Post #409 - July 7, 1944 Today is the Eleventh Day the Mercury has been Way Over 90 and the Average is About 97

 

July 7, 1944

My darling,

I didn't write on the 6th and I was supposed to write this yesterday, but again became side tracked. So here it is the 8th and I am just about getting around to writing. I have plenty of news and plenty to tell you, so here goes -

I haven't had mail from you for three days now and if there isn't something for me on Monday I'll know something is up again. My folks haven't heard from Eddie (his last letter was written June 16th) for quite some time and his mail usually comes through better than yours. I'm hoping he hasn't moved out, but I think I'm hoping in vain. As long as he is okay, I don't care where he is.

Thursday I worked as usual. In the morning before going to work I went shopping with my Mom and mailed off the two packages I had readied - one for you and one for Eddie. Thursday night Sylvia (Milt's girl) came for dinner and I spent the balance of the evening talking to her, which prevented my writing to you.

Friday morning we had a letter from Glo and she is here for the whole weekend, having arrived about 7:30 Friday night. She had promised to give me a dress, one that I had admired, and that Jack never particularly cared for, since she did not have the proper accessories for it. She brought it along this weekend. It's a two piece wool dress, acqua color with dubonnet trim and little dubonnet flowers throughout the material. I think you would like it very much.

Glo tells us that Rose Genshaft is pregnant - four months gone. Sammy has a new job and is making more money and Anne plans to quit working in August. Arny has to have his tonsils out in the fall. Glo says Arny is the most adorable kid you ever saw.

Lenny and Lee bought a car, having borrowed some money from Jackie.

Friday I didn't go into work. My mother was scheduled to be a writer for the soldier vote at the polls and gets $10 for the day on Fri. and I didn't want her to lose it. Mr. Bellet didn't mind, as I am up-to-date on all my work. I caught up on my house work and got the whole house into shape. I had been calling the shoe store where I buy Adele's shoes and they advised me that they had received a pair of white buckskins in her size and would save them for me. I decided to save the trip downtown for Sat. morning.

This morning I went downtown with Adele and Glo and I got Adele the white shoes. While I was there I decided to get myself those much-needed sports shoes and settled for a sensible, good-looking pair of oxfords of British tan color (copper) with a box heel, and some perforations around the front of the shoe. They are beautifully cut and flattering to the foot, and they ought to be, cause I paid $8 for them. Adele’s shoes cost me $4 even, instead of the usual $3.50. Adele was terribly cranky and when we got home she threw up. It's very warm and she was hungry and tired. I tried to get her some ice-cream at several of those small places on South St, near 10th, but every one of them were out of ice-cream. I settled for some pretzels, which kept her busy for a short while.

Last night I had a call from none other than Frances Benis. The Benis' are in town for the weekend and I've invited them for dinner Sunday night. They aren't sure they can make it, but I certainly hope they'll come up to the house. Their other brother. who was listed as missing, is a war prisoner.

Adele has been napping most of the afternoon, which leaves me free to write this. I'm kind of knocked out from the ordeal, and think I shall continue on this letter, when I feel more rested. See ya later, honey.

I feel much better now, honey, and will give you some more details concerning the Benis'. They are staying at the Ben Franklin and will be here til Mon. morning. They have many visits to make and I'm hoping they won't have to pass us up again.

I stopped over to Anne's Fri, morning and picked up the two snaps of the kids. I particularly dislike the one I tore (I tore it cause there was a part of me there and I disliked that too.) and the other isn't much better. However, it will serve to give you an idea of how Richy looks these days.

You mentioned in one of your last letters that you hadn't heard from Mike. I'm surprised, cause he said he was going to write immediately and his letter to me was so friendly. I can't contact them cause they do not have a 'phone and I don't feel like writing again til they've replied to my letter.

I bought Adele a pair of yellow socks to go with the yellow pinafore and white shoes. Now all I need is a big yellow bow and she'll look like a regular doll baby.

Today is the eleventh day the mercury has been 'way over 90 and the average is about 97. It's positively terrific and I hope the mercury drops below 90, for this heat has everyone down.

Gloria made an appointment with Thelma Levin and is going to me her in town this evening to take in a movie. I think I'm going to tail along. I haven't been in town to a movie for too long and think it would do me good to have some fun.

Goldie and Harry got the baby a nice carriage for $35 dollars and Goldie now takes the baby out. It's royal blue with grey insides.

Adele calls a cat a "pussey" and chases them all over the place. She keeps calling "Da-dee - home". She is learning to put two words together, such as "Mommy - down" (meaning I should take her down in the morning).

Seymour is writing nicer letters these days, as both you and I suspected he would. My cousin Meyer (I don't know if you remember him) (my aunt Gussie's younger son) graduated as a pharmacist on July 6 and on the 7th he was inducted into the Army. He had requested the Navy hoping to make Pharmacist's Mate - but that's how things are handled.

Jack made Gloria a bracelet and earrings of Australian coins that is quite attractive, as well as odd. From several snaps that Glo showed us, I can say that Jack looks like a million. I sure do wish I could see some snaps of you, sweet, as it has been a long time since you took that large picture.

I'll write you more about my trip in town tomorrow, which I hope will come off. So long for now, baby, you know that you're the apple of your

Eve’s

eye.

July 7, (1944) (Len’s birthday)

Dear Phil,

Here I am with my conscience, at the service club. I'm writing on paper resting on the arm of a nice comfortable seat, second row center in the haphazard arrangement of lounging paraphernalia from which in an hour or so will be viewed a USO show. 

If censor cuts out the following, it isn't as though you were missing much, so don't puzzle about it. 

You've heard and read of ghost towns. Well, this is now a ghost camp. Row on row of barren barracks and board after board stating off limits are to be found in 90% of the camp’s grounds. But I, I am still here. What a crazy G.I. story I have to tell on me. Listen and reflect or Read and forget, or somethin’. 

