Bobby: though you can have all the fun in the world playing Leadbelly songs on a 6-string, I think in the end you're going to have to get a 12-string if you want to get the sort of sounds Leadbelly did. (I don't say "sound like Leadbelly", nobody ever will). Do get one, they are phenomenonally exciting to play: the simplest moving bass-line becomes powerhouse music.
   You letter was very cheering...if there are 18-year olds listening to Leadbelly I reckon the future of the world is assured.