss Headen, from Luebo; Mrs. Bedinger and child, as her mother is not well and who is also keeping two of Mrs. Bedinger's children at home.

I suspect you are going to be without mail from us for over a month. We failed to get a letter off before we left, on the plane that left just at that time; then we did not get a letter in on the plane that left while we were at the Lake, or rather, that left just as we got back; we had thought we would be back in time to get mail off on this last plane. We are certainly sorry for this as we don't like to miss any mail in getting a letter off to you. And especially, too, since we got such a good mail on both these last planes.

It's about time for dinner, and we have the Bedingers with us. Mr. Bedinger came to Luebo to see Mrs. Bedinger off. He is staying out here for a year or two. Mrs. Smith came to Luebo in the truck with us, and she and Mr. Bedinger will go back to Mutoto this coming week.

Trust this finds you both well, and with lots of love.

B.M.

Congo (154) Luebo, Congo 10/9/1926 [DCS]

Luebo

Oct. 9, 1926

Dear homefolks:

The Air Mail and your August 25th letter has just come. I am sorry there was such a long time between letters, but I guess that was because the plane did not come. I write you more regularly than I ever have in Congo, I think, and I am more happy than I have ever been out here also. I am raising a garden and have fine prospects so far. I don't remember if I told you what I had or not, if so I'll tell you over cause that's the most interesting thing in my life just now, unless it is making suits for Max.

As you know I suppose this is my first real garden and it has been so grand to watch the seed peep out of the ground and then grow. They tell me the insects will discourage me later, however that may be, I am enjoying them now. As I told you before, we start all the rather delicate vegetables in raised beds until they get strong enough to transplant, of which I have two large ones. One is about 4 by 8 ft, the other 3 by 6 and the rows are made the narrow way of the beds. In the large bed I have 2 rows of mustard just up, 1 row tomatoes, some have been transplanted, 1 row sweet bell peppers. I have learned to like them so much and they are also good in salads, 1 row eggplant, 2 rows mustard from which I get greens every few days, 1 row cabbage, 1 row red bell peppers, 1 row lettuce. This bed was started over a month ago and egg plants and cabbage have nearly all been transplanted to the garden. In my other bed are things planted later in order to keep things going and are duplicates mostly--with the exception of turnip greens and celery. I have between 75 and 100 cabbage plants that I hope to share with others on the station. In the garden besides the things I have mentioned, I have spinach, cucumbers, onions, okra, butter beans, & a brown bean (good in chili), black eyed peas (I planted these in order to get them green. I can't get them from the natives thus), and a very large red sweet potato. I got the start from Lubondai. There is a place we are cultivating behind our house where we have planted peas, corn, sunflowers, and a kind of native pea which are especially good for the pigeons. I do hope we can get some good out of our garden for I crave vegetables and we have had practically none except of course what we buy from the natives.

Our pigeons are doing well again and we are eating them right along. We serve them barbecued most and company seems to enjoy them. Won't you-please send me your old recipe for gingerbread and potato pie. I have been trying both these lately, but I just can't make them good like you used to.

Going on to sewing, I have made Max 7 pr. trousers and 5 waists in the past week. Don't you think I am smart? They are just real pretty, too. Do you remember the blue voile waist I had that Georgia gave me? I took that and made a beautiful little waist for Max. Now I hope you won't be angry with me and please don't tell Nettie, but I made Max a suit out of that wash silk you sent me. It was just too small across the shoulders for me and made Max such a pretty suit. It was a beautiful dress, well made, and I liked it, but that's the big disadvantage of sending dresses to me. I am surprised as many fit as do. I am just the same size now as ever. Weighed 91 1/2 yesterday and that's a good weight for me. I have a real good appetite generally.

Max is getting along real well with his whooping cough. He has lost three meals, I believe, and has had it about six weeks. He always coughs worse when it's rainy and damp. I think he must have a very light case. Is it your idea that whooping cough can't be had again even if it's a light case?

