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man by June is also unfavorable because by that time I shall be right in the middle of my most valuable work here on the test course. I have practically decided to complete the test course because it broadens one's possibilities tremendously and with a Mechanical Engineering degree from college, and the GE test completed, a man may feel that his engineering training has been quite broad. In my case, I shall have a year and a quarter of regular manufacturing experience besides. With all that equipment, I ought to be qualified to go into most any branch of either mechanical or electrical work. I don't want to turn down good opportunities or get a reputation for not appreciating kindnesses. However, in the present case, the wisest course seems to be to not accept. I hope you understand how I feel about it.

[[underline]] To Mother, December 18, 1925: [[/underline]] I had a letter today from a Mr. Miller, General Manager of the Louisville Railway Company, saying that Mr. Barnes had turned my letter over to him. He explained the job as being one of maintenance work on the cars, which certainly doesn't appeal to me in the least. You know how I am constructed and must feel there is some romance in what I do. Stretch my imagination as I will, I can't conceive any romance in keeping a lot of old street cars in condition as the assistant to the Master Mechanic. Street cars and trains are kin to each other but while trains thrill me to the very core of my being, a street car never caused the faintest flutter in my heart or tiniest thrill to run down my spine. I had thought that this job might be one more of an engineering nature covering their substations and distribution system, in which case it would be more interesting, but as it is, I would never consider it. I guess my best plan is to follow the path I have laid our for myself here, and not plan to deviate from it unless something extra special should arise. ...... You've never seen me in the guise of a worker, have you. I'm a sight. Old blue shirt (dirty), old baggy torn trousers (very dirty), old torn, ripped shoes (extremely dirty), and me (also dirty). Probably you never will see me in such an outfit, which is just as well.  However, you will see me in my new hiking clothes because Willie and I are going to do some walking. If she hasn't any overshoes when she arrives, she can get some at once. I don't believe she wants to carry any more luggage than absolutely necessary. ...... You can thank the pumps for such a long letter. They made it possible.

[[underline]] To Willie, December 20, 1925: [[/underline]] I bought the two Syracuse papers today and found there is no doubt now about our engagement. In one of them they had your picture on the front page of the society section. I guess Mother will have copies saved. At any rate, I'll keep mine for you. It certainly gave me a peculiar thrill to read those notices and it is good, I think, not to have to conceal the fact from people. I am looking forward to