11:15 PM Sunday evening
My dear, dear Patricia:
It’s been an hour, more or less now, since your phone calls brought a fittingly happy culmination to my day. The members of the Williams family are all abed for the night and I’m in “my” bedroom (really Lindy’s) for whatever study, outlining, etc. I do to complete “my day.” And, since I tend to go a bit stale after many hours of outlining, I am taking time out to write you a joyously appreciative note. For you have brought me much joy of late and are entitled to hear about it!
Dinner and conversation with you last week made me especially happy. To have you say – spontaneously – “Some one of these days, you and I are going to have to break out & go to a movie again” – and for you to propose that sometime soon we have a breakfast together at the Pancake House made me feel more strongly than anything else that has happened that I really have a place in your life & thoughts! I could have shouted for joy then and there but I’m afraid I would have startled you. Also, to have you tell me that I needn’t say anything about not taking more of your time when I come to close (or we do) a phone call, is almost equally joyous. People don’t say such things to one about whom they do not care. So you see, you have moved our relationship of father-daughter out of a still somewhat formal state into a state of sheer friendly companionship. I know, of course, that you consistently have acted as a companion to me as much as anything, but now a new measure of warmth has been added – and that strips away any last feeling I have had of a need for formal reserve. Not that I shall not lose my bearings – far from it, but I shall feel easier and happier than ever before in your companionship.
Incidentally – you should see the kittens now, Swischen(?) and the yellow one. They have completely lost their languidness & attitude of mistrust and are as playful as kittens ever get to be. When I was out to visit Doris & the “kids” last week – and the yellow kitten was lying down up in a high chair, Swischen (?) leaped clean up & landed plump on top – in sheer playfulness. Also they have their appetite back in full force.
Also, incidentally, I took the time a couple of nights ago to read a couple of chapters in the book Western Civilization, beginning with the fall of the Roman Empire. It’s fascinating and I found myself wishing that I might study it with you. You know, I’ve never had any history course in this area except my now ancient H.S. “Ancient & Medieval History” and what I’ve read in snatches & essays, etc. since then.
Well, darling – I could write another sheet or two – there never seems to be any shortage of ideas to share with you, but this will have to do for now. It’s given me my excuse & my chance to be appreciative. See you in class – Love – Carl.
Dr. Carl Duncan and Patricia Whiting Collection (SJSU)
