September 25, 1959

Dear Pete

I'm sorry to be so dilatory in writing - I was more or less waiting for your reaction to my letter from Geneva, and then I have rapidly become very immersed in work here. So it is that you and Pop have exchanged letters before I could get in.

[...]

About your loan, I am hesitant at this point to participate in something if I don't think it is a good idea. To help you in ordinary circumstances I am, of course, always willing to do. In this special case could you do two things to help me decide? First, tell me why you want to buy a house (this is not a facetious request - you can take up a separate letter for the answer) and two, ask Joy to look at it for me (and you) from the standpoint of suitability. I hesitate very much to ask you to involve her, since I know your feelings, but I think she does know something of the situation and is in a position to give advice.

We all really enjoyed the summer tremendously. I realize now that I was very tired at the beginning (therefore all the sleeping!) and needed the vacation. We were glad to have you with us in spite of all the distressing discussions, especially if some good comes out of it. We are certainly looking forward to next year, and another meeting. A lot of this letter (and my first one) sounds pretty negative; I must emphasize that we would all be tickled pink if everything works out with you and Julia - we all will be happy however it works, just so it does work. The biggest point of the discussion between Mom and me was that we all can accept whatever happens and that we will pitch in to help as necessary. If certain decisions by the parents (or me, for that matter) sound harsh, it is not because of anger but in a sincere attempt to help you get on your feet, domestically and vocationally, so that the future may be happier for you than the past has been.

Anita's due to pop any time now - she's been expecting it for the past week or so. I'll let you know when it finally happens.

Much love to you all, and I'll try to write more often.

[Linus Pauling, Jr.]

PS. The Porsche arrived day before yesterday, in good condition, except for the cigarette lighter and tire gauge stolen out of it.

Your friend Locanthi does sound interesting. Incidentally, I just got a Lansing speaker including one of the little tweeters. Sounds pretty good.

PPS. 9-28-59 Anita got a nice letter from Julia today - sounds like Julia is trying! Good for her.