First off, I was in the 226 Engrs. on arriving here. How I got into photography you already know. Then a while back, the 226th pulled out but the major that runs the Engr. Bd. had me transferred to the 225th so I could continue to work for him. I liked that idea and it was then starting to warm up a bit and it's beautiful here winter or summer, so I was downright happy with the prospect of spending at least the summer here. 

Well, there I was with an outfit (combat) but not part of it since my job was photography and photography only, and the C.O. was merely accommodating the major by carrying me, which G.Isn't done. So this was set up. Major treated me (still does) like a son. Never refused me a pass, two or three day. Never bossed me around. Perhaps the explanation lies in the reply he furnished to my beginnings of words of thanks to him for keeping me here. He said “Jack, don't for a minute take that attitude. I kept you here because you're doing a job for me. An important one. So remember you've only yourself to thank. He's one swell guy. Anyway, my company had no say over me whatever, nor any of its awe inspired sergeants. (I say awe inspired 'cause that's the closest description I can think of when a tech or staff sarge can't say boo to a private who comes and goes at will, gets passes every weekend, has his own jeep in which he rides with or without Wacs or civilian girls around camp, and who to top it off knocks off around 100 bucks extra each month in picture selling.) (Incidentally, when the major finally deemed to take me in hand and ask how much extra dough I was making monthly and I told him about fifty bucks, he says, “Strictly speaking, government equipment, etc. (the material is honestly my own) it's illegal, but for me to remember that he knows nothing of it. “What a deal, eh?) Whaat word would you use? 

Well, the 228th is going to move. Wonder what major will do now? He started to pull more strings and effected a transfer into progress, which as yet hasn't landed me into station complement. But though the whole of my outfit moved out and technically and administratively I am in it, I'm hundreds of miles from it. So I'm now the civilianest damned G.I. in the army. No reveille, no retreat, no inspections, no nothin. Borrowed bed, borrowed meals, but anything goes 'cause I'm quite well known in camp and fairly well liked. Every officer I come into contact with, I've done a picture favor or two for. They put a blind eye to all this G.I.nanigans and say  sure, O.K. I’ll probably get a rating out of the deal, to boot. 

Phil old boy, I've not written you for so long I don't know which subject to hop to first so bear with me, guy. 

Denver! I enjoyed your Why, not? or Why? First of all, it's an air conditioned city. Dry, warmth, pleasant coolness, day and night respectively. Intermittent showers are the rule the few off days that rain decides to bedeck a beautifully scenic encircled city. The older people of Colorado have such snap and sparkle they belie their years by some 30 percent to the eyes of an Easterner. 

I suppose you've noticed the chewed up appearance of these pages. Hell, that's the neatest I could keep them in my pocket throughout a three day pass and two of work.


I was suddenly called upon to play piano for the crowd that was growing restless awaiting the show's opening. I guess I did O.K. 'cause soon they were all singing. But not so with your first six pages of my letter.


Anyway, now I’ve a bit more to tell you. A month or so back I started calling on Marilyn. She's a cute kid that lives here and works here as does the the rest of her swell family. The people are people to the core, and it's just swell enjoying some of their home life, as I've had the pleasure of joining them quite a number of times, many of them lunch and dinner. The whole family (Mr. and Mrs. and Sue 16 and Marilyn 19) plays the piano they have in their four room apartment on the post. Mr. Byler and I played on two pianos the night of the civilian bond rally of which Mr. B. was an integral part. He’s also the editor of the civilian camp newspaper “The Mountain Ear.”


This past Saturday, at noon, we all went to Colorado Springs in their ’40 Plymouth. I was sorry I couldn't join them as they entrained from there for Kan. City, Missouri, their home to stay for eight days. I feel sort of lonesome now.


I did O.K. on pass, though. Sat. night I USO danced and then hitch lined to 75 mile distant Denver, where I slept in a bed in a room behind the hotel desk. One buck. Sunday I played golf and at night gidgy. Monday was taken up with buying a ’31 Chevrolet for $120.00. It’s four good tires (no fifth) and good (so far) motor got me back to Camp Hale without a bit of trouble for the 130 mile trip in four hours, much of which was up and down and through mountain passes. The roads are so damped and bumpy they should more effectively be called impasses. 

I'm looking forward to a furlough just as soon as I get transferred. 

I've been corresponding with Adeline, though irregularly. 

Say, congrats, unk! 

Phil, I'm going to knock off now. At the moment, I seriously intend to write you in the very near future 'cause I feel as though I'll have concrete news of interest. So please excuse me now, pal. May God be with you. 

As ever, 

Jackie (Nerenberg) 

July 7th, 1944 

Dear Phil: 

Received your letter of June 29th and I don't need to tell you how good it made me feel. 

You probably received the news by now that Snuff was sent back home. He was 9 days over the 90 days allowed by the law to pass after taking a physical. We seem to be getting some pretty lucky breaks. 

Spoke to Evie to tell her that I had heard from you. Now that she's working, I don't speak to her nearly as often as I used to, and there is very little chance of her paying me a visit. I'm planning on paying her a visit in the near future, but I think it is better for her to come out here as it gives her a chance to get out. 

We had a very pleasant 4th. We went to Mt. Holly with another couple and we went canoeing, swimming, etc. Remind me when you get home that we must all go there sometime. 

You know, Phil, when I receive a letter from you, I feel as though I'm the only friend you have. This isn't true, of course, but you have that knack to make everyone have that feeling. I enjoy it, of course, as it is most flattering. (Do you get what I mean by all this mish-mosh?) 

Before I sat down to write this letter, I thought of so many things I wanted to tell you, and now I can't think of one of them. 

As far as your daughter is concerned, you need not fear that she isn't cute. She is really adorable and as edible in real life as she is on her pictures. 

