Post #524 - December 6, 7, 1944 There is an Awful Lot to Tell You about This “Estate Business” and On This, The Third Anniversary of That World-Shaking Day That So Changed Our Lives, I am Still Able to Look to the Future with the Greatest Confidence That All will be Well with Us

 

Dec. 6, 1944

Dearest Phil,

A jammed yesterday’s v-mail not realizing that l had so much to write. You know, Phil, there is an awful lot to tell you about this "estate business.” A will existed that was 20 years old – that started the court proceedings. Well, honey, people whom my folks & I had looked upon as “true friends" turned up in court to testify against them. The worst one of all was Abe Feinberg (son of the two old sisters on Rockland St., whom my mother bended all efforts on in getting him released from the Army). He worked hand & fist with my Uncle Morris to do my folks out of their share, and my folks had much aggravation & expense as a result. Someday I’ll tell you the complete story - and it sure is a story! I'm so glad things worked out to their benefit, in spite of the obstacles!

As & told you yesterday, I had given Sarah $8.00 to get Adele the robe and I sent along the picture of the advertisement, so that you might see what it looks like. It's a powder blue (background) with a flowered print of rose and a snowy white silk lining. I had her get me a size 6 and it is rather large. I'll have to make a large hem on the bottom and a large hem on the sleeves. It's a double breasted style with two buttons on either side.

I started to write the above at the office and I’m continuing at home. There was your letter of Nov. 12 waiting for me (I'd already had mail dated the 13th) and I'm sort of disappointed, for I expected e batch after waiting so long for some "decent" mail. That that all your nail isn't decent, honey, but I mean up-to-date. Do you realize that this one is over three weeks old !

It told me what I had know for weeks - that Eddie is back. Speaking of Eddie reminds me that we haven't heard from him for two weeks. He hasn't written once since he got back - only calls and the last call was made on Thanksgiving to my Aunt's house. I can't understand his reluctance to see us all, but I have a funny idea he may be in the booby hatch or sumpin', for he is insistent that we do not come to see him. It all seems very screwy to me and if we don't hear from him darn soon, I'm going to take the trip up to Valley Force in spite of all his requests, Gosh but I'm anxious to see him! It's been so long I hardly remember what he looks like. Sometimes I even feel that way about you.

When I mot back from work Goldie had washed the kitchen floor, and prepared a nice dinner. Boy, she sure did put me to shame, for it shows what a person can do if only they understand the circumstances and are willing. Goldie was what you'd call the helpless type, but she can certainly do alright if she wants to. I'm terribly glad that she didn't let me down altogether, and I feel a lot differently toward her for it. I'd been telling her just how disgusted I am with so much responsibility and perhaps the prep talk did some good - who knows. However, I'm not giving up my original idea of giving up this place for I feel it will be more advantageous to us in the future, but, naturally, I'm most anxious to know your feelings in the matter. I sure do hope some real mail will be forthcoming shortly.

I find Mr. Bellet very, very petty in too many respects. The more you get to know him, the less you like him. He's a real character and I'll have oodles and oodles to tell you about him and his business. I like the wholesale business and I'd like very much to be in it - on my own. I've learned a good deal of importance working there and some day I hope to use it to "our" advantage. I do know that I want to go into a business, but, first, I want a "fling" - and a rest period. Darling - I'm very much afraid that it is still very far off and I hold very little hope for an early end to the war in 1945. It's 16 months now and tomorrow will be three years we're at war. That's a long time, honey, and I pray the worse part of it is over -

You say in your letter that Adele's gift was ruined in the making. I said I wouldn't tell you what I thought it was till it got here, but I’ll tell you anyway. I'll bet it's something in the jewelry line - like that plexi-glass piece you sent me. I have yet to buy a chain for it and now I'm sort of hesitating, for too many people think it resembles a cross, and suggest I make a pin of it. I like it very much cause it's odd and shall get a chain for it in spite of it. I guess Adele's birthday gift will have to be a Xmas present, from the looks of things.

I'm very glad I bought those vitamin pills, for they help me immensely. In spite of the fullness of each day (and I'm kept busy every minute) I feel pretty good. I think I've put on a few pounds cause my face looks rounder, but I'd rather not know. If I didn't I'll be disappointed, so I'd rather not get weighed.

Miriam Brown is due to have her baby near Xmas, so I'll be having some news for you shortly. Most everyone thinks she'll have a boy.

And so I think I've come to the end of another letter. I have a few things to do before I can get to bed, and how I wish you were going up with me! I love you so much, Phil! It's the same old phrase, but it will always be new to me, honey.

Your Eve

Dec. 7, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I'm starting this at the office, as seems to be my custom, but I shall finish it at home. I'm at a little loss for what to say, but I shall just discuss this and that.

I don't think I told you that Betty's brother Abe, the one who was just released from the Army, met a girl just as soon as he got back and went overboard, but good. He hopes to get married early next year. Her name is Evelyn and she looks a bit like me. Her second name is the same as his. As he says, "She won't have to change her name for me". Abe is a nice looking fellow and Adele took to him, just as much as she takes to the rest of the family. The Feldman family, in general, have done more for Adele and me than any of our friends and relatives, alike, and it's due to their love for Adele. I sure am grateful to them for being so nice.

I don't think I've written, in detail, about Adele for some time, so here goes - She has been sleeping fairly well, and, usually, interrupts me only once. I pick her up out of her sleep before retiring myself and put her on the toddy seat, to be sure she doesn't wet the bed. Her appetite has fallen off and she doesn't eat nearly as well as she used to. She sings, "School days, school days, etc.” and will say anything asked of her. She has a nasty habit of hitting everyone that is most annoying, but I'm hoping that will disappear in the near future.

