“If It Isn’t Fun.” – Bound for Paris!
Today I received the following letter from The Hartford Institute of Living:
December 15, 1947
Henry W. Blackburn, Jr. Esq., M.D.
U.S. Marine Hospital
New Orleans 15, Louisiana
Dear Doctor Blackburn:
It gives me a great deal of pleasure to officially notify you of your appointment as Intern at the American Hospital of Paris.
This appointment will begin on October 1, 1949, and will continue for a period of twelve months. You will receive 12,000 francs per month with board furnished. It is most important that you acquire a good knowledge of the French language before you go to Paris.
The information furnished to us concerning your background, training, and ability, has been the basis of our selection, and we know that you will uphold the standards of the American Medical Profession, and do everything in your power to foster good will, both in your professional and in your social contacts.
Will you please notify me, in writing, of your acceptance of the appointment, at the earliest possible date.
Cordially yours,
C.C. Burlingame, Chairman
Advisory Board in America
American Hospital of Paris
And here is my immediate response:
December 17, 1947
Hon. Dr. C.C. Burlingame
The Hartford Institute of Living
Hartford, Conn.
Dear Doctor Burlingame:
It is with a great deal of pleasure, nay, delight, that I accept the appointment as Intern at the American Hospital of Paris. I have secured a tutor in French!
The present political situation in France is quite interesting and disturbed, but I see no reason to believe that it will be less interesting two summers from now. I am looking forward to the professional and social opportunity with great anticipation.
Your personal consideration and pleasant correspondence have been greatly appreciated. My address will be as above until June 1, 1948, after which time, until July 1, 1949, it will be care of Wesley Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Ill.
I was particularly pleased to find that the appointment entailed the title of “Esquire.”
Sincerely yours,
Henry Blackburn
Tulane ’48