Northeast Harbor Maine 04662. October 9, 1980. Dear Mike: Very exciting rumors that something may "happen". We have had so many roller-coaster rides in the past year that is impossible for me to get too hopeful. However, this time there seems to be more reason to hope. The almost total lack of communication since the fiasco last April makes it almost impossible to know how to begin. We assume that you have no information of the "outside" world. except possibly "grapevine" reports, mostly erroneous, and probably propoganda inspired. Being cut off this way must have been agonizing for you. We have kept a file of all newspaper articles from the beginning of your captivity, which has grown to such proportions that at first sight it may be discouraging to you, but it will be here, or rather in N. y., for use if you ever want to review it. I hope you have been getting our letters with all the family news. We have only one letter from you, written to Louisa in July and received in August, very cheerful and en- couraging to us, but indicating that you had written others. The immediate situation is, we are not at war and not supporting Iraq. The main concern in this country is your safety and hope for early release. The other concern is the possibility of a spread of the war, partly due to political jealousies, and of course, the necessity of keepin enough oil flowing to supply Western Europe and ourselves. The local attitude here is very touching, with very sincere concern and sympathy for you. I am sorry you cannot be here just now, as the foliage is the best I have ever seen. We expect to leave for home next Tuesday, the 14th. Instead of a much-needed paint job, we are having the house covered with "Vinyl Siding", which keeps the same appearance of clapboards and provides insulation, with a 40-year guarantee. The next mail out of here is tomorrow evening, so I shall go to bed now and perhaps dream up something more in- teresting to add in the morning. (2) Friday, October 10th. As I was dropping to sleep, I suddenly thought of Louisiana Land, which, you will remember, was not keep- ing up with the other oils. It has recently come to life and is selling over 60. Mark has been with us since the others left for school and college, and we have been having a cosy time. We have a local lady who comes in to clean and provide lunch. Mark is the chef (professional) in the evenings. He shows great imagination and has introduced us to many innovations not to be found in any cookbook. I had hoped to lose some weight, but the food has been too good. He has made good strides in every way. He works hard at his music and you will be surprised at the progress he has made. He has appeared in several concerts, alternating between his guitar and juggling. The latter is really remarkable. He has complete self-confidence and a real comic sense. Duncan was with us from the first of July un- til Labor Day, very gay and very popular. As you probably know, he is a class representative on the Student Government Council. Philip was here for August, working on Paul's boat and being available for tennis and bridge for the Nitze family. Andrew was here for only a few weeks. Both are back at their colleges, well as of yesterday. few Except for a scattered days of rain, the weather has been more beautiful than any I can remember. The foliage is blazing. I wish you were here to emjoy it with us. The letters we are writing now are intended to be handed to you when you are released. We hope and pray it will be soon. With all possible love, Pop.