This morning my mother, Adele and I went shopping on Broad St. before I went to work. Fay informed me that Blauner’s has no winter weight underwear for kids and all the neighborhood stores seem to be in the same class. I hadn't tried one kiddie's store on Broad St. and went there today. I managed to get one set of underwear, the button-on style that I told you about when I bought Adele summer weight underwear, and it cost me $1.35 for a shirt and panties, size 6. I also bought Adele her first toothbrush, as it is time for her to start brushing her teeth. It's funny how the stores take advantage of you - one drugstore wanted 19¢ for the toothbrush, but I wouldn't take it cause it looked abused and went to another drugstore. The second store charged me 10¢ for the exact same brush. Boy, do they take you over! I'm not going to buy a single thing that isn't positively necessary. If I get a bargain - okay - but if not - I'll wait til you come home and we can go shopping together. As long as we have the money, we'll always be able to get what we want.

Upon arriving home, I found your letter of Nov. 15th. That part about the girl who propositioned you tickled me.. I sure do wish I could have seen your reactions! You’re a real cutie sometimes! And that English sailor that Ruth brought home had the nerve to say our boys are bothering their girls! Speaking of girls, how do you like the one enclosed? She sure is chunky. Sure do wish I looked like that!

Eddie called this evening and said (what I had been thinking) that he is more or less in the booby hatch. He said they are very overcrowded and that he definitely does not want us to come to see him. He has hopes of being home by Xmas and I certainly hope so. All he complains about is headaches, that seem to grip him from time to time. Which reminds me, I haven't told you anything about Ruth Shapiro, Eddie's girl. It seems he has case on her and she feels likewise. She's an attractive girl - an only daughter - and her mother makes all her clothes, She's a stunning dresser and is either 16 or 17 years old, She was at Adele's birthday party on Sunday (I think I told you about her then). She pals around with Ruth from time to time, and Ruth calls her "sister". Eddie called her several times by phone and sent her a telegram immediately upon his return to the States. She sent Eddie many packages and her folks like Eddie very much. Gee, but it seems funny to think that Eddie may marry someday soon! I always think of him as a kid, but he definitely is not that any longer.

Clara Wagman called and read me a letter she is sending off to you. I was rather surprised to hear that the CIO has taken over at S & D and I'm wondering, as you no doubt are, what effect it will have on the general organization.

I am dividing my time between ironing what few pieces I have and writing this letter. It's very late, honey, and I'm literally falling asleep on the typewriter. Adele loved brushing her teeth for the first time this evening. I'm just about writ out anyway, so I'll just tell you once more that I adore you, my darling, ever so much! Phil, I want so to take you in my arms -

Your Eve

7 December 1944

Darling Ev,

Pearl Harbor Day always brings to mind that day exactly three years ago, when, with hearts filled with apprehension, and faces blank with a mixture of emotions, we sat in the living room at 5447 Sansom St. and heard the startling, dramatic announcement of the japanese attack on Pearl Harbor over the radio. I think we both realized in that instant that it would only be a matter of time before I would be recalled to service. What thoughts - what images fleeted through our minds in those few moments!! Only you and I know what we each felt then, Baby. But I was just thinking - suppose we could have, on that day, known what was to transpire within the next few years, and suppose we knew that on the third anniversary of that day that I would have been overseas sixteen months, with perhaps almost as much more to serve before returning to you. Tell me, Chippie, what would you have felt then? I won’t presume to guess out loud, but I think you know that I have a pretty good idea as to that! Yet aside our being physically separated all this time, and with a great loneliness, actually what material harm have we suffered? None, absolutely none that I can think of. You will contend, I know that there are other kinds of harm than the purely material, and I agree; but are you very sure that those same deprivations of the spirit will not eventually bring compensations, both physically, and spiritually, in the many years we have still to be to together? I am almost sure that that will be the case. - So be of good cheer, my darling; however long fate chooses to keep us apart. Never forget that however faraway I am from you, you are always a part of me. I carry your sweet imagine with me in my heart - constantly; and very often, indeed, do I look in upon it and count myself fortunate for having you. It is this image, Ev, dearest, that has kept me faithful; that has kept me from seeking other, less worthy, means of dispelling the monotony of my days and nights; that has led me both in thought and deed, in the ways of righteousness. Believe me, Baby, when I say I have yet to commit the slightest deed that might be contrary to your concepts of good behavior.  You, or more truly, the thought of you, are solely responsible for my blameless conduct. You must, and should, feel very proud, my sweet, that you inspired a love that is sufficient unto itself. I, for my part, am deeply indebted to you for kindling in me a passion that allows of no digressions into waywardness. You must cherish this love that is between us, my darling, as the most precious possession you shall ever own, or even aspire to. For me, it is tantamount to a religion. I live by it - and for it.

Therefore, beloved Chippie, on this, the third anniversary of that world-shaking day that so changed our lives, I am still able to look to the future with the greatest confidence that all will be well with us. I consider our present separation as a period of purgatory in which, we will find, one day any weaknesses of character that we may have been heir to, have been dissolved in the searing yet cleansing fires of loneliness and heartache. Look to the future, my wife, for it is there that we will meet once again. Be not impatient of the present. Remember that it, too, has its purpose.

Finally, my Chippie, look to the welfare of our adored punkin. This is your greatest charge. Let nothing supercede it! May God keep you well, my darlings, for

Your Phil

524 So. 57th St.
W. Phila. Pa 

Thurs. Dec. 7-1944.

Dear Phil, 

By this time I suppose you have given up hope of hearing from me in answer to your letter. I called your Evelyn when I got your letter and she was pleased I told her I would write you and as time rolled by and I called Evelyn a couple of times and told her that I hadn’t written, she scolded me and told me I had better write to you. To tell you the truth I am not at home too often and when I do get home it is too late to sit down and write. To-nite I came home early especially to write letters. I just finished a letter to my cousin in New York and now I'll see just what I can do, or rather say, to fill up at least this sheet of paper.

I suppose there really isn't too much that I can tell you that you already don't know thru Evelyn. On several occasions I’ve been invited up to your house for dinner, but so far I haven’t been able to accept, but I will see what I can do in the near future. I told all the gang in S. & D. that I heard from you including Farren & Susemehl also Harry Adams.

