Susan M. Clark was forwarded a letter (thru her brother) from what I believe was a former suitor. She kept it, and a copy of the letter made its way into my hands. I wanted to share it. The "Allen" that is mentioned, is Susan's brother."Lemon Grove, Cal. Feby 20, 1922
Dear Friend Allen,
I am getting a little stronger and will write you briefly. The weather has been very wet and cold here this winter and very unfavorable to me in my state of health. But certainly it will soon get warmer and then I hope to improve. I received a Christmas greeting from Mrs. Clark and in return I ask that you forward to her the enclosed crude lines - of course at your discretion.
In your letter you spoke of 'broken correspondence' and now after so many many years I feel that I ought to explain at least to you in regard to it and if you think proper you can send the missive to your sister. It can do no harm and of course no good. I will write soon but meantime write me at your convenience.
Truly Yours Henry"
Allen then placed the note to Susan in an envelope, date stamped March 5, 1922, and sent it on to her. Allen's letterhead had the Ohio State Bar Association logo and said "Office of the President" on it. Part of his memo to her said:"Dear Sister,
I am forwarding to you some correspondence from Henry Hartin: As he leaves it to my discretion and again, as he says, it will do no harm and no good either. Except, possibly to stir old memories... Your brother Allen"
This was the poem that was enclosed in his original handwriting (for easier reading, a typed version is below it):
"The sweetest dreams that come to me
In life's declining hour
Are not of things yet to be
Not dreams of wealth or fame or power
But dreams of days that are gone, long, long ago
The happy days of youth's sweet time-
And of the friends I used to know-
Sweet dreams to this desolate heart of mine.
Those dear friends are growing old
Yet in my dreams they still are young
Still bright the eyes that once the friendly message told
Still glad the songs that once they sung
When I have done my earthly task
And come to lay life's burden down
Could I but one blessing ask
It would not be a golden nor starry crown
But that through all eternity
Still in my dreams the friends of old
should visit me." Henry.
