Schlesinger Library

W. Concord, Mass [April? 19, 1965]

Dear Dr. Miriam Thank you so much for being such a wonderful co-worker in SDD. And thank you for the three great letters in recent weeks. Though you would hardly guess it from my lapses in correspondence, you are nevertheless mentioned at all meetings of the center group and your letters shared with the men.

Francis loved bringing Mary Durak to your outing for the M D children. His wife Rita and my Nephew "Kerry" visited yesterday. Kerry is going to Fort Rix, N.J National Guard on August 23rd - 6 months basic training. It shall be his first time away from home & his mother is anxious, but he is a very sensible young man, so we really have nothing to worry about on that scale.

[Stamped]Censored by W. Concord[Stamped]

W. Concord, Mass. October 13, 1965

Dear Dr. Miriam

Great to have your letter of September 30th, then the lovely chikadee bearing your shining thoughts on October 8th. All the SDG members were delighted too. For them and for myself, I thank you.

The Muscular Dystrophy letters are addressed and waiting to be picked up, though there were not enought envelopes to accomodate the listings; about a hundred short. Since you are going to Vermont on the 17th, perhaps it would be convenient if Francis delivered the material to your house this this Saturday after the visit. You could telephone Rita if that arrangement is all right.

On the bench for Ralph, we do have a furniture shop, but the men would not be permitted to make it even if you supplied the lumber. Mr Pozerycki was very nice about it, and tried for us, but to no avail. There is no woodwork on larger objects in avocation. And Francis told me there are no benches at Gregg & Co., so we drew a blank all round. I hope you can still make out in this regard in time for Ralph's birthday anniversary.

Francis told me also that he and Rita enjoyed your MD board meeting and liked the fine people there. Of course they also enjoyed Mary Marcin's delicacies. What a wonderful, loyal aide and friend you have there. Someday I hope to test my sweet tooth on her cakes if she would not mind. I am glad you invited Francis and Rita to todays MD meeting. I am sure the children will like Rita's dancers at one of the parties.

We are a bit distressed at Howard Dearnborn's bad luck in the injury dept. In my book, his best insurance is still hard work, the same as it is for all of us in SDG. Naturally, we can now only hope he is up and about his duties real soon. Thank you for letting us know the story on his situation.

Yes, the Pope's visit to the U.N was very exciting, and his message most meaningful. It is beautiful of you to have noted the occasion so warmly. I joined those here who received Holy Communion on October 4th at a special Mass for the Pontiff's intentions. You and yours were in my thoughts together with the rest of my loved ones. Please tell Helen I love her.

Ever with love Jim Kerrigan

[writing up side] PS Best wishes and much affection from Ronald Pontin and every SDG Member