Post #331 - March 29, 1944 The Driver Had About as Much Idea of Where the Frankford Hospital was as I Have of Your Exact Location in England and Your Four Letters are Balm for My Eyes

  

March 29, 1944

 

Beloved Phil, 

I am sorry I must start this letter off with an apology. I could not write yesterday, much as I wanted to, and hope to make up for it today. I didn't do anything to celebrate, but circumstances were such that I simply could not write. 

I didn't feel very well in the morning. Seeing it was sunny, I dressed Adele and we took a walk. I passed Fay's house and we got to talking. She was on her way to Ellie's with the baby, to spend the afternoon. I told her I was going to call Dotty and ask her to come up in the evening to sort of celebrate. She went on her way to Ellie’s and I went home to give Adele lunch. When I walked in Goldie told me that Dotty had called and was coming up later in the afternoon. Snuff’s father let them have the car and they spent the day visiting their many friends and relatives. I fed Adele, cleaned, dressed, etc. It was fairly late when Adele woke. I dressed her again and kept her out another hour, which meant it was about 4 P.M. 

I neglected to mention the most important thing - I received three letters yesterday, those of the 11, 12 and 20 March. The last was indeed a masterpiece and I'm unspeakably proud of it. I've shown it to those I thought would appreciate it and it has been praised no end. I couldn't understand why you were so sore at me for writing those "dirty" jokes, And you always laughed at me for caring so much about "little" things! You enclosed a snap of a fellow without any further explanation. Well??? That "ablutions" business was strictly an error which escaped my notice. I evidently failed to reread my letter, being too tired to do so. I'm glad you got hold of "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" and hope you like it. It was nice of "Oiving” to lend it to you and you might send along my thank you. Why do I carry Adele? There are many occasions when I have to do it whether I want to or not. I don't carry her unless it's impossible to do otherwise. Now that I've answered your comments and questions I shall continue. Just a minute - received birthday cards from the family. Dot and Snuff and Gloria. Gloria's card was so appropriate that I am going to type the wording. Each sentence is illustrated. Sorry I can't comply. Here goes: 

From one poor mortal to another .. Birthday Greetings

When you're YOUNG, you blush and wait!

When you're OLD, it’s too darn late!

When you're POOR, your steaks are few!

When you're RICH, your teeth won't chew!

When you're WELL, you save your jack!

When you're SICK, you give it back!

Life is SCREWY but it's SWELL

So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY. WHAT THE HELL!! 

I began to prepare Adele's dinner. We wanted to finish with supper early as the folks were going to visit Ethel. I proceeded to feed Adele and ate my dinner. Then I decided it would be wise to accompany the family since they were taking a taxi and it might be difficult for me to get out another night. After much ado with Ruth, I had her promise to stay til I returned. I didn't have time to dress properly (I was wearing my brown slack suit, which, incidentally, is just the right size since it was cleaned) so I merely slipped into my beige sports coat (the new one). At just this moment Dot and Snuff arrived with Hal. They had promised to come during the early afternoon, but you know how it is with babies. They came in and stayed for a few minutes til the cab arrived. Snuff has a "shortie" or "GI" haircut already! They are making the most of their last few days by going swimming, bowling, horse-back riding, etc. Dottie says the "weegie board" says that she will have a girl on April 3, 1946 and will buy a house when the war is over. I've never seen a weegie board - have you? What the devil are they?? 

Ethel's visiting hours in the evening are 7 to 8. The cab arrived at 6:45. The driver had about as much idea of where the Frankford Hospital was as I have of your exact location in England. We managed to get there on time after much fiddling around. The driver, a rather young fellow, had served four years in the Navy and was on a boat that was sunk. He said he has a wife and child and was anxious to get back to the Navy, even though he had been through so much. What a world! 

The Frankford Maternity Hospital is one of the loveliest I have seen to date. Ethel looks wonderful. The baby has a terrific mop of black hair that sticks straight out and for that reason Ethel calls him a Chinaman. He does resemble Paul very slightly with much darker coloring. You really can't tell when you see them at that age - two days old. 

Al drove us back to the house, where Rae and Frances, (Hal’s wife) were waiting for Hal to come home. We decided to wait to see Hal and spent the evening talking, etc. Hal remembered me as your wife. I didn't think he would. The "briss" is to take place Sun. at 4. P.M. and Ethel expects quite a turnout. We got home at 12, and I hit the hay immediately. 

