Continuation of Roy Lundquist's Letters (Part 2)
Born: 23 Sep 1902 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah
Died: 27 Sep 1965
(Photo at end of Letter 11)
Letters while on his mission: Part 2
(Letters 6-11, January 18, 1923, to May 14, 1923)
Roy served in the German-Swiss Mission from 1922-1924. Excerpts are from his letters, mostly to his sister Ruby Grace Lundquist. Letters are unedited and selected according to universal interest. Some items of personal interest are not included. Letters 1 through 5 (November 7, 1922-January 3, 1923) and Roy's biography are found at Roy Emanuel Lundquist. Reference is frequently made to another sister, Elsie Gladys Lundquist (McNabb Saye).
6. January 18, 1923, Königsberg
Königsberg i/Pr. - Jan 18 - 1923
Dearest Ruby,
Only too glad I was to get your letter day before yesterday. This morning is the first opportunity I dare take to answer. Dont you see that our time is not ours but our works' and therefore just now and then we can slip in a minute or so for writing. You know as well as you live that I like to write letters and furthermore that I'll write everyone and every time that the opportunity affords. So again, dont think harsh things when even a week separates a receipt of your letters and the answer. You must do as I do and exercise an awfully lot of patience with the mail. Do you know that for thirteen days I waited without so much as a card from anywhere! The other fellows get just lots of mail; I rate very little. But that doesn't matter just so long as I get enough to keep the spirit up. I know just what your thinking right now. - "Well darn him!" Ruby, you to date have signed five letters, Elsie two and Dad one, Sarah four Alva two and that's the sum total which spread over nearly three months away doesnt average very high compared with what I have written, not to you alone but to all. I addressed thirty two letters to U.S. up to a week ago, most of them before New Years. Dont you see that I am writing more than all my friends put together? and when even all those letters are distributed to quite a few over a period of three months it would seem that I am not writing them each one often enough. But think of the amount of work it places on me. It's just like a central at the telephone office, it takes her all her times answering hundreds of calls which mean only a moment on the line for the calling party. Cant you see the concentration I am working under and if you do then do get mad or say darn him because he doesnt write oftener and more completely. If I could type, it would be better but you know how long it takes to write a letter in longhand. I dare not let a letter get away that isn't a credit to the education I have received. Sometimes my letters arent a bit good reading matter and sometimes they are, because I feel right and think right. Good letter writing is one asset and I am trying to accumulate assets. But too much letter writing is further a damper on missionary spirit and diverts precious time from duty to pleasure. Duty holds us to our mission first and when letter writing interferes with missionary work then the letters must be neglected. Christ himself clears the situation: When reprimanded by his mother for not having met them to go back home to Nazareth and was found among the Wise Men in the temple he said "Wist ye not that I be about my Father's business." would it be too strong an example to use in my case? Please then, do not be impatient with me; I am doing the best I know how. You folks at home have more to console you than I have - you have all your friends, your amusements, your comforts; I have more than you in a different way but it's hard to get used to and means study and time, hence letters must take a back seat and await their turn. You may do likewise, I appreciate every single word from home but I only say write when you can, I do not begrudge a long pause.
I hope all that has been understood, I mean well and you know it.
Surely Christmas must have been fine at home with so much snow as two feet; it even covered Dick's Christmas tree! (1 ˝ ft.) how did he ever find it? I mean to write Dick at my first opportunity but tell him to be patient as well - Rome wasnt built overnight. - neither is this deutsche sprache acquired in an evening.
You should have by now received plenty of "answers to your letters" and besides not having "to write to the four winds." That's was not a very good compliment. I havent enought wind to blow my own horn that Mrs. Hall gave me.
I am thanking you for the paper for my loose-leaf book - it hasnt arrived of course - neither has that Christmas box but I entertain a mountain of faith and hopes for both.
Ruby, we are laboring under a stress of uncertainty here. War may break out any time and the people wont be interested in religion. Do not worry because all will be well though we probably may have to leave the country. Nothing is definite to date. You probably will gain thru newspapers the events before I can tell them thru mail. Again, dont worry!
I return all the greetings you sent and I extend them to all whom I ever knew at home. Everything is well and progressing,
[Written in the margins: "The letter I received you wrote at KOB." and "I was very, very glad for the news of Ivan." Ivan is his brother.]
