W. D. #5 
The Gushman House 
LAKE GUSHMAN, WASH. 
are off alter ducks at the Lake. I am sorry that I hve not been 
where I could get you some of the ferns which I sent you during 
the summer, perhaps I may go up on the hill this winter but I doubt 
it greatly, I have to go out to the beach every week with cream 
and it gives me all the exercise I need with my regular work. 
We too, have had sorrow in our household, Mrs, Putnam's father who 
has made his home with us for many years was killed m Seattle in 
November. He was hit by a taxicab as he was crossing the street, 
and though he lived several hours did not regain consciousness. 
Enlisting at the first call for volunteers, he served through the' 
entire war, most of the time as Gen. Grant's orderly, later he was 
in command of a troop of colored cavalry, and finally served a year 
after the close of the war. It is hard for one to go through all 
that and then be cut down on the street. The automobile has cost 
us many lives. The speeder and the fool who shoots at the moving ty 
brush are both in the sa; e class. One of my neighbors was killed 
near here a few days ago. 
Now dont you think I have done pretty well by you 
for one time? This has run along till I am now on the Wit fifth 
sheet. I hope you are having a pleasant Christmas and that the 
New Year may bring you naught but good health and comforts. 
Mrs. Putnam joins me in kindest regards, 
Very faithfully yours, 