I'm going to cut this short, sweet, as it is late and I want it to go off today. I'll try my darnest to write a real "longie" soon. Kisses, all you want, darling, and all my love. 

29 March 1944

Darling Chippie,

This afternoon's mail brought me six letters—and I'm back to normal again. Four of the letters were yours—(1 March through 7 March)—the other two were from Jack N. and Ruthie to congratulate me on my recent birthday. Really, I have you to thank for those letters also. Just finished reading your four letters for the umpteenth time. They are balm for my eyes which have looked so long in vain for them and as manna to sate my hunger for news of you. I have received everything you have written up to 10 March, Chippie, so it is likely that I won't be hearing from you for a few days. The four letters require a heap of answering, and I'll be content if I can fully deal with the first one (1 March) tonight.

Before I start, Honey, and lest you feel uneasy because I tell you nothing of myself and my activities, I want you to know that there is really nothing to tell. The one item that does come under the heading of news merely because it's a deviation from my usual routine would be cut out by the censor anyway.

The letter of 1 March, arriving as it did two days after the one of the 10th and a full week after those of 3 and 8 Mar, served to set straight all the things in those letters that confused me. Incidentally, you reprimanded me in one of your letters for my frequent misinterpretation of things you tell me. I'm sorry, Sweet, but you see what I'm up against.

Your letters, all neatly typewritten (typed?) as they are, are much preferred to the ones you write by hand; especially since there is a tendency to write much more per letter on the typewriter. The fact that you turned down that offer of $100 for it (and I know what $100 means to you, Chippie) is a clear illustration of how much you value it. I'm glad you decided against selling 'cause I have a hunch we're going to make very good use of it after I get back.

That topcoat you bought (and which was a source of puzzlement to me for some time), is a real bargain, and “sounds” like just the sort of thing I could go for. Now I am anxious for that picture. The shoes, as pictured in the ad, are most attractive, and will show to good advantage those lovely legs of yours. (Don't forget to get them into the picture.) I also liked the low-heeled oxford pictured in the ad. I gather you aren't wearing a hat anymore. Why else would you buy a complete (even unto the bag) outfit and neglect this important accessory? I had no idea your sport coat was so “shot” as to be unserviceable, or I would never have asked you to wait to buy a new one. Wear everything in the best of health, Baby, and rest assured I approve wholeheartedly of your action and your selections. Thanks, too, for clearing up my dilemma in regards to your birthday and anniversary gifts so neatly. It was magnanimous of you to regard your recent purchases as such, and I want you to know that I appreciate it. My only regret is that I can't see you in your new outfit, but even that isn't irremediable. If you'll be good enough to send me a picture (and I don't mean a snapshot!) my idea was that you let Claire Pruett make a “fashion plate” picture in full color (full length). I realize this would be expensive, but I haven't asked you to make any big outlays on my account, and money is a small consideration compared to the endless pleasure such a gift would bring me. In a later letter, you promised to take Adele to Claire Pruett for that long-postponed portrait. Why not act on the above suggestion at the same time? I think it is money well spent, ’cause it buys an object to cherish for years to come. Too, even if, in later years, we have money to burn, it will not buy that particular picture. Do you begin to understand why I reckon so little with cost when I talk about pictures?

Sorry, you don't agree with my idea about making my school ring into a ring for the punkin, but since you feel so strongly about it, I won't insist.

Glad you liked my little Valentine offering, Sweet. I was, I'll now admit, half-fearful you would take exception to it. The information that your weight is 118 tells me better than any words that you are “in the pink.” Good! See you stay that way! The final paragraph of your letter expresses your deep gratitude for the many kindnesses Sarah and Betty have shown you. You may convey my own to them in like measure. “Room to send all my love precious (Evvie) and a kiss (for) Adel-e, as some call her.” Love to all from

Your Phil

P.S. Please send the chocolates.

Post #330 - March 28, 1944 The Important Thing to be Accomplished in This “Waiting Period” of My Absence, is That You Rear Adele as Best You Know How

 

28 March 1944 

Evelyn, Dearest, 

Yesterday, after waiting most anxiously for a letter from you, the mail brought me nothing. This was too much. It left me in a black mood that allowed me no room for thoughts fit to put into a letter That is why I didn't write last night. 

