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Smith, Jewell Ellen, 1915-1998

"Great Jehoshaphat and Gully Dirt"


My glorious morning is now at hand. I know complete peace.
Old friends and church people still come for miles to pay their
respects. Elderly colored folk stop by. I hear them all pray for
my recovery, yet they know the matter is final. They go away
sorrowful, despite all I can say to reassure them.
Last week my family moved me from the outdoor room, placing
my bed on the south end of the porch so that I can feel any
slight breeze that stirs. Nannie, Vic, and Lovie take turns
sitting by my side, day and night, to waft the air with their
palmetto fans, and this does aid my breathing.
Soon, Lige, very soon I believe, the Lord will send again the
angel who came to me at Shiloh. All my years are passed away, and
He will bring my days to an end as a sigh.
With deep affection and with prayer on my lips for you, I
remain
Your devoted brother,
David
Mama folded up the letter. She handed it to Aunt Vic. Aunt
Vic passed it on to Aunt Lovie. They cried like little girls like
me.
Chapter 6
Mama had said I could go home with Aunt Vic-to spend a whole
week-because I hadn't been to her house in a long time, and
because Aunt Vic wished she had a little daughter with braided
hair and blue-green eyes.


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