B.M. is to go to Bulape to Mission Meeting next week. I had hoped to go, too, for I certainly hate to stay alone, but as Max has whooping cough, I can't go of course. He will be gone 2 weeks and Rowena and Kemp will be on the road. I guess I'll live through it though. Jean has asked me to come up there and stay, but I think I'll stay at home to take care of things and then it's best for Max to be at home.

Later. I left Max with Rowena and went with B.M. to the village where he preaches on Sunday about 4 1/2 miles away yesterday and certainly did enjoy it. I may have told you that I sold my wheel. The man paid down part of the money, then came back and got it because he could not get the rest. He was a great big man and should not have had a ladies wheel anyway. Perhaps I'll sell it later. After a good trip like yesterday, I hate to sell, but it's so seldom I do go I hate to let it run down between times.

I was so glad to get the picture of Daddy and the Southern girls. It's good to get pictures of you folks from time to time. Isn't that little Kodak of mine still working? You could get a roll of films once in a while. It does us so much good. We have been intending to take more pictures, too, but never get it done.

I gave Sankie my Uke and am teaching her some of my old songs. I had ordered some new strings and they came last week--made me wish I had it back, but I hardly ever picked it up but what I thought of the night at our "singing" when I couldn't sing a thing and didn't even get it strung properly.

I am going to close now. B.M. isn't going to get your cheque off to you again this time. I do hope you are not needing it. I hope also you and Aunt Nennie are going to keep well this school term. Now since I have no baby to keep you awake, I should certainly love to be there.

Lovingly,

Dorothy

Congo (153) Luebo, Congo 9/21/1926 [DCS]

Luebo Sept 21, 1926

Dearest homefolks:

Things are going extra well with us of late. Max has whooping cough but so far has had a pretty light case. Every child on the station and four grown people have it. Max has had it for almost a month and while he coughs mighty hard and whoops, he has not choked and vomited his food yet. They say it lasts generally three or four months. It is certainly a distressing disease and especially for babies. Some of them are losing nearly everything they eat. I hope you won't worry about Max for it seems that most all children have it and how much better now when we are settled on a station with a doctor than when we are en route and perhaps quarantined for several months abroad. The doctor says measles is often followed by whooping cough and while I tried my best to keep him from having it, it must be very contagious. Some of the grown people seem to be having it the second time, while I understood one would not have it twice. I am inclined to believe some of them are mistaken.

Well, we have gotten in a grocery order the last few days and it's the bests one we have ever gotten. I mean more extras. The things that I enjoy most are candy (several kinds), post toasties, puffed wheat, almonds, etc. I hadn't had any pork and beans for several months and I am so fond of them. My garden is just coming up fine and being the first one I ever raised, I am "thrilled to a peanut." I visit them several times a day and imagine I can see them growing. They don't have a garden at the farm any more so we have to raise vegetables or do without.

I sold my wheel for I did not like it and it would just go bad standing around. It did not hurt me to ride, but made me nervous, and I had much rather walk. We have another car, rather a truck, on Luebo now and it won't be so hard to get around, perhaps.

Rowena and Kemp came in today after a pleasant stay at the lake. Kemp is going back to Bulape this P. M. to help Mr. Smith with the car. He has to take Miss Mclaren home. She went to Mutoto to take Nina's place while she was at the pool with Gilliams. (Nina is Miss Farmer.)

The great problem of education of missionary children which was to be brought up at Mission Meeting has for the time at least been settled by Mutoto station ladies. Miss Miller is to be matron, Mrs. Crane head teacher, a highly educated lady, and Mrs. Smith to help with teaching with Miss Edwards to teach sewing. It seems like a fine thing, but I don't think it will mean much for anyone except Mutoto station. Some say they will send their children, but knowing missionaries as I do, it's got to be proved first.

I can't even decide what I would do. I hope I shall never have to decide for myself.

Sept. 22. Your letters Aug 1st and 8th came last night after I was in bed. Was sorry to hear of Mike's death, and I know this kind of thing does make you somewhat discouraged, but you must remember Mike has always been rather a sorry fellow and marrying Tone Johnson's daughter and leaving the village was not good for him. They generally get into trouble when they leave that way. It seems to me that tuberculosis has lost its hold to some extent in the Village, for which you should be thankful, but I suppose there always will be some.

