Letter from Mabel Inez Griffin to Ben Knight on Nov. 8, 1918. Willow Point, Texas
Dear Ben,
When I got home from school this afternoon I was certainly glad to find the postman had left your letter. Just told Mrs. Shawn of next door that if I didn't get a letter from you soon, I would be going to France.
Oh, Ben we have just received word that the war has closed. Am waiting now for paper. Cannon and shot guns and whistles have been roaring all day. Dear child I will be so glad if it is true.
Ben I am glad you went over the top and back safely. I know the men in front of you were frightened. Ben was it not wonderful, the thrill and excitement? If you get a chance to rest, rest in good fashion. Of course I want a long letter but I also want you to rest. If you have not had a rest I am sure you need one by now. Ben have you gotten only one letter from me since you have gone? I've written dozens. I've gotten only three since you left. I got this one that was written 15th of Oct.
I certainly hope you are home by time by time a box could reach you. But it will take a written permit from your captain. I'll send you something on risk of your getting it anyway.
Brian and Jack have had the influenza twice and are having a weak time of it. Glad you have not had it, I have not heard from Mother this week since I wrote you. Shall write her tonight and tell her I heard from you. She asked about you in her last letter. I have been teaching a month today. This afternoon we organized a Literary Society called the Red, White and Blue L.S. We played the "town boys" a game of basket ball- chose up and played a good game. I then played on a mixed team and those large boys rolled over, knocked over and jumped over me, until I am black and blue.
My school work is progressing smoothly. Pupils are studying hard and I am becoming more interested. As every good thing can't be jammed together, I'd rather a rough piece of steak for an assistant, see. I am sure to have trouble with him and soon. But don't you fear, I am capable of managing him.
Some one put a large craw fish in my desk and when I opened the drawer I most touched it. It's claws are more than an inch cross when open. They are very mischievous children. The last three days it's been raining floods, simply in sheets during the day. The day before yesterday I lost my glasses and as the whole county has been flooded, I knew they gone, but an old bachelor to whom I had sworn eternal hatred, found them, so now I've forgiven him.
I am rather glad the French maidens are at a distance for I am of rather a jealous disposition. I will close for this time with ten thousand miles of love and best wishes from "Prof" Mabel Inez Griffin.
You must be lucky and come on the first ship home.