The 38 letters written by Rockefeller to his son imparting hisperspectives, ideology, andwisdóm to his son.Until the 1970s, when they became the focus of a controversial book, the family dynamics of the Rockefeller dynasty were one of America's best-kept secrets.

That's exactly how John D. Rockefeller, Sr. had always wanted it. Even in his personal letters, he avoided any intimate details or private confessions.

And yet, in all its Victorian restraint, Rockefeller's correspondence with his docile son JohnD. Jr. is surprisingly eloquent. Between the lines, these letters reveal the strong personalities and the sometimes strained relationships of these two very different Rockefellers.

Below is a sample of the correspondence, spanning the years 1887 to 1922:

Correspondence between John D. Rockefeller, Sr. and John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

26 Broadway New York November 28th 1887

Dear John: Yours, of the 22nd, duly received. Excuse delay in answering. Have also your telegram of today for the cutter [sleigh], and will attend to it tomorrow morning. I assume you want the one to carry two persons. I had a pleasant time in Washington. It is a beautiful city. The weather was mild and lovely. After receiving my testimony they did not wish any other although they had subpoenaed eight of us. We feel very well about the experience over there. The New York World hasn't any further ammunition in this direction, is now going back to its first love, the Buffalo suit, trying to rake up something against us. Had a delightful Sunday at home yesterday. Feeling well and ready for business. Looking forward with pleasure to seeing you the last of this week.

Concur in your decision about painting the storm doors. You and Mother will surely have your own way in all these affairs, what's the use of my saying a word. You are monarch of all your survey.

Your loving, Father