Date: December 7, 1913
Context: Coolidge updates his father on a health scare that Calvin Jr. is undergoing; pneumonia, and other issues with his lungs, are causing the boy to become very frail and weak. Coolidge notes that, if his condition worsens, an operation might be necessary. Calvin shows substantial pride in his son, saying that he is facing his illness with strength and courage.
Dear Father:-
We think Calvin is over the pneumonia but trouble has developed between the lung and the outside. The doctors ran in a needle last night and drew off about a teacup full of water. If pus gathers there he will have to have an operation to get it out. He does not whimper. His temperature is just normal tonight, the drawing off relieved him. If it does not go up by Tuesday night he will be out of danger we think. Our doctor just left and says he could not be in better condition than he is now.
He is very thin and weak, but you would be proud to see how much courage he has. He is a thoroughbred.
Your Son
Calvin Coolidge
Citation: Coolidge Family Papers, Vermont Historical Society
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The Coolidge Foundation gratefully acknowledges the volunteer efforts of Craig Eyermann, who prepared this document for digital publication