Was so glad to hear that Stella and John had bought the McKee place. I do hope they will be living there when we come back home. Oh! I know you will enjoy having Stella there--how much much better than the other folks. But I guess I should not express how glad I am that they are gone.

It seems a pity to me that you had to go back to Kerrville rather than to Abilene with the folks where you haven't been for years. I can't remember if you ever lived there or not. Of course I, am glad that folks want to hear you and of course it will be good for your work. I'd love to go with you, but I'm mighty glad I haven't your job. I read this pamphlet that was printed for Home Mission Sunday at our last ladies meeting. They all seemed to enjoy it and have read the newspaper clippings, too. That is some have. Have you duplicates of these clippings, for I fear I have lost one. The one that has Celice's picture on it. I don't see how you can be discouraged about your work when others see the grand work you are doing. All one can do is to teach them the best one can, then if they fail, it could not be your fault, but as you say, the Father's will.

The package Crane's brought will not likely reach me for 2 or 3 months. I could just cry, for I must go to work at once and make Max some clothes, suits this time. I have gotten a pattern from Marietta that fits him. I don't mind it so much for I have already made one nice suit and the start is all I needed, still to think those people went to work and made them for me and I'll not be able to use them. I'll have no trouble getting rid of them, however.

Where do Watson and Cullen live? and has Cassie any more children? Do Zinnias seed, if so send me a few in a little envelope next time you write. I mean off yours, just to see if they will come up out here.

I had a list of people for you to send pictures to. I kind of hate to ask you but I know no other way unless you send them to me and by the time they got back to them, they would be out of date terribly. Did you send a picture to the people who sent us that box? If not, please send one. I'll find the address and send it to you.

I have Nettie's baby book. I did not realize I had it.

If there are any of those people you would not send to, scratch them off and if there are others that you think would like one, by all means put them on--but please send me the number of people you sent to.

I got me some beautiful white shoes at the pool. They are high heeled and B.M. doesn't much like that but we are both pleased with them, for they are so much better than we had expected to get.

My rose voile is very becoming and I like it better the more I wear it. The dress that everyone likes best on the station and brags on every time I wear it is the white dress with ruffles that Mrs. Tucker made. Ruffles and fussy dresses are certainly my type. The very idea of my being out with you about the dresses you send. I can't get over it. Please tell me a single dress that you have made or had made for me that I have not liked.

Lots of love,

Dorothy

Congo (152) Luebo, Congo 9/5/1926 [DCS]

Luebo

Sept. 5, 1926

Dear homefolks:

Your last two letters written at Kerrville and one after your return home reached us yesterday. They were so interesting and made me long to be with you. I was so sorry to hear Daddy was not well. I can hardly remember Daddy's ever being sick. I am so glad he is not going to try to keep his other appointments this winter. I do hope he will try to take care of himself. I love my daddy more every day I live and realize what a really good man he is. Mrs. Vinson wrote a letter to Mr. Craig and said to tell me that they thought so much of you both and what charming, consecrated people you were. Well! of course I knew that before, but it's nice to have folks tell you so. I had said to B. M. when I heard the Vinsons were in Kerrville that I wondered how you would like each other, for knowing Mrs. Vinson better than you, I know she can be a snob when she wants to and can also be the most pleasant person I ever met. That runs in their family. Do you remember how the Whartons acted the year we were in Kerrville together? They had a tent very near to ours and hardly even spoke to us. They are just as nice to us now that you can be. I believe I could have been good friends to Mrs. V. if it hadn't been for Mrs. Stixrud, or if things had been as they are now. I am very sorry you didn't get to know Mr. Allen better. He is more my idea of what a real missionary should be in every respect than most any man I know out here. There is something abbut him that reminds me of daddy, perhaps it's only because he is little.

