June 28, 1917. Homestead--

Dear Sister.

Art and I reached here early yesterday morning[.] Found mother in very critical condition and while a little better today [apparently], she still is in grave danger. Now we boys have only a 10 day leave, 4 of which are already expended so we will be unable to be of much assistance. If you have not already started proceed to do so at once for if mother survives this ordeal it will be some weeks and undoubtedly run into months before she will be able to take care of herself. She is now suffering from blood poisoning which resulted from a squirrel bite [received] over a week ago. [Ordinarily] I do not think this would have proved serious if mother had not been run down and sick from overwork and worry during [father's] illness. She has a very frail constitution now and it will take no little amount of care and attention to win back her health. If you can possibly come do so as soon as possible for it is im[possible]

[im]possible to tell what the result will be. Truly I am much worried over her condition.

We have not the means to give you financial assistance at the moment but will [reimburse] any party whom you can [persuade] to assist you at a later date. [B]efore getting back to our boat Art and I will be set back close to $60 for this [leave], besides the [physician's] fee will be equal to that and current expenses will eat up some more. Together we can gather about $70 per mo. so will have available funds in a couple more months.

You had better wire back what you can do.

[Hoping] you can reach here in time[.] I am your loving and anxious Brother Al. K.

P.S. Mother sends her love
                                                          Al.

I am advising Fishes folks but [owing] to shortage of time I must do it on a card. Am [referring] them to you for details.         Al--

Father is feeling quite well