1919

I have never been in Palm Springs, Calif., but have a favorable impression of the place because Slim Huntoon lives there at 90 Desert Lake Drive. Early in the spring Slim sent me this exciting report saying: "Chad suggested that I tell you about the little group meeting we 19ers had at his home on April 2. He had called me to say that Spider Martin, who was visiting friends in nearby Rancho Santa Fe, had told him that Jack Ross was staying at a Country Club in Palm Springs and he wanted San Treat; Spiderand Bea; Jack and Doris; Spider's friends, the Hopkins; and me for lunch on the 2nd. Spider had given him a phone number which was supposed to reach Jack but it proved to be a wrong number so he gave me the name of the Country Club and I spent the following morning there trying to locate Jack without success.

"On the 2nd all of the above mentioned except the Rosses were present and we had the usual good talkfest. After Peggy's delicious luncheon which was served on the terrace overlooking the valley and orchard we took a tour of the gardens where orchids, camellias, gardenias, and many other beautiful flowers were in full bloom.

"One bit of interesting information came from San Treat who announced that he is going to marry in the near future a lady he has known for many years. He is selling his home here and will live back east.

"It was a beautiful sunny day and the drive from Palm Springs to Del Mar was a very pleasant one. These get-togethers are most enjoyable and Peggy and Chad are most delightful people to be with. They are perfect hosts and their home is a Fitting background for their activities. I am sending this via Chad so he may add any comment he may wish to make. Pictures should reach you in due time."

The following message completes my Southern California news: "Slim Huntoon was so good as to follow my suggestion that he report to you about our get-together for the Spider Martins. It is enclosed. Glossy prints will be forthcoming. We hope Harriet and you are well and that the snow has disappeared. As of the moment we are having rain. Corn is just coming up in the garden. On June 5 we leave for about a month in Alaska. Fly to Vancouver and then boat thru the Inside Passage. Our best to you both. Chaddie."

On April 9, 1975 Wilson Neely '78, Gene Neely's grandson, sent me this encouraging report: "It's been a while since we last corresponded but I wanted you to know that, thanks to your help, my project of getting information aboout my grandfather is coming along nicely. I've received letters and/or memorabilia from Robert Lewis, Edward Martin, John Ross,Dick Werfelman and Robert Freedberg, on behalf of his father Morris. This material has been a tremendous help. I'm still working on the scrap book which will hopefully be completed by June 1."

Sometime in the late winter or early spring Spider Martin and Nock Wallis attended an outstanding citizen luncheon honoring H. JAMESSTONE. I don't have all the many details surrounding this unusual event but it seems clear that it is an historic honor of supreme importance. The Award is sponsored by the Old Colony Council, Inc. Boy Scouts of America. By referring to a Smoke Signal dated February 5, 1964 (over 11 years ago) I was reminded that Jim has had a long time interest in scouting. Eleven years ago he was (1) vice chairman of the New England Boy Scouts of America, and (2) past president of Squanto Council of Boy Scouts, serving towns in Plymouth County and adjacent communities. Eleven years ago Jim had many other interests and honors but space limitations precludes listing them here.

I acknowledge with gratitude and deep personal pleasure a message from (Helen B.) Mrs.Nathaniel E. Merrell of Lowville, N.Y. MarionRand sent me a gracious letter acknowledging a small gift to the fund in memory of George. As of April 17 Louise and Briard Greeley were planning to go to Florida. For a few days they were to visit old friends on the East Coast and then over to Treasure Island for about three weeks. Bri has been going to this popular Florida hideout since 1956. Mose and Florence Robinson sent me a cheerful message while I was a patient for a few days at the Sharon Hospital having a pacemaker installed. It is working with perfect regularity and already I am feeling several years younger. Constance Levy sent me early spring greetings dated April 12, 1975. She is still living at The St. Regis, sth Avenue & 55th St., New York City.

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