Deplorable Conditions

August 14, 1951

Dear Linda,

I sure hope you and Bobby are ok.

What we call Tent City is already full--and more people arrive every day. The early comers are the lucky ones. They have government issue tents. The rest of us have whatever we can scavenge from the garbage dump a mile away. I'm living with two other guys in a shack made out of tar people, some half rotten siding, candboard to plug the holes. Plus there aren't enough latrines, we're on short rations, and people are starting to get dysentery.

But, here's the good news! Remember the guide I told you about? The one who smuggles people into your Protection Camp? Well, he agreed to take me in! It won't be cheap but who cares?

Apparently, there's an old storm drain that can be accessed from a nearby creek--and leads straight into the camp. Once I'm inside I'll blend in, find you, and w'll be together again!

Don't tell anyone... Not even bobby. Take care hon, and I'll see you soon!

Love,

Bill