February 28, 1977 (Letter from Dave and Lyn)

 From the "Stone Age".  Seen at the Amherst Cinema.


Well we have had an extremely mild winter, so mild that it looks like a drought in the upcoming summer due to lack of snow.  We had a week of 50 weather just two weeks ago.

The new prison is ready except the facility is now too small  It was built to accommodate (imprison) 300 inmates, but the current population is over 400.  The sate is not sure what to do with the lever overs, parole?  Shades of Gary Gilmore, Montana has sentenced one to do soon.

This winter Lyn and I have been learning cross-country skiing.  We spent four days outside of Glacier Park during Christmas vacation gliding along the North Forks or bombing down hills.  The west side of the Park has some wondrous mountains that I could look upon all day.  Skiing in this manner is easy to learn.  This is my first time ever on skis.

We haven't been to a movie in ages, the last one I saw was Taxi Driver.  The film was intense, suspenseful, but violent.  I guess it was an accurate portrayal of a psychotic as well as an interesting study of life in the city of New York.  The film did have novel camera angles and interesting fade in and out shots.  I'm not sure why Americans enjoy violence but after seeing this film the most realistic ever I'm sure I will be cured for a time.

Rocky is playing in Butte, but I'm skeptical of a film that everyone likes, still I will probably go see the flick.

We have seen some dandy's on PBS television.  The original King Kong had some excellent animated footage of prehistoric animals.  Last week we watched a silent film about Ivan the Terrible made by a Russian in the early 1900s.  I'm sure you know who I am talking about.

This winter I have read Jane Eyre, This Hallowed Ground, and Even Cowgirls Get the Blues quite variety of subject matter there.

Levin is three now and is becoming more enjoyable due to his ability to communicate.  He presently enjoys learning nursery rhymes and simple songs.

We have been busy remodeling our house, especially the kitchen and bathroom.  New paint, sinks, counters, flooring, tile, tables, and work carts.

See you later.

July 10, 1976 (Letter from Ken)

Sandstone Federal Correctional Institution

As you can see via this return address, I am in Federal Prison.  Doing 5 years!  Was arrested for manufacturing   Have 5 months in now.

Denise, Wendy (Squeege) and I are as tightly together as ever.  Your Goddaughter is doing just fine.  Had her 1st birthday this past June 24th.  She is a real sweetheart.  Will send you a picture if you want.  Please understand that my spirits are very high for happiness & freedom is a state of mind.  Dollar Date is also doing real well.  Remember, the offer to take on Dollar Date is always open to you.

That was really something you got into!  What can I say.  I'm glad you didn't get hurt too bad.  I know you wouldn't do something like that, even for me.

I hate writing letters, so I hope I did O.K.  Remember, any time you decide to return to Penna., my securities are open to you in all perspectives.  Even though I'm in here, my home, business etc. are solid, and anytime you are welcome to move in, visit, or whatever.

Your friend
"Fellow Truth Seeker"

May 14, 1976 (Letter from Ken M)

Michael Lally and Ken McCullough (1972)

Photo credit:  Lally's Alley

I've been gone from Montana since October and am not sure what's brewing out there.  I knew that Fred Perry has been shipped down the road to Idaho, but as to Gil's parole I don't know a thing. And I don't know much about what's going on with the new prison.  I will be writing Gil this week and will pass on whatever word I get from him. As soon as I get my head above water down here I am going to attempt to start a writing program at the prison here in Columbia.  There are several excellent ones going, especially the one at Arizona Pen.  Three of the men have books coming out and one has just gotten a sizable grant.  Even though they are still "within."  There's an excellent project brewing in N.C. called the prison-ashram project -- which attempts to convert all that spare time into spiritual pursuits -- so that, in effect, the only people behind bars become the guards. Bout all I can pass on at this point but will keep in touch.

[Teaching experience on Ken's resume:  Creative Writing Workshop, Montana State Penitentiary, Deer Lodge, Montana, 1972-75.]

October 29, 1975 (Letter from Dick)

I mailed a letter of recommendation to Janet Alexander.  Hope you get what you want for a job.

I talked to Carmen about your retirement check and she checked into it.  They are in the process of getting it ready now, but they have had some trouble with their computer.  It may take another two weeks or so to get it out.  Normally it has not taken this long.  Carmen then asked about mine and the process cannot be started until the last day of work -- they then said it could take two months.  Fortunately I plan on using the money for a new car next spring, but I would like to have had the money to earn interest in the meantime.

I have four and a half more week and am counting each day.  Things are just as bad as ever around here.  Your position was not replaced at the prison.  AJ hired a reference librarian to do "institutional requests" which means reference just has another body to do their work and the prison must depend upon a guard.

Frank Morrison has really gotten into the whole mess -- he is now Bretz's attorney and is devoting a lot of time to the case.  He really feels that he is on to something a lot bigger than most realize. Not sure what will all come of it, but Frank is energetic and highly incensed.  His wife, Sharon, is now actively involved also and doing a lot of research for him.

I now definitely plan to spend the winter here, with some travel.  Mostly will be working on the silver and getting some skiing in.  Am seriously considering a job for next spring in the Southwest -- Arizona.

Keep in touch.

October 6, 1975 (Letter from DIck)

Thought you might want a copy of this just in case you don't otherwise see it.  I talked to the reporter several times and he is really fired up about your case and the whole rotten mess.

Have you given any consideration to a civil suit as Frank Morrison mentions in the article?  A question you need not answer to me, but something I think you might at least give thought to.