This afternoon, at long last, I received a letter from you (10 March), and one from brother Jack (22 February). I had expected more than ten letters when the mail did come thru, but though I was disappointed with the solitary letter of yours, it did serve to snap me out of the blue funk I have been in for days now, Jack's letter, too, was most enlightening. He devoted four full pages to answering some of the questions I had posed for him in my last letter. Enclosed was the New Guinea newspaper "Guinea Gold". He seems to be in very good spirits, and his circumstances (living conditions, etc.) could be much worse. Altogether, he isn't having too bad a time of it, but you probably know all about it, since you say in your letter that he wrote to you, too. 

Your mention of Jack's gift brings to mind something that Red asked me to ask you. Remember the clothes I brought home one day last summer when I was at Ft, Dix? I told you then that they were Red's and that you were to hold them for him until such time as he might need them, I don't remember all the items, but Red said there was a khaki shirt among them; also, some ties. With Spring upon us and Summer in the offing, he would be able to use those things to good advantage, and would appreciate it greatly if you would be good enough to send these things off to him at your earliest opportunity. For myself, I can't, for the life of me, remember whether or not I had any khaki shirts at home. I rather think not. If, in the course of your searching, Chippie, you do find one, please send it along. 

About the increase in Mom's allotment: Swell. I want to congratulate you, Chippie, on squaring our long-standing debt. I know how long this has bothered you, and to what extent it made you uncomfortable, so I can appreciate how good you felt when you handed Mom the last of our indebtedness, Everything considered, I don't see how you can have any financial difficulties to speak of. Quite a difference from those meager days of ’41, eh, Sweet? Since your contribution to the expenses of the household has increased, I don't see how you will be able to save very much, but don't let that worry you - better days are coming. Besides, I hope to have a few dollars of my own by the time I regain your side (sweet prospect!) The important thing to be accomplished in this "waiting period" of my absence, is that you rear Adele as best you know how and with every advantage you can possibly provide for her. I don't have to ask you that she be inculcated with the knowledge and the instinct that she has a daddy "far away" who loves her very dearly and misses her very much indeed, a daddy who will return to her long before she is consciously aware of her lack of him. I know you are doing your utmost in that direction, Baby, and although I am skeptical of your occasional assertions that the punkin "knows" her daddy, I am not convinced, on the other hand, that her evidences of affection for my likeness are entirely meaningless. If, on my return, she associates my person with my picture, which she has come to learn is an object to be treated with affection, then my task of making her realize that the newly-arrived "stranger" is something more than that will be much facilitated, 

The other prime consideration at this time, is that you, my darling, take the best possible care of yourself. You were always disposed to overtax your energies, and I can't help worrying on that account. When I was home, I was able to curb that proclivity in you to some extent. In your letter received today, you confess that you were "dead" when you got back from Miss Hahn's. How do you suppose I feel reading something like that. If working tires you to such an extent, and you don't make any bones about it, then why on earth do you do it? Fortunately, you are no longer in a position where those few extra dollars mean the difference between "doing without" and being able to live comfortably. I've asked you time and again to put first things first, and you promised time after time to give up this senseless job if you found it inconvenienced you. If you don't consider coming home "knocked out” an inconvenience, then I most certainly do, and I am hereby asking you to live up to your promise. Please, Chippie, for your health's sake, and for my peace-of-mind, give up this in terminable running about for the sake of a few measly dollars every time Miss Hahn calls you. My wish to find you exactly the same Chippie I left you is more than that - it is an ambition amounting almost to an obsession, Hard work always showed unfavorably on you, and if you persist in your present attitude, I will come back to see the marks of it on your person, and I will have lost a great deal. If you have my feelings at heart, Sweet, you will do as I request. Don't force me to use stronger language in this matter.

Again you make reference to your new sport coat - and I'm still in the dark as to when and where you got it and how much you paid for it. You say it is a bargain and a beauty. No one is a better judge on both counts than you, Honey, so I'll take your word for it. Wear it well and don't wear it out until I have a chance to see for myself. How's about a picture of you in the new coat? 

You presume to "inform" me that Adele will be a pretty girl. (As if I didn't know) Reminds me of your mother's classic rejoinder when I "informed” her of the fact. She said "and why shouldn't she be - you had the model right in front of you!" (Little did she know that my eyes were closed at the time). However, there is some merit in what she said, since I'll admit I couldn't have done better had I looked. But then, I always did know the "feel" of you better than the look of you, did I not? 

