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page 2. December 21, 1938

to Mrs. Hammond, of Mrs. Catlin rather than of her mother because you could also introduce yourself to Mrs. Catlin as a friend of Francesca (I think I have met her but she would not remember me).

On the other hand, if you do want to write to Mrs. Hammond, her address is "Bonnymede", Channel Drive, Santa Barbara. I may be able to secure Mr. Catlin's first name before this letter goes to you and, if so, I will add it as a postscript.

I imagine that any pictures owned by the Hammonds were bought many years ago and I believe that Esther Catlin is a husky "tweeds and weeds" sort of person who fancies herself in straitened circumstances if she is obliged to live on the income of her income rather than on the income of the income of her income. You know what I mean - the way poor Forbeses have to struggle along. 

I was interested to hear that you had seen Walter. We have not had a line from him since he left here three weeks ago, although he has had several long distant conversations with various members of the Exposition Committee. He is spending Christmas in Detroit with his wife's family. Katherine left for the East yesterday.

I am sure that the Exposition is going to be a brilliant affair, so far as Walter's section is concerned. He has done a great piece of work and deserves a great deal more credit for it than he has so far received in the public press.  

Both Francesca and I would be so happy if you and Helen could come to San Francisco during the Fair and I hope that you will make a real effort to do so.

The Howe triad sends you both their combined affection and all good wishes for a very merry Christmas.
As ever - 
Always yours,
Tom
Thomas C. Howe, Jr.

Mr. Robert M. Levy,
Jacques Seligmann & Co., Inc.
5 East 51st Street
New York City, N.Y.

P.S. Robert M. Catlin, Jr. is the name.