I have just mailed you a long letter, but I wanted to write you while your letters are new. I will likely get the package from Cranes tomorrow. Georgia got me a pair of white shoes at the pool that I needed badly. I was not able to get any white dress shoes at the time I left America. She says they are very pretty, but I have not seen them yet. With so

Many pretty dresses now, I had to have shoes to match. I am liking my dress we got in New York much better than I did. I got turned against it some way, one thing was I feared it was too dressy for a missionary. At the time I bought it they were not wearing sleeves and I couldn't get a thing with sleeves along the line I wanted so I bought some net and lace to match my dress and had some puff sleeves made in Brussels. It cost about $35.00. It was a georgette with pink flowers and a dark pink slip under with hooped skirts. It took on the Belgium boat, but when I got to Kinshasa at the Mission house, I wore it one evening when I was invited out to dinner and as I came through the dining room, Mrs. Stonelake exclaimed, "My word, are you going to a dance?" If you could see the way she dressed you would not be surprised that puffed net sleeves and hooped skirts would shock her. Anyway, it got my goat. I was miserable all evening and didn't wear that dress for six months, I reckon. When I did wear it again, I was back at Luebo and even Mrs. Stixrud who very seldom says anything about people's clothes said it was one of the prettiest dresses she ever saw, and Rowena thinks Lucille tried to copy it to some extent. I shortened it yesterday and it looks much better. I got lots of compliments on it last night at a dinner Marietts S. gave for the Cranes and Worths. There were about 33 there. Several from the other stations are here. Some on visit, some have come to get the ones off the Lapsley and some after their cars. There were 3 Fords, 1 Dodge, and 2 trucks (Fords) on the Lapsley for the station this time, only one for Luebo, a truck for Stegall. I let Sankie have my "Uke." It came unglued like my other one did and besides it had that big hole on the side. I will get me another, perhaps, sometime. Steg has fixed it up for her and I am going to teach her to play it.

I was glad to hear from Aunt Lutie. I wrote to her in the last mail.

The dress I got in Terrell has lasted well. It is still pretty and I wear it when the weather is cool. I never got any good out of it much until I started to Congo. I never went anywhere to wear it hardly. I am certainly going to have a good time when I get home next time. I don't mean I did not have a good time; I enjoyed being at home,but I am going to dress up and go somewhere and perhaps I won't have to leave a crying baby behind. I never held Max when I wore that dress.

Some more dresses by Washborns!! I fear I put my need as being too great, but one can hardly get too many, I suppose. I thank you more than I can tell, but I know you are spending too much of your hard-earned money on us.

I shall write to Aunt Nannie thanking her for getting the toys for me and also the trousers for B. M.

You certainly were good about writing to me while you were in Kerrville. I know how hard it is to write letters at a place like that, at least I always get so interested in having a good time I don't like to write to anyone. You must not be forgetting me very much. I hope we can be at Kerrville with you in two years.

I'll write some more in the morning when I get my things. I had the Worths and Miss Liston for dinner. Miss Liston is here for a visit and rest.

B. M. ordered Max one of the Montgomery Wards Xmas stockings in their sale catalog. It won't likely get here for this Xmas, but we will have it for next year. Did you get a catalog? We thought it was a bargain.

Love to you all,

Dorothy

Dear Folks:

Crane's things did not all get here from Bene McKima, so now the box that has my things in it must first go to Mutato by caravan, and then come back to me. Am I not having a time getting them. I almost cried for I am sure Max won't be able to wear any of his rompers. I don't mind about the dresses so much for I can wear them no matter when they come. I have enough dresses to last me until I get ready to go home, thanks to you.

Love,

Dorothy

Congo (151) Luebo, Congo 8/16/1926 [DCS]

Luebo

Sun. Aug. 16, 1926

Dearest Mother and Daddy:

It's likely by the time this reaches you Aunt Nennie will be with you again so of course she is included when I write to homefolks.

I have been waiting to write as the plane came in yesterday and I have been expecting a letter from you every minute but the mail closes at noon so I must at least begin your letter.