Still nothing to report from this end, Baby, and because I am typing this in the Orderly Room and I don't want to keep the C.Q. up, I'll sign off now with all my love, A kiss for my punkin. My love to all. 

Your adoring 

Phil 

Post #329 - March 26, 27, 1944 Gloria Went with the Gang to See Hal Chase and Said He is a Riot and Your Letters are So Essential to My Peace-of-Mind and General Morale

 

March 27, 2014 

 

Sweetheart, 

 

No mail again today (it's three days now) but there was one surprise and one disappointment. The disappointment was a notice from the allotment that Mom has to appear to prove why she should continue to receive Jack's allotment. I'm pretty sure she'll get it, but they want more definite?? proof. She has to go to their Phila., office at 1216 Market St. on April 4th. 

The surprise was a $10 check from my brother, evidently a birthday-anniversary gift. I was "wowed", for it is the first time I've received such a handsome gift from my brother. I intend to write him as soon as I complete this, to thank him. It certainly was swell of him. As you may have guessed, baby, that plus the $5 Seymour gave me, went Into our bank account today to swell the total to $170. I’m waiting for a notice to pay Adele's policy before I give notice to withdrew the $54. 

It rained all day today and I caught up on my housework bit. I cleaned the porch windows, took down all the fixtures, washed them and replaced them. I dusted, mopped, swept, etc., went to Broad St. to shop and to bank the above. There was something on Broad St. that caught my attention. It was a perfume tray and picture frame to match. Each was $12.50. They were both square except for the corners, which were shaped something like lobes. It was heavily encrusted with thick white crystal and had a maroon design running through the crystal. It was odd, but I'm sure you'd (as well as I) would rather wait til we can shop for such things together. I only mention it cause I liked it so well. I bought an order of groceries for Mom.

I shall be sorely disappointed if there is no mail from you tomorrow, baby. I'm missing your letter of March 5, 9 to 14, and from 15 on. Since your mail is usually eight or nine days old, I consider myself way behind. C’mon sumpin'!!

 

Gloria slept here last night and went straight to work this morning. She caught a 7 o'clock train, which should have gotten her into work on time. She went with the gang to see Hal Chase and said he is a riot. Harry and Goldie liked him, too. Jane Withers is also featured and he dances with her. He sang Mairsy Doats and Paper Doll, and was quite a hit. 

Adele didn't get to sleep til 8:15 P.M. last night, but slept straight through the night, for the first time in months. I felt fairly good all day, but I did have a hectic day and I'm kinda achin' to get into bed right now. It rained most of the day and I couldn't take Adele out. 

I'm down to the “sweet" part of my letter, darling, and the usual "I love you, Phil, darling” will have to do this evening. It only I could whisper those words in your ear and demonstrate the extent of my feeling for you -- I am, 

Your Eve

26 March 1944

Evelyn, Darling,

Still no mail. This makes ten or eleven consecutive mail-less days. For that matter, I only received two V-mail letters in the entire month of March, now nearly over. I know you are still writing daily, Chippie, and I have no complaints on that score, but patience is running out. To say I am disgusted and depressed, is putting it mildly. I am as patient as the next guy, but after waiting the customary four or five days for mail, I'm just about at the end of my rope. Instead of improving, as one might expect, the mail service gets steadily worse. I hate to gripe, Chippie, but I'm fed up to the ears, and it's better to get it off my chest. Depression has had me in its grip for days now, and while I keep telling myself I'm acting foolishly and childishly, I just can't seem to shake off the feeling for any length of time. The blues have got me—but good! If I were drinking man, I'd probably go out and throw a big drunk just to get away from myself for a little while. There are times when I envy the guys who can do that. This is one of the times. Really, Chippie, I have very little if anything to feel badly about, but your letters are so essential to my peace-of-mind and general morale, that the lack of them upsets me to a marked degree. I have to make a real effort in order to get anything done.

Forgive me, Sweet, for burdening you with my little troubles. You probably have enough of your own. Since there isn't anything of interest to report today, you'll have to bear with me, darling, if I seem to cut this short.

When all is said and done, only one thing is really important—I love you, my Evvie, with every fiber of my being. It is the one unalterable truth that sustains me always. Love to all from

Your Phil

Post #328 - March 25, 1944 FLASH! Ethel had a “Boy” Three O’Clock This Morning and What a Day! Phooey!

 

March 25, 1944

Dearest Phil, 

I've decided to make this a "running" letter and finish it tomorrow. I've got quite a bit to say and want this to be a "longie." 