Today I resigned my position at the State Library.  Will be working for almost eight more weeks -- Thanksgiving weekend and then be free.  I don't plan to return to work until sometime next spring -- and then in a different area of the country.  Have several job offers for next spring and will probably take one that is in a warm climate.  The situation at the state library gets worse instead of better and I can no longer take it mentally or physically.  Plan to spend the winter at the house working on my silver projects and skiing during the week when the crowds are thin.  Hop[e to also see some friends and do some traveling -- at least until I think I have spent enough money and that again there should be a pay check coming in - -but not before April under any circumstances.

Hope you keep in touch and let me know where you are and what you are doing.  Remember I will give you a letter of recommendation when you need one and if anyone has questions about the prison situation I will be happy to tell them my version in defense of you.

Must run to the store and on to a meeting.  Do keep in touch.

September 26, 1975 (Letter from Cheryl)

Thought I'd write you & see how your doin'?  Hope your doin fine -- are you still working in the library?  We are all fine.  Georgie is in school now & likes it pretty much, as much as he can like school.  Me & Lawana fart around all day, goin to junk stores & down by the creek's.  We got a neat log cabin house with 3 bedrooms, no neighbors to speak of and 300 ft. behind the house that's ours.  It's right in the mountains too -- we have to chop our own wood for fire, which may prove to be a hassle this winter, but it's still nice to have it.  Do you see Linda very much any more?  Or is she still even there?  How is George doin?  He doesn't write me any more.  Does he seem to be happy; well as happy as he can be in there?  Does he still work in the library?  I have a car now (it needed a little work) but maybe one of these days I'll make it up there.  Wallace is closer to D. L. but it costs more on the bus for some reason, plus they cut my welfare grant down cuz other people live with em.

Anyway take care & please answer back.  I'd like to hear from you, plus find out about my old man.  Tell him hello for me.  Hope to see you when I come out.  By for now.

July 15, 1975 (Letter from Diane)

I don't know whether I should be aggravated with you for not disclosing what the warden has against you or sympathizing with you over your cold.  Since you're probably over the cold, that leaves aggravation,  But I'm too droopy.  Maybe later.  (What is it, anyway/)

Everyone here is droopy.  It's been raining for almost two weeks with floods, lightening (I know) -- the works.  Montana weather seems great after 80-90 weather with 90-100% humidity. And they tell me August is worse.

Because we couldn't go to the shore, one of my friends from Penn State and I went to Longwood Gardens.  It was formerly the DuPont summer estate and now is 100 acres of the most beautiful gardens and conservatory I've ever seen.  Especially now that the waterfall is turned on.  After all that walking we were starved so we went to Chadd's Ford with the niave (?) thought of finding a pizza parlor.  What we did find was Chadd's Ford Inn which looked like a dump.  Actually it was a camouflaged Top of the Triangle.  Can you imagine cut-offs and a patched-up shirt?  It's a good thing it was early Sat night or we'd have been very uncomfortable   Expensive it already was.  We should have guessed - -it was right across the street from the Brandywine River Museum.

Do you have any idea when you'll be coming East?  Grayce told me early fall, maybe Sept.  I may be going to Dallas for a workshop on Sept 27th.  If not Dallas, maybe Colorado Springs.  So I hope you don't choose that weekend.  Please let us know when you decide.

Grayce was in town for the weekend.  Although we couldn't meet, we did get to talk, long distance, for almost an hour.  Sometimes I think that me and my friends (my friends and I) keep Ma Bell going.

Nothing much has been happening.  I'm longing to go to the shore again but everything is working against it.  If it isn't raining, something else, e.g., baby showers (I'm getting to hate showers), people visiting, etc.  Of course, I've just stopped peeling from the last trip 3 weeks ago.

Maybe there will be something exciting to report in the next letter, if we don't get flooded down the Delaware.  Meantime (nobody would ever believe I was an English major), keep in touch.

March 26, 1975 (Letter from Gordon)

Your very informative letter was much appreciated.  (I'm trying to keep contact with Montana and MSP.)  And thanks much for the "Findings of Fact, etc." in Sather.  Give Bill my sincere, warm greeting when you next see him.

Very bizarre indeed, the theft!  Are you sure?  Didn't happen to me, but I was expecting such things.  You should try to reproduce them (a debriefing) as soon as possible.  And then leave them elsewhere...on tape or something.

Enclosed is the anonymous article, which is still being pedalled.

On my job:  as for the future, I'm keeping my options open.  Am casting about for alternative work (in liaison, media or information access), probably with Native peoples locally.  I would very much like to be adopted and given a name by my new brothers and sisters.  Will be working with the local Tacoma Indian Center shortly (serving mainly: Puyallup, Misqually, and Steilaqnamish -- of the now 22 small tribes of western Washington.  The Duwamish of the Seattle area have just joined S.T.O.W.W.)

After 5 years in libraries, from clerical to librarian, from prison to university to public, I'm about ready to leave "the institutions".  The bureaucracies kill my spirit.

Give my clear greetings to N.A.I.L. brothers.

March 4, 1975 (Letter from Gordon)

Just a note on a few things:

You've never mentioned it, but I will assume you have read the long manual Dick asked me and the others to write about our institutional positions.  All aspects of your job are covered, including life in the community, area contacts, etc.  Again, if for any reason you do not have access to it, I will be pleased to send you a copy of my copy.  It amounted to a total debriefing and is strictly for internal use by state library staff.  A.J. has a copy too, as well as Dick.  It is 26 pages long, mostly single-spaced.

