November 19, 1920 from Theodore Gegoux (1850 - 1931) to grandson Victor C. Gegoux (1910-1993)
Aurora, Oregon
Dear Victor,
I am glad that you have some ambition to do things and do them well, although it is not necessary to write a clever hand in order to succeed in life, yet it is enjoyment to do things well. In regard to writing, drawing, and painting, as you suggest, I would gladly teach you by mail if you have a real desire to learn.
Write me and say how you feel about it. I shall be very glad to start you on the right road to the art world. You understand dear Victor, that it is important that we should occupy our mind doing that which we love to do, in preference to doing that which we dislike, even though there maybe be more money in doing the latter.
So, if you would like to be an artist, and are talented in that way, there is nothing to prevent you from doing what you like, no matter how poor in money, if only you are rich in health, go to it and success will crown your efforts to the extent of our accomplishments. But have in mind dear Victor,that no banquets are ever thrown to the idler. As you say dear Victor, "You wish that I could come now to L.A.".
Yes, that is what I say too, for I would just like to behold you, yes, and also hold you close to my heart, but as I look in the future the way is not clear. There is much that I have planned to do in the State of Oregon before I can leave it. But maybe I am like the tailor who cut up more clothes than he could ever sew. I was born on the 19th of Nov 1850, so I am seventy years of age today. I will not attempt this fine writing* again for I must be saving my eyesight, awaiting your answer,
I am your loving Grand papa,
Theodore Gegoux
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