VERN'S SAD BUT HONORABLE DECISION The long anticipated day of Vern's leaving Ogden to visit Madeleine was very near when he wrote: "I had to get someone for my work, new battery clerk, and someone for the National Guard & the U. P. Band, and another trumpeter for the orchestra." Almost the day Vern was to leave, the man Vern was training to replacing him became seriously ill and was hospitalized for an extensive time. The printing plant foreman asked Vern to stay on longer and help them during this emergency. Vern said he would and wrote Madeleine apologizing to her about his not coming. Vern must have felt terrible about this missed opportunity to be with his girlfriend. All this planning and anticipation for over four months was now postponed because of Vern's loyalty to his work and boss. December 15, 1929 After Madeleine has returned to Ogden, she received a letter from Dr. Crosby saying that if she came back to L.A., she could have her old position at $2 per week increase. Meanwhile, she should study a little shorthand. August 29, 1930 During the last half of 1930, Madeleine lost the use of her right arm. This was an extremely painful and awful experience. Another letter from Dr. Crosby: "We now have a trained nurse....Be as good and sweet as you always were here." October 8, 1930 Dr. Crosby: "Hello Brownie (Madeleine's nickname) sorry that you are having trouble with your arm...suggest that you get electrical treatments to the arm besides iron shots and general building medicines...if you were here I would give them to you free." December 22, 1930 Madeleine to Dr. Crosby"Should I have an opportunity to go down (to Los Angeles) later this winter, how happy I'll be! That thought alone gives me such a thrill it makes me feel one hundred percent better. I have certainly had one long spell of illness. For nearly three months, I have had this trouble in my arm. It has nearly worn me out, my right arm being the afflicted one, and during all this time, being entirely useless up until just recently. Now I am able to write although it is only finger movement. But' I'll keep on smiling for they say, 'It's a great life if you don't weaken.' I often think of the many, many pleasant days I spent while working for you doctors. I certainly have wished many a time that I could live those happy days over again. You doctors were always so cheerful and kind. Now, Doctor Crosby, I want to thank you again for your letter and offer and not only do I but my parents greatly appreciate your interest and wish me to make known their appreciation." January 10, 1931