Max has been standing by me as I write. He has in the last few days learned to call you grandmama with the same pronunciation on the mama as when Joe used to use it for Aunt Hon. I have told him that I am writing to you and he points to me and says mama and then to the paper and says grandmama. I am longing for the time when he shall know you are more than a piece of paper. He has had measles as I believe B. M. wrote you, while Dr. Stix said it was only a very light case, it was enough to bring him down considerably, but I weighed him yesterday and he has gained it all back with a little on top. He weighs very nearly 27 1/2 and his mother weighs 91 1/2. I am feeling fine, though, and as long as I feel well I do not worry. I believe about 89 must be my normal weight for Congo.

August, as you know, is a very eventful month with us. The station celebrated our wedding anniversary by bringing over supper on the evening of the third as a surprise to us. It was certainly a grand supper and delightful affair. Everyone seemed to have a good time. After eating we played and sang and then a few tricks from different people. The music wasn't much as I guess I told you that Miss Edwards could not fix the piano and I seldom try to play only to practice a little. The notes are so badly off that I can't tell if I am hitting the right note or not.

Rowena is to have a party for Max on his birthday down at her house.

I wonder if you and Daddy painted the house. That seems like a mighty big job for you two to attempt. How is Daddy? I do hope he will take care of himself this next winter. It's so hard for him to realize that he can't do the things he used to. Does he still go to Camden and Moscow?

I am interested in Camp Ruby. There are so many people there. Have they any kind of religious services and is it likely they will be out there long? The Indians must have lost a lot on cars. It's good that they can stay at home and don't have far to go to work. I am anxious to see more Louisiana Indians come in as that would likely stop some of your troubles among the boys and girls which certainly is a terrible one.

The ladies are having a tennis court of their own made out in front of our house just across the path and I am hoping to play more. I feel that tennis is a little too hard for me to play all the time but I am going to playa good deal.

We expect the Lapsley in about two weeks so the next time I write I hope to be able to tell you how everything fits.

I am trying to get a letter off to Aunt Lutie in this mail. I have put off answering her letter so long. I am telling her that if we can't get a boat straight from Europe to Galveston we are going to go by St. Louis to Lexington for a few days. I got to thinking the other day and I am anxious to visit Lexington and see my old acquaintances there. We have heard something about a route from Europe to Galveston and if we could make any kind of connections that way and if you all could come to Galveston to meet us, it would mean a lot to us. It's a mighty long time ahead to plan but we have stayed almost half our time already.

B. M. has been appointed to go to Mission Meeting at Bulape in Oct. and I may go with him, but have not decided yet.

Must close with lots of love,

Dorothy

Congo (150) Luebo, Congo 7/25/1926 [DCS]

Luebo

July 25, 1926

Dearest homefolks:

The long looked for package came at last. When one thing happens on Luebo station everything happens at once. This has been some upset station for the past two weeks. First Petis came in from Bilanga to meet the McKees, then Gilliams and Miss Farmer. Miss Farmer is to go as far as Matadi to take care of Mrs. G.; they never expect to return to Congo. Most of us have felt all along that Mrs. G. was most too rich and high society for a missionary; however, she is really very sick and had to go home. I don't know whether I told you, but she and Mr. G. are cousins and their baby has never been any too well. He looks much better than before, though. They only stayed a day or two and caught a state boat for the pool. Dr. King who brought them from Mutoto stayed to take Miss Edwards back as that is to be her station until Mission Meeting. Then we are expecting several changes in placing of missionaries. Miss Edwards is a Dallas girl and we like her very much. She did not bring much news as she has been away from Texas almost as long as we have, and has been studying French in Belgium. She was the one we were hoping could tune the piano, but she says there are parts worn that could not be easily gotten. Her father is a piano tuner.

Next came the Lapsley and the many preparations for the wedding. I was on the committee for church decorations. The wedding was in the unfinished church and much decoration was necessary to make it possible. But next I want to tell you about the things you sent, for they reached me before the wedding.

Only the package you sent by Ankers came, to my sorrow, for I fear the rompers will never fit Max when they arrive. We hope they are coming with the Cranes who are to come up on the next trip of the Lapsley about the first of Sept, but we have heard nothing to that effect. Such is Congo! I am sure the Allens did the best they could and we do feel so sorry for Mrs. A. I understand that they still hope to return to Congo after several years.

