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  • Walter E. Dandy Letter 11/12/1913

    20 Holford Square

    Percy Circus

    London, England

    November 12, 1913

    My Dear Boy

    …Your first letter we read and reread it and built many castles on its strength but the last letter the little Boss didn't read it so often. She thought you where discouraged with the new method of salaries at Hopkins. If that is so I think you had better go slow in making decision at least for a year or two. Dr. Kelly or Finney etc. can afford to resign from 2 points. First they have a reputation and outside practices that will be liable to follow them even if they leave the hospital. Then they may have suficient money to keep them, but you lack both of theese. It looks to me as though it should offer many advantages to you, especialy if the big ones resign both from practical esperiance you ought to get a fair salary for a start. But I think the salary will improve later especialy if some of the big ones resign so they can keep the younger big ones that will fill their places.

    Further I am afraid Chicago will follow in the same course if Hopkins is succesfull and I think they will make it so. If this is the case I am afraid it won't be long before all larger hospitals will do the same and greatly injure anyone from individual practice. The idea looks good from many viewpoints. Even if it does destroy the hopes I have hitherto had of you making $100,000 per year or so you could not use it. We can't use what we have got, and I don't think you will be able to use what you can earn in a few years from now. So be patient. If you get short, say so.

    By all means get yourself some clothes and lots to eat. Fancy the best man on the staff with $11.50 suit. Please look manly. Your father has good ones, and you need them more than I do.

    I feel there will be lots of changes going on in Hopkins. Even some may desire to get you discouraged for their advantage, telling of your ability and small salary in sight. But you had better use your own mind as you have always done. It is your best guide. …

    You say to come to Baltimore if I am sick. I will but don't feel that way yet. I never felt better, had more and cared less. But I am not quite so heavy. I now weigh 164 3/4. But the Boss has more than gained what I have lost so in the ultimate their is gain in the family. But I think I could walk with you from Kenwood to hospital now without getting out of breath and keep up with you.

    So your mind can rest easy and follow your desire in discovering the hidden secrets of your proffesion. How about Ph.D. What is it given for doing?…

    Your affectionate Father

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