January 3, 1980 Dearest Wee At long last, communication seems to be restored! Beginning Yesterday, I have received a Christmas card from you, letters from Mark and Phil, letter from Gammy, and a letter from d brother of Aunt Hopes, whom I hardly know (but nice of him.) "They" indicated that more mail would be distributed throughout the week. For the record, I have sent you one letter, dated December 16, one paster Christmas card (December 24), and Christmas cards to each of The boys and to Mum and Pup. I received, via the Rev. Mn. Coffin, a message from Mum saying that you and the boys were "excellent" (of which I have no doubt), and passed on a message through him to you. All the mail so far received & has been dated November 13-16, but "They" said that mail was coming in with December postmarks. The Christmas card from you mentioned the service in The National Cathedral, and enclosed some much - -treasured photographs. Send more. Rev. Coffin was more impressive, and a great help. He was, literally, the first indication of anything that we had received Spirits revived considerably, Quite apart from our own comfort and convenience the objective it any negotiation should be to restore Iranian- American relations, on the basis of a lot better understanding on both Sides, I gather, too, from Page 2 the letters that interest in us on the part of the American public has been lively. Again, apart from our own deliverance, it that makes the American public aware that the revolution in Iran is here to stay, and that the Sooner we rid ourselves of holdover from the past, whether attitudes or personalities , the better, thon Something will have been accomplished. Philip's letter was particularly perceptive on this point. As to my physical situation, we are getting plenty to eat, with vitamin supplement. There is no hotwater [sic], but they have Taken us to where there is, so we could shower and wash our clothes. Exercise is not sufficient. We have been allowed outside on the average of about once a week, beginning a month ago. With one exception (a sort of little Hitler), the guards one nice guys, and do all they can for us. A doctor comes around about once a week, to see it anything needs care (The great lifesaver is reading matter. I am rereading Terr of the d'Urbervilles. As a schoolboy, I missed so much of it. Give my love to all. Thank you for looking after my garden. I love You M.)