To begin with, and before I tell you the "little" things, I want you to know that Ruth mailed off two packages to you today for me. Last night she finally nailed a whole box of Oh Henry's (24) and since the 24 didn't seem to fill the box, I bought two more bars, making 26 in all. I mailed that off, along with the other package, containing a box of Steven's chocolate straws, plain chocolates (also Steven's) and a box of Bond cookies such as I sent some time ago. Guess that will have to hold you for a little while cause I'm kinda low on funds at the moment. I have an opportunity to get a whole box of peanut chews and will take advantage of that just as soon as I have available funds. 

As I told you in yesterday's letter, I went to the Lindley to see "Thousands Cheer" and I can only echo your praises. I haven't enjoyed a picture as much as this one in a long, long time. I almost saw it twice. Fay accompanied me. After the movies we stopped in Ben's and each had a malted. (Wish I could send a couple of those along, with me attached). I noticed a new ice-cream - orange-cherry pecan and Ben gave me a whole spoonful to taste. You guessed it - it was delicious - just the sort of ice-cream you’d go for. He was the one who said I could have the peanut chews whenever I want them. I walked Fay home as it was nice and I felt like walking. We got on the subject of our husbands and I got to remembering how we first met, how you looked at me at Parvin State Park, how you told i me I had sex appeal and down the line until I was feeling awfully hungry for the sight of you. At this point I reached the house and had a picnic getting the door open. The key just wouldn't turn and I had to try many times before I finally succeeded in opening it. It was about 11:30 and to my surprise - Gloria. She came last night after all. We all chatted for a good while and then Gloria gave each and every one of us a gift. Me - a light fuschia (reddish) tailored blouse. It has four rows of stitching (same color) about the edges of the sleeves (puffed) and collar, a small space and then four more rows of stitching. It buttons differently too. There are three rose-pearl buttons close together, a small space, and then three more rose-pearl buttons to close the front. The collar comes to long, sharp points and the whole blouse fits beautifully. She gave Goldie a peach satin bed-jacket, Harry (belated birthday gift) a beige shirt and Mom a pair of pearl earrings (a cluster of three small white pearls). Santa Claus Strongin we called her. 

Mrs. Reisner visited yesterday. Davey is still a chemist, or rather, working at it, but due to the new ruling about men under 26 being drafted regardless of necessity, is now is 1-A. They are wondering what will happen." 

March 26, 1944 

FLASH! Ethel had a "boy" three of clock this morning. Weight - 7 lbs. 7 oz., after only one hour of terrific labour. I think they intend to name it Stewart or Stuart (take your pick). The family is a little disappointed, but, nevertheless, happy that it's all over. I hear the newcomer looks like Paul. 

I sort of got off the track. At any rate, Gloria looks better than ever. We sat and gabbed til 2:30 A.M. and then hit the hay. Adele woke me four times between then and 6:30, so you can imagine how I felt the next morning. (yesterday). Sam Nerenberg has a car now and gives it most of his attention, which Gloria thinks is good for him, mentally. It was lovely yesterday and is lovely today, regular spring weather. I dressed Adele in the morning and stayed out all morning. Ruth and Seymour were taking pictures in the back so I stuck my puss in too. We also snapped several of Adele. We took one of Adele with the little Maser boy who is the same age. We tried to get them to hold hands, but nothing doing. They wouldn't do it long enough to enable us to snap it. I doubt if I'll look well, but it is something nevertheless. 

Fay went downtown and since it was the last day before the 20% tax goes on cosmetics, leather goods, etc. I splurged by giving her $1.10 to get me a bottle of Elizabeth Arden's Brilliantine for my hair. My hair needs some attention and this does the trick. It gives luster and smells awfully good. You'd like it. 

 

Lena Miller called me last night and we also talked for a good hour. Herby was supposed to be drafted, but had a terrible auto accident, thereby securing an indefinite deferment. He broke his jaw in four places, broke his wrists and ankle, knocked out all his teeth, plus bruises and whatnot. Lena said he was laid up for three months and is just beginning to get on his feet. At first they thought he had a brain concussion and wouldn't come through it. Her girlfriend Sylvia and Jack Taylor (Syd's brother) were married a month ago and the Millers are very friendly with the Taylors. Quite a small world, isn't it? We made plans about seeing each other and she will come to see me first. We weren't definite about what day, but it will be in the near future. We want to see each other's baby.