A rich bit of love Roy
7. January 26, 1923, Königsberg
Königsberg i/Pr
January 26 -
Starting now this is LETTER NO. ONE. number yours as well -
Dear Ruby,
Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh!
Omigosh - Omigosh - Omigosh - Omgosh!
I had a wonderful dream just the other day. I imagined the mail man came with notice of a parcel at the Post Office! Needless to say I got all bet up and rushed to the spot! I dreamed they handed me an immense box the weight of which nearly put me down getting it to our abode. Then came the surprise - who - what - how? Man-O-Man - Tacks - aching fingers - guesses - then reality! I just gasped - I pinched myself and lo! and behold it was a real Humbug - and cake and pudding! and two actual 'onest to goodness apples as big as a house! - nuts - tin boxes - views of S.L. and my photograph snaps! - Really - it was too much - I expected more. Well, I've had my iron - tasted the new Wrigley brand of gum and everything and still got ooddles left. The cake was wonderful - it took the prize of Chrsitmas articles so far sent to this conference. It was matchless - unduplicable! Anyway I'm still dreamin' aint I! Truly I cant believe I have awakened - yet - but I'm still enjoying my mouth - latee Xmas so I must be awake. The dream was a day dream and is lasting for days - Yea, it will last for centuries because I shall never forget what a marvelous box of thoughtfulness and ingenuity came on January 23 - 1923.
Ruby, each moment I realize the work it took to compose such a lot of good things - The pictures promise me many a pleasant evening with these people and fond memories for myself. Those big, fine street cars shown in front of the Orpheum just thrill a person after he has seen them at home and ridden in them and must then compare them to those dinky affairs in German. - The humor articles raise my stock away above par in Königsberg missionary circles. I am the first lucky one to get a "Humbug." Everything came thru fine and I want to try to express in words my sincerest thanks and appreciation for your trouble and regard, and sacrifice. Oh! words dont satisfy the occasion - Here's a big mmm-hug - and a magnetic - um - kiss! I could squeeze the life out of ya and Elsie and Dad, etc. - Roy Boy ainta goina forget the folks at home very readily - Again - a bow - a kiss - and I thank you!
Today we have had just an inspiring missionary conference meeting. The spirit manifest just thrills you even to the point of one fellow just breaking down in tears. It is certainly the one means of salvation these testimony meetings; they restore life and present new methods. All is well here - the language goes fair but slowly -winter fails to take much of a hold here and the work progresses in reasonable weather. This is all I will have time for - love and thoughts to all know that I remember you in my prayers.
Roy
[In the margin: "It's been 'ten' days since I rec'd mail
from you folks - Your letter of the 16th I answered in the 18th."]
8. January 29, 1923, Königsberg
Königsberg i/pr
|January 29 -'23
Dearest Ruby,
Right off the reel I want to say something to you as I finish reading your letter of the 7th. It is: PLEASE REFRAIN FROM APOLOGY!, at least where it is not needed. Ruby dear we must not apologize for what we try our best to do; that is a poor form of repentance. True repentance is a secret conviction of failing or weakness or even sin which is forgiven us when by our WORKS we correct the difficulty. An effort to better things can be recognized and commended without any excuse to justify previous action. Real friends judge us by what we are doing and not by what we may have done or didn't do. Our past recommends our present but the present must justify the past by improvement. Progression merits admiration; we need not defend what we do or did with apology. Just so we are not here to excuse Mormonism, rather we come "to show our faith by our works," to prove our message by our living it, even as Christ.
Applying the foregoing lecture to your letter I begin with what you ended with "please appreciate this effort - and forgive everything." Well, I must say I forgive everything but the last part of that quotation. It sounds so much like our matchless family jewel Ruby who has ever worked her finger ends off to help others and then timidly excused herself for not doing more. Oh that we would learn to live appreciation. (I am starting now to economize [on paper] so turn over)
You wished for material and ability to write letters - "even as your brother!" Why don't you wish for something worth while, while you are wishing - your aims are lower than your already realized position; you aim down not up. You have above all things unselfishmess and sincerity and believe me you lack not words nor structure. Yet you excuse your efforts; previous letters carried this impression stronger than your last ; at home I remember you used to become discouraged with apologetic imaginations. Do you remember I was that way too, some evenings at least? Yet now I would love to talk with you; I assure you they should not be aught but building, uplifting conversations. Truly I have developed as you must develop a nerve which carries us over these times of depressed spirits; a nerve whose quality is made up of patience, and hope. Optimism is today the world's salvation preserved by love of which the normal attitude is patience, long suffering. Are we exercising enough intolerance for our fellows? Jesus in the crisis of his agony said "forgive them Father for they know not what they do!" - Mebbe I am wandering from my theme but doesn't this show a relation to it when I say that we can all have just a little more patience with ourselves without crushing enthusiasm by apologizing for past and especially present and future action. Ruby, ol' thing, dont resent my treatise it is meant for me more than you but I talk to you so that I wont be talking diretly to myself and taken for an "unfurnished" dwelling for intelligence. Nearly are my criticisms profit me more than the one I criticise because I need them most.