Glad to see the papers are still circulated, so I will continue sending them.  One incident I had with the Black Panther might be worth citing.  There was one article I posted (at the time I wasn't regularly bringing in the Panther papers) that mentioned by name a man (black) who snitched on fellow inmates in a California case.  The reason I posted it was because the case also involved another California inmate transfer who was at MSP for awhile and who, when he went out to the coast to testify for the defense (Ron Jones -- long gone), was set up by MSP staff for reprisal on his return.  The rumor spread was that he had testified for the State.  I phoned one of the defense attorneys in Oakland from home and confirmed that Ron was telling the truth.  Thus a rumor was quashed, and the MSP staff member who had started it was discredited. This sort of thing is common practice.

Anyway, the named snitch (in the issue of Black Panther) was transferred to MSP while I was still there (his name is Johnson, I believe)!  Crist confronted me with this, saying it was an irresponsible and dangerous error on my part, as if I had any control over what was printed in a national weekly of 150,000 subscriptions, let alone the dissemination of such information.  I said that it was an error on Crist's part to place Johnson out at Rothe Hall, since he was a nationally advertised snitch!  I feel he should have been in isolation until appropriate staff were warned, at the very least.)  This was sort of a "last straw" between Crist and me, and he asked me to leave the prison forthwith.  This was two weeks after I had resigned, and waiting for a replacement!  If I had it to do over again, I would have been not so outspoken, and asked to consult with Dick first.  That is the cool thing to do:  let him have his say, take it as he puts it to you, saying you will have to consult with Dick.

I can justify taking in the Panther paper on these grounds:  It is intercommunal, and has news of events in the various "minority" communities (including native peoples, of which is comprised from 25-30% of the MSP population -- a dramatic statement in itself).  It tires to break down interracial and (now intersexual discrimination and exploitation, and promotes cooperation.  It has been more or less Marxist socialist, and the new editor (David DuBois) now runs a series on China, so it leans that way, with a stronger third world view.  Crist more or less despises it, but then his criterion of objective journalism is exemplified by Deer Lodge's Silver State Post!!

The point I want to make is:  When confronted by something like that, be cool -- let him make his point -- and say you'll see Peel about it.

I justify papers like Panther, Barb, Militant, etc. not only on constitutional grounds, but on rehabilitative grounds.  If a lot of these minority, low economic and otherwise oppressed and alienated guys see that their "misfortunes" are shared, and have a socio-political basis that is defensible, their self-respect, self-esteem and self-confidence (hence motivation overall) will strengthen.  What is the use of shoving utterly straight Christian and majority establishment (WASP, or liberal white) stuff at them?!  They KNOW that point of view (and its dominance is in large measure what got them in prison in the first place.)

Also, the prison lets the North American Indian League bring in hundred of copies of Akwesasne Notes, which present all the views of militant AIM people, etc.  I asked the editor of The Hunter to send me back copies, by the way, but haven't received any.  Could you ask Editor Al Charlot or whoever it is to do this?

Please do send me a copy of my letter to the editor of the Missoulian.  Haven't seen it.

Montana and Deer Lodge in the spring and summer are great, so you have a lot of improvement to look forward to.  I'm a westerner by adoption, myself, so maybe you're new to the west.  And to the rural scene.  After several months it slowly begins to grow on you.  But there are those who, for a variety of understandable reasons, don't like the country, period.  In places like Montana it's individuals precisely who count, in one's social relations.  Not groups or organizations.  UM in Missoula and MSU in Bozeman can provide university-type contacts.  In Montana you can also get to know legislators, state officials, supreme court justices, biggies generally, relatively easily. Cultivate contacts like these.  One sure way to make a lot of friends in Deer Lodge is to work with youth.  (Scouts, the high school, sports teams.)  Unless you want to join the Elks!!  Also, the little book store just off Main on Milwaukee is a contact for Powell County cultural life.  Life in Montana is very different, Paul, but it definitely has its good side -- for us city-bred types it takes time to appreciate it.  Have you visited KDRG studios just outside of town?  (Marisa Mappes and I got very close, by the way -- almost considered getting married.)

Also, getting to know a ranching family or two this spring can get you into horse-riding.  I put an ad in the paper and contacted a rancher for learning horseback riding from his 3 daughters!!  (Wasn't there long enough to follow through.)

Dick or other Helena folk will have other ideas.  How do you like working with them?

For my part, I also carried on a heavy correspondence, inside and outside of the state.  Do you have any kind of tape recorder?  I could send you or loan you various taped programs off Seattle AM and FM radio stations.  I have a Sony 800-B reel-to-reel (5") tape recorder, and can record at any speed.  If you could compensate me for the tape cost, I'd send you all tapes you want (line-recorded).  Just let me know the kind of things you want to hear -- I can also record on cassette.

P.S.  Here are a few good personal friends to contact (mention that I referred you to them): Sandy and Howard Heffelfinger -- Howard is a city guy, came here recently to be Powell County Planning person, hence a controversial figure.  Both are in their early 30's.  They have an adopted baby and a huge dog named Aristotle ("Ari") who eventually will be a friend.  See him in the county courthouse; I think he's in the assessor's office.  Just ask for him by name.  They are also in the phone book.

Dave and Lynn Pugsley -- a young couple with a baby, and ardent bicyclists.  No phone.  He works at the high school as a science teacher, I think.  They may have split up (one never knows these days).  Ask whoever you know where they are -- they were living in a trailer a stone's throw across the river from you.  Marisa and the Heffelfingers know them.  They are enthusiastic and hip (if straight) young marrieds.

