Berton Lawrence BAILEY

                   No children
Letter written to Angela Bailey 23 Feb 1979 after her engagement.
Dear Angela,
       I am so glad to have your letter.  I would have been happy if you had told me of your engagement Christmas, and that you were going down to see your perspective in-laws, because it would have seemed natural, and I woudl have been so glad to share your happiness. As it was, Sarah, I presume, spoke of your plans to Grandfather, he asked me about it, and for some weeks we have been wondering why all the secrecy?  A week or so ago your mother called me about the lack of mail from Sarah; nothing else.  Not to encourage the secrecy, I asked her to tell me about it, which she then did.  If I had known earlier-at Christmas-it is possible that I could have been of help to you in persuading your lady relations that you are NOT too young and know your own mind and to marry the man of your choice without wasting valuable time in embarking on your adult life.  
       Because that is what I believe.  I congratulate you.  And I have firm confidence in your demonstrated ability to set good goals for yourself and to work hard to achieve them.  And to do so.  
       Thank you so much for sending the picture.  I didn't allow myself to look at it at once, because what I would see was so important.  And then I did.  And again I knew that you are doing the right thing, that you are very lucky, in that you have been offered this young man and that you have had the perception and the faith to accept him.  I am very pleased.  You are a beautiful pair. Your white dress is lovely; why can't it be your wedding dress?  I look forward to meeting him-and to wishing you both all the joys of a long marriage, and the patience and loving kindness to weather all the difficulties that marriage always brings with the years.  
       Of course, ever since my conversation with Ellen I have been thinking of things I must give you to help in the expensive establishment of your household.  My main present, and I will tell you now so you can forget about it, will be the set of good silver that was cousin Eva's.  It is not sterling, but good plate, and will certainly fill your needs, aside from the stainless steel for daily use-(no eggs stains to clean constantly) I asked if David had a car, am glad he has and depend on its ability to convey numerous cartons to Provo, containing all the plunder you will collect.  Aside from oddments I will give you as much as I can (money) so that when you are in Provo you will have a little to buy what you have not been given-electric blanket? heater? pillows? sheets? 
       Is this David's first year in college? It is good that he has done his service.  Angela, I sent your mother (and I hope your Grandmother sees and Janet) a very laudable piece I cut from my Guardian, the prestigious newspaper I get frorm England, about the Mormons.  Also, before this, I have expressed myself to her on that subject.  I have approved from the first, your joining that church that religion.  Your path opened before you at an early age and you have steadfastly followed it- to this happy conclusion.
       My congratulations go to David, with my thanks to him for offering you what I know (looking at his picture) he does, the shelter of gentleness and kindness and steady care.  
       Bobby and Mary Lou are very glad for you as you will hear-we hope your trip up from your wedding will give us a little time to embrace David before you rush off into Happiness And life- 
        Much love,
        Auntie Faye
       How has your father "reacted"?
                  

                   Occupation- U.S. Forest Ranger.  Also known as "L.D"
                  

                   Book Titled-Frozen Music- about Portland Architecture includes Van's work.
" Van " had no children.