We, in the Label Bureau, sent you a Christmas package and if you do get it you will let us know. I didn’t really know what to buy for you, but I did the best I could since yours was the first Xmas pkg. I ever got together to send across the ocean. We all hope that you can make use of everything

My brother came up on furlough from Georgia on Thanksgiving day with his wife. (he was married here in Philly on furlough May 6th and took his bride down South with him. They left yesterday morning (Wednesday,) as they must be back on Friday and since they motored up and back they had to allow three days each for traveling otherwise they could have a couple of extra days, but they took their time coming up and they will do likewise going back and let me tell your their car sure came in handy as there was a bunch of stuff they took back with them. Things they need for their apt. etc. Today is Pearl Harbor Day and I do hope before another Pearl Harbor Day that this mess is all over and all are returned safely to their homes.

It seems a long way off but when you return to the U.S., I certainly don’t think that S & D is the place for you so think it over, between now and then. Have you heard that the C.I.O. came into S & D, and they sure are putting up a stiff battle trying to get all to join up with them. There was a meeting last nite but I didn’t hear a thing as I didn’t sign up with them. Personally I don’t think they can do anymore for me that S & D already hasn't done. So I guess I'll leave well enough alone. Well Phil I see I am hitting bottom, so I'll close this letter with the kindest regards to you from me also your friends at the S & D Plant.

(Clara) 

I hope you will pardon all the errors as I didn’t and never do reread what I write. Good luck to you. Also I hope you don’t have too much difficulty in trying to read this awful writing.

Post #523 - December 3, 4, 1944 Adele’s Second Birthday Party and It Was a Relief to Know that Eddie Finally Did Wind Up in the States

 

Dec. 3, 1944 

Dec. 4, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I had hoped to be able to write yesterday, but fate decreed differently. There is so much to tell you and - so little time to write this evening that I hardly know where to begin. By all rights, this letter should have been my happiest to date, but, again, fate intervened, for this missive most convey to you the news of Betty Gutkin's demise. She died Dec. 2nd and the details are still a bit hazy. I'm sure you will be just as shocked as we all are. She had been pregnant and lost her baby in the seventh month. Evidently she had a heart attack - it must have been too much for her this time. Her funeral was held in the Bronx today and Mom, Ethel and Mickey attended. Betty had been living in Connecticut and they must have brought her body to N. Y. Ethel came to Adele's birthday party yesterday and had to break the news (Moe called her from N. Y.) and took Mom back to her house and they took an early train this morning.

I'm sorry I had to start off with such news and I know you won't have too much heart for all the other frivolities I have to talk about. This past weekend was one of the most enjoyable I've had to date. On Sat. evening, everyone decided that they didn't want to venture out into the freezing cold that keeps persisting, to attend the party held in Richy's honor. I made up my mind to go. I called Emma and wound up going to the party with Emma and Shirley Stein. We took a cab and split the fare between us.

The party was one of the nicest ever held by the Liebermans. The entire house was decorated with red, white and blue decorations, Richy’s pictures were plastered all over and there were many bouquets of flowers. Gee, but it was good to see Richy after these many years! He looks fine, and the only change I could note was the fact that his hair is not as red as it used to be. He said that he was near Grisley (or something like that) England and very far from you. He had quite a bit of interest to tell us, and I won't go into that here. He had a steady girlfriend and said to me "That girl waited three years for me". He didn't even know that we had a little girl and was quite surprised.

The Liebermans were so excited they didn't know what they were doing. May was in Florida at the time and flew in to be at the party. The Liebermans also celebrated their 36th anniversary and made the affair to cover both his homecoming and their anniversary. They all danced and sang Jewish melodies and the food was delicious. Everyone you can think of was present. Most notable, however, was the presence of Billy and Dolly. I spent most of the evening talking to them. I'm enclosing BilI's address and want you to write to him as soon as you can. I gave him your address, too. He's a T-5 and is attached to Anti-Aircraft. He was terribly nervous and when I asked why, informed me that his outfit was being transferred to Infantry and he was wondering what his chances were. He has an office job at the present time. He is able to come in most every weekend from N. Y. Bill and Dolly drove me home at about 12:30.

Sunday I was busy as a bee, cleaning, shopping, readying the table, getting Adele all prettied up and many other things. I set the table in the dining room with red and blue napkins, paper plates, I had the birthday cake in the center of the table and had dixie cups for the kids, pretzels, potato chips, butter cookies, fig newtons, chocolates, chocolate straws, caramel lollipops, soda water.

Adele was very bewildered by all the goings-on and very quiet, until she really got started. Then she socked this one and banged that one. Those present were: Mrs, Feldman, Sarah, Betty, Pete, Abe, Evelyn (Abe’s girl) Freda (Betty's girlfriend), Fay with Marc and Anne with Richy. Relatives consisted of Ethel, Mickey, Paul, Goldie and Diana. Ruth was here with a girlfriend of my brother Eddie's. It was quite a nice affair. Petey made Adele sit on the steps in the living room and pose for him. We turned on all the lights in the living room and he made two snaps of her, which I'm hoping will tum out. (She looked so darn cute you would have eaten her up). Adele wore her little silk blue and pink pleated dress, blow socks and a blue bow in her hair.

Gee, I forgot to mention "Nanna", who was right beside Adele all the time. We sat the kids around the table and joined them. Petey asked if he could “play” the, "daddy" and lit the candles on the cake. We all helped Adele blow out the three candles.

