Roosevelt, Theodore. 1919. Theodore Roosevelt's Letters to His Children: A Japanese Boy's Letter.

Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919). Theodore Roosevelt’s Letters to His Children. 1919.

58. A JAPANESE BOY'S LETTER
(To Dr. William Sturgis Bigelow)

White House, Jan. 14, 1905. DEAR STURGIS: Last year, when I had Professor Yamashita teach me the "Jiudo"—as they seem now to call Jiu Jitsu—the naval attache here, Commander Takashita, used to come around here and bring a young lad, Kitgaki, who is now entering Annapolis. I used to wrestle with them both. They were very fond of Archie and were very good to him. This Christmas Kitgaki sent from Annapolis a little present to Archie, who wrote to thank him, and Kitgaki sent him a letter back that we like so much that I thought you might enjoy it, as it shows so nice a trait in the Japanese character. It runs as follows:	1
"My dearest boy: "I received your nice letter. I thank you ever so much. I am very very glad that you have receive my small present.	2
"I like you very very much. When I have been in Jiudo room with your father and you, your father was talking to us about the picture of the caverly officer. In that time, I saw some expression on your face. Another remembering of you is your bravery when you sleped down from a tall chair. The two rememberings can't leave from my head.	3
"I returned here last Thursday and have plenty lesson, so my work is hard, hard, hard, more than Jiudo.	4
"I hope your good health.	5
"I am, "Sincerely yours, "A. KITGAKI."	6
Isn't it a nice letter?	7