13 February 1934, Emeryville, California

                                                                        Emeryville Cal—

                                                                        Feb. 13— 34—

Dearest Dora:—

            Gee honey I sure have waited a long time to answer your letter. I should be more prompt but I have had some bad luck lately. I haven’t been working for two weeks. The place I was at could not get a lisence to operate so we had to close. I am out some money on the deal. I have been playing piano in a place here but there isn’t much in it.

            If I had the money right now I would be in S.L. before the end of the week. I sure feel like hell— [p. 1] But it doesn’t do me any good to get down out here. Because when one does he just don’t have a chance.

            I have all my things in storage. Am staying with a friend of mine. He is OK though. I was hoping I could get an apt. so you and I could be together alone when you come down. But I have a friend lef living in Berkely. He says I can have his care and home all the time you are here. It is a swell place.

            You wanted to know how far I am from Frisco. Well honey it is just across the bay. Three miles. There are [p. 2] about twenty small towns around here. They have to put up signs to tell when you are out of one and into another. I usualy work in the towns where they have night clubs and gambeling and Dog tracks. That is the only kind of work I caught now. God only knows how I was I was out of it all. My clothes are all wearing out and I will be going hungry soon if I don’t get some new ones. But why cry? If you come down we will have a good time and find a way to get out of this mess. I just need a real pal. [p. 3] You must let me know when you will be here. Send telegram to me at 5504— Beaudry St. Emeryville Cal. If I am not here they will know where to locate me. You can still write me at El Cerrito that is where I get my mail

            Please excuse this bum letter I feel punk. I will try to get better organized for your arrival. Now my darling you do what you think best. I will do my part rite to the end. I love you dear more each day. If I can only be worthy of you. You know sweetheart

                                                                        Love & Kisses to you all

                                                                        —Daddy Bill—

xxxxxx