Transcription of Document FFDoc-1297.pdf

Sunday April 4, '82

Dear Dot,

You've probably been wondering if I'd ever reply to your Q. about Ireland trip. - not that you had that many! But, re going in August. Anna & I discussed your impression it would be September. We agreed there must have been a misunderstanding of what our plans were when we left Maine after visiting in Feb. We said we would go ahead and make reservations. Originally, we had planned on Sept. But as Frank & Jeanne seemed not certain of being unable to go, we thought we had left Maine w/understanding that we proposed setting our trip (yours, too) at a time when, if F&J could see their way clear to planning to go within a few weeks of our meeting in Maine, it would still be possible to arrange for a cottage rental. So, we abandoned Sept in favor of August, with the understanding that timing would be OK if F&J finally made a decision to GO. They didn't, as we understand. But, having made reserv. for August (July 31, actually), it seemed chancy to try to alter them when it became clear the Mahoney's wouldn't be part of the entourage. Se we stayed w/ the July 31 - Aug 14 dates. Hope that clears up our reasoning.

Told you of the Q re actual fare for the trip, and when the remainder would be due. We had a reply from Tom Lally, the Fin. Sec. of Irish Music Club (IMC). His note says balance of fare will be due roughly 90 days before departure. - that would be around the end of this month. Lally also said fare is $399.00 plus $10 tax; says we can disregard the $460 -  quoted by Round Tower and IMC newsletter. Hope that's still true when we pay balance.

Have been sending to Irish Tourist Board for up-to-date info on B&B's, hotels & guesthouses, etc. Suggest you write to them for booklet "Traveller's Guide for 1982," at 590 Fifth Ave, New York City 10036. Have received Guesthouse info, plus enclosed copy re ancestor tracing. But so far have not gotten info on Irish Homes accomodations, as we had in '78.

We will need to make some kind of reservation for 1st day/night of our arrival. Not thinking presently of the Motel at Shannon that we used last time (Ryan's?). But will try to work something out soon.

Have ordered a folding door to install at top of our stairs to 2d floor, in anticipation of having Mom here in May. If you're talking to Ron, tell her we haven't forgotten. Just been so damn busy, prepping tax forms. Found we will have paid IRS & NYState, for '81, over $21000 in taxes! That's unbelievable! Don't have as many deductions now, plus Anna's working. But I'm for Reagan, when I see 1/3 of total wages, interest, etc. go to state & federal coffers!

Love, Frank