Where No Gods Came

Hi Baby

M Hi Baby, Got your letters. You do much besides write me? They were giving me crap at the co. of‹ce. Don’t know how you ‹nd so much to say. Should of read them in order, I had to go back and check the postmarks to follow the whole story. If I got it right, things have ‹nally settled down with Lenore. She can be mad as a rabid dog. It was something I couldn’t prepare you for. You’ll get used to her. I lasted ‹ve, six years, and I’m still alive to tell the story. Too bad about Cammy. The two of them were probably at each other’s throats. My guess is she’ll show up eventually. Teenage stuff. They all go through it. You will too. Maybe it’s just as well she’s gone now, gives you and Lenore a chance to get to know each other alone. However hard you think you got it, I’m telling you I’d trade places tomorrow. The work is hot and dirty, backbreaking, mud spraying in my face all day. We’re 13,000 feet down and still nothing. Heard there was an explosion up at Darwin—another rig. Starting to dawn on me this isn’t real safe. I’ve almost been done in twice. Nearly lost a leg breaking up some pipe. Long story. Now I’m just hoping to make it back alive. I’m an old man in this operation, this is work for someone young. Young and stupid. The stupid I’ve got covered. They wouldn’t have taken me if it wasn’t for Wiley having the connections. Don’t feel much like thanking him. Made it into Perth twice. Some races. Harness. Dog. But I’m watching myself. Wiley’s losing plenty. I know I need to save enough to dig us out. I will. Remember, I’ve been watching out for you for twelve years. You got the brains to fend for yourself. Be a big girl. I’m just doing the best I can. I guess what I’m trying to say is, have you started to forgive me? That’s it. I think about you every minute. Stay out of trouble. I love you. Dad 40 ...