18 Chengtu Road
May 12, 1999
My dear Harold,
I have just received your letter telling me of your recent marriage. This happy event in your life prompts me to reply at once; and, in my own peculiar way , to attempt to offer you my hearty congratulations and good wishes.
Sometimes the question is asked: “Who is to be congratulated more, the Lady or the Gentleman?” In this case I would unhesitatingly answer both. There is an ol d sa ying: “True marriages are made in Heaven.” I hope this is so in your case, and consequently, there will be on lookingback with regret for either of you.
Before going further, please let me sincerely wish that Peace, Health, Happiness , and Prosperity may attend both your wife and yourself until the end. And now w hat can I or shall I say further? You know I have not as yet had much experience in hymeneal affairs, but I am a student; hence I read and observe, a nd endeavour to bring reason to bear upon earthly problems. It seems to me that co nnubial bliss, excellent and essential , is by no means the only requirement. Th ere is the great question of parentage. In this connection, I think it imperativ e that the character and physique of both father and mother should be as perfect as possible for scientific authorities assert that sons partake of the individu ality of the father , and daughters that of the mother. I must say no more , or you will conclude that I am a scientific man before my time.
With renewed good wishes, and kindest regards to you and your spouse.
Believe me，
Yours very sincerely,
