.MTQyNg.MTIzMjI4

12/15/79 Dear Jack Thanks for your card and note. I had been browsing thru Joe's favorite book, ' The Decline of the West" and came across the enclosed by the late Hoke Norris. I knew I would write you anyway, to inform you of my retirement. Frank Walsh helped me write this - did most of it, naturally - and I've had fun with it for a large number of people didn't understand it.

   I saw Stephen Wade last July at the start of his electrifying career.  I don't know how he keeps his freshness night after night.  He mentioned you when starting his Fast Sooner Hound story and a man beside me - who later identified himself as a teacher  & a Conroy admirer - started to clap.  I'm glad you get royalties - I wish you could come in person to see him.  Maybe you'll be up to autograph your 'Reader'?  Let me know.   Love to Gladys - these sound like tough days for you