The bookstore I mentioned is:  Books and Records, 306 Milwaukee.  The proprietor is Dean Tavenner (wife -- Trish) who has money and is a wheeler-dealer in real estate, stamp collections, etc.  He is a heavy-set, mustachioed guy with a direct, blunt gaze.  A local cultural pillar worth knowing.

One last note:  Do you visit the State Law Library?  To get legal materials for the men?  By the time I left I was spending an hour there, borrowing law books for copying at SML (returned before returning to D.L.)  Learned a lot about various legal reference tools.

Enough for now!

December 11, 1974 (Letter from Gordon)

Paul -- the following letter is pretty free-wheeling and quite subjective -- not to say chaotic.

I wanted to let you know before hand that the same evaluation, observations, and conclusions are arrived at in the Manual (for my old job) and various enclosures and memoranda that are in the MSP librarians' file at MSL, but in a restrained, relatively objective and deliberative manner.  Well aware of my own proclivities and emphases, and peculiar insights and sensitivities, I tried to back off and take a look, comprehensive and fair look at the MDL position and work at MSP, but only as presently conducted but with proposals for the future.

If you are unable, in the end, to have access to these materials, I will be delighted to provide you with a copy of my own set.  (End of prefatory notes.)

Well I can see you're already going over the contents of Pandora's box, even at this early stage!  I assume you have already asked Dick Peel for the long manual and accompanying memoranda on my work and evaluation of the job, all of which he has.  If it does not appear you will be given these materials, let me know and I'll send you the whole shitpot full. Also, Alma Jacobs has a complete file of the above, as well.  (So did I, heh, heh!)   It would be preferable if one of them gave you access to it (thinking in terms of their support, etc.)

In the Manual and the memoranda I spell out all my views and measurements of the job.  I have also this fall written a 15-page (double-spaced) account of the job, called "Prison Librarianship -- Some Controversial Aspects", written in an anonymous context, which I am trying to get published.  It is loaned out at the moment, but when it returns I will send you a copy, for yourself.  It is thoroughly doctored for anonymity.

I have a package of papers, and also a number of posters, both of which I will try to get off this week.  It might get a bad reaction if Crist sees my mailing address on the papers, but "I can't help it".  Whether you remove it or not is your business.  Crist tends to get terribly upset and "emotionally involved in (his) job" (something he accused me of, by the way.)   Hoping you can get access to the above sources, I won't run on here about the job, expect to say that the prison pressure is to get you to identify totally "with the inmates".  Cultivate an objective, professional stance and approach.  So that any decision you make has been well-though-out.  That way you can never be caught off guard.

Paul, try your very cool and patient best to stay there as long as possible --

On the administration people you mentioned:  Generally speaking, never trust anything they tell you.  (Not totally anyway.)  Boyette, Jaksha, Blodgett, Weer, and Yankoskie are first of all the warden's toadies and flunkies.  They are excellently conditioned bureaucratic subordinates.  Like they talk to the prisoners, they will feed you a story, a line or a "cue" to get you to talk loosely. Control of staff, to Crist's ilk, is every bit as important as control of inmates.  (Read the Policy and Procedures on staff conduct in my life.)  Communicate orally, not in writing, if at all possible.

Hence the supreme importance of maintaining your own professional integrity.  I never had problems with the prisoners, or with line staff -- only with Roger, Joe, and Jim.  Blodgett is especially treacherous because he comes on so loosely, easy, and "nice".  Don't believe your eyes and ears!!  His head is aching for a wardenship all his own, once Crist goofs up badly enough.

Jaksha - a toady and a dunce (but who will be silent at times, too)

Yankoskie - a craven, uptight, paper bully of a dunce

Blodgett - viper (nothing he doesn't say will come to pass) and bully.

Weer - an original nice guy undergoing final institutionalization.

Boyette - a redneck, at bottom

Crist - Hitleresque and arch-chauvinist (watch him around women), custody-obsessed, "Christian" (watch out!), militaristic (chain of command).

But despite all this--

I let 15 months go by before letting it go - I also loved it, and as a first library job I learned an immense amount.  I went about my job with full self-respect and with a pride in associating with such a victimized and oppressed clientele, (whose spirit also remains high -- right?)  I came to like Montana very much -- try to get East any time you can.  (At first I was thoroughly uptight, coming from an urban ghetto straight to rural Montana!  Bought a .38 special and was armed most of the time off the job.  (Fearful of Montanans!!)  But I got over that -- it's a fine life environment  really, and maybe someday I'll be working again over there (at least for another stint).

My prior association with parolees and prisoners helped.  Plus 3 years army experience (in the 1950's, well remembered though).  Also several years in militant civil rights and anti-ware activity. (In Seattle the next stage was terrorism, when Johnson relented...)  Not to state my politics -- I'll let you draw your own conclusions.

I kept a detailed journal of my experiences there, as well.

I am corresponding now and then with Al Charlo of the Hunter, and it's a wonder Crist's mail room lets it happen.  Others have been refused permission to write me.  I asked to be able to write:  (list of names).  I know several of these are gone, but no matter.  Bless every one of their devious hearts!  Maybe under capitalism, "deviance" is every person's survival option.

Now to the State library -- bless their hardy trooper souls -- I accept and recognize a minimal degree of bureaucratic complicity on their part (the politics of government?), regarding working with the prison and the Dept. of Institutions.  I hope Dick Peel can weather the storm and find the recognition he richly deserves.  Though we came to disagree somewhat at the end (I am totally against the concept of a "warden", and the absolute thought control he feels necessary to exercise over staff in every area.)  I really appreciated working with him that first year or so.  When Alma Jacobs came things sort of fell apart, at MSL, structurewise (organizationally).

