1932-12-6: "I want a horse for Christmas"

Elmshorn, Germany
December 6/32

Dear Dad,

From all appearances, outwards and inwards, time must be nearing "Christmas" and the holidays.  By the time this letter reaches you, you will probably be right in the middle of the big rush.  Here's hoping you are.  That is, here is hoping Christmas will be like one of those of old.  One of those with candy on every counter, excelsior on the floor and people standing around with money in their hand.

I have sent Mother and the girls a package but the most I can do for you and the boys is a letter apiece.  However, a letter is a letter in every sense of the word when it shows that you are not forgotten.  Christmas, which is much nearer to the corner than prosperity, is liable to tell us a great deal about ourselves.  It may bring people to thankfulness for at least what they have.  People over here are worse than those at home when it comes to hollering because they haven't any money.  Though I presume it is smoothing to holler about.  There is a condition existing over here that is hard for me to make out.  Everyone is unemployed yet they have to pay taxes on everything they own and yet they exist. Unless things at home descended since I was there, the American people haven't anything to put up with in comparison with the German.

In all respects, I imagine I am going to see Christmas in an entirely different manner and angle this year.  Even now, more Yuletide is displayed than we would usually see at home.  Last night I was in Glückstadt holding choir practice and I was asked no less than a half a dozen times what I would like for Christmas.  I told them a horse and form all sincerity and seriousness displayed, I'm liable to get a horse for Christmas.  The saints will do almost anything for the missionary anyway.  Yes, it looks as if I'll have learned my choir one number by the time our xmas program comes off.  I f there is ever a time when we missionaries get busy it is at this time of the year.  If it isn't working out programs, it is making a complete round of visiting among the saints and friends aside from having a few more meetings to take care of.

Well, Pop, I guess I haven't anything else to say.  I guess if I had a paper that you could read I could do as you do and send a newspaper.  However, they are the most important part of my mail. I don't know exactly but I don't expect to be in Elmshorn much longer than Christmas.  Though I may be left here longer than I expect.

Merry Christmas to you and lots of success for the oncoming year.  When you have time, write me another letter.

Your son,
Clarence