725 Michigan Avenue, Pasadena, California. April 28th, 1934. Mr. T. C. Abbott, 3 Deuce Ranch, Gilt Edge, Montana. Dear Friends: I was delighted to get your letter of March 28th. It is always such a joy to hear from old timers because it takes me back to Montana and the happy, care free times Charlie and I had together. I know exactly what you mean when you say you sit, smoke and dream of times past and I am like all the rest of the people who say to you to keep on writing. Some of the good true hap- penings will eventually get to the public. I wish you were some place where you would have encouragement in selling things so that you would write a lot. Do you ever see Johnnie Rich? I haven’t heard from him for a year I guess. He has some fine poems but I don’t believe he has been able to do a great deal with them. You may remember hearing of Powder River Jack and Kitty Lee, his wife. They have been here in California this winter and I have seen them several times. He sings the old time cowboy songs and has the longing to leave the impression of the old time cowboy songs. He sings some things I have heard Charlie sing and people like his songs. He said he went out with cattle from Texas but I can’t remember what outfit he was with. He doesn’t claim to be an old timer like you, however. The world has wagged along pretty nicely with me. Jack is in school, not setting the place on fire but getting along fairly well. He is not causing me any trouble but I would be happier if he would work harder. He is all tied up and wrapped up in electricity and the things he can do with it. I am hoping he will discover the thing that will help him decide what his life’s work is to be soon so as to prepare for it while I am here. If it is possible when I go North this summer to go over into the Judith country, I would like very much to see you all again. The Rogers are such busy folks that I have not seen them this year. You know I live about sixty miles from them. We talk over the ‘phone occasionally. At the T.C. Abbott -2- present Mary is in New York and Bill and Betty are in the northern part of California. I am glad you did not sell your letter for $45.00. I am writing to a man in New York who may be interested in it. If he is, I am sure he will pay you fairly for it. Of course the letter must be in perfect condition. Keep it out straight and if I do have you send it to me, don’t fold it and don’t send it until I let you know. I will let you know just as soon as I hear from my letter. My very best wishes to you and yours. Sincerely,
[Transcribed by Lauren B. Gerfen, 2012-12-20]