The "complicity" I refer to above is derived from: 1.  The fact that Peel wasn't upset that Crist had a big dossier on me, which included an excessive amount of evaluative materials by a variety of persons.    (I wanted to demand access to it.)  2.  The fact that perhaps MSL does the same thing (background checks of an excessively prying nature) and that Peel (for one) sends letters of reference or recommendation without ever sending you a copy.  This is a kind of oppression that thoroughly erodes the trust and confidence of "subordinates".  If we don't work for the people's best interests, whose interests are we serving?

P.S.  Keep in mind too that Deer Lodge is a very small, loyalist town....the barroom walls have eyes and ears.

P.S.  Regarding meetings or (audiences) with Crist, or any of his lieutenants; often a certain reaction will be feinted (like shock or whatever with the comix), to put you on the the spot as corrupting innocents, etc.  Here let it be said that anyone who stays longer in the closed institution than a nominal period (1-2, 3 years?) is becoming corrupted.  The essence of traditional, and closed, institutions is abnormality and prostitution and corruption, both in principle and practice. (Anything to stay on the job, maintain or curry the administration's favor, anything to control the prisoners for control's sake.)

There is a monstrous double standard working in prisons that should see a whole lot of collaborators taken to the wall and shot.  One thing we con the public into thinking we're doing; one thing we are really doing.  And control of staff under these circumstances is critical.  Don't educate them too much.  One reason "staff training" has come so late into prisons is because no warden wants an "aware" group of officers to deal with.  They might get some self-respect and start reflecting on their work, and on the efficacy and purpose behind "corrections".  A lot of line staff come from the same socio-economic experience as the prisoner s they tend -- a situation that has not escaped the "aware" con's observation (see Fred Perry, et al.)

November 26, 1974

Whittier School hallway, Great Falls, Montana

Photo taken September 1974

Speaking of stationery...class, huh?  Just one glance into this box and its contents will reveal to you the secret workings of the maniacal mind, with all its twisted, circuitous routes.  The cigar box (compliments of Mr. Walker) was the strongest one I could find.  I wouldn't want Tweety's head squashed beyond recognition (although, maybe you don't even recognize his sweet face in the full now?)

Actually, when I first "began" Tweety, I had intended the day of his "completeness" to coincide with the day of your birth -- but human imperfection and laziness being personified in my being, such was not the case.  Please accept my contrite words of apology anyway.  You are now the proud (well, maybe that's putting it a little too strongly?) of one Tweet (not thoroughly approved by his owner, but loved all the more for his little imperfections).  Please note the scarf and how it carries out the "theme".

Last week I had the thrilling experience of returning once again to our old "Alma Mater" (funny, how I don't seem to be able to love her imperfections -- maybe there are only so many imperfections one can take!?)  Actually, I didn't want to go, because my last visit there awoke in my myriad strange feelings -- some good; some not so.  But I had called Kate a few weeks before and inadvertently mentioned that I'd be in to see her some day and unfortunately for me, she demanded me to be explicit -- i.e., I was to make an appointment....so.  Actually, I did like seeing her, but I would rather have seen her elsewhere.  I had intended to stop by quickly (*by going straight up to the seventh floor) and then leaving quietly.  But meeting Dr. Kryzs in the elevator foreshadowed disaster!  He was full of questions -- luckily I wasn't full of answers and I escaped.  Kate told me not to stay at this job longer than 1 year (I wish someone would stop saying that and do something constructive like tell me where to get another job.)  We had a nice chat and she was particularly interested in you.  I told her how happy you are and she was pleased.  Then I got up to leave.  I had left dough at home rising because I thought for use that I'd be home in time to roll it out and bake it and have it ready for dinner at 6:00.  But she asked if I had seen Wray and of course I said not.  So -- down to the 5th floor.  Everything has changed -- the library is now on the 3rd floor -- walls are gone, etc. very strange.

So -- I went down expecting to say hello-goodbye but surprisingly enough I talked to Wray (or rather, he talked to me) for almost 2 hours.  We never had a conversation like that before.  10 minutes at the most.  Actually, when I first saw him I felt extremely awkward, I just don't know why, but I couldn't find any words.  So -- then I got up to go and Mr. Lee called from his office and said "Aren't you going to visit with me?"  And really, I did want to see him.  By the way, he did not mention the index and I did not either because I figured if he had any spectacular news he would say it and he didn't so -- I see the index primarily as you do, although I would not mind seeing it published.  I was happy to do it because I feel that I got to know you lots better than if we hadn't and that's enough for it to have done, you know?

Paulie, I certainly did not expect a wedding present.  It was very sweet of you, but do not worry about getting it here quick.  Also, about letters, I would like very much if you, when one of my letters appeared, could be happy to receive it, and not worry about writing back so much.  Your letters are always welcome -- even the "mundane" ones.  I know how you feel.  I get in moods when I can't write much.  So don't feel you "must."  Even a short letter is better than none.  I don't wish to be a pest.  OK?

Brook feels as you do about Christmas.  I like it because I like to make things and stuff like that.  I like to decorate.  I suppose that is a very pagan attitude, but I look forward to it.  I do not like Christmas shopping or anything like that.  But I do hope you will change your mind and have a little tree?  You can decorate it simply.  I don't want to think of you there at Christmas alone.  I probably am making you sick so I will stop, but please reconsider?  Anyway, it is none of my business (but, of course) when did that ever stop me?

How nice about Ken and Denise.  I really don't think they could expect you to travel all that way, though.  It would be crazy.

Are you ever scared at work -- like when that fight occurred?  I don't know, I guess I'm really weird but I would be.

