Letter

Manuel Reyes

Box 69597
San Quentin, Calif.

April 28, 1943

Recived [sic] your letter, and was glad to recive [sic] the Appeal News, and to hear from you. I also recived [sic] the book, from New York, and was glad to know that, they are letting the people know that, there is prejudices against the Mexicans, and how the police treated us, when we were arrested, just because we are Mexican's sic], but being born a Mexican is something we had no control over, but we are proud no matter, what people think, we are proud to be Mexican-American boy's [sic]. I joing [sic] the Navy, in July of last year, they didn't trun [sic] me down because I was a Mexican, because we are needed to fight this war. I was told to return back to the Navy Station, to take the pleage [sic], but unforunly [sic] I was arrested, for this crime, with [sic] I didn't have anything to do with or know of. When we were arrested, we were treated like if we German Spye's [sic], or Jap's, they didn't figer [sic] we are American, just like everybody else that is born in this country. Well anyway if I didn't get to joing the Navy to do my part in this war, I am still doing my part for my country, behinde [sic] these wall's [sic], I am buying Deffesse [sic] Stamps, and going to Volunteer, to do some War work. Well I also recive [sic] the "People's World," it's a good idea you have. Well I am getting along alright, I volunteer to work in the jute Mill, for three week's [sic], the Warden asked for 400 men to work in the mill for three week's [sic], so I volunteer. they [sic] are going to move the jute mill, to Folsom, and want us to finish making the jute we have on hand. then [sic] we are going to do some War work, although, some of us are already on some other kind of War work. Well how is every little thing out there? Did you have a good Easter Sunday? Well as for me, I did. I went to church and recived [sic] Holy Communion. Lasted [sic] Saturday we went to see a show, "the Navy Comes Through," and the New's [sic], it was alright. I am listening to my earphones. I am listening to Tommy Dorsey. Well I am running out of word's [sic] so I'll close. One question, before I do so! Are we going to get the "people's World" and the "Fraternal Outlook, when they come out again? We would appricated [sic] it if we would. Give my regard's [sic] to the committee.

P.S. Don't forget to send me your picture, I'll be waiting for it.