.MTQyNQ.MTIzMDIy
June 7, 1944
Dear reverend C. It may be a hellish thing to do, but I have taken to making my friends a target for my typing practice. Like Hamlets father I find ye letters leaving the military world with all its errors on its noggin. The main temperature here is usually too high but in spite of my many afflictions I am writing to thank you for the flatteringly-inscribed "anthology" and to assure you I will enjoy it as sooon as I finish "famine" which I am now reading. I should be reading "Clausewitz" but I prefer Oflaherty. Some time ago I sendt (sic) the recverend (sic) Burrell 2 American dollars with which to buy some root-beer and to call on you for a "quiet time" in my memory preparatory to Burrell taking the pledge again for life. I must grant that the odds against the reverend at this time are rather high ut if the miracle does occur and the great light shines on the prodigal of Oakland then you and I can each take credit for 50 percent of a miracle. It is only real fair to the grateful taxpayers to tell them if they inquire that Pvt. D is still sober and still a long way fron (sic) big time as soldier. Maybe I will become more furious and efficient after a year of this existence. the 13th of this month I will be 37 and 7 months in the Army. June 10th will be 20 months in AA (Schism). Do write, Jack, and tell me your score in your endeavors - Christian and otherwise. I trust you are still the only guy on 39th street who doesnt (sic) frequent such spots as "Ma and Pas". Please give myj (sic) love to all the Conroys - and to Mary by phoning her and telling her to keep the Faith and practice the 12 steps. How goes your book on Negro Migratiom (sic)? I mustown (sic) a copy when it comes out and I will pay forit (sic) but the autograph will be on the house. Thanks again, Jack. Fraternally, Joseph "Cokey" Diggles P.S. Mary's phone is Chesapeake 1475. She is thinking of attending the UofC in the fall - and I'd thank you for encouraging her to do so. I'm doing the same - and 2 Revs are better than one! - JCO.