George Reichert to Mabel Reichert, December 15, 1913

Ashtabula Harbor
Dec. 14/1913
10
Dear Mabel:
Did not get a chance to write today, so I will write tonight. Got the forward end all layed [laid] up but the old man’s room and the Mate’s and Percy. The Mate and Percy are going to leave in the morning.
And I suppose the old man will have to sleep up town after this, because they are going to shut the steam off up forward tomorrow.
Bones is still working but I suppose he’ll get his tomorrow morning when the old man pays off the Mate and Percy.
Well dear I suppose you got home all right.
I bet you had quite a job to carry that grip.
Didn’t your arm get quite lame.
Say we had some Hash tonight for supper, I bet you wished you were here to have some.
Say, I paid Mr. Miller for your fare. The ticket was 85¢. So don’t forget you owe me 85¢ ha ha.
Well I wonder if Lalla [Laura] went to Chicago. I bet she did, I kind of feel that way as though she did. But your [you’re] brave aren’t you dear (alone with Laura and Margery gone), you aren’t scared are you? ha ha.
Gee I haven’t answered the kids’ letter yet, I suppose I’ll have to answer that tomorrow or they’ll take my head off when they see me. And I must answer Henry Schaffer also.
Well I suppose you got that big fat letter when you got home, I hope I get such a one soon.
Because its awfull [awful] lonesome lying here. Can’t see nothing but these old ore Docks, and boats, and the Lake. Wished you could of stayed here with me. Went to bed last night at 7 P.M. with all my clothes on. Woke up about 11:30 and undressed. Believe me I’m not going to do that tonight. I’m going to take my duds off first.
Well dear, I will close for this time, will write when I hear from you.
With Love and kisses and a big hug. Best to Lalla [Laura] and Margery.
Your Hubby,
Geo.