My father spoke to his boss about taking me on, if and when I decided to go to work, and he would be more than glad to have me. I could either work in the office or sell juvenile furniture. I told my dad I wouldn't work more than five days a week cause I'd want some time with Adele. Phil, before you give me your reactions, let me remind you that I don't relish the idea of returning to work for I would like to raise Adele my way, but it is an opportunity to get us into a good position financially and one that I wouldn't like to pass up. I'd like nothing better than to get off to a good start once you get back. Adele would have excellent care, in fact, I think my mother has more patience with her than I do. She won't eat, time and again, yet when I take her other to my mother’s she goes to the food and eats like a little horse. That's kids for you! The pay would have to be between $25 and $30 per week. My grandmother expects to leave just before Passover and I could go right to work, about the middle of April. Please, baby, don’t be angry with me, for it is in my power, at the moment, to help us. Believe me, sweet, when I say I would rather see you doing it than me, I know you have pride and I'd feel the same way you do if I were a man. You are doing your very best in your present circumstances and I have an opportunity to do better. What do you say, sweet? You know how anxious I am to please you, baby, and I can't help feeling a bit indecisive about the whole thing til Í know it's okay with you. Remember - duplex apts! 

My grandmother told my mother that she is going to give Adele $5 when she leaves. I'll believe it when I see it. She's crazy about the kid and makes no bones about it. 

Last night I read Gloria many of your letters. She loves to listen to them and loves your style of writing. Since she is so appreciative of such things I took the liberty of reading some more intimate parts, if’n you don't mind. She always says, "You ought to be so proud of him, Ev." I am! 

Today the Browns dropped in for a short while. I read them the three letters I received from Syd this past week. Uncle put a dollar bill in Adele's hand and I refused to accept it, but was forced to take it whether I liked it or not. I told Adele to return it to him and she did, but he sent her back to me with it and she made me take it. She's not so dumb! My cousin Bessie drops in occasionally. She had TB. You'd never recognize her, sweet, she's positively attractive. She’s slim and a stunning dresser. She has plenty of money to spend on clothes and has lovely taste. She was wearing a stunning gray plaid man-tailored suit ($35), red tailored blouse, black leather shoes, red bag, and a large bunch of black ostrich feathers in her hair. She actually can look pretty. She thinks Adele is gorgeous. 

Hal Chase is town with his wife and they are staying at Ethel's. Hal has an engagement at the Earle with Ray Heatherton's band. Evidently he has an act as he receives billing right under Ray Heatherton. The whole gang went to the movies last night, Ethel included, and then hit the hay. Three o'clock Ethel started yelling murder and the whole bunch piled into the car and went to the hospital. At five they were back in bed and it was all over. 

Harry and Goldie went to Camden tonight to see Hal, as they play at the Stanley in Camden on Sunday; as you will recall. Gloria went to see Ethel with the rest of the gang this afternoon. Mom and I will see her later in the week. Rae is taking off from her job to spend the ten days with Paul and Ethel won't need our aid at all.

Adele looked exactly like a cupie doll with white bow in her hair, pink pique dress with full skirt, pink socks and white shoes. Her latest shoes are the nicest she has ever had - they stay white longer. I shall endeavor to get buckskin hereafter. 

Adele had a grand time this morning riding in a wagon. She, I held on to the sides and enjoyed every minute of it. She likes to ride a tricycle too and I guess I'll have to be getting one in the near future. Can you believe it? She's a regular little girl and no longer a baby. The other day Sarah gave her a brush to brush her hair. She brushed her hair and then cleared the brush of excess hair by throwing each piece on the floor. She aIways watches me carefully and then mimics to perfection. What a kid! She's the biggest showoff you ever saw and loves attention. She gets jealous if I don't pay strict attention to her. (I can hear you saying - just like a woman) When she's all prettied up she'll stand and admire herself in the mirror. She slept fairly well last night (Thank God) and I managed to get some rest. 

Natalie's new bedroom set is lovely - bone white with hand painted roses. It's girlish and so pretty. Betty got her a kidney shaped vanity with mirrored top and white organdy skirt. Natalie is still up in the clouds. She never thought she'd have such a lovely room so soon. 

