Excerpt Seven from Letters to Elisha Hamilton

Talked to Joel on his sail phone briefly last night (they call them mobiles over in Yerup). Raining hard, he claimed, as he drove to a Halloween party. Said something about four horns. Promised to call me later. You kids today.

Cold front got here. You see any more leaves in the maple tree shadow?

Wind picked up fierce. I saw where a squirrel built a new nest out back near the edge of the swamp. I wonder if squirrels ever get seasick?

Ned helped to take down the tarp just in time, plus he set the air conditioners in the garage and put up several storm windows. I should adopt him since he never eats much.

Your Aunt Donna has threatened to come to your graduation, along with Alma and who knows who else. But do not accept any animals from either one of them.

Your ma and spy brother will be there too, but most likely he will be invisible. Or dressed as a fat pumpkin.

All is well; all is well.