Did you look like you do now when you were 3?  (I mean minus the 6"2", of course) (actually, not minus all of it--)

Harvey mentioned the possibility of going back to the ministry.  I don't know though; he didn't seem really excited about It and I think if you're going to do something like that, you should be.  Oh, well, maybe he is and didn't show it.

Diane is terribly excited because she got Tweety glasses for you at Arby's (I think).  We are going to see her at Thanksgiving.  She's having dinner at my parents' since she wasn't going home for just one day   I really miss her very much.  We asked Bev, too, but she has the long weekend and is going home.

Speaking of Bev, I wrote out Robert's Christmas card last night.  It was certainly tame compared to some of the others that we've sent.  The idea is that I am now living in Philadelphia and missing Alabama's mild winters very much...poor Robert.  Bev said she saw him when she was home and he did not even stop to talk to her -- maybe he's guessed?  I don't know how, though.  It's really untraceable.  In a way, I feel sad now that I can only send him cards once a year, but actually he's probably very grateful and in a way it's better.

The people who live upstairs from us are from Washington State.  They wanted to come "east" for a few years.  They are quite nice.  (Vicki has a loom and will lend it to me.)  I've always wanted one but they are so expensive to buy.  Brook said he would make me one but if it gets done as quickly as the pottery wheel then I won't be able to use it, being crippled by arthritis.  I should not expect so much.  He's so busy not only with work but with this strange house.  He also is busy listening to me complain unnecessarily.

Only last week we spoke of selling this house and moving into some assembly-line apartment in which no plastering, sanding, painting, ----had to be done.  My passion for Victorian homes is slowly diminishing.  The people upstairs have lived here for 5 years and they are just beginning to be satisfied with all the work they've done.  We don't even know if we will be here that long.  I certainly don't  want to stay here for the rest of my life.  (Paul says, "enough, enough.")

Actually I don't need either a loom or a wheel because I won't have time to do anything like that. It's icing.  The house has to look half decent first, I guess.

I have to go in town today and naturally the weather is not cooperating at all.  It's raining and snowing -- slushy!yech.  But I simply cannot put this off anymore.  I'm so lazy lately (even lazier than before? he says, oh, it is not possible.)  By the time I get to work sometimes I am ready to leave, especially when I work til 10 on Thursday -- get home at 11:15 and have to get up at 6:30 Friday (I can't go to sleep at 11:15 -- especially after coming home from work.  I'm just too fidgety. I do regret it the next morning however.

Lately I'm been on this Graham Greene binge.  (Remember how I read everything Hardy wrote?) Well, I just started my 5th Greene novel and lo and behold -- on the dedication page a quote -- a Hardy quote (hmmmm).  I knew there had to be some connection.  Greene's characters seem fate-directed also, but not bound the way Hardy's are.  They have freedom to re-arrange things as they are set up and fate only presents them to situations.  That's how I feel fate really works, anyway.

It seems like I'm really boring, so...I'll stop for now.  (Paul says "whew!")

P.S.  Corneliusson -- I was reading a pamphlet on first name origins while I was organizing the vertical file at work and they explained in the intro how the origins of 1st and last names differed. You name just happened to be an example.  Just one line explaining how it had been shortened from that to Nelson.

October 27, 1974 (Letter from Sue)

Really!  How could you -- how dast you insult my humble, but honest typewriting, that which has earnt me my honest (but more humble) living till I went and became a "professional"?!!  My nimble fingers ((at the machine, my dear) are known far and wide for their skill.  Though the old agility does seem to have worn off a bit of late.  It's just their (my fingers) way of telling me that they do not want to be party to any secretarial jobs.

I did like the ring of Monagahela Queen, though I suppose "Gateway Clipper" does sound clippier....

Oh -- almost forgot -- BIG NEWS!!!!  I found a job.  Not completement what I had wanted, but close enough for the time being; the salary is decent, and it will fulfill one aspect of my many faceted bag of desires...I am going to be a children's librarian in a spiffy elementary school (miles from downtown Montreal -- I take the train at the crack of dawn, and the principal meets me at my stop in front of the Kentucky Fried Chicken stand -- I feel like a combination of a character form Theodore Dreiser and one from Ken Kesey...)  I actually have (or will have) two schools to work with, though the second one isn't assigned yet.  I'm looking forward to it -- I'll have complete charge of the library and all its creative activities.  The principal seems quite encouraging of my desire to do some sort of children's theater.  Also he seems to be willing to be completely laissez-faire with regard to selection, general  policy, etc... Tomorrow is my first day; I'm sort of nervous.  (But then, I never did have your ability at nonchalance when nonchalance is due.)

One of the reasons I took the job (I'm  still having struggles with the red-taped Immigration & Manpower Service re my work permit, so I shouldn't be premature) is for the fact that school-related people get vacation...like summer and Christmas and Easter.  A very good reason to stay within the hallowed halls of academia, though Wendell would have a fit to hear me say it.

(By the way -- re Wendell's remark about "shooting your wad off before you start" -- I vaguely remember something like that, but it isn't entirely clear...What do you mean by "revealing" -- are you referring to, shalt we say, homosexual tendencies he might have?  Or are you referring to his cautious nature?  (Sort of a don't count your chickens before they hatch simile.)  Please elaborate.  Inklings into Wendell's mysterious character fascinate me.  I don't agree that he is a pompous asshole -- just a big pedagogical at times, and certainly a pain in the ass occasionally.  But I think that his heart is in the right place, which is more than I can say for the like of someone like Needlenose (B.N.) -- and I can forgive a lot for a heart in the right place...)

