My brother Idlebert was now working in Albany, New York, and would send home some money to us. I worked small jobs to help out as well. I tried to help mother as much as possible. Whenever were walked, we would go arm in arm so that I could provide her some support.

My success in school seemed to give her great pleasure. And I was determined to do whatever I could to please her. She didn't ask much of me. But because of our environment, she did insisted on a few things. They were for me to stay away from loose women, no gambling and no alcohol.