hat I may write
them to you, in the consciousness that they mean all that the words
"dear friend" imply, is a greater happiness than I dared hope for. I
have been in "Lunnon" with you for the past two weeks. That means, I
have been allowing myself the daily luxury of thinking of you, and
now the rare one of writing.

I presume you are wondering if I have been to the bungaloo since your
departure. No, sir! My promise will hold good. In the past I have
formed good resolutions, not one but many. Most of them died in their
infancy; others lived long enough to make me unhappy. This time,
though, circumstances are different, and I sincerely hope that
confidence placed in me will not have been wasted.

Number One, did you ever have the blues--real, dark, deep indigo,
bluey blues? I do frequently, and the cause I attribute to my ear.
There is a continual buzzing, with short, shooting pains; and the
doctors have informed me there is no cure. I receive a syringe of
twenty-five per cent. alcohol daily, that gives relief for the time
being. Well, Thanksgiving is near at hand; so I ought to be thankful
that my other ear is not performing like a motor in need of oil.
Believe me, I am.

Mr. Peacock called Sunday (8th) and we had an agreeable talk. He
seemed a very pleasant gentleman, and warned me to walk a chalk line,
so you see I dare not go to jail. As you once upon a time were in
prison, to a certain extent, you realize what pleasures a visit
brings. I appreciate yours, Mr. P.'s, and Mr. Rattigan's kindness
very much.

* * * * *

I know all the boys would wish to be remembered if they knew I were
writing. I didn't tell them for that would mean fifty sheets of
paper, and I hadn't the nerve to ask Mr. R. for that. But I will say
this: that we all want to hear, see, and talk to our own Tom Brown,
even if he is an ex-convict. Don't let our English cousins keep you
over there too long.

Wishing you the best of everything, I am, anxiously awaiting a
letter, your Jail Friend Number Two--or

EDWARD R. DAVIS, No. 32--.

Is it merely prejudice that makes me think that letter an exceptionally
charming one? Has that boy no good in him worth developing?

These letters are enough, I believe, to prove my point. I could give many
mor