Dear godfather, it is very droll the fashion you do to make silver
in Amerique! But it is very dangerous, and never in Paris we do like
that. I see in my book of images English how the terrible Red-skins
scalp the enemy, "skin 'em alive," like you say, and I see the image
of the chef. He have long hairs black, with plumes red and green;
and chains brilliant suspended, and he carry in the middle one little
apron of fur; and he have not knowledge of the bon Dieu. It is call:
"trading with the Indians." Oh please, dear godfather, do not for me
trading with the Indians! I will permit not that you risk to be skin
alive. I make the promise like you say, and I make like you the sign
of cross, but I hope not to die if I squeal; I cry not very often, but
sometimes, and my poor Maman will be to much desolated if I die.

Goodbye dear godfather; believe at my sentiments the more affectuous,

Your godchild,
A. Leblanc.

[10] Sleep on two ears (_dormir sur les deux oreilles_)
to sleep like a top.

To Mr. James P. Jackson Jr.

Dear Sir:

I am much interested in the account of your correspondence with your
French godchild, and I would advise you not to be discouraged if he
does not seem, in every way, to be living up to your expectations. You
must remember that these fatherless children have suffered more deeply
and more courageously than you can possibly imagine. If his letters
sound rather effeminate I hope you will in time realize that it is
merely a difference of language and convention that gives you that
impression. The French are a very affectionate and demonstrative
people. You know that even their "Papa Joffre" kisses his brave
soldiers on both cheeks when he decorates them.

You are doing splendid work for a boy of your age, and I hope you will
not let small prejudices get in your way. Remember you are unusually
fortunate to have a child who can write in English.

With my best wishes and congratulations, I remain cordially yours,

Secretary for the Junior Committee
of the Fatherless Children of France.

Greenville Falls, N.Y.
Feb. 3, 1917.

Deer godchild

How are you? Say will you do me a faver and cut out kissin me with the
bottom of your heart? If you think you ot to do it you can kiss me
on both cheeks if that is the custim I guess I can stand it but I had
ruther you did not kiss me at all if it is the same to you as we shake
hands in America. Say that missis Yankit is some woman beleeve me