We have been getting involved in several film series (which is something I imagine you miss in Deer Lodge).  There's some good one around -- saw "Lacombe Lucien" which is Louis Malle's latest , and very good, if somewhat distressing.  I am finally going to see Harold and Maude (with the memory of your glowing praise), and am quite excited about it.  Montreal is progressing (I seem to say that in all of my letters -- a somewhat ambivalent statement at best) -- some day's I'm fascinated by the mix of old/old and new/garish -- on those days I enjoy walking around the city, down by the waterfront and across the tracks, looking up to Mount Royal in all its autumn splendor, enjoying the mellifluous sound of French being spoken with a peculiarly North American style.  But other days, I am depressed by the psychic and ecological pollution of the construction which is going on everywhere and ruining the flavour of the city; I become irritated with what has been pounded into my brain as the hostile attitude of the French-speaking Quebecois.  On these latter days I become very homesick for Anywhere U.S.A., and envy y ou in your rustic Lodge of Deer (as the French would translate it.)

I think I'd better continue by hand.  This typewriting is really sick, and probably annoying to read.

I'm glad you're continuing with your writing.  I think it is important.  And I'm glad that you find your surroundings conducive to a satisfying way of life.  This is very important, I think -- I think you're going to come out of Deer Lodge with a well defined sense of time and place -- (I think Pittsburgh did the same thing; for both of us).  It's exciting to have the mobility (and desire) to travel, exciting as well as very satisfying, I think.  Such a perspective is gained by seeing other ways of life and all that cliched sort of thing.  I know I'll always look back on Pittsburgh as one of the most courageous ventures I have made -- and one of the most ultimately rewarding.  (I think there's something -- lots, in fact, to be said for travelling as a single person, as well -- tho the companionship of being part of a couple is nice too.  What thinkest thou?)

Got a letter from Janet the other day -- she is working as an A/V librarian (w/ no A/V budget) in Marty's medical school.  She says the atmosphere is very congenial -- her only (mild, at that) grip is that the life of a med student's wife is not even semi-carefree bliss!  I understand all too well the loneliness for us gregarious creatures who are wedded to students.  (Loneliness in a strange city, I mean, Janet feels much in Philadelphia as I do in Montreal: not knowing anyone.  But it will come.)

Also got a bizarre letter from Michael -- which was mainly an enumeration of all his activities -- he's really becoming BTS (Big Time Stuff) with his interest in T/A, etc.  I hear thru the grapevine that he's not too happy at  Maryland though; however, Blanche is the source of this so -- as Grant says -- I "take it with a box of Morton's and an umbrella as well..."

I'm glad to hear that you enjoy the joint.  (I wrote to my parents about your job -- my father work -- counselling -- w/ inmates of the county jail -- and he says he has a distinct memory of the Deer Lodge prison as a "dreary place".  Is it?  The library sounds OK, anyway...)

Sorry that you and the dumplings of Deer Lodge aren't sweeping each other off your respective feet.  Where's that sturdy, adventurous pioneer Montana stock?  Well, perhaps your Belle of Boston will decide to trek westward.  In the meantime, I know you can be stoic about spiritual solitude.

I must dash off and take my bread pudding from the oven (doesn't that sound domestic?  Believe me, it is.  Sometimes my gypsy spirit rebels).  So I shall close.  Do write again soon -- your letters are a joy to behold, tumbling fatly through the mail slot.

Ta, ta till the next time, when I shall enumerate the no doubt fascinating tale of my escapades as a school librarian.

P.S.  I am a little confused about this Leslie thing.  In the last letter before this, I am sure that you said something to the effect that your relationship w/ Leslie was the most whole or complete, or something, you had yet encountered.  Yet, in your latest letter you state unequivocally that you have "broken off with Leslie for good".  My opinion, should you choose to accept it, is that Leslie's lack of "spunk" has been casual in her current (and future?) "lack of Paul".  N'est-ce pas?  I do think that an ounce of gumption is worth a pound of all-suffering patience.

Again -- I hope that Montana offers some of its famed majestic beauty, feminine variety, soon -- and that you don't get hornswaggled and hog-tied unwittingly into the blessed state of matrimony.  (With the rich rancher's only daughter, perhaps?)  Actually, I know it could never happen to you -- you're too damned obstinate!  (A sterling quality -- just as gumption is!)

September 17, 1974 (Letter from Ken and Denise)

We received your letter on the 7th or 8th of September, and had read it both together.  We are both writing this letter to you, so we will introduce whom is writing to your at each new paragraph. There are a lot of things going on between the both of us, and DOLLAR DATE.

Last week we answered an ad for models.  So we called, and they told us to come down and apply.  We went down on a Monday, and scheduled to work the following day, which was Tuesday. I was (Denise) (better known as Neecy, my new name) modeling on Tuesday.  Oh yea, by the way, we're nude modeling.  Both of us.  It's really exciting.  I was so excited about it the first time. You should experience it once in your life.

Right now, we are smoking grass, and trying to get stoned, or at least high.  We bought a lid from Koerbers, and it is really shitty!  Is it easy to get grass in Montana?  Have you smoked any while you've been there?  Kenny's smoking mainly to feel better, cause he's got a terrible cold at the present time.

Oh, guess what happened today?  Well, when I was modeling today, I was sitting on a bike that was too big for me.  When I sat on the bike, my feet wouldn't even reach the floor.  Well, we took a break and I got back on the bike, but in the process of reaching the seat the bike tipped, fell next to me where I fell. I'm in the nude when all this is happening.  That was a day to experience. Because I got up at 6:00 to get down there and find out that I'm not scheduled for that day.  I got home, and got a call from the agency to find out that they want me back down because they can use me.  So I finally got to model.