Remember then that we are not to remind each other (or anyone else for that matter), of our weaknesses; that apology breeds a shaky trust of ones self, and hence eats out the root of confidence. All is well - class is out!
I am truly grateful for the million and seven things that keep you busy in my behalf. I pray that all will be well. Sometimes I really wonder if you havent too much weight on your feminine shoulders; can it be that you are happy? Oh, how I look forward to when I can relieve you of what you carry for me - if you could know how it hurts me to feel that I am dependent upon a sister to hold up the ends that Dad had to drop. Ruby, it just makes me sick, because I think I am become a grievance. Just because I must ask for two or three years credit on my life, thru the church requiring my efforts then I become an inconvenience to my people. Where is justice - what is compensation? I feel proud of the sister who will always take one more task cheerfully - Mother's life was made short from overburdened willingness - Ruby, is your lot too big?
This month I have received books that I ordered from the Liverpool office. They are just dandy works and furnish me with a surprisingly high flow of knowledge and inspiration. I had to buy an english Bible, "Gospel Doctrine," "Essentials of Church History," "Jesus the Christ," "The Vitality of Mormonism" as well as german copies of the Standard works of the Church; i.e., D & C. - Pearl of G. Pr. B of M "articles of Faith" in english and german; and all these come to a figure near $15.00. Towels, pajamas, a morning robe and more handkerchiefs and a raise of our board from 6 to 8 dollars in four weeks all go to make my bill for this month amount to a surprisingly gross sum. Agitation against foreigners makes it so that we get "stuck" on a lot of things we buy, necessities even, and hence it isnt so easy to live here as you think. In Berlin the boys are having quite a time getting along on less than 30 and even 40 dollars. Some fellows out in the small "bergs" living with saints can pull through very reasonably, but here in Königsberg things are quite high. Happily I am completely stocked with necessities and can hold expense to quite a low figure for next month and following periods. It will hit around $15.00, no less in the future. Last month, January, came to $46.50 - Our room rent raised on us to help me justify the amount further. Things are not the snap that they appeared on first thought. Nearly everyone's bill went sky-high this month because the dollar went up and they bought heavy - I didnt dare compete with them.
From now on I entertain no intentions of buying anything to take or send home and I wish you would refrain from sending expensive remembrances. Your Christmas box cost a revenue toll of over a dollar and a half to go thru Switzerland besides your postage to there and forwarded from there. Then figure the cost of the contents, and the value received to a less appreciative person than I would make things about equal. Everything was wonderful but a little parcel costs less and is appreciated equally as much. Ruby, try to understand that I mean to help you to help me.
My funds will be low when you receive this so kindly send me an allowance if I merit it. You can suit yourself as to method. Send either a draft not less than fifty dollars to Basil to be deposited to my credit or send ten dollar bills by registered mail direct to me. Either way is quite safe and both methods are being used by various missionaries. But action is the next requisite! Thank you!
Keep up the old spirit and encourage Elsie and George in everyhing that's good.
Duty on articles is really to be disregarded if you wish certain things of value at a low price over here. Permission can be had to send them direct through or being carried by a person he is allowed so much without duty. Things are possible when you see your way clear to spare the coin so dont allow any fond hopes to dwindle.
Missionarily speaking all is well - the work goes on and we are everyone happy. We are not living in "luxury" but we are living.
The pictures you mention I shall send home in films which can be printed at home very much better than here. You can look for a registered letter of films soon - there arent many but they're good.