Hal is sitting beside me right now and he is simply fascinated by the writing of the fountain pen. Glad you enjoyed “The Bulletin” so much. I shall try to send one to you every week. They are given out by Strawbridge and Clothier's and I personally think they are a splendid idea. I'm sending one out the same day I mail this letter. 

There isn't much more I can say now except answer soon. 

As ever, 

Dot (Cohen)

Post #408 - July 5, 1944 Since I Shall be Working Only Five Days a Week My Highest Salary for a Week Will Only Be $21

 

July 5, 1944

Darling Mine,

Yours of the 28th and 29th, S & D’s check [Sharpe & Dohme], a v-mail from Milt and a card from my brother Jack, who was down the shore for the 4th, composed my mailbag today. Not bad, eh?

That clipping concerning the 29th Inf. did interest me. It gives me the creeps when I think that you might have been there!

You asked lots of questions concerning my work and I shall try to give you an idea of what I do. Usually, the first thing I do is take dictation - the mail to be answered for that particular day. When my notes are completed, I start typing up the bills - for the goods that were sold that morning. The length of time involved in typing them depends entirely on how busy we were either the previous afternoon or that morning. I like to type the bills, but it takes me a long time to decipher the hyroglifics (to coin a word) that the untrained help call writing. For instance - we have a German refugee who spells according to sound - usually German sound. Thus "sink strainers" would be written "zink streamers", etc. However, I've gotten over that particular stage and am more or less able to make sense of a total mess, and I do mean mess, cause I've learned a good part of the stock in the store. We sell everything from soup to nuts, but I do mean everything. I am enclosing a form letter that I type frequently (too frequently as far as I'm concerned) and the reason I am sending it along is that this customer put in an appearance at the store today, shortly before the letter was to be mailed. I also write orders for Mr. Bellet, to replenish his stock.

The bills are checked by either George or Mr. B. and then I add them on the Dalton. I put the totals on the copies and make any corrections necessary. Mr. May, the bookkeeper checks after me. His initials are usually on anything that goes out, I read off the amounts to him while he checks. I cut off that piece of paper containing the amounts for one bill and it is stapled to the bill for verification by the receiver. Envelopes are made for those out of town. I type lots of envelopes when a batch of checks have to go out. I have several files, one for paid bills, unpaid bills, correspondence, records of customers addresses, names, etc. We'll let this go as a brief outline, cause it is rather late and I have a few more things to say. I would like to add a word about the office. It's very cool and comfortable and I rarely feel the extreme heat. That is because the building is five stories high and the office is at the far end of the first floor. It isn't a fancy office by any means and reminds me strangely of the barracks you live in, cause the boards are unpainted. The whole office is slightly smaller than our dining room and is of a sort of oblong shape. There are large windows on two walls and two transom windows on the third wall. The fourth wall sports a door, which leads to the "you know where". One of the walls with the windows also has a door which leads into the store and is open all the time. There is a large safe with a register in one corner, and two large desks beside the safe. I sit at the desk nearest the safe, for that is the one in which the typewriter is enclosed. Next to my desk is Mr. B.'s desk. The door is next to that. On a line with the door are two more large desks, one of which is Mr. May's. On the wall with the transom windows is a large locker, filing case and table for the order books. Hope all this gives you some idea of what the place is like. I'm definitely not good at describing such things.

Harry asked me if I could get him some beach or yacht chairs, They are very scarce, but I managed to get my hands on one this evening. It cost me $1.40 and sells for $2. I hear Harry made out at the track yesterday. Diana's doctor paid her a visit today and cut out her formula for the time being, as she seems to be gaining nicely without it. Diana cried all day long. She moves every other day, but the doc says that is how it is with breast fed babies. I don't particularly like Dr. Grossman, though I hear he is a darn good doctor. I don't care for his methods, which sometimes sound very ridiculous to me. I guess he knows what he's doing or he wouldn't have so many followers.

I gave Mom $40 for board despite the fact that there will be no heating costs this month. She had promised me a gift on Mother's Day and finally came through with $5. I deposited $5 to our account and bought a bond for $50 this morning. Since I shall be working only five days a week my highest salary for a week will only be $21. I'm wondering if I'll be paid for the 4th, but I doubt it.

I started to make up the packages for you and Ed this morning and found I didn't have enough candy to fill up the boxes. My mom, Adele and I went to Broad St. where we stopped at the bank, shopped at the Acme and then shopped on 11th St. Want to know some thing, honey? Your daughter walked all the way home from Broad & Ruscomb St. counting an extra few blocks to 11th St. We had too many packages and decided to put them in the walker and carry Adele if she became tired. She literally ran and wore us out instead. She certainly has vitality and no, dear, she does not lisp at all, not even on the word yes, not so far at least.

While on 11th St. I exchanged the rose jersey and had to settle for a bright yellow one which is equally as nice.

I had a big day today, honey, and I'm very sleepy at the moment. It is after ten and I've been up since six this morning. Adele sleeps straight through the night now, except for an occasional interruption every now and then, I got to bed early last night and felt good all day. I'm very anxious to hit the hay now though. Dot called a few minutes ago and we chatted for a short while. Every time I call she and Snuff are out somewhere and I hadn't had the opportunity to talk to her for almost two weeks. She mentioned receiving your letter of the 29th.

I got off the subject of candy. Anyhow, while at the Acme I saw a small quantity of Oh Henry and peanut chews, which I bought up and which filled both boxes just right. I finished wrapping them a short while ago and will positively mail them first thing tomorrow. I only pay 4¢ a bar on Broad St., while I pay 5¢ at Ben’s. Ben says he won't have any candy as they don't stock up on it in the summer. I hope this reaches you alright. The extreme heat may melt the whole works.

I intended to write to Milt & Syd this evening, but it is too late, So I'll save it for another time.

