6. Music Lessons

We lived in Uniondale three years. Near the end of our third summer there, Papa’s devoted friend, Mr. Leigh Hunt, who had been responsible for our leaving Kentucky, several years earlier, came again to visit us for a day.

Mr. Frank Hunt, Leigh’s father, and Papa were approximately of the same age and had been long-time friends. Leigh was born and reared on a farm in Noble County, Indiana; and, while still in his upper teens, taught in the Columbia City schools during my papa’s tenure as County Superintendent. It was natural that the bright and handsome young teacher should receive many special favors from his Superintendent, favors he never forgot through the after-years of his phenomenal career.

During this visit of Mr. Hunt in Uniondale he reported that he had just come from visiting his parents, and that his father seemed to be growing old. And Papa, too, was getting along in years. It was time he had an easier job.

Here was Mr. Hunt’s proposal: The old Salem Church, only two miles from the Hunt family residence, had been inoperative for years, except for funerals. Mr. Hunt thought it would be a great comfort to his father if the church had regular services on Sunday mornings. He begged Papa to be the minister. Nothing to do but a sermon on Sunday; no long drives in the night. Papa and his old friend could have pleasant chats together. As for the salary, that would be taken care of.

Mama was happy with the thought that we would be returning to the Salem area. Leigh Hunt remembered that the old Cassel home was within a half-mile of the church.

Inquiries were made. The old home was for sale. Papa and Mama bought it. I do not know what they used for money. Perhaps Mr. Hunt had something to do with that. I was never told. I never asked.

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