After we had partaken of the refreshments Mrs. Feldman became impatient and asked me to open up the stack of gifts that had piled up before I knew what had happened. The gifts were as follows: From Anne and Richy: two pairs of white flannel pajamas with little red and blue figures all over them. From Fay and Marc - a lovely wool plaid red and jungle green pleated skirt. From Ethel and Mickey: a fuschia colored wool skirt and bolero jacket, which is trimmed with red and green tyrolean. The skirt is also pleated. From Betty and Nanna: a lovely dress that consists of a white blouse with smocked yoke. There are buttons all about the bottom of the blouse to which is buttoned a pretty plaid cotton flared skirt. Petey and "Ara” gifted "our darling" (That's what they call her) with the loveliest dress of all. It has a blue flared skirt with suspender effect (blue straps over a white blouse) on top. The neckline in the front is trimmed with blue lace effect and has a drawstring to pull it snug to the neck. Each and every gift was absolutely lovely.

We broke up early and I asked some girls over for a gin rummy game in the evening. I had asked them early in the morning, before Ethel came and couldn't very well back out. Mom and Ethel left early and Mic stayed for dinner. After dinner I put Adele to bed and she was very cranky. I took her up at 6:45 and she didn't get to sleep till way after nine. Just as she fell off, the bell rang and in walked the girls, You know Elsie and Fay, but you don't know Heloise and Gladys. I met the latter two through Fay. We taught Goldie the game and played a six handed game. I got off to a marvelous start (as usual) and wound up 20¢ losers, I got to bed by 12.

This morning I stopped at the bank before going to work and bought a $50 bond with my check that had arrived Sat, along with the check from S & D. I also deposited $5 to our account. I thought we would have $1200 in bonds by virtue of this recent purchase, but we only have $1175.

Today was another big day. When I got into work Jessie informed me that she was leaving Friday and that a new girl will take over. I'll probably have to help this new girl a bit. Secondly, the strollers I had been waiting for all these months finally arrived and I took one home with me. I don't know the exact price as yet, since Mr. Bellet left before the price was set and I didn't want to wait to find out. It will probably be around $14. It's a very nice carriage for the money. We really needed the stroller badly, for the walker was just about shot.

When I got home this evening I found your letter of Nov. 17th waiting for me. I had already received mail dated Nov. 13th and had hoped there would be more recent mail. There was nothing in your letter of the 17th that excites any comment on my part. However, there was something else that really excited some comment from me - a registered letter from Jack N. that I'm enclosing for you which had a ten dollar bill in it - for Adele. I had written to Jack N. on Adele's birthday and I needn't tell you just how surprised I was! I shall use the money to pay for the stroller.

I hope to visit Jack in N. Y. if he cannot come here, but, naturally, I shall not make any definite plans. His birthday is Jan. 25th and it may be that he won't be in any condition for visitors for some time. After all, this is going to be a delicate operation. I wonder what his chances are?

And so I bring you up to date on my latest doings and since I want to send a thank you note off to Jack now, I shall close now, baby, not, however, till I've kissed you soundly and told you just once more that I adore you ever so much! As we blew out the candle, I couldn't help saying, "How I wish Phil were here"! I wish that so very much at this moment - -

Good night, baby, I love you -

Your Eve

4 December 1944

My Darling,

Today was a beautiful, sunny day, but the sun gave off little warmth and there was a cold, boisterous wind blowing. However, there was hardly a cloud in the sky, and that in itself, is so rare an occurrence over here in England, that it is worthy of mention. I worked steadily most of the day on this month's installment of the Company History. Of course, as is usual, I was interrupted numerous times by other details which had to be attended. But I managed to get it done by the end of the day, so I’m well satisfied. After work, I put on my overcoat and gloves and hiked down to the theater, where I saw Spencer Tracy in “The Seventh Cross". It was an absorbing melo-drama about Nazi Germany in 1936, and I thought it a very interesting sort of film. After the show, I stopped at the Snack Bar for a bite to eat. The Red Cross had brought in a couple of entertainers from London, who sang duets a la Eddy-MacDonald. I listened to them 'til they ended their performance, which was fairly entertaining, and headed back here to the Orderly Room to write this. It is almost 10 o'clock now, so if I end this rather abruptly, you'll understand why. I have a flock of your V-mails to answer tonight. I have arranged them consecutively according to dates, and am just about ready to start. Before I do, though, t want to tell you about the enclosed hankie. Dick Stahle gave it to me some days ago to mail to you, but up 'til now I've forgotten to remember it. He bought it, together with a lot of other stuff, when he was on furlough in Scotland recently. I thought it might go well with your gray lumber-jack dress, if it has a pocket. Anyway, I hope you like it, Sweet. Don't forget to thank Dick for it when you write, as it was his idea that I send it along to you,

Now, to your V-mails - The first one is dated 13 Nov. You said you were "unusually happy" ’cause you received three of my letters that day. The rest of the letter calls for no comment.

Next, the one dated 14 Nov. This one told me about the good news of Eddie's arrival in Charleston. I had been puzzling about his whereabouts all this time, and it certainly was a relief to know that he finally did wind up in the States, I can't understand, though, why he couldn't go straight home from Charleston, I'm sure he's O.K. Now that you mention it, I do remember Gene Forman. I mean I remember you telling me about him. As you know, I answered his letter shortly after I received it, but haven't heard from him since, and I’m certainly not going to write again until he does answer me. Glad to learn that the Vitamin tablets are helping you, Chippie. Yes, do weigh yourself and tell me how fat you are getting (um hm! I can just picture that!). And now, I'm afraid I must sign off, Ev, darling. You know I love you. A kiss for my punkin. Love to all. On second thought, I won't hold this for tomorrow. I'd rather, and I know you'd rather, that you got this a day earlier. Good night, my lovely, I am

As ever, 

Your Phil

Post #522 - December 2, 1944 I Get Particularly Blue When I Must Dress Up and Go Out Without You and As for V-2, I Can Say That I Wasn’t Too Far Away on the One Occasion When I Heard One Explode and Two Letters from Jack Nerenberg

 

Dec. 2, 1944

My Darling,

Your letter of Nov. 13th came through this morning, informing me of your intention to see Harry W. and that you expect to take furlough. By the way, does this furlough decrease your chances for a furlough back to the States? Just curious?

