4,/21/'17.

U.S.C.G.C. Tampa
Key West, Fla.

My Dear Sister,-

Both Arthur and I are aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Tampa. We enlisted about two weeks ago for one [year's] service. We are both working in the fire room and are getting along fine. We make more money than we did on the dredge while the life is much more [interesting] and the work no harder. At present we are off the Fla. coast at Miami trying to pull a steamer off the reef. Are waiting for a tug to help us. Will [probably] be here a couple of days yet.

The cutter service is [really] the U.S. Navy now but there is little similarity in the duties. We have to wear the Jack Tar uniform and drill a little [occasionally] but about all we do is help ships in [distress] and make reports on coast conditions. All of our traveling will be along the coast unless the war calls for something else.

-2-

I cannot get up to see you for a year now but will try and keep in touch with you just the same. Both Art. and I are [figuring] on laying up a little money and the [opportunities] are good. We left the folks alone but are able to send a bit of coin back each month for we have a steady job for one year with all [expenses] paid. Not only is the job steady but chances for advancement are good. I hope to change my [rating] in a short time, which will be a monthly increase in pay of $5. We ought to be able to change [ratings] a couple times before the year is out. There is another thing. Time goes very fast at sea so I think things will be agreeable to us both.

Let me know how your farming is [coming] on, and anything else you might feel like telling me.

My address is U.S.C.G.C. Tampa Key West Fla. You might tell grandpa Bevins of the change if I do

not find time to write him before he does me. I may have some pictures taken soon. You'll get some if I do.

Regards to Geo. and Best Wishes to you.

The same Bro,
Al. Knox.