Sunday AM Jan. 31

Dear Sweetheart,

Mr. Yeomans came down yesterday PM and left a few minutes ago by car with his clothing etc. He and I called on Dr. Montgomery and visited last night until about 11 PM. So far as I know he is through at Gainesville and his connection with our office is now complete. His feelings are very high concerning Bruce and he says that Newell won’t stand for Bruce being canned. He does not know what Bruce’s status is to be, but is assuming that Bruce is to be let out. He does not know that the plan is for RA to come here, but says that he is going to protest if RA comes down.

January 31, 1937

Strong and Dutton have been in the state service since last Tuesday noon when they arrived here and have contacted some of the field workers. Last night Yeomans phoned to Miami and located the chief but was told that Strong was checking out and would be in Washington Wednesday. This probably means that Strong and Dutton will return here Monday and that Strong will leave Tuesday PM. Bruce has been in bed with malaria the past week but was sitting up when Yeomans and I called on him yesterday. Several days ago I told him what he could expect and that Strong was determined that he should not head one of our units. He does not want to go back to Bishopp’s division and said he would resign. They asked me to eat dinner with them today and I will do so. Will talk the thing over with him and advise him not to resign but go back to research and work.

Had two meetings last week at night and the movie helps a great deal in difficult areas. There are some tough customers in “them thar” swamps.

The two offices are combined and some changes in assignments of duties. McG is given a job on reports, personnel efficiency & accomplishments and special field work. A lot of the trouble is due to his slowness and lack of cooperation with Bruce. Both are at fault.

My salary check for Jan. 15th was sent here for endorsement & was carried to San Antonio by Mr. Townsend for deposit. In Washington I drew $50 and since I’ve been here I have given two checks for $50 each. One check of $5 was given to the Entomological Society for dues. No other checks have been written.

I had no idea I’d be away this long but may be here longer. In fact I am sure that it would be better for the work, if R.A. were left in S.A. & I stayed here. With love to all of you and hoping to see you before long.

Your
Walter.