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Not to worry
227 Elm Street
Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Mr. Patrick O’Farrell
12 Lowell Road
Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts
June 12, 1940
Dear Son,
I wanted to write to you as soon as I could, because I know the conversation we had on the telephone last night upset you. It is true; I have been less than completely honest with you about how ill I have been lately. I did not want you to worry about me, because you have so many other things, happier things, to think about these days. The Red Sox are playing so well lately, and are in first place again, where they belong. Your son has won five of his last six games, and he is pitching so much better than he did last season. And, the last of your children is about to graduate from high school. You do not need to waste your time worrying about me, even now that you know that I am not feeling well.
You most certainly do not need to come to Stockbridge to see after me, and neither does Sarah! Your home is with your own children. Johnny will be going back to college before you know it, and Bill will be leaving in the fall, too. You need to spend every moment you can with them because, before long, you will not have the chance to do so quite as easily.
I have lived a long, full life, Son. I have watched my children grow up, and raise children of their own. I have seen my grandchildren grow into wonderful young adults, and I have seen a great-grandchild come into the world.
I hope I do not need to tell you what a blessing you have been to me. You have not only achieved true greatness in your chosen field, but you have earned the affection and respect of untold millions of people. And never have you allowed your fame to “turn your head” or cause you to behave as if you were somehow better than other people.
So, please, don’t waste any of your time worrying about me. Your Dad is taking very good care of me, and there are always friends and neighbors coming to call and offering their assistance. You and Mike have a pennant to win, and then a World Series.
Kiss Sarah and “the kids” for me, and tell them I will be looking forward to hearing from them very soon.
Love,
Mom
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