I've been writing long letters this week (or hadn't you noticed) to sort of make up for the time I couldn't write. Eleven months ago tonight you held me very close and we were able to give vent to our feelings of love, though not completely if you will remember, I want you so much, baby, and before I melt like I expect the chocolate will, I'll send a long, sweet kiss from your loving dotter and one from

Your Eve

July 5, 1944

Dear Phil:

Hya doin. I bet you are going to be surprised to hear from me. I hope I can still make connections to see you if you are still in England. I might get a few days off, after I get back to my outfit. I’ve been in the hospital for quite a while. I’ve been to France. Got wounded and shipped back to a hospital in England. I am O.K. Tell me how I can reach you the best way possible. How are things with you. Haven’t heard from home for weeks. Mail situation is sort of slow now. That’s about all the dope the the present. Hope to see you soon. Write

Harry

Post #407 - July 4, 1944 I Look Forward to Our Days Together Being Absolutely Perfect and If There is Any Outspoken Dissension, I Want to Know About It

 

July 4, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I ended off yesterday's letter so abruptly that I completely forgot to mention that I had received two letters from you that day, along with a nice letter from Ruth. They were yours of the 23 and 27 June, both very sweet, and I assure you, as always, that it is a great pleasure for me when I receive mail from you, darling.

Today Petey made one snap of Adele and if it turns out as well as I hope it will, it ought to be a beauty. One of the kids down the way has a miniature beach chair, which we placed in the center of the driveway. Adele sat down and crossed her legs (following our directions) and that is the snap, Sure do hope it comes out as good as it looked to us!

I meant to tell you - Adele will certainly have to have a room of her own when you come back. That kid understands too much already! Goldie nurses the baby and, naturally, Adele is all eyes. Even Adele wants to nurse when offered. She remembers everything too! This afternoon at five we presented the following picture: I had bathed Adele and showered myself before five and we both lay on the big bed, me in the nude (cause it's very warm) and Adele in a thin nightie. She's very inquisitive (if'n you know what I mean) and I think you know what I mean, Adele knows enough now to say "Da-dee - home" (meaning that daddy should come home !) Adele calls Mom "nan-mom", which isn't at all bad. Petey says Adele is the smartest kid in the whole driveway. She calls him "Peep" and he loves her as if she were his very own. She is so attached to both Sarah and Petey, one might easily say they were her real Aunt and Uncle. I like to think of them that way, cause they have been exceptionally wonderful to her. Tonight at dinner I said "Pepsi" (I had asked mom for some) and immediately Adele followed suit by asking for "pa-see".

That clipping you enclosed of someone named Mazer is not one of the Mazers from our neighborhood. I believe they spell their name with an "s".

Last night Em and I went across the street to visit her girlfriend Jeannette. I don't know if you know who I mean. However, this girl's brother is missing in action as of D-Day and Em just had to pay her respects, so to speak. The fellow is just 22 and has been married a year. He was in an anti-aircraft outfit and had been overseas since early March.

I suppose you're wondering what I'm doing on the "4th". Nothing, honey, except the usual routine. I've been very busy the whole four days I had off and I accomplished all those little things that had to be done. The news continues wonderful, except, of course for the repeated talk of the robots, which seem to be a regular nuisance. I can't even imagine circumstances that would get you home for Adele's second birthday and certainly know better than to build a dream about that, If you think it's possible you must have a good reason for it. Nevertheless my original statement that I wouldn't see you til ’45 still goes !

You requested a pipe in one of your letters and Harry tells me that he will get it for you. If he doesn't get it within the next few days I'll get it myself. I'm going to ready a package for shipment this evening, honey, and will try to mail it off tomorrow before going to work. I have to stop at the bank, too, to cash my check.

Adele legs look better and better as the days go by and I've definitely decided not to look into the matter until the fall, if it is not entirely corrected by then. I've called about getting her white shoes and they tell me some are expected about the 10th of this month. I'll chase right down as soon as they come in.

Adele's bruises have practically disappeared and everything seems to be hunky-dory once more.

Harry took himself off to Delaware Park today for the day. Diana is picking up weight and looks better. She is the image of Harry. I don't think she resembles Adele at all, but you never can tell. Diana is much darker than Adele, both skin and hair, and her features are entirely different. Of one thing I'm sure - she has Harry's nose. She's been crying a lot the past few days and it sets me to thinking of how Adele acted at her age. I don't think Adele cried half as much as Diana does, but, the hot weather may be more the cause of that than anything.

The Frommers are going down the shore on July 7th for the summer. They always ask about you and I give them all the news I can.

Phil (I'd like so much to say " Phil" and have you answer me) tomorrow will be exactly 11 months since we've seen each other. A year from today, I hope we shall be sitting close together, reading what I am writing this day. For a moment I burn with impatience, but then I relax just as suddenly, realizing that many more days will have to pass before I see you again. Dearest, when I do get onto the subject of money, I never do lose sight of those other more important things you always speak about. If I never realized them as so important before I certainly do now. We both have profited (I hope that goes for both of us) from our long separation and I look forward to our days together being absolutely perfect, as perfect as we aways imagined them to be. My love for you has grown steadily stronger and stronger until at times I feel that if I love you any more I'll perish from sweet delirium. I'm filled to overflowing, sweet, and wish very much that I could pull you into my arms and tell, as well as show, you the love of

Your Eve

4 July 1944 

Ev, darling,

Here it is the 4th of July—and I’m still waiting to celebrate. I was hoping t'd have that most anxiously looked for jack-pot to celebrate—but no such luck—not a solitary letter.

I've been busy all day with Soldier's Deposits, PTT's, etc. I thought I might go to town tonight, but the weather continues threatening, and I decided to stay in again.

