Dear Dad,
Aug 14, 1944 (This date appears wrong 1943?)

It has been several days since I have heard from you or Justine (my mother) or Rena (his sister.) The irregularity of the mail is disappointing.  There is not much to say.  Everything is about the same.  The war news is our chief interest, I would say, and it certainly looks good.  I know it means much to you also and that you give it considerable attention as you mention it so frequently in you letters.

One of the most picturesque walks near here in along an old canal which is no longer used for freight transport.  It winds along the side of the valley, thru fields and groves and under old stone bridges are a pleasure to draw.  Many young people , including soldiers, hire graceful easy rowing boats and row up and down this old waterway.  It must be much older than the old Erie (canal), from what I am told.

Wasn’t it odd that I should meet someone knowing of Aunt Harriett  and who remembered having seen her at the Rose Society convention in Washington a few years ago (?)  I am surprised to see so many tree roses around here.- also to find rambler roses still blooming in August.  It must be due to the climate.  The roses look better than most backyard roses seen in the states.

With lots of love to you all  – Carl