We were both very very happy to get your dear letter this morning, yet sorry to hear you are suffering with Sciatica and Rheumatism, I do hope the next letter we get, you will be able to walk with a Cane; very thankful you are not having but very little pain in the back. I know dear that you dont believe in Christian Science yet I feel it is helping us all and if mother is happy in that belief, I know you wont mind me writing this to you. I've prayed night and day your Back would heal and your legs would grow Stronger every day, and I really believe my prayers have helped you; now I am going to work hard night and day for you to get rid of Sciatica and Rheumatism, and tell me in your next letter if you are getting all over your illness, and those weak nerves, even if you dont believe in C. S. I've just read this to Dad, he says, tell Nat his mother is crazy. Give Miss Moreland my fond love and all good wishes for her kindness to our darling, God bless her, tell her I often think of her and hope I may see her Soon, and tell her how very grateful I am and thank her over and over again, dont know what you would have done without her, through all your terrible Sufferings. Dad has written you all the news which isn't very much. I am able to get around and waiting to get Stronger to go out. Dad joins in sending our fond love with kisses God bless you may you improve every day rapidly, and soon be ready for business and enjoy perfect health and great Success in your new part--with all the happiness there is, is ever my constant and Silent prayers always for our Darling Son. From your ever loving and affectionate mother C. R. GOODWIN [Illustration: MRS. N. C. GOODWIN, SR. _A dear old lady living in Boston_] _Chapter L_ SAN FRANCISCO After touring the rural towns in "In Mizzoura," I opened at the Baldwin Theatre, San Francisco, June, 1896. It was then that I discovered that San Francisco stands alone among the cities of the world. It is indeed a strange place. The coolest time of the year and by far the pleasantest is during the summer months and yet many of the inhabitants go East, to swelter in New York or at the hotter sea shores. I know of no more delightful city in America during June, July and August than San Francisco. But everyone who can afford it packs up and leaves! This of course has a tendency to affect the business of the theatres, particularly the high-priced ones.