Did I say I'd see you in my dreams last night, Chippie? Well, sho’ nuff, I did! Yeah man! But I don't remember that you had a pair of white rayon panties—at least, not the ones I saw last night. I remember thinking they were new ones. Yes ma'am, it was that kind of a dream—and you didn't get away from me this time. You did all the other times, you know, Maybe that's a good omen, eh, Chippie?

Still can't seem to get around to writing Mom's letter - but any day now (or have I said that before?)

How is the newest Strongin coming along? How has her addition affected the household? Are any petty aggravations cropping up? What is the general temper of the home? All these are most important, Sweet, and I wish you'd tell me as well as you are able, the answers to these questions. If there is any outspoken dissension, I want to know about it. Too, I want to know how you handled any differences that may have occurred. I earnestly hope there were no such, and that any animosities that may exist are kept well beneath the surface, but the tone of some of your more recent letters gives me the uneasy feeling that all is not as it should be. Please let me know what's what in this respect, will you, Sweet?

That's about all for now, Baby. See you tomorrow. My dearest love to you and the punkin. My love to all. Don't forget to remember me to the neighbors.

Ever, 

Your Phil

Post #406 - July 3, 1944 I Surprised Everyone, Including Myself with My Ableness at Speaking Jewish and A Very Dreary Day, Enlivened Only by the News of the Retaking of Minsk by the Russians

 

July 3, 1944

My Sweet,

I meant to write a real "longie" yesterday, but unfortunately, couldn't, as I explained. Anne and I stopped over to Ben's for a malted and then I walked her home, where we sat on her porch for a half hour and chatted about numerous topics. As is usually the case we got on to the subject of money. She confided that she has not one singIe expense, yet she has spent every penny of her $80 per month. When Tony was home on furlough recently he informed her that he had made an additional allotment of $20 to her from his pay and that he wanted them to save app. $50 each month, which, naturally, Anne plans to do. Anne looks wonderful, by the way.

Goldie's grandfather and uncle were here today and left a short while ago. They are both swell people and I certainly hope you have the opportunity to meet them shortly. Her grandfather is a small, well-built gentlemen, refined looking with close cropped grey hair and well-kept mustache and very, very religious. He ate with his hat on! Both uncle and grandfather each gave her a $25 bond. I surprised everyone, including myself with my ableness at speaking Jewish, so that I could converse with her grandpop. He does understand English perfectly, yet he prefers Jewish - naturally.

And now, if I may, I'd like to refer once more to that topic I discussed yesterday, concerning the situation here at home. I have this to say: That only now since the birth of Diana, have all parties in question begun to realize my plight and to be understanding, as well as helpful. It has been for that very reason that I have hesitated to speak on the subject at all. I realized that I was bucking up against a brick wall, for people never really appreciate your predicament unless they too have experienced such. Goldie always thought me ridiculously silly when I made a fuss cause Adele wouldn't eat or do something to my liking. She said at the time that she would never be like that! Well, I decreed otherwise. The other day she came damn near having a fit cause the baby didn't make a bowel movement. I merely said, "Well, Goldie, I thought you weren't going to get yourself aggravated about those little things !" (no reply).

And now I have decided to spend a few paragraphs on our very remarkable youngster. Yes, sweet, that is true - she is remarkable for her age. She was slow getting started, but she's more than made up for it. So much so (as I shall presently explain) that she had the whole driveway on its ear today.

To begin with - she's very well trained, not to mention talented. She's an actress if I ever saw one and gives expression to her feelings often. She beats every kid in the driveway when it comes to speech, and many of them are months older! Everyone is wild about that pretty "Strongin baby"! Today, for instance, I worked very hard all morning and part of the afternoon. At about 2:30, after giving Adele lunch, I decided I was going to take Adele and myself out and to hell with everything else. I strolled down to Betty's and relaxed in a beach chair for a while (as long as Adele would permit) which wasn't long. I was wearing only my acqua pinafore, shoulders bared and my red ankle strap shoes, feet bared. I was out in the sun long enough to get a nice burn. Petey came along with some film and decided he was going to make a few snaps of the kid. It's almost impossible to get film and I'm more than grateful when he offers to snap her picture. I've made him promise he will make snaps of her in that yellow pinafore I bought. (the rose jersey I bought is too small and will have to be returned). Adele had her doll carriage (the bang up one Natalie gave her) and her new rag dolly with her. Petey asked her to pose and she did exactly that. I don't have to tell you how very difficult it is to get a child to pose properly for a picture, but you should have seen Adele! There was quite a crowd gathered and they all got quite a kick out of it. She even smiled and laughed when asked. I certainly hope the snaps look as well as she did. She posed with the rag dolly and looked very pretty indeed. Most everyone can't get over how she says yes and no correctly to whatever question asked her. What's more, none of the other kids say yes and no, they merely nod it. Today she invented a new word. She calls pineapple juice - ap pul pul. The other morning when I was dressing her, she said, "Mommy, shirt !" (meaning I should put her shirt on). She no longer calls the large bunny Lil got her "Ba", she calls it a bun nee, just as you and I would, only more distinctly. And, dear, she's terribly affectionate! She never forgets to say dank dou for anything given her (she said at least a dozen thank yous when I for each toy I brought her, though they only interested her for a few seconds), gives each and every person she knows a hug and kiss when she sees them and calls them by name. I've been wanting to tell you her reaction to Betty's moving, but there hasn't been any great reaction. She understands that they moved and points to the house - that's all. If they had moved out of the neighborhood it might have been different.