DOLLAR DATE is coming along really good.  At the present time, we are in the process of opening up a branch office in Harrisburg, in Morgantown, W. Va., and one in Boston Mass.  We have two other people working for us, as far as getting memberships.  One of them is a male cab driver, and a female student  trying to earn a little money.  We've practically hired the one in W.Va.  We are almost to the point where we'll break even.  All we need is about a month.

Paul -- Hi.  This is Ken.  We have this letter in the typewriter and we each are taking turns when we feel in the mood to do some typing.  As you can see, there are a lot of mistakes, especially on my part, but we figured that you wouldn't mind and so as mistakes occur, I just keep typing.  I guess that Neecy must have told you in the prior pps. that we are doing some nude modeling.  We get work whenever and as often as we wish to exhibit our really neat bodies.  It is an experience that is really far far out.  I love it.  After the class is over, every girl in the room tries to get you to take her home and fuck her.

No letter would be complete if I were not to give you the latest on the invincible DOLLAR DATE. We now have a total of 102 paid members.  Some of the chicks coming into the program are really sharp little girls.  I should have opened this business when I was single.  My god, some of these chicks are really nice.  AHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhhh.,.....Hope Denise doesn't read this part!

Next month we will be even with all investments which will be right on schedule.  We were now offered $7000 for the whole business.  International Date Match is now out of business.  Fuck them.....

Have you found a place to live yet?  I hope so.  I bet that you are really enjoying your job at the prison.  It is a two fold experience for you.  I am really glad that you are working in a prison.  It may have a lot to do with your future.  You will learn from the cons as well as provide them an educational service.  Some of your ideas the goals I am sure will change.  It is good also that you are working in a minimum security joint as there is no fear of large scale riots.  Please do not judge all prisons on the basis of what you experience there and you must keep the same attitude and open mind about that various cons as individuals.  Never let someone convince you to do an outside favor.  Once you do, you are done for.  I am sure you are all aware of this anyway but I thought that I might mention it.  You are going to be up against minds that can talk the brass off a fucking knob!

I now turn the typer over to Neecy.   --------Hi Paul, how are you today?  I don't know if Kenny told you that today is Sunday, Sept. 22, 1974, but it is,.  We're going over to my aunt's house for dinner today.  Isn't that great!!!!  We have two main courses, spaghetti and roast, with mashed potatoes and gravy.  Well, we went, and it was great.  Th ere was stuffed cabbage, and it was really good.  We got some to bring home with us.

I am how informing you of latest news happening with the Walleys.  The Koerber has a home out in North Hills and wants Kenny to take care of it.  It's really great out there.  There is two acres of land out there, with a real lot to it.  At the present time, the house has no one living out there, and the house itself is a wreck!  We are going to fix it up and live there maybe.  Ike wants us to care for it cause he got a job offer in Washington, D.C.  The house is really fantastic, and there can be a lot done with it.

When we went over to my aunts place, I unpacked a hope chest, full of things for the home, and some of my other things.  My mother's wedding dress was in there, and Kenny couldn't understand why it would be very important to my aunt.  But when we got home, I tried the dress on, and it fits like it was made for me.  Kenny really likes it now, and he thinks that it is the best thing in there.

We really like the warm letter you sent us.  Be sure to answer this one.

September 16, 1974 (Letter from Gordon Hill)

Just a note from the former MSP librarian....

Any help or introductions I can give you I will gladly do.  Especially in Deer Lodge, of course.  Has Dick given you the manual I was asked to write, for the position?

I also would be able to donate newspapers I subscribe to, namely The Guardian, The Militant, Berkeley Barb, and the Black Panther Intercommunal News Service.  Any or all of these.  For my materials selection philosophy on these items, see the above-mentioned manual.

The MSP librarian who preceded me, John Mason, now as MHS, is a close friend, and I hope you get acquainted.

At any rate, I wish you well.  Let me know where you are living.  I am working on a long article, on my MSP experience, and if and when it appears someplace, I will let you know.

I started work at Tacoma Public Library August 26th, as librarian for the Northwest Room, which is the Pacific Northwest collection, and I'm just getting into the job.  I will emphasize Montana, Idaho, B. C., and Native Americana, these areas being a lot weather than more local, recent subjects.

Take care, and keep cool.  You will be a very valuable staff worker to the men, especially.

At first when I arrived from the black ghetto area in Seattle to start work in Deer Lodge (just as winter hit in '72 -- a week after I arrived in late November  temp went to 40 below!), I was somewhat paranoid.  I came to like Montana, however, and would like to return, in a year or so, circumstances permitting.  Depends on how things go here.  Basically, though, I'm beginning to wonder, at age 42, if it is worth it to keep pouring oneself into a "career", when a quieter balance between it and plain living seems more sensible.  Like living and working on or near an Indian settlement: The Makah at Cape Flattery:  or in "rural" Montana....

Sidebar: August 16, 1974 (Offer from Montana State Librarian Alma S. Jacobs)

I am pleased to offer you the position of Prison Librarian at Montana State Library.  The starting salary for this position is $8,600 per year.  Benefits include 15 days vacation after one year, regular state holiday, social security, membership in the state retirement system and state participation in health insurance.

If you are interested in the position, will you please call me collect at 406-449-3004, and follow your call with a letter of acceptance.

We would like for you to begin by September 3, 1974.  If it is convenient for you to come earlier we can discuss this when you call.