Feels like Doomsday but it's only Friday, Nov. 26/ 43

Dear Shirley,

Your letter was gratefully received s' afternoon - not just because it was from you, but also because I haven't had any letters for weeks and felt sort of neglected. You know the feeling or don't you? Your fan mail tapers off etc. and things are tuff. See what I mean, oh well it doesn't matter anyway. Still, considering I got a page letter from you when I only wrote two lines - what should I expect by writing a page or two? Something the size of Anthony Adverse I expect. Good book, ever read it? No, nor did I.

Oh, by the way, what I'm really writing about is to tell you I accept your acceptance of my invitation to the Links. I think I've told you about it before but just though I'd drop you a line to remind you and book you up good an early, get in at the head of the queue, that's my motto.

Any interesting details that I pick up about the affair between now and then, I shall communicate to you immediately, of course.

You said you were too, too, delighted to accept. (Does that mean yes or no? I presumed yes)

As I was saying, excuse me, do you mind if I start another sheet of paper as I've come to the end of the page, and I do hate writing on the bare table as it's bad for the pen. Thank you. So that's all fixed up. Great organiser, aren't I? Surprise myself sometimes.

Further on in your letter you embarrass me with your kindness (which, according to a wise but bearded prophet, is exceeded only by the length of your nose) by inviting my humble personage to partake of your well known Sunday mid-day repasts. This is a most attractive invitation and is clouded only by your remark in brackets, "wish I hadn't asked!". This remark has put me in a quadrangle, I mean quandary. I think probably you were joking. Pulling my leg thinks I.

Well, the truth is, I should love to accept but fear I cannot do so as I have an exam next day which must, I'm afraid, be prepared for. I have done some studying for it but feel I must just polish up on some things on Sunday. So it is with regret and a watering moth that I must humbly decline. I know if I once go out on Sunday, I'll never get back to do any work.

Well, Shirley, hope life is treating you well and often. By all reports you till seem to be taking in the odd dance, etc. (Maybe you'll start improving soon! No offence!) Must close. You might drop me a line once in a while during the next 2 weeks as I shall be plodding thru exams and need cheering up! So, I'll say Buena noches for now.

Love Hugh

P.S. If you can't read this letter don't believe a word of it. Dave.