And now I'm going to tell you something else. I had no intentions of telling you this, but it may be noticeable in the snaps Petey made of Adele. It is nothing serious (thank god) (God is always with those kids) but it might have been. I'm telling it to you simply to show you that these things happen in spite of excellent care. I have been singularly fortunate in that I have never had an accident where Adele is concerned, but on Sunday she rolled down the front steps and smacked herself up good, and I wasn't present when it occurred. It happened thusely: Lou and Nanna came over to see Adele Sun. morning. Never, for any reason are any doors left unlocked, nor were they this particular Sun. After the visit Lou and Nanna were ready to depart and stood at the front door about to step out. Adele was playing on the porch as usual, with Harry looking after her til I could grab a bite for breakfast. Both Lou and Harry are exceptionally careful where Adele is concerned. Lou had merely unlocked the screen door and before anyone knew what had happened Adele went past him and Nanna straight down the steps. Her left temple, cheek and arm were badly bruized - that's all. I heard Adele cry a funny cry and knew instantaneously that something was wrong. All I had to do was take one look at both Lou and Harry both of whom were afraid to bring Adele into me. It may amaze you, sweet, but I've gotten so, that not even that caused me to get excited! A funny fear was in me, but that disappeared as soon as I looked at her. I took her into the kitchen, applied ice compresses and painted the spots with mercurochrome. She was a trifle upset, so I sat her on the sofa and gave her a toy, whereupon she busied herself with it. In that way she forgot all about the fall and played and acted normal from that moment on. The bruize has formed into small scabs and it is almost healed.

FLASH: Emma just walked in to tell me that Phil has been transferred to Camp Louis, Seattle, Washington. I think I told you he expected to be transferred, so here it is.

Mom weighed herself this evening, and to her surprise, she has dropped 12 lbs. from following the doctor's advice and idea of diet. She looks well with less poundage and feels fine.

I also managed to get another box of candy and it is becoming more and more difficult to get it due to the warm weather. I got one for Eddie too. I shall mix the two, so that both of you will have variety. The candy is Oh Henry's and Peanut Chews. I'll make up a package tomorrow, sweet.

And now, I'm afraid I'll have to sign off abruptly, though I'm very much in a writing mood and hate to, cause it isn't nice to type when we have company. I love you dearly, my own, and am, as always

Your Eve

July 3, 1944

Darling Chippie,

Another busy, mail-less day. and still not much to write about

Il rained practically all day. I got wet going to the mess-hall, and returning. In the evening—ditto. A very dreary day, enlivened only by the news of the retaking of Minsk by the Russians. Just won about seven bucks in a card-game that lasted about an hour—and that didn't hurt either. Outside of that—well, how have you been?

I haven't been off the station this past week. Think I’ll take a trip with Klein soon as the weather clears. We're had plenty of sunny days, but no warm weather at all, yet.

Spent most of the evening debating the merits and shortcomings of the various makes of automobiles. This subject is good for an all-night argument anytime.

Right now, I'm ready for the hay. It's just date time, and you're so close I can almost taste you. Gee, but you're sweet, Sweet. See you in my dreams, Baby. A kiss for the punkin. My love to all.

Always,
Your Phil

Post #405 - July 2, 1944 The Wymans had a Telegram from the War Dept. Advising Them that Harry had been Wounded and Reading the Papers, It’s Difficult to Feel Anything but Optimism at the Way Things are Going

 

July 2, 1944 

Dearest One.

I didn't write yesterday, as you may have noticed. Insufficient time again. However, I do hope to make up for it this evening.

Yesterday's mail brought me my check and two envelopes from you, each containing part of your June 25-26 letter. The "Dees" should provide you with many an interesting evening, from your descriptions of them. I'm glad you liked the latest snaps and yes, that was a thousand dollar bond Goldie's father gifted them with. If you will recall you gave me a "sermon" in this letter and I think it well not to reply at this time. On one point I can assure you - that I care nothing for what someone else has. I know that I can get anything I want once I set my cap for it - so there now! (Meaning material things). The reason that I do not care to discuss this matter with you is simply that I may never tell you these things that have hurt me so deeply. I do know that I shall do everything in my power to prevent them from happening again I’ve gotten so that I can take most anything!

The only reason for my wanting to have a good cry at that specific time was that I felt a deeper yearning than usual for your presence. Or isn't that possible? I love to get out amongst people, but, somehow, whenever the family gets together, I get an unbearable pang of loneliness.

Then you went into a discussion concerning (Ethel's remark about my bearing you a son. Well, dear, I think I gave you the answer to that the other day, though unintentionally. At the time I made the remark I did mean to puzzle Ethel. I do know, and I've said it many times, that I do not want to have another child until I've regained sufficient strength to rear it properly and to support it to my liking. On the other hand, I know my feelings for you and I know me and I might think otherwise when you are once again by my side. Really, baby, I'd rather not even discuss the subject til a more appropriate time. Okay?

Well, $5 of the $20 went for Adele yesterday. I splurged by buying her a lovely pinafore. It is not a factory-made item, but it was made by hand by the sister of the owner of a kiddie shoppe where I buy. It's a sort of handkerchief-linen material of a yellow color and is trimmed up in royal blue ric-rac. The very flared skirt stands out as do the fully fluffy ruffles over the shoulders. The ruffles are edged with a fine yellow lace. It's very feminine and very pretty and very flattering to her. It cost exactly $4, which is pretty steep. Now I must get her white shoes, yellow socks and a yellow bow. Then I'll have some snaps made. Besides this I bought her two thick short-sleeved jerseys, one white and one rose, which were 50¢ apiece.

I gave Harry and Goldie $5 in cash besides the scale I bought for them.

The Wymans had a telegram from the War Dept. advising them that Harry had been wounded, but not seriously. It seems that he was wounded in the left shoulder. Here is his address:
Pfc. Harry Weinman, 

33072688 Detachment of Patients 

4183 U. S. Army Hospital Plant 

APO 574, C/O P. M. 

New York, N. Y.

I would write more, honey, but Anne decided to pay me a visit and I don't want to be rude. She is reading the Sunday paper, so that I might finish this. I'll write a longer letter tomorrow, sweet. Good night, baby, I love you very much!