Today, though the sun shone brightly, it was positively freezing out. It was the sort of cold you just can't stand for more than a minute at a time. Even in the sun, which was as bright as ever, it was freezing.

I worked my usual four hours, shopped for some pretzels, potato chips, etc. for Adele's party tomorrow and came directly home. I stopped at a neighborhood store to get Adele some warm underwear and the only thing they had was some panties. I paid 59¢ for one pair of panties and I'm sort of shocked at the size, which is size 8. They fit her perfectly. Of course, panties run in funny sizes, but that seems like such a large size to me. I'm very much in need of undershirts for her and Fay has promised to go into Blauner’s with me some evening so that I may buy all the little things I need for Adele, at the 20% discount. Those "little" items, sure do cost!! I also need socks, jerseys, sleepers and a few more little things.

As you know, tonight is the party for Richy. No one wants to go cause it is too cold, but I'm anxious to see Richy and so I'm going. I called Emma and we are going together. Tell you all about it tomorrow and all about the party, providing I get the opportunity to write. If not, well, I'll write all about it on Monday.

I'm going up to get dressed and I am going to wear my new lemon yellow dress. Gee, but I wish you were going along with me! I hate to go anywhere alone. Snuffy is coming in for the weekend for the last time, for he expects to ship out next week. I'm sorry they can't get up here for the party, for I feel very much as if they will be missing. It's funny how close we've gotten!

And now, honey, I must run, if I'm to go to the party at all. I intend to get back early, for I want to be rested tomorrow. I love you so much, baby, and I get particularly blue when I must dress up and go out without you. Good night, darling, I am and just love being

Your Eve

December 2, 1944

Dearest Evie,

After another busy day, I went to the first show. That just about covers “my day" today. The picture was "Ministry of Fear", with Ray Milland and Marjorie Reynolds. It was a good, suspenseful, spy story. I enjoyed it very much. Then, a bite at the Snack Bar, and back here to my hut to write this. I have a stack of your letters, that arrived within the last few days, to answer; and because it's rather late, I may not finish tonight, but I'll write as much as I have time for, and finish up tomorrow. 

The earliest letter is dated 6 Nov. Here goes: I learned, right off the bat, that Vicki Paula was born on 5 Nov. I've already mailed off a letter to Etta and Nat. You say that you feel better for having written that “longie” of 5 Nov. I'm glad for that, anyway, honey. It does pays sometimes, to get things off your chest. I only hope my letter in reply causes you no more aggravation, las I fear it might). You say you wrote to Gloria on the 5th. I received one from her today - also dated 5 Nov.! That's what I would call reciprocation with a vengeance! By the way, what's the opposite of a “vicious circle”? The rest of this particular letter requires no comment. 

Your contribution on the 7th begins with the good news that Snuffy was scheduled to go to the Aberdeen Proving Grounds. Now, that's what I would call a swell break. It just so happened that his letter informing me of the same happy circumstance arrived by the same post. He also told me how good it was to have Dotty with him. I am glad for both of them. Your second paragraph informed me that you had voted for the first time, and for F.DR., at that! That's getting off on the right foot all right, all right! In reply to your query, I can say "You bet I voted - way before election day, by absentee ballot.” You didn't finish this letter on the 7th, but continued it on the 8th, at which time you express your satisfaction that Pres. Roosevelt was re-elected. You were right in assuming that I was happy about the whole thing, too. Your next sentence made me start, It informed me that Eddie S. "is now in France.” When I think how close I came to traveling way out to Wales to see him, not knowing that he was in France, I'm grateful that circumstances prevented it. Maybe I'll see him in Paris in the spring - maybe - who knows? - So now you're doing book-keeping, too! Well, well, seems there's no end to your versatility, honey. The last few paragraphs are devoted to telling me how badly you feel about the slow delivery of my letters. I'm sorry, Sweet, but just keep your chin up, it'll catch up with you eventually. That's about all I have time for tonight, darling, so I'll just wish you a fond good night, for the time being. I love you very much, Ev, dearest. A kiss for Adele.

3 December 1944 

Hello again, darling! I don't care much for a “serial" letter such as this one is, but sometimes one has no choice.

I was very busy all day today. What with "Soldier's Deposits, Company History, and a few other things, I had my hands full. "Dumbo" is at the base theater tonight, but I passed it up for a nap between 5:00 and 7:30. I was tired! Today's mail brought your V-mail of 14 Nov, telling me that Eddie is home at last - well, near home, anyway, I'm awaiting further details. But let's get on with answering the rest of your mail - I hope! Let's see now - the next letter was started on 9 Nov. when you wrote three short paragraphs at work. Then you didn’t get to write ’til the next day. That was the day you visited Lil to deliver her birthday gift. The powder sample I had requested was enclosed in this letter. I think it has a lovely odor. Il now reposes in my wallet, next to that lock of Adele's hair that you sent me last year. Thanks, Baby. You closed with a query about how V-1 and V-2 "effect" us. What you probably meant, Sweet, was "affected” us. I am permitted to say very little about this, Chippie, but so far they have affected us not at all - as you can plainly see, Nor do I think we have much to fear from either of them here. I have seen and heard quite a number of buzz-bombs, but I can't say under what circumstances. As for V-2, I can say that I wasn't too far away on the one occasion when I heard one explode. That was when I was on my way back to base after seeing the Limey. (Sure would like to know where he is now!) Nothing else in this one to talk about. Next, your V-mail of 12 Nov.

It was all about the party in honor of Vicki Paula. Glad you had such a good time, Sweet, only next time you feel like telling me you had to ride on some male’s lap - please think better of it. I know it is silly of me to mind, but I do. I just squirm at the thought of it. I’m not blaming you, Sweet, for something that is my fault, I’m merely telling you this so that you will think twice before writing in that vein again. I'm very glad that everyone complimented you on your appearance. That, I love to hear.

