The lady who is on her way to the poor house becuase she married a shlub is the person who decided she wanted to be with a schlub. No sympathy from here. When a man and woman decide to share a life totally there are no guarantees about finances or anything else in the future. When people are young (Alas I can no longer make that claim as I have passed the half century mark) they are best served by selecting a partner who shares common goals and values where there is tenderness and caring and yes love. I stopped out for a dinner the other night after going to the range. The place I went is a local watering hole where since I am now smoking again I ate in the bar.
I had the unfortunate experience of sitting next to a physically attractive woman who was pouring her soul out to the bartender and eventually to me.
I listened to how she had just thrown out the guy she had been with for fifteen years. He had been consistently cheating on her and was from her description a borderline alcoholic. She had no idea how she was going to get on with her life. She kept asking where are all the good eligible men. I quietly told her the following facts. A man over forty who is single and making it on his own does not wish to be saddled with a loser even a good looking loser. I she wants to find someone she should get on with her life become involved in the community and do not look to meet mister right in a bar. The simple fact is that most men who meet a woman for the first time in a bar are merely looking for a pleasent one night stand. If that is what both parties are interested in so be it but at least be honest with yourself about it.
She did not like my comments and was I think a little put off by the fact I was not interested in her.
I really did enjoy your translation of the letter.
Stay well - stay safe - Stay armed - Yorktown