The reams of paper arent yet here though I expect them soon. The reason I required them from home is that such a quality of paper and such a style of lives cannot be secured here and as my chief purpose is to use my loose-leaf as a journal you can see that such paper is necessary. The cost is greater but the convenience and satisfaction is worth more. Then I want to preserve my notes on the gospel which I am studying systematically. Do you appreciate why now I asked for the paper? Paper is very cheap here but you get good paper only in stationery - a tablet of this paper costs for 50 sheets about 5˘ - not bad?!
I am finding it hard to write something new each time. There are plenty of things to write but they require their particular time and I use that ordinarily for my journal. I am trying to make that as good as I can and then it is hard to repeat a thought, not hard but monotonous, to me, at least. When I get home you can read my silly (?) articles.
Casually but absolutely yours. Roy
[In the margin: I am getting to be just like a father to everybody - giving advice, etc. - someday I may be - now I must learn.
I hope this fixes up my insurance - please o please don't drop that - ]
9. March 3, 1923, Königsberg
Königsberg, Ost Preussen
On the 3rd of March
FORWARD MARCH!
Dearest sister!
Because you have lived the longest. The longer one lives the dearer they become; here's
hoping you realize eternal life! Tell Elsie she's no less dear to me than you only as
there is diffference in age. No! I won't say that - you're both the same! I'll give
you so much love between you and you two can do the portioning.
Ruby that introduction is rather silly but there's a thot there. Now I want to thank you for the best letter you ever wrote. It was written on the 25th of January, at least so dated; left Salt Lake on the 2nd of Feb. and graced my doorway on the 26th. Just one month that letter was coming and it sure stirred things up in my ol' heart to read it, feel the sincerity, rethink the thots you thot and cry over the joy of being your brother. Gee! Ruby, you're big in love; probably your faith in yourself waivers occasionally but the works are there and they strengthen faith and confidence, and therein lies your big love. Ruby women like you dont bless this earth very often with their presence because there are so few; mother was one, you are the other that I know; Mrs. Hall I dare say is a third. Well, I suppose there are quite a few if we look hard but, comparatively, they are scarce. Elsie will be just such a women for as yet she and I are but kids. Anyway you're a marvelous creature and I appreciate you more each day. We find nice people here but they have been used to the whip and they still use it themselves. Love has not entered their hearts as a controlling power. Is aunt Ada still a southerner?
Now in this letter I want to tell you of two important things: our conference at Berlin and a change in branch presidency as well as conference and mission presidency.
On Feb. 17th and 18th general conference for all Germany convened; the other portions of the Mission, Switzerland, Austria-Hungary and part of Frances, not meeting because of passport difficulties encountered in traveling. None the less a splendid series of assemblies proved pleasingly successful. On Sat. morning 207 missionaries met at 9:00 sharp with Apostle David O. McKay presiding. The meeting lasted 8 hours and 20 minutes without a recess! Such an occasion I believe will have no future comparatives as it surely has had to precedent; Pres. McKay, now of the European Mission affirmed that no such meeting had ever been held in the field to his knowledge. Imagine 207 MEN - clean, sincere, with a purpose behind their presence and doing a marvelous work - meeting in one assembly to receive instruction and inspiration. Pres. Ballif of the Swiss-German mission spoke first; urging that we must FEEL our representation and live worthy of the blessings which are being poured upon all. Pres. McKay announced the meeting as an epoch making occasion - enouraged us to CONTACT - "Let everyone's spirit mingle with the other's - soul touch soul! - Sincerity is the basis of charity, the foundation of character and a rock on which to build your life!" "The Word of Wisdom does not refer to overwork!" - Then time was given each missionary to say in two minutes what he thot the two greatest needs of the Mission were, and to bear a testimony if they had one. Many wonderful, helpful suggestions were given: some practical, some theoretical but all good. Love, initiative, get up early, faith, works, follow up advantages with friends. study systematically, the Scout Law, obedience, gentlemanly behavior when together, "on your toes," courtesy, "keep smiling even though the dollar goes down in value" (which it had done at that time and caused many sorrowful, worried missionaries); All this was summarized by Pres. McKay in the most inspiring, uplifting speech I ever heard. Possibly it was because there was a personal element in the appeal - right to me as a missionary - but one could just feel the very power of the Apostleship resting upon his words. There was authority, representation, the Holy Gost working thru a man instructing other men in the Will of God. Not a person stirred - absolute quiet reigned while he spoke - we were all carried away in a joyful spirit as he smoothly led our minds into the depths of inspiration. As a consolation to those who had modestly said they had not done enough work, he said: "Ye have builded more than ye knew!" Six big points he gave were:
1. "Look into people's hearts even though you have to penetrate unkempt rags!" "We're not here to find fault nor scorn - We're here to understand and give!"Be gentlemen - dont do that which will mar! manners - refinement - a gentleman is one who makes everybody at home in his company."