And now, I'm afraid I must sign off again. It's time for “lights out,” Need I say that I am keeping our “date” at this very moment? My dearest love, Sweet, to you and the punkin. Love to all from

Your Phil

Dec. 2, 1944

Dear Evelyn,

It has troubled me for days; the problem of a birthday gift for Adele. Now it’s come and gone and I’ve done nothing concrete. Believe me though when I tell you that last Saturday while I was in Oklahoma City I went to the kid’s department of a nice store. Okla. City is a pretty rich place and the prices are exhorbitant. I know you could do a lot better with a tenner in Philly than I could here, so here ’tis. And please Ev when you start worrying about mine, remember that I’d want nothing better than a hair brush and will accept nothing else. You can deliver it in person when you come to visit me in N.Y. while I recuperate from the ear operation I’m undergoing Dec. 27, that Dr. Lempert is going to do.

I hope you’re all well as am I. Cripes I weigh 15 pounds more since I stopped smoking Sept. 20th, and I keep gaining. If this keeps up I’ll have to start again. Boy would I love it. My love to you all.

As ever,

Jackie

December 2, 1944

Dear Phil,

I received your most welcome letter. As always, it was a thrill merely to finger the envelope in keen anticipation of absorbing its contents. I wasn’t disappointed.

Phil, in a remote way I sensed what you inferred in relation to your family and you and yours. But to learn that it is significant enough for you to convey to me by written word, that was quite a shock. Phil, I wouldn’t dare say what I am going to if your perceptions couldn’t embrace the thought as from my heart and for the good of yours. I know they will, so here goes:

If Adele has any brothers or sisters or both and if they are taught money principles as have been you and Harry and Jack, then that won’t be good, either. ’Nuff said.

Phil, your letter came a full a month after you dated it. I received it at Borden General Hospital, Chickasha, Oklahoma. I imagine Ev has given you the play by play description. The final score will be this. By March of 1945 I will hear almost normally if all goes well. If it won’t be that way I hope I can tell you in person that the operation worked a little slower for me. In March I will still be here, having returned for observation after being operated on and treated by Dr. Lempert in N.Y.

What you said about Marilyn and me I appreciate very much. Had I received your letter there at Camp Hale I don’t think I could have resisted the urge to show it to her. However, I didn’t receive it there so I don’t know how much it might have altered the strained relations between us at the time due to her inability to decide whom it was she wanted most to please, me or her parents. It had by that time become very obvious that she couldn’t do both. When I left we had been hitting it off fairly well. I was quite gloomy about it all. Now it seems as though we’re quit of each other. Since that seemed quite apparent I entertained no compunctions about escorting a very lovely lady in these parts that says my company is indeed enjoyable to her as is hers to me. I know you think I don’t know my mind. Maybe. But here’s how I look at it. Look at all the experience I’m getting. Brother, I’m going to end up as happily married as you. Wait and see.

Phil, I’m glad you have accepted Denver. When Ev forwards your letter to me—

Phil, as I’ve done before and will do again I set your letter aside for twelve days. I’ve since received your letter pertaining to postwar Denver plans. Phil, it sounds swell. I don’t think your dope on the amount of capital we can raise is correct. If the amount is correct, then the method of getting it must be damned near impossible. However once we get set and have decided to adopt your plan, nothing will stop us.

Here though is the barrier. I am not married. You cannot depend on me until I am. I wasn’t going into a discourse on the subject but I’m afraid I shall have to.

Did it ever occur to you that I am scared of marrying as did Sam and Ann and Len and Lea. I am thankful now in the new light that that affair between Frances (remember on the beach when I told you about it) and me did blow up. I say I am scared because I’m afraid I’d be bored too soon after the sexual angle became taken for granted. You see, I am different from Sam and Len. My life has been in a world different from theirs and Ann’s and Lea’s.

I’ve known and still know three girls, either one of whom I’d marry because their intelligence matches or exceeds mine, but more important, because their college degrees assure me that such are their minds that they’ll be active on that score for many years to come. Don’t misunderstand, I know that a girl that never saw the inside of a high school might be a lovelier person than all three. Here’s what I’m driving at. Two of these girls, Marilyn and Adeline, attracted me immensely. There was something about them that made each date a thing of beauty and interest and continuous humor. Only after several dates with each did I learn of their background. Adeline’s Mom and Dad even hold degrees. Adeline is a swell girl and lots of fun. But Phil, I’m almost positive that we couldn’t hit it off sexually. I’m sure I’m afraid to take a chance. Hence I’m trying, now while I’m in New York to dim our affair down to a friendship stage. (I’m in New York writing from the hospital since this ink turned blue.)

Marilyn, you know about. The last is Marjorie. She isn’t pretty as either but she has everything. Marjorie is my speech teacher. She’s 24. If we can work things out, we’re trying, we’ll be married this year.

If you’re puzzling among other things about what I’d be doing with a speech teacher, it’s this. Speech is part of a course given at Borden General Hospital where I was between October 14 and December 20, 1944, in Chickasha, Oklahoma. You see that’s one of three hospitals in the States that receives deafened patients. Mostly they are combat casualties. Many are like me. There is a definite procedure in these cases consisting of classes in lip reading, classes in auricular training (how to listen) and classes in speech. All that plus being fitted with the hearing aid that suits the patient best. Then after two months which included the above 95% are discharged.

I, after being routed there from Camp Hale when the engineer board closed down, was indignant. All I wanted was leave to get the Lempert operation and godamit nothin’ else. They calmed me down and promised me a 30 day sick furlough after two months of their special treatment. That’s how I met Marjorie. That’s how I got here. I’ll try for a 15 day extension which I need for treatment by Lempert in the last phases of ear drainage due to the operation. At some later date I’ll write more to you about both the results of the operation and Marjorie. Incidentally when I mentioned Phil Strongin to her and what I thought of the bum she said “I hope he doesn’t call me Marilyn.”

