Name/Title
AU Harris, James Lowell - 1937-06-14 letter to Richard Lambert HarrisEntry/Object ID
1989.1.21Context
The Presbyterian Church
Glens Falls, New York
Monday morning. [14 June 1937]
Dear Dick:-
How is school going? Are you going to summer school this summer? How many more points do you need for your degree?
The past two weeks here have been very busy ones. Have made about sixty-five calls in homes, and have been planning for the fall and attending a meeting or pot-luck concoction of some kind nearly every night.
The church is so beautiful. I have been learning some of its symbolical features, inasmuch as we have quite a few tourists come through during the week and see the church. The choir here does excellent music--all the oratories, including the St. Matthew Passion. Nearly all the members are paid, some coming from Schenectady. The organist is a splendid musician. On communion Sunday the choir sang several parts of the Mass as the elements were distributed, and it was most effective.
How is mother? Did she get her teeth fixed up all right? Will she need money soon to help on the expenses? Is dad still doing the janitor work?
You'll be interested to know that I am now the owner of a 1935 model Dodge Sedan (gunmetal finish). I got it last week from a dealer who is one of the Deacons and who is very reliable. He gave me a nice price and it is almost like new. It has about 20,000 miles on it. In a few minutes I shall go out again and take another driving lesson. I have a learner's permit. The instructor says I am coming along fine and should have my license in a few days. I had hoped that I could get along for a while without a car, but it is absolutely necessary for the calling work.
My vacation begins about the middle of July. I may drive out to Ohio about that time, and be with you for a couple of weeks anyway. Then I hope you will all come back with me for a lovely trip through the Adirondacks and around Lake George. Will you be free the last two weeks in August?
I "preached" yesterday at the children's day service, outlining my plans for the year. It went better than I thought it would.
Dick, I would not read too many books on Psychology, and kindred subjects, because it is liable to make one too introspective regarding everything. They warned us about that at Union. No one is in the best of health when he is constantly feeling his own pulse. A certain amount is helpful but not too much. As to the job question--- it is quite easy to think of all the disadvantages as you see it from a distance, but once you get into a position, these things seem to be overcome by the joy you have in the work.
I hope to pay back some of the debts to you and dad this year, so dad can resign as janitor.
There is a lot of splendid youth choir material for next year. All the young people's work here is at a very low ebb, so there is plenty of opportunity for doing a big piece of work.
Have you accepted any jobs yet? Let me know all the latest news.
The man is out front with the car, so I must stop now.
Lots of love to all,
Jim