Your Eve

2 July 1944 

Ev, dearest,

First off, I must tell you not to look for letters from me dated 30 June and 1 July. I have been working steadily these past three days on the Company History. I just finished it a few minutes ago, and now I am free to write.

Nothing much has happened since I wrote you last. You already know what I have been doing with my time, so there's nothing further to say in that connection. The only mail I received in the three days were a "longie” from Dot while she was in Atlantic City, and a “shortie” from Ruth - also from Atlantic City. (Wonder what there is about the place that makes people think of me?)

No, sweet, there was nothing at all from you. The latest communique I have of yours is the “longie" of 19 June, and I’ve already answered that one. I figure I should be due for another jack-pot in a day or two. Until then, or at least for the time being, I’m rather at a loss for words.

I might say that everything here is moving along smoothly. The news from the battle-fronts gets more encouraging day by day, and there's no telling at which moment it's likely to be all over. Reading the papers, it's difficult to feel anything but optimism at the way things are going.

So keep the ole chin up, Baby, and maybe it won't be too long 'til that day when you'll be able to look across the room (if I'll ever be that far from you), and see 

Your ever-lovin’ 

Phil

Post #404 - June 30, 1944 The Toll of Life Taken by the New German Rocket Gets Higher and Higher

 

June 30, 1944

Dearest Phil,

Your letter of the 24th June with your latest "visitation" and your check for $20 were in today's mail. I thought your latest bit of literacy very unusual (for you) and I, too, believe that you should definitely enlarge on your excellent talent for writing. You may not know it, baby, but I have great visions of your being a great writer some day, cause you really know how to do it. However, we'll save that for a time when we can really do something about it.

I visited Betty tonight and, honey, the new place is absolutely lovely. It's much smaller than our house, but more modern. They stuccoed the porch a rose color and it's very attractive. (the owners did).

I bought Adele a new toy. It cost me $1.75 and it is a flat piece of about inch thick wood that has three wheels on either side, in a sort of wagon-like effect. Above the wood are ten pegs, four on either side above the wheels and two in the center. On the pegs are large, painted blocks with the letters of the alphabet in varied colors. As the wagon is pulled along the floor, the wheels make the blocks twirl. This item keeps Adele occupied, though not for long. Now Adele has enough in the line of toys and I shall proceed to clothe her again as I am fresh out of clothes once more. With the extremely hot weather here, I find myself short on the proper clothes with which to dress her. And I want very much to buy Adele a bicycle and a doll carriage for her lovely new doll. Both these items are very dear to her and I intend to get them in the near future. I hope, too, that I'll be able to get a stroller carriage for Adele herself. All these items run into large sums of money, dear, and naturally I want to do it little by little.

Thanks again, sweet, for the money, and I shall hold it on hand until I have an opportunity to go shopping. Perhaps, as I said recently, I shall use that money if I decide to visit a doctor for Adele's feet. At any rate, the money comes in very, very handy and I can't thank you enough for it.

I have just heard a flash by Gabriel Heater. That the toll of life taken by the new German rocket gets higher and higher and that there is no use denying that it is a serious matter. Phil, no matter how reassured I may feel that invariably causes me to think deeply. Oh, darling, how can I help but feel as I do! I love you so very much and want very much to see you again!

I must run now as I have to make Diana's formula, since I won't be here in the morning. This will be my last Sat. for some time (for good as far as I’m concerned). Phil, Adele's curls are so pretty I can't help commenting on them at this time. Each little wisp of hair curls itself up. Sarah always says, "I have to pay $12 twice a year to get my hair to look like that." How true, how true! I'm with you daily at 5, dearest darling, and I'd like nothing better than to really be with you.

Eve

Post #403 - June 29, 1944 No Matter How Much I May Kid You About Having Another Child, I Mean It in the Very, Very Distant Future and Bobruisk and Borisov Were the Hometowns of My Father and Mother

June 29, 1944

Dearest Sweetheart,

I didn't write yesterday cause I was too tired and it was too late. Yesterday your letters of June 21 and 22 came through, informing me that you are aware of your new status. I thought you were very cute in that "I should start painting the basinet blue in case Jack and Gloria fail to provide the family with the elusive male". However, and if you really want to stay on the good side of me, you won't even as much as mention babies for the present. After watching Goldie go hour after hour without sleep and knowing how hard it's been on both myself and Mom, that is so far from my mind, you can't imagine. No, dear, no matter how much I may kid you about having another child, I mean it in the very, very distant future. God, I shudder at the thought!

I'm glad you finally received the pictures, and that they are to your liking. I was going to autograph them and then thought better of it. I get that "homesick" feeling you mention too often for my own good and invariably have to fight it off with a good nap.

Yes, Mom tunes into Fleisher faithfully. No, I haven't discarded either my soldier suit or my black net. I have so few dresses that I'd practically be "dressless" if I did. This letter gave me an inkling of the amount you sent for a dress for me and shoes for Adele. Yes, I'm sure it will be enough and I don't have to tell you, sweet, how very much I appreciate your thoughtfulness in this connection. I only hope I can get something nice. Most of the things they put out today are definitely not worth the money and I hate the button up sides. There's nothing to take the place of zippers.

It's disgustingly hot, so much so that I have no ambition for anything. The opportunity to attend to Adele's feet has still not presented itself and I am again considering letting it go til this heat passes. My mom and Sarah put her in one of the swimming pools (rubber composition) that one of the kids across the way has. Her shoes are off more than they are on, so what good will corrective shoes be now. The prickly heat is in its glory once again, but I've managed to keep Adele fairly clear of it so far. I powder her down with cornstarch a million times a day (alright, 20 times!). Adele, incidentally, is getting old. She's all of 19 months today - imagine!