As ever,

Jack

P.S. I’m eleven days past the operation. Just the merest bit dizzy, and going to Sam and Anne Monday. Today is Saturday, January 6, 1945. May this be the year you all come home.

P.P.S. I return to Borden Hosp. around Feb. 1st.

My address is

Ward C-12

Borden General Hosp.

Chickasha, Oklahoma

Post #521 - November 30, December 1, 1944 Surely My Mom Doesn’t Deserve Such Treatment, After All She’s Done for Our Benefit and We Really Had a Feast

 

Nov. 30, 1944

Dearest Phil,

There were two things more I meant to say in yesterday's letter: If you will recall it rained all day the day Adele was born. Her birthday, yesterday, was the exact same sort of a day - It poured all day long. I also forgot to mention that my mother and daddy have also gifted Adele with $10.

Most important of all, however, is the fact that Adele awoke this morning without a single trace of the fever that had gripped her so suddenly yesterday. However, she was kept on a strict liquid diet, just so nothing further would result. I went into work as usual and had a rather tough day. Statements, for my part, are only a big pain in the rear. I'm always immensely relieved when the first is over.

Adele slept soundly last night and I, too, had a good night's rest. I took her temperature first thing in the morning and it was normal. Boy, was I glad she was normal!

Ethel had a letter from Harry W. today dated Nov. 22nd, telling of your visit. The last letter I had from you was dated Nov. 11 - So that's the mails for you, I'm most anxious to have mail from you now, to learn the details. For that matter, so is Ethel. She says you never can learn anything when Harry writes a letter and she wants me to let her read your letter concerning your visit, so that she may know all the details.

Clara Wagman called me this evening to thank me for the birthday card I sent her. It was really a lovely card "for a dear friend" and she couldn’t get over the sentiments. I asked her why she doesn't come up and collect the money I owe her for the bottle of 500 Combevitas and she said she wasn't worried, that the money was good whenever she chose to call for it. She also said that she would drop you a few lines.

I had to interrupt this letter long enough to help my mother hang some clothes that she is washing for us. It is after 11 and I'm pretty well exhausted and ready for bed. The clothes are presenting a problem, what with Goldie washing every day and the inability to hang them outside. Goldie had to take all her clothes down and put them on the radiators to dry, so we could hang the towels, sheets, etc. Phil - - - I guess she's just as disgusted as I am at times,

Rae has to work this Sunday, though she wanted very much to be present when Adele saw the birthday cake, which is Rae's gift. So, she's coming here direct from work and won't get here until 10 in the evening. I’m trying to get a group of girls together for the evening. More tomorrow, sweetheart. You know, sweetness, I adore you more with the passing days -

Your Eve

Dec. 1, 1944

Phil, dearest,

There is just ten minutes before closing time, and since I'm completely finished with all my work, I thought I'd take advantage of the break by starting my letter to you. I'm anxious to know if there was any mail for me, but I'll know soon enough.

Last night Harry and Goldie must have had a domestic battle, for I overheard the following. Whether Harry meant it or not remains to be seen "I'm disgusted hearing you (Goldie) complain. Tomorrow I'm going to start looking for a place and we're gettin' the hell out of here". Goldie, “Keep quiet". That, sweet, ought to give you a pretty good idea of how they feel, too.

Some people have their guts and I don't mean maybe! When you consider that I'm never home, except for early morning and late evening and Sundays and that Goldie has more or less free run of the house and that she does not do half of what I did, then you have a pretty good idea of how disgusted I am with the whole setup. I'm sure, however, that Goldie realizes that she couldn't find a better setup for herself anywhere, and is only keeping quiet until the time when she can get into housekeeping without any difficulties, such as presents themselves today.

Phil, in case you haven't given it a second thought, it would be a most excellent idea for me to give up the house. First - we would be free of any ties whatever once you return and could do whatever you wish in the way of traveling, business, etc. Second - we would not have any expenses, and those that we would have would be small. When we were established, we could then set up housekeeping without any real hardships. If I held on to the house I'm sure Harry and Goldie would beat it first chance they got and I don't feel that we'll be able to upkeep the house on our own at first, alone.

I can't do anything definite at the present time, for two reasons: My mother and dad are tied up in court with this estate business and they would need an opportunity to paint, paper and have the house redone. My mother is most anxious to have the house redone so that it will be in good condition when Eddie returns.

Phil, I just can't see my mother working as hard as is her custom and I'm sure if I were with her, things would be much easier for her all around,

Last night, for instance, it was simply freezing cold and she had to wash the clothes and drag each basket back and forth. This "back and forth" business nearly killed me when I had to carry Adele's things back and forth, and I can't see the sense to continuing this way, Surely my Mom doesn't deserve such treatment, after all she's done for our benefit.

So, baby, I'm hoping very much that you'll see things my way. Once my mind is at rest and the decision is made, I'll explain the entire matter to Mom, H & G and ask them to take Mom with them until she can come back with us (providing she wants to later on - naturally the decision is hers) unless they decide to leave me first. Whatever the case, I'm sure no real action could be taken until about March.

There was no mail for me, though I doubted that I would get any. When you are traveling about, that usually means no mail for me.

Phil, I'd like very much to have a coat and legging set made for Adele. Dot had Harold's set made up and it came out very nicely. I would like to have solid gray leggings and a gray and white checked coat and hat. However, and since you have not had the opportunity to shop for anything Adele has worn, I'm giving you this opportunity to offer suggestions for her new outfit. I must warn you that I may not be able to fulfill them, that I may have to accept the materials offered by the tailor. In any event, give out, baby, for this is the chance for you to select Adele's outfit.

And, so, baby, I come to the end of another letter. Good night, darling, you know sumpin' - right - I love you that much!