And now, sweetness, I'll say a fond good-night. I guess Ethel's new little boy will be a "big" boy before you get to see him. I pray that I'll have you here for my birthday next year. I adore you, baby mine, with a love that grows daily. I guess you know what I’d do to you were you only here now. (SIGH) I had my period for eight days, having finished today, and it sort of knocked me a bit. I haven't had it that long since I had Adele. All's well that ends well and that goes for our separation. A kiss from 

Your Eve

25 March 1944

Evvie, Darling,

Again, no mail! I'm so disgusted with the mail service I can hardly contain myself. God knows, the daily prospect of receiving a letter from home is the one bright thing in an otherwise drab existence. To be deprived of this is both depressing and aggravating, and I'm burned up! So much so that I better say no more about it.

There really isn't much to write about and I was about to resort to V-mail again when it struck me that it would be an injustice to you, who takes so much pains to ensure that I receive the maximum of mail. It wouldn't be fair to deprive you because someone else isn't “on the ball.” Thereupon, I determined to write two of these pages—if I have to sit here all night.

Earlier this evening, after a very busy day, I had laid down on my bunk to relax. The weather (you’ll have to guess) made me terribly homesick, and there were moments during the day when I was aware of most disgusting pangs of longing and loneliness. It is a most wretched feeling: a mixture of frustration and utter helplessness, and most unwelcome. I quit rather early, hoping to sleep my mood off. Before I lay down, I looked long and hard at your picture, smiling so cheerfully at me from the shelf. But this only intensified my longing, so I flopped myself on the bunk to court the forgetfulness and oblivion to be found in sleep. I was just dozing off (in spite of Klein’s boisterous carrying-on) when Red came in to ask me if I wouldn't go to the movie with him. I knew “Du Barry was a Lady” was playing and I did want to see it, so I agreed to go without any further ado. On the way, we stopped at the mess hall to eat a supper of fried frankfurters. (I could've said hot-dogs, but frankfurters is a much longer word—catch?) potatoes, corn, cinnamon-flavored apple-sauce and tea. Arrived at the theater, I settled (I almost said “back” but the benches don't have backs)—I settled down (Don't be funny, Chippie, I know benches don't have “down,” either)—anyway I settled (settled? settled!) to enjoy the colorful and tuneful and eyeful (how’s that get in there?) “Du Barry.” Alas, and alack. (archaic, but expressive) it was not to be! Just as I was beginning to enjoy myself, the damn projector went on the blink again. All through the first reel, the sound was so low, that it was impossible to understand it. Tommy Dorsey's orchestra just wasted it's (their) time going through the motions. The second reel was just getting underway with the sound showing decided improvement when—bingo!—the damn projector wouldn't project! By this time, the frankfurters were beginning to make themselves felt (and they didn't taste nearly so good on the way up), and I was heartily wishing I had a “bicarb.” Red said he had had enough and rose to go, asking me if I was coming along. I was right beside him when he started down the aisle. When I reached the hut, I helped myself to the soda, after which I felt much better!

Then I preceded to the Orderly Room to write this. This just about covers “my day”—and what day! phooey! About now—I should say something nonchalant and don't-give-a-damn” like—“oh well, tomorrow's another day”—but if I do, I'll probably be tempted to add “yeah, that's just the trouble!”—so I won't say it.

If I start right here to tell you how much I miss you, want you, love you, adore you, and worship you, my darling Evelyn, it should bring me to just about here (and exactly two pages). I feel much better now.

Love

Your Phil  

Post #327 - March 22, 23, 1944 I Kept Remembering Too Much Today and I Saw Some of the Pilots on This Base Receive the DFC and Other Decorations

March 23, 1944

March 22, 1944

My Darling,

I'm sending off this V-mail 'cause I won't have time to write a full-fledged letter tonight. As a matter of fact, Chippie, I don't rightly know what I'd write about. Nothing worth mentioning took place today and it's been more than a week since I had a “real” letter.

Things in general around here are so dull, that for the first time in many moons I am completely at a loss for words enough to fill even this limited space.

Tonight, as I told you in yesterday's letter, I am accompanying Moats and Klein on the “liberty run.” I'll tell you all about tonight's activities in tomorrow's letter. I hope they'll be something to talk about. I'm really not so keen to go anyplace, but I'm even less anxious to hang around the hut.

I don't know what's holding up the mail like this, but I do wish it would start coming through. Please excuse the brevity of this letter, Sweet, but I'm sure you understand the handicap I'm working under.

