"This is just a short note from your Anna. How we all miss you more and more! I can't return to the city until the paralysis epidemic is over, so you have the advantage over me. I suppose by the time we come back you'll know all the good Mormons in the city.
"Mr. Soffy called and asked for your address. I told him you left word that I should give it to no one. He got very red and walked out with a very angry expression. Bud also wanted to write, so I held his hand and helped spell his words. Here is his letter enclosed. Let me know how you are and if you are overcoming your great sorrow. Time will show you, dear, it was all for the best.
"Lovingly,
"Anna."
Venna smiled as she unfolded Bud's letter.
"Dear Missus Hadly:
"Wot I can't spell, yer friend will. Ashfield is so powerful lonesome since yer went. They have it yer in Utah with the Mormons and thet yer husband has tin other wives. Yer friend says taint true, so don't yer think I believe it.
"Mr. Soffy give a sermon on Delusions—I got thet word right this time for I said it over an over all week. Every one said it was sure fine. Miss Mary said it was meant ter hit yer, an I up an' told her, Mr. Soffy was dirty mean ter cast inflections on yer. Miss Mary told ma wot I said, and she up an gave me a lickin. But wen I wus sore all over, I felt a sort o satisfactory in suffrin fer won I love. I up an tole Boss Holden this, an' he says yer worth all the humiliation we can give yer.
"Write ter me to yer friend so ma won't see it.
"Yours always in emotion,