Roger Yancey tells his mother about his life in Newark, New Jersey. He reminisces about the legacy of his father, Benjamin Franklin Yancey.
My dear Mother,
Really, I have been so very busy these few days past that I have not had time to write. There too, it is so hot here in Newark, and the heat, you know, takes all the starch out of me.
I trust that you are well and getting along nicely. As for myself, I am tired. I feel that I need a rest. I do not keep late hours, yet I am sluggish physically and I am also tired mentally.
[page two]How is Mae [May]? Well, I trust that her eye is better now. Mother, please let me know whether you will go to Bayhead Sunday? If you do I have promised Dennis and Shearer that I would go to the Seashore with them. I will run up to see you Saturday or Monday.
I am writing to Aunt Joe also.
Give my best regards to all. Many thanks for doing up my shirts so nicely.
Adele is well and sends love. Her sister [Lou?] went to Norfolk, Conn. [Connecticut] Saturday. She has not returned yet as I know.
Hoping to see you soon.
Love to all.
Your son
Postscript: N.B. Remember, Father died just 13 yrs. ago tomorrow (July 19, 1915). It doesn't seem that long. Time flies. I cherish his memory tho [though]. Incidentally, I saw Rev. Clifford Fortune Sunday. He spoke well of Father, as did every one who knew him. Father's death was a great loss to us, his children, and to the Community, but to you it was a greater loss. It deprived you of his support and companionship. Thrown on your own resources by his passing only served to bring forth those womanly qualities that have so indelibly stamped you in my memory. You are responsible for the success I have thus far attained. I love you for it. Father possessed them too. So I reverence[?].