I have reread all your old letters for several months back this A. M. to find out all you said about the things that were in this package, but find that the main letter has gotten misplaced or destroyed. I remember all the main things, I think, except the price. I believe I have written you this before, but I am so distressed, but you know I never was good on remembering the price of anything. I believe you said Miss Cassie got the old rose voile in Houston. It is a beauty, I think, and just what I wanted. I wore it to the wedding and felt so dressed up. The scarf set me off, too, for it is a beauty. I happened to have a very sore throat that morning and it was cold and damp, so it certainly did come in fine. The dress Nettie made up is a little too small, but believe me, I can't let a pretty dress like that go to waste. I took the two pieces for belts that you sent and put them around the bottom to make it longer and I had some satin ribbon that I tipped with some of the dress material, (a small crap that was sent). It looks pretty well with the band around the bottom and I have sun dresses fixed that way in the Delineator. Everyone thinks it is pretty and looks we'll on me. The tie is so pretty, and it is not noticeable that it is small across the shoulders, unless one observes closely. It is just made beautifully. It certainly is good to get new dresses every now and then. I have been so fortunate, for I got those two white dresses for the wedding when I needed them so badly and then these two new for the wedding when others came out in new clothes and I still have two more to look forward to. As far as I personally am concerned, I am glad all four dresses didn't come together so as to divide the happiness.

I am crazy about the luncheon set and am going to use it for the first time down at Rowena's tomorrow evening. She is to have everyone down there to a dinner welcoming the bride and groom back from the lake house. The dinner is to be served on small tables, four at each table, and my set is just what she needs. I may let her use my other one, also.

We made cakes up here yesterday morning. Jean came down to help us. Then yesterday afternoon, I made what they call a "Tennis Lawn Cake"--it is something like the 1-2-3-4 cake--and iced it after supper. It just came out beautifully. I wish you could have a piece for I know you would be surprised that Dorothy could do so well. B. M. is so pleased that I am trying to cook more. I sent half of it to Jean, for she is always sending us something good to eat.

The rompers were just the right size for Max and he can still grow to them some. They looked practically new to me and I am sure he will wear them for several months. I have a pattern of romper or rather, a suspender suit. It fastens over the shoulders and is worn with a jumper underneath--I can't remember what we used to call them--that suits Max so well. I make all his everyday and Sunday clothes by it. It is easy to make, too.

Georgia's wedding went off very smoothly. The day before they were married over here, they had the state wedding. They were married here at 7:30, had breakfast afterwards, composed of creamed chicken, rolls, coffee, and cake. Then Dr. Stix took them to the Bulape lake. A day or two after, they came back from the lake, Georgia got a wire telling of the death of her father. While she had been expecting this news for years, it was a great blow to her. We did not have the station supper for her planned by Rowena. She has a ham, and we are invited to help eat it tonight.

Now some good news for us. However, not very good for Mr. Priest at having to go home on account of the severe illness of his daughter's husband. His lungs were hurt during the war and is gradually dying from T. B. Mr. Priest has to go home to take care of his daughter and two small children, neither of which he has ever seen. Mr. Priest came out as we went home and is a businessman. He has been at Bibanga and I understand he only came to stay for one term and paid all his expenses. I never met him until yesterday, but got interested in him at once. He is a Texan, says he met Daddy at Kerrville and is from Austin and knows B. M.'s people there well. His grandfather was a Presbyterian preacher at Woodville forty years ago. Oh well, he is very interesting. He ate dinner with us today and is to take your beads to you. I am in a hurry, so goodbye.

Lots of love,

Dorothy

P. S. Air service is very irregular, so if you don't get letters when you think you should, that's the reason.--Dot

P. S. The "Lapsley" leaves on Friday and we are sending this down by that way, altho they expect the airplane this evening or tomorrow. As the air service is uncertain just now due to accidents, we are sending some mail down by the "Lapsley." But if the airplane comes on time, and we get mail out on that, it will reach you before this one. If your air service fails, you will then realize that there is considerable difference! There is a tremendous difference on this end.