The aim of the European Mission: "Every member a missionary!
Teach by example! "Your gospel is glorious! - Live it! Tell about it! "You who think you haven't a testimony havent thought!" "Analyse what you've got."
Make no promises! "Blessed is he who expecteth not for he shall not be disappointed!"
Be dependable! respect authority - "dont be a slave to your appetites for false pleasures" (smoking especiall
The meeting had lasted 8 hrs. 20 min. and was the longest and most substantially inspirational one I ever attended. I have complete notes in my journal of every important expression or event. The loose leaf system is proving very, very efficient Ruby. Drew Jacobsen was to conference from England his release being secured - Harold Bennett, Carvel James and I dont think of any others that you know; but I knew and rejoiced to the height of my glory in renewing acquaintances with SEVENTY missionaries. I have all their names. You just can realize the extreme joy one feels when he meets old friends after such a span. What will it be when I get back? If I have fulfilled my calling with results and my best then I know that my return will be a never-ending happiness - when not it will be a continual sorrow. I must do all in my power! (So Ruby, dear, dont expect long letters any more. I'll try to make them as near one another as possible but length must be abandoned. You see I started this on the 3rd and here it is the 6th and not finished. I just cant systematise my work to include much letter writing. I do exceedingly well to get two written in a week. I have a list of 20 people I should write at present and I simply cant do it! It worries me becasue I wonder what you think when I dont write. I wonder what others think but in a way I dont care because I know my time is not wasted when used entirely in my work.
Now to finish my account of conference and give you a few other bits of occurence, answer your letter of the 7th of Feb. (that just came this morning and Elsie's as well), and then leave you to judge not lest ye be judged.
I've told you of missionary meeting at Berlin which was most important as it regards the vitality of the mission. Now I'll enumerate the other meetings with a passing comment only. Sat. evening "we held Priesthood meeting up," as you say in German. Some 800 special representatives of God were present, Apostle McKay speaking thru an interpretor and outlining in beautiful English the organization of our church with its interwoven responsibility and presidency of the Priesthood. The translation, as he spoke into the German was quite accurate. Sunday A.M. a dandy exemplary or pattern prayer meeting was held at which Apostle McKay stated that the Sunday School was a best organization in the Church because it is where real Saints get a start right; seeds are cultivated into ripened fruit, the work starts as children. He handled the meeting wonderfully thru an interpreter always, giving examples and advice that rang home to every teacher or supt. present. Gee! he [words cut off in copy] shorthand so that this letter would have to be so long and yet include all. I could write actually volumes but I dare not. (In writing, my journal comes first at which I spend one half hour before bed - I have 150 pages in fine writing thus far completed. Then when I can, I write home.) It took actually 8 hours to compose a journal report on notes taken at conference. - Sunday School was attended by about 3,000 Saints, Missionaries and friends and children. A wonderful program made you appreciate your church and God's work. Ruby they put over just as big things here as at home. The one difference is that we dont own the halls or assemblies or schools in which we meet. There's so much work here your head swims and we conscientious missionaries have to work so much harder because others sluff and lay down. Pres. McKay's wife and Pres. Ballif's daughter spoke in Sunday school. The daughter spoke in German - quite a novelty, honor and accomplishment. It was nicely done- she's about 20 or 21 - beautiful. Then an afternoon meeting crammed to another 3000 capacity in the same hall as S.S. - Missionaries spoke - and right well - Pres. McKay spoke again and Pres. Lilywhite from the Netherlands Mission, both by interpreters. They each gave of their fulness. Pres.McKay oft times carried away in the fervor of his speech forgot his interpreter and entered into long paragraphs. But the embarrassed translator did good work to restate the content in German. But he had his hands full, he is German-born and never been in America, what he knows he learned of himself and from missionaries - Bro. Rodikel. (Here I am still going strong - where will I land - the hours fly by and yet only a few pages are results. I am petitioning for longer days or an extension at the end of my Mission for answering letters.) Pres. McKay summarized the two themes of the whole conference:
1. The divinity of Christ's mission
2. The paralleled mission of Joseph to restore the Gospel of Life.
Again he handled his subject masterly giving a powerful testimony to seal his expounding. That Sunday evening the Berlin Choir sang an oratorio "The Martyrs" (translated into German) in quite a commendable manner. The conference closed, an inspiring success; a crowning of a lot of work done and a promise of a greater future of results.
