1931

Now that winter is really upon us I find a trickle of correspondence coming in from faithful classmates who feel sorry for my plight. Al Bucher sent two snapshots of the bells of Baker Library sitting on the ground before being hoisted to the tower. I believe'this was in 1928, but maybe in 1929. If I remember correctly, old Butterfield Hall had to be removed in 1927 before the library construction could begin. Perhaps someone can shed some light on this.

I quote from Smokey Joe Adams's recent letter: "Not much excitement here - but time goes too damn fast! Reiko, bless her, takes very good care of me - attentive and completely loyal. I spend my days propped up in bed, reading Conan Doyle and Kipling, or writing to guys like you and Beany Thorn. Had phone calls from my brother and my daughters at Christmas." Japan may be half way around the world from here, but the telephone gets there just the same.

Ruth and Fred Slaughter sent a Christmas card which should qualify for the "Card of the Year." Very clever and most tasteful. Ruth and Fred are doing a little globe-hopping right now - Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, then home by freighter through the Panama Canal. My, my.

A note from Ed Gruen tells about his visit to Costa Rica in 1963. He says: "I had gone for quite an inoffensive purpose - teaching economic data processing in a seminario at the university. On arrival I found that I had four days instead of the originally planned ten days, in order for the Secret Service to "secure" the university for President Kennedy's appearance. Then Irazu erupted for the first time in 40 years!" I hope Irazu stays cool long enough for Bill and Patsy Walsh to get back safely, not to mention the impending six-week visit by Trudy and myself.

At this time of year and at these sub-zero temperatures it is a great comfort to sit by a warm and friendly wood stove and watch the creosote slowly trickly down the chimney wall onto the kitchen floor. Man, that's really living!

This vintage snapshot, taken by Al Bucher '31 in 1927 or 1928, shows the bells of the Baker Tower carillon at ground level prior to being hoisted to the perch they have occupied ever since.

R.F.D. Box 33 Chebeague Island, Me. 04017