DEAR,

MR. KILMER
DEAR MR. KILMER CHAPTER 9
Richard find relief and release from visiting the Schermers whenever he can, and from writng
poetry. In July, he sends Kilmer his latest poem on the maymood and recieves a quick reply
praising him for his development as a poet. Kilmer notes Richard's growing inner peace and
happiness. Kilmer encourages the lad to read the works of living poets to master the poet's craft
because Richard belongs to the next generation of poets, and poet play an important role in the
world
Richard pens a reply asking how poets can make the world a better place. He feels a sudden
urgency to quickly mail the letter. He calls on Hannah to accompany him, but when Hannah
opens the door, she says "your friend Mr Kilmer has been killed!"
Gus announces that he has enlisted and will leave basic training the next day. Pa dismayed. Pa
almost strikes Gus when Gus declares that he is too 'tough and smart' to get killed in battle. Pa's
angry outburst about his brother, who was killed in Cuba, silences Gus. Abruptly, Pa vents his
anger and accuses Gus of being lazy.
Gus tries to talk and bid goodbye to his unresponsive father but eventually has to leave with
mere handshake for Richard. As Gus leaves for Sioux City, Richard begins to truly understand
Hannah's worry for her brother. Richard works joylessly alongside his silent and distant father.
Angie tells him that Pa is afraid for Gus, but Richard comments that it would be good for Pa to
talk about it.