I have happily lost a partner who has not lived true to his responsibility. He is transfered to another branch with no particular authority now. I say happily because I have received a new companion brother Douglas Cornwall whom I knew at school; he has pep, decision, works hard and we fit together like gloves. You'll hear pretty soon from our branch with its new president. In spite of a slow, easy going environment I have held my own. I have my English class well under way, my grammar, German, class showing results and have now been privileged to take charge of missionary meetings 3 times a week in the mornings 8:30-9:30 for the purpose of studying the gospel and solving tracting and branch and conference problems. I have 11 under my wing. I have worked out a system to work to in making a succes of my new responsibility. I was given this by our new conference president William Squires an A.C. student and I feel quite thankful that I should be chosen for this position when he has only known me a week. He too is full of pep and system and I know our work will go! This new class gives me one more thing to pray for; I have so many it takes many minutes, morning and anight, to invoke divine assistance upon all. I dont think my progress is puffing me up - rather it is humbling me, especially because of the particular callings I must fill. Every moment is used - sleep comes as a necessity.
Yesterday we had monthly missionary meeting. The majority of boys had a fine spirit, but some alas! are not, or have not found the spirit of their calling; they seek to satisfy vain ambitions and will land where all disobedients land - a shameful release and a ruined character with the future a doubt. The changes were made because of necessity; men (?) were not filling the bill. My suggestions in a number of cases were considered, made a matter of prayer and acted on. Thru faith I know we are going to do a big work; we have faithful servants in authority and that counts. My companion (he is senior) and I are determined to set an example. I hope to tell you in about a month that we have succeeded; God's work must go on, it will go on!
In this connection a bit of mirth will product [stet] an effect: "I've been in the harness in this church for the past twenty years." "Yes; and during that time you've worn out 15 holdback [reins?] and only one collar."
Still going strong and not on your letter yet.
Ruby I thank my Father in Heaven, in tears for the spirit and faith you show in your letters., You dont realize how much that helps me to know that you and Elsie are progressing in such long strides. Knowledge is God's glory - I have no desire to become rich - if the Lord so wishes it that I in time shall accumulate monetary advantages whereby I can help others then so be it. But on the other hand if my place be among the majority of hard working people all my life then am I satisfied for I know under no conditions will my opportunities to gain truth cease. A testimony of the Gospel and a living example of it is my aim in life. A girl who will share this idea and goal with me is she whom I shall choose as a help; together will we execute the plan and strive to fulfill all the commandments of God our Father. Ruby, dearest, be not grieved in your heart that you have not yet been called to fill the measure of your creation. The Allwise Father knows your desires; therefore be ye patient. Austin Pack wrote me a fine letter and I think he's pretty straight. Any sudden break in his attenion is merely a confirmation that men are as funny as women in nature. Sometimes we dont think; we dont realize, that is the men dont, we dont consider others feelings, we are all for us; we have whims and fancies which make life a puzzle for othes. I dare say I have caused a few hearthrobs in my time at home and I am not exempt from them myself that is being caused. Anxiety rules my mind even now. For nearly one month I have heard no word from Dodie though her last letter was wonderful. There must be a reason yet it may be only a whim of hers, possibly neglect or mail service. Whatever it is my concern does not exceed my patience which I have learned to summon on any occasion. To be satisfied with what we dont understand and cant help is the law of happy life.
Tell George he'd better write or I'll get sore! I understand thoroughly about the letters of the three different missionaries. I imagine my partner (former one) could write as equally an uninteresting letter as you mentioned that one of the three had written.
I was happy to learn that Mrs. Hall at last got some of my preminum correspondence.
About your gloves: at present the dollar is unseemly low and prices high. It would be unwise to buy now. Be patient on that score too.
Any news connected with any name that I know just thrills me pink. About Rhea, and Cliff and etc.; that hits the spot in correspondence.
What I like most of all is just letters! The wonderful kinds you've been sending. Anything else but money is superfluous and counted a luxury. Everything is appreciated to the highest degree of my college breeding. One dollar and Five dollars come safely in your two (that is your's and Elsie's) letters.