Yesterday, also, I received a check for $2 from Lyons and Gould as remuneration for my appearing as a witness to a Will. I think I told you about it. I had to go to City Hall to sign as a witness in Dec. and was told then that I would receive a fee when the matter was settled. $2 is still $2.

We received the enclosed letter from Harry W. His family doesn't know that he was wounded - not yet at any rate. We also had a v-mail from Maxie Brown and he asks for your APO#, saying he has hopes of seeing you in the near future. If I know that guy, I think he will see you.

Tante Bosh and Bea were over earlier this evening to see Diana. Sylvia (Milt's girl) sent Goldie a gorgeous baby book as a gift. Goldie also received a $10 check from her stepmother's sister and a blanket from another sister. Her Washington girl friend sent the baby a dress, slip and bib.

There is a large bond rally being held on this block this evening in honor of Mayer Taylor. The bonds are being sold direct from his home. The first donor was Mr. Bellet, who bought a $10,000 bond. Mr. Bellet is going to close up his home on Ninth St. for a few months and he and his wife are taking a fancy furnished apartment at Rittenhouse Square next week. His son, who lives in Germantown, will pick my dad up in the morning and bring my dad, myself and another man, a Mr. Perry, who is middle age and retired and temporarily helping Mr. Bellet, home at night. I have to work this Sat. as statements must go out on the 1st, but the store will be closed on Mon., July 3rd, which gives me this weekend from Sat. afternoon to Wed. afternoon off. Then I'II only have to work Wed., Thurs., and Friday and then I'll be off for two more days next week. I won’t have much pay, but you can't have everything. Tante Bosh invited me and Adele to visit her for a few days and I think I shall take advantage of the offer. Besides Ruth is down the shore and I could stop at Mrs. Cohen's place if I so desired. We shall see!

You sort of aroused my curiosity when you mentioned that you were going on a three day trip with Lt. Toms. Where in heaven's name did you go for three days! or ain't I supposed to know? Undoubtedly I won't receive mail for several days, especially with the 4th coming up. However I do expect to receive your check and my check this weekend.

Betty's house was sold for $6000 and the people had to buy it without an opportunity to look at it. They got sick when they saw the condition in which it is, but they have lots of money and are going to practically rebuild the entire place. The new owner spoke of putting a unit in the kitchen, etc. I hear they have a 13 yr. old girl and a younger son. We'll know soon enough. Betty is moving tomorrow morning.

In the morning when I bring Adele down the first thing she does is peer through the window and call "Bet-tee" and "Nanna". She's really going to miss them! But I shall visit them often.

I think we have a storm coming up - it will be most welcome - and I think it's high time I signed off and hit the hay. Gosh, how I wish we could climb the stairs hand in hand (those errors come from my sleepiness) and go to bed together once more. It is kind of hot, but we never minded the heat - did we, sweet! I love you so very much, my dearest one -

Your Eve

P. S. Sorry, I had to use pencil, but I left my pen upstairs and don't feel like climbing those steps again. I forgot to tell you that yesterday I wrote to Sy, Ed, Ruth, Milt and our Jack and that, too, prevented me from writing. At least I've caught up on my correspondence a bit. I adore you, baby!

29 June 1944

Dearest,

Your nice, long letter of 19 June arrived this afternoon. This was the one with Seymour’s letter enclosed. Poor kid, he's having a tough time of it. But don't let it worry you, Baby. Right now he's being disillusioned. The glamour and excitement of the Navy that he knew only from the movies comes later. Right now, it's hard, dirty drudgery, and little else, but it's only a phase, and like all phases, it will pass. Mark my word, Sweet, in a few months he'll be writing glowing accounts of his life in the Navy. In the meantime, distasteful as it is to him, he is learning important and valuable lessons. (Already he has learned how dear home and family can be!)

Last night, as you know, I went to the dance. As per usual, I confined my activities to “spectating”; also as per usual, I enjoyed watching the dancers. The gals, almost without exception, were not beautiful (to put it as kindly as I know how). I could say, without deviating from the strict letter of the truth, that they were awful looking bags— but far be it from me to tear down our English gals. The G.I.'s, though, didn't seem to notice, and had a helluva good time. I can truthfully say the gals had likewise. As for yours lovingly, well, there was a hot G.I. band, some nifty jitter-bugs, and a general atmosphere of bon-hommie, camaraderie (what the hell is that?), and—jumpin’ jive. Need I say, then, that I, too, had a good time? Klein was also among those present, but he confined his activities to clowning on the side-lines.

There was just enough to do around the Orderly Room to keep me busy and make the day pass quickly. That was today.—And now, my sweeter than sweet, let's see what's in your letter. (As if I didn't know!) But first—how's about a little kiss, huh? M-m-m—gee! that was sweet. (hm! - hm!)

That Father's Day dinner you itemized was enough to make my mouth water. No doubt everyone did full justice to the meal. Did you, by any chance, sample a little of the brandy or whiskey, sweet? I'm not being coy, just curious. I see you are still concerned with the "thousands everyone seems to have these days". I think I've said enough about your attitude in this particular connection. Next time you feel tempted to point out something of the sort, Baby, just remember that am not even a little bit interested.

Thanks for advising me that "Song of Russia" pleased Mom. By a strange coincidence I notice in today's paper that Bobruish has been reclaimed by the Russians, and that Borison will be liberated any day now. These were the home towns of my father and mother, although I don’t remember who come from which. What was Mom's reaction when she learned that Bobruisk had fallen?

Didn't you say that Mike had written, a while back to me? I haven't received his letter yet.

The rest of your letter is chatty and informative and requires no comment. - Except one question: Does the punkin show any tendency to lisp when she says "yes"? Hope she don't take after her old man in that respect!

Guess that's about all for today, Honey. Take good care of my chippies. I love you both so very much! My love to all.

Yours devotedly,
Phil

P.S. The enclosure is an item from the “Stars and Stripes" which I thought you might find interesting.