The enclosed letter just came. You have shared so many of both my sorrows and joys that you must be the first to also share this. You can let Boe read the letter, but with the understanding that he holds his tongue.

When I saw who the letter was from, I barely had enough strength to open it, and when I had read it, I sat here and cried. Scarcely any letter has affected me deeper. The men down do not like to brag, especially not about a lousy Norwegian-American!

This means that the book has taken off. And that means so little amongst these “hard-boiled” men down there. I am happy, you should know! If I could only hold out until I have gotten the translation done. It is this you will live off of in your old days! 

You should read the letter for the children, and translate for them what they do not understand. 

Yours 

Ole

P.S. I may have to go to Norway to read the proof- provided I feel strong enough to make the trip.