I'll let this letter go now, as it is, and answer again soon the content of your last. Tell Elsie, I'll write too. Most appreciated. Roy [In the margin: "Something More" came today - thanks hundreds! -"]
10. March 18, 1923, Königsberg
Königsberg i/Pr
Mar. 18 - 1923
(Dear old Carl's* Birthday)
[* Carl Jacob Lundquist, brother of Roy, died at age 18 in
1918]
Dearest Ruby,
I am writing you again. It will be very short for I must write Elsie, Dad and Aunt Ada as well.
Yesterday I received four big letters from home one from good friend Alva, two from you, you rare jewel, and one from Dad with the ten inside and the address for the party in Königsberg .
Now before I go further let's settle the business I have. Ruby would it be impossible to send to Basel on my account some fifty ( 50) dollars. This would serve as an emergency fund to act as a fly-wheel on my financial conditions, i.e., it would save borrowing from other missionaries when money from home is delayed in the mail. I requested this amount in January but I received no notice to date of its arrival. Figuring on this amount by at least Mar. 1, I hoped to pull thru Feb. on the last few nickels I had. But here it is March 18 and only yesterday did any money come which is already used up by my meals and rent for March thus far. Things are always going higher and the dollar is losing its almighty worth so that living is becoming a worry now, not because we have lost faith but because the money has to go faster than it comes. Truly if necessary we can travel without purse or script. Yet, it is not even advised by the authorities here. The food is so terrible at times that many would absolutely lose their health and are losing it just because they must stand the offerings of Saints and friends. Whenever possible we are urged to eat well and preserve the health that is so necessary to good, peppy work. I wish you could see an example of two of the missionaries who dont use their head and get along on as little as possible, living in holes eating poor food, etc. They soon become unhappy, lose their spirit, wish they were never here and finally rebel against what at first seemed worthwhile economy. But really it's my old story of cheap economy which is used and unsuccessfully. For the maintenance of my good health, happiness and general welfare I petition for this money. If it cant be had then I am satisfied; If it can be had then I will be more than pleased and assure you the appreciation will be more than words, even works. Ruby besides our noon meal which costs $1.50 per week now we have breakfast always and many times supper to pay extra for at home, that is, in our room. Then more than $2.00 a month for rent and light and heat, heat varying with the climate - coal here is higher than home, 65˘ per 100 lb. We have suffered many a cold chill this winter though now it is nearly over. Today is wonderful. Anyway these things bring the monthly bill not under $12.00 for just living expenses. Then we help the poor every chance we get, taking loaves of bread and other necessities along with personal visits in the giving. Just the other day we were called up to help finance the funeral of a poor brother's baby boy. They simply didnt know where the money would come from. They barely have food in the house. Our branch is not rich and the fast offering is meager so what is left. The missionaries have and they give the last drop. Do you folks begrudge such use of your money?
Now then all these things with a few other personal items reach ordinarily about $20 per month and I have received far below this. With $1.00 in my pocket today I cant imagine what I shall do. But we are all brothers and that will account for things till I can get reassurance from you people. To date I have been given for my use about $110 which has been used in the four and one half months that I have been here. I have not included your money for gloves in this amount nor am I using or have I used it. It's yours Ruby and must be used to your purposes.
May I have $50.00 sent to Basel by draft if it is not already sent? And then have Dad continue the ten dollars every two weeks which he has started - thank you - and trust in me.
I was very surprised and indignant to hear of George's accident. I just said, "the little fool, he'll have a reminder for sure now to make him use his head!" Yet I was very thankful that it wasn't of greater consequence. We learn, yes; but oh how costly when we dont think. Tell George he must be a man when I get home; a man who has laid aside child's play.
Ruby, dear, thank Clarence Bean for his splendid letter and the beauftiful most appropriate silken American Flag which he sent thru with his letter. It was sure fine! And thank brother Pack for his letter, too. When opportunity comes I'll answer all these things but I dare not take time yet.
A new plan is worked out in our conference at Königsberg. Eight missionaries meet regularly under my charge to be instructed or learn by disussion the principles of the gospel in the german language. This is another duty I have and it is going very, very well. It will mean the backbone of the conference because we can train missionaries here to send out into newer fields. I am happy to be again chosen to lead. I learn more than I teach, as I've said before, I believe.