Your Eve

December 144

Dearest Darling,

First, I must apologize for not writing last night. I was busy all day. In the evening, I thought I'd take in the first show and write afterwards, but when I got back to the hut after the show, I was hungry, so I called Red in and we proceeded to make a meal off the many good things in the package that I had received from S & D. By the time we finished, it was time for lights out and my letter went unwritten. However, t hope to make up for it tonight. The picture last night was a class "B" sort of thing, but very entertaining. It was titled "You can'l Ration Love". The stars were Betty Rhodes (very beautiful, in a girlish way, if’n you know what I mean), and Johnnie Johnston, a newcomer whose crooning is on a par with the best. Both have very pleasing personalities, and between them made the picture worth-while. In case you're wondering, sweet, S & D's package contained the following: tin of anchovies, box of cheese,  tin of Treat (like Spam), tin of deviled ham, tin of potted meat, fruit cake, fudge, 2 jars of orange marmalade, cookies, hors d’oeuvres crackers. Everything was delicious, and we really had a feast, my hut-mates, Red, and myself. Incidentally, did I tell you that I received Etta's and Nat's package of food a few days ago? Well, we did away with most of that the same day I got it. This package contained pretty much the same things as the other, and were equally appreciated. There was a large Rum Brandy Fruit Cake that I am saving for Xmas Eve. I have Etta's and Nat's address and will write as soon as I get the chance. Tonight, I went to the movies again. This time the picture was "Our Hearts were Young and Gay,” from the book of the some name. It is a very amusing film, and I enjoyed some of the preposterous situations that Emily Kimbrough and Cornelia Otis Skinner got themselves into. Their roles are played by Diana Lynn and Gail Russell, and a swell job they did, too,

I've received quite a few of your letters these past few days, Sweet, but as it is pretty late in the evening, and the fellows are in bed and waiting for me to put the lights out, I don't think I ought to undertake answering them tonight. I will do so tomorrow, O.K.?

In the meantime, honey, know that I love and want you more as the time goes by. It is just 10:45, and by the time I get to bed it will be 11 o'clock - and I don't have to tell you of whom I shall be thinking at that time, or what intriguing memories I shall be conjuring up. - I adore you, Baby! My dearest love and a great big kiss for my other baby, our own Adele Bara. Love to all from

Your Phil

Post #520 - November 28, 29, 1944 They Are Throwing a Large Party This Coming Saturday for Richy Lieberman and Tell Me in the Most Minute Detail You Can Muster, Exactly What My Daughter is Like

 

PAGES MISSING

Nov. 28, 1944

My Own:

Your letters of Nov, 8 and 10 came through this morning and, naturally I was most happy to receive them. Your letters contained little for me to comment on, except Adele's birthday gift that you mention. So you intend to surprise me, eh! Well, I have an idea of what it may be, but I'm not telling you till I actually know what it is. I only mentioned that it was a month to Adele's birthday, cause I couldn't think of anything else to say at the time.

These are the most recent letters I've had to date and I'm looking forward to receiving them more regularly now.

I called Bob this evening to inquire about Richy and was told that they are throwing a large party this coming Saturday and that we are all invited. Bob says he's the same old Richy.



29 November 1944

Dearest Mommy,

It never occurred to me before now to wonder what Adele calls you. Because today is her second birthday, I found myself thinking about it, and thinking about it made me curious. Will you please oblige, Sweet? And what name do you call her by? I picture you using Adele when you are annoyed with her, but what do you call her when her sweetness makes your love for her well big in your heart? Do you indulge in corny appellations like “snookums" or "sweetie pie,” or do you have more original pet names for her? Does she know her own name? If so, how clearly does she pronounce it? And will she say it when someone asks her her name? There are so many things I want to know about her! Please, Chippie, sometimes when you have the time to spare, tell me in the most minute detail you can muster exactly what my daughter is like. Tell me how she looks, what she does and says the first thing in the morning; tell me how she plays, the things that amuse her, and the things that fill her with infant wonderment; tell me how she acts differently towards her Mommy than towards anyone else; tell me what evidences of affection she has shown you; tell me what things, if any, make her shy or embarrassed, and how she looks when she feels that way; tell me how she is bad, and how she is good; tell me what she asks you, and what she tells you; tell me how she greets you when you come home from work, and if you invariably ask her if she was a “good girl today,” and what she says to that; tell me the extent of her understanding, and the scope of her naiveté; tell me of her various subterfuges that she employs to try to get her own way: tell me the things she is afraid of, and the things that give her pleasure; tell me if she is clever with her hands; if she still has that predilection for using her left hand; tell me if her eyes are still that indescribable gray color that they were when I last saw her; tell me if her little legs are in any way abnormal in appearance; finally tell me what pleases you about her and what displeases you; what you love most about her and what you would most like to change. You see, darling, that there is so much about her that I don't know, and that I am deeply desirous of knowing, that you could write volumes on the subject trying to satisfy my curiosity. Will you try, Baby? I'd appreciate it deeply believe me! I can’t help wondering on this, her second birthday, how much longer we will be apart, the three of “us.” My feeling, hunch (call it what you will) is that it can't be very much longer, I think about four or five months more, at the outside. After being so long apart, honey, and because the time does seem to fly, (however inconsistent that may sound to you), I can regard the prospect of seeing you at the end of that time with perfect equanimity. Also, on this anniversary of our punkin’s birth, I am reminded once again of that day, exactly two years ago, when time stood still for me while I restlessly paced the hallways of the Anderson Hospital. I think I remember telling you about this time last year about all the things I felt and thought about then, so there is no need to repeat it here. I think I also told you then how proud and grateful I was, and how I loved you so much more for the grand way you deported yourself as wife, expectant mother and mother. But that last is something that I shall never cease appreciating in you, and that I shall make it a point to acknowledge when our punkin attains to another birthday. Know then, my beloved Ev, that my heart is overflowing this day with gratitude for my daughter’s mother, and love and admiration for my sweetheart, my wife, whom I consider has ever shown herself worthy of all the adoration I am capable of feeling. May God be good to you and our daughter. My prayers are for your continued well-being, my darlings. I live only for the day when I can be with you once again. I am nothing else than

Your loving husband and dad,
Phil