Sept. 28

Dear Eliza*Beth (That’s your new nickname. Do you like it? I really REALLY do…. It’s kind of like you … a little old-fashioned but willing to try new things. And if you add the star, then we can be the Star-twins or the Star-friends or just the Stars…. And you don’t have to change the spelling of your name or anything…. So let me know what you think of it.)

I could go on for pages about why I’m sorry that I said all of that stuff … but you already know that I’m sorry.

To answer your questions:

1. About mentioning that your father doesn’t like me — I know you don’t like to think about that, but it’s true. But just because my parents got married so young and we’ve never had much money is no reason for him to act like that. After all, your parents weren’t always so rich, were they? (Actually, I know that you didn’t question me about your dad…. I just wanted to say this.)

2. I’m sorry that you are so upset that your father hasn’t been home at night until late. Do you think it’s work? Do you think it’s something else … or someone else?

About what’s happening with me — nothing much…. It’s still the same.

Write back soon.

Your Star-Friend (*Friend for short),