I have the privilege now of working with brother Doug Cornwall, a marvellous spirit, and we fit like engine pistons. Oh but it's lovely to work with inspiration - with one who too has ideals of good character, good German and thorough gospel.
Well, I simply have to close; it's bedtime and I've written quite a little at that. With your next letter I'll try to summarize my criticisms of all - goodnight. Me.
11. May 14, 1923, Tibit Ostprussen
May 14 - 1923
Dearest Rubiskins,
On this terrible paper, poor ink and with discordant pen as well as a tired line of thought I begin to write you of the proceedings of one called a missionary by trade, profession, clothes and walk. The wear and tear of the ages are beginning to tell on the details of his resources; subtracting here yet compensating there. Worn out heels means just so many moire responsible before God for the message which has been given them.
But Ruby, dear, life is so ordinary everywhere. You write of monotony prolonged and of disappointments, etc. Goodness! We experience the pair of trials every day, even here. Routine grips even the mission-field! Do you believe that? Surely you do not think that life here is so very much grander than at home, that possibilities are greater! No they absolutely are not - you have just stacks and stacks more promising things in Zion than in all the wide world over. The one and only advantage and value of the mission field is appreciation. We come here only to learn by hard bumps and contrast the values at home. We are awakened! Then we are given two or three years to dig down into the bottom of things and cinch a testimony. We are merely forced into trials and difficulties in order to harden that which was unused, unaroused at home: PATIENCE. Oh! what a marvelous word. Waiting to drink again of the fuller breath of life in Zion - thus waiting and overcoming homesickness - just a matter of character strengthening. It can be done at home but it is more surely accomplished here and yet requires an added effort. - You say we "can somehow outwork a disappointment." True! But you, too, can work it out quite nicely at home.
You can give your all - you fit into your given place in some constructive business. You help others to live better by living so yourself. We are only 2000 to 3000 at a time in the missions* but you are hundreds of thousands at home. Can you demonstrate as we try to the difference between a Mormon and a person of the world? Can you be natural and yet bigger than most girls? Ruby, dear, you have led a beautiful life - be not disappointed in yourself - exercise just a bit more patience with Ruby and help her to live one day at a time. Read "Up from the hills" and learn how a man came thru hell to success and yet "carries on." A person must realize what eternity is, then what duty is, then what knowledge is and intermingle with it all a few grains of persistence and you have a happy life.
Ruby, if your health sets you down on the hard ground of misery occasionally or your unavoided schooling opportunity hurts now and then and furthermore you wish for the mission field to drown your troubles because you would be happier why just think of this: many are not exempt from poor health or at least attacks of illness when upon missions - one's faith will keep him quhite well but you know God's will is often that we should suffer pain and sorrow. Then if you will but look about you at home and see how many very silly girls have graduated from universities probably you may see a gleam of wisdom in holding you to the more humbling path of the school of life. - Ruby, would education have spoiled you? Who knows? Who dare, question God's wisdom. Your education, Ruby, has not been at the blackboard but I must say I marvel at your big-heartedness, your refinement, your really good English (you should hear some of these college students speak in missionary meetings - you'd be surprised at their slaughtering abilities.) I truly think Ruby you have no room for criticism against yourself; all you dare say of yourself is "I can and will improve!"
Joseph Smith was not book-learned from shools when he started relying upon the Spirit of Revelation to guide him. Search his life's story and you'll find he but lived worthy of the immense truths he was able to bring forth merely because he worked humbly and patiently for the knowledge he attained. Ruby, do I have to tell you your possibilities are endless - welcome a few difficulties.
Ruby if you will so have it that you will fulfill a mission then just start preparing now. I'll be back in a year or more and then we'll see that your wish is granted. The world would love to behold another true Mormon girl. Their eyes will some time be opened to Truth. I love to think that we can both have helped.
Never write that you have been negligent - I understand because I am the same. I write when I can. I want you to do the same and a little oftener.
"Kar Fax" just tickled me all over and the dog-tooth violet is a beautiful reminder of a wonderful, thoughtful sister at home. - The dollar bill always fills a big hole somewhere - thanks muchly -
Roy.
*According to the Deseret News 1999-2000 Church Almanac
statistical profile, page 6, there were (as of December 31, 1997) 56,531 full-time
missionaries serving.
This photo with Roy (left) and unidentified
companion was probably taken around
June 1923.
12 June 12, 1923, Tibit in Ost. Pr.
June 12 - 1923
(To be continued)
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