Plenty of room left to tell you, in great detail, the great extent of my love for you, Baby, but you are still young and impressionable and I hate to lay the basis for conceit in you—so I'll just remind you that I love you very dearly and let your imagination fill in the blank spaces. Kiss the punkin for me. Love to all from

Your Phil

P.S. Whaddya know? I did it again (filled the sheet, I mean)

Dearest Sweetheart, 

No mail (with the exception of some back numbers on Monday) since last Friday and I'm beginning to wonder what, exactly is holding up that mail. I sure do wish something shows up soon cause I’m at a loss of words and can’t seem to get down to some real letter writing. I'm sorry about the V-mail two days in a row, baby, but I'm out of air-mail envelopes and sufficient stamps to write any other way. Besides I'm finding it hard to write at all with the lack of mail. I had a letter from my brother today dated March 12, that contained very little in the way of news. It rained, rained, rained and is still raining for the past 24 hours. My mother may not get the refrigerator cause the party that accepted the deposit may not be able to obtain an apartment she had leased that had a refrigerator. If she gots the apartment with the refrigerator my mother will get her refrigerator and everybody will be happy. Here's hopin'! I cleaned the skylight in the bathroom, the walls, tile and plumbing and floor for a real cleaning and that room fairly sparkles now. I haven't been able to mail the latest package or go to Clair Pruett’s - the weather is against me. At least 

all the snow has disappeared. You were home last year at this time and we were preparing to go to Columbus. I kept remembering too much today and I'm kinda blue this evening. I miss you keenly, even hough we have been separated over seven months. Every once in a while I got a terrific urge to see you and don't 

know what to do with myself. I love you so much, Phil! It’s been so long since I spoke your name! Mind very much if I say it a couple of times? Phil. Phil. Phil. Phil. My Phil! Goo-night, baby, and don't mind if I cuddle up just as close as I always did. A kiss from

Your Eve

23 March1944

Dearest Darling,

Didn't go on the liberty run last night after all. Moats felt a cold coming on (his story) and since the weather wasn't too inviting anyway, Klein and I didn't press him. Instead, he and Klein procured a dozen fresh eggs, and we had a swell time frying and eating them at the Snack Bar. After that, we came back to our hut where Klein, Nicholson and myself played pinochle ‘til lights out.

This morning was spent at the usual routine tasks. In the afternoon I saw some of the pilots on this base received the DFC and other decorations.

This evening there was a USO show (“Flying High”) at the station theater. The MC was Al Bernie, whom I used to pay 35¢ at the Earle to see. (Ain't I lucky?) He was very well received here. His mimicry, posturing, mugging and rapid-fire “line” had the audience in an almost constant uproar. I don't remember when I've ever laughed so hard. The rest of the troupe were: (1) a very personable miss who sang and played the accordion and teased the guys unmercifully with her suggestive songs, wicked smile and eyes that said very naughty things indeed. (2) A singing sister team consisting of one beautiful blonde and one even more beautiful brunette. They sang beautifully, too, together and individually. The sophisticated-looking blonde sang a medley of “sweet” songs, and the innocent-looking brunette obliged with a number entitled “In Paris—it's love” that was so risqué that she had the boys howling. (3) Al Bernie introduced her as a “tremendous artist,”—and he wasn't kidding. Kay Laval (or something like that) is built on the lines of Kate Smith, only more so. Her forte was poking fun at herself and her “husband,” who assisted her and played the marimba to the entire satisfaction of the G.I.’s. (4) A little tap dancer who used her attractive, if muscular, legs to good advantage. (5) Al Bernie himself. His imitations of Charles Boyer, Edw. G. Robinson and Al Jolson were ludicrously exaggerated and very funny. His best effort though, was his take-off on Sinatra. He coughed, retched, and gave every indication of imminent collapse as he staggered through his song. A G.I. “page” walked on bearing a large sign: “If you feel faint—press the buzzer under the seat.” When it appeared that “Sinatra” couldn't last through the number another G.I. walked on to give him a “shot in the arm.” I don't have to tell you how the G.I.’s reacted to this lampooning of their pet aversion. They did everything but roll in the aisles. I laughed ’til I cried. All in all, I had one helluva good time.

Mail is still “among those missing” and something I would very much like to have. Maybe tomorrow (I hope—I hope).

Goodnight for now, my darling. See you tomorrow. You know, of course, that I am still

Your adoring hubby,

Phil

P.S. My love to all. A special kiss for Miss Adele Bara Strongin (bless her li’l heart)!