I intend to post almost daily, and in roughly chronological order, the thousands of pages of daily love letters that my parents sent to each other during WWII and any other documents that pertain to these letters..
No mail from you today, but there was a long letter from Jack N. He states that he is 95% sure that he will undergo the operation on his ears in the Amy and perhaps shortly. His camp is closing (it seems like a lot of camps are closing) within 30 days and he hinted to the Col. to send him to Photography School in New York and there is a very good chance that he will get it. If this does happen he will be on government rations, quarters and most or all - he'll be in N.Y. How about that! A letter of recommendation has been forwarded and he is awaiting a reply. He is dyin' to hear from you, so if you can possibly manage it, I'd suggest that you send him a letter.
Nothing of any consequence to report. Harry is still filling out applications, the weather is still damp and I got into work a little earlier today. I had a very busy day and it flew by quickly. You ought to see the the size of some of the orders!
I caught Adele the past two nights and it saved me a lot of work. (from wetting, of course). I wish you could hear your daughter hold a conversation on the phone with my mother or Sarah. She usually starts off by saying, "Hello Nanmom, or Sarah, whatever the case may be, and tells them it is raining out, that she is playing with her books (Ruth brought her about five Mother Goose books which she thumbs through daily), that the other Nanmom is "seeping” (for sleeping) and Diana is crying (only she can't say he “c"). Her volce is clear as a bell. I keep telling her that we are going to see Daddy soon (I hope) and that he is going to play with her, kiss her, take her bye-bye and even sleep with her. Hope it's real soon, honey, for even I'm anxious to see you, just as Adele seems to be.
I'm knocking this off just before keeping my appointment with the eye doctor. Mom is going along with me to have her eyes examined and by the time we each have an examination it will be rather late. I have to bathe Adele when I get back and thought it best to get this off before leaving. Let you know the results, if any, tomorrow. I’m a little nearsighted, if anything.
I managed to fill this up, though I was extremely doubtful at first. And now, baby mine, I must run along, much as I hate to, and so I'll close with a tender kiss, a good satisfying hug, and an ocean of love. An ocean is a big thing, but I don't think it's nearly as great as the love I bear you, dearest one. I might add that mom is sending off Xmas packages to both Jack and yourself, so I doubt that you'll have a candy shortage for some time to come. Let me know if there is anything in particular that you would like to have, I haven’t sent off any packages recently, as I'm at loss for what to send. You might enllghten me, If you will - and you will. I love you baby!
Today marks our 14th month of separation. I'm sure the longest period of walting is over and I can only wonder at how long it will be before I do see you. God, but 14 months is a long time!
Mr. Bellet informed me today that he expects a shipment of strollers within the next two weeks, so, at long last, I think I am about to get Adele a much needed carriage. I understand the price will be $19.50, but I won't give him the entire amount at one time. Instead I’ll give him a deposit and pay it off weekly, as I did with the table and chair set. I finished paying for the table and chair set last week.
I am still waiting for the gas man to turn on the heat, but they have such a long waiting list that no doubt it will be several more days. In the meantime I'm not bathing Adele, as it is much too damp and I don't want to run any risks of her catching cold. The weather continues cloudy and damp.
Mr. Bellet has asked me to try to get in a little earlier during the next two months, as we are very busy all day long. Our Christmas season is now in full force and the orders are tremendous, even with the lack of various types of merchandise. I brought home a nice water bottle for the refrigerator. I managed to get in at 11:15 today, but it is kind of hard for me to get in much earlier and the job really requires more time at the Christmas season. As I told him, "I'll come in whenever I can. After all I do make more money when I come in early, so there is really no need for you to urge me." He readily agreed. I think I'm going to hit him for a small raise if I continue to work there a few more months..
Harry is still kicking around. None of the jobs offered will pay him the salary he would like to have and I have a funny idea he’s toying with the idea of returning to Poughkeepsie with Goldie where everything will be just as he wants it. Goldie’s girlfriend, when she was here, told me that Harry asked her it he would like living in Poughkeepsie, and besides, his father-in-law could afford to give him a lot. I'm not worried if he does decide on such a course of action, for I feel I could manage alone, if it is positively necessary. I may be wrong, but nevertheless it is food for thought. Who knows what may happen. As long as we have a half-decent income I'm sure we'll get along. It all adds up to what I've always said, "Hooray for me, the hell with you". It's only a natural tendency on the part of most everyone.
All I can think of anymore is “when, when when will I see you????” Most or the news commentators figure it will be over in Europe before the year is out and I sure do hope they are right. Are you still keeping our five P.M. date (11 for you)? Darling, if you lay very quietly I'm sure you'll hear me saying, I love you Phil darlIng.
I’m keeping my promise and will single space, though it is rather late and I don't think I have that much to say. I just finished putting Adele to sleep and it is almost ten o'clock. I kept my appointment with the eye doctor and this is his conclusion - my left eye is rather poor, my right - fairly good. I have astigmatism, (my left eye is not properly developed) and I only need glasses for reading, typing, movies or the such. The whole deal will cost me exactly $13.00. I selected my glasses and they are not rimless or octagon shaped as I think you like. He advised me to get the bone rims, as they hold up better than anything else. They are plain pink toned bone rim classes with a nice shape. I selected them mostly because they fitted me best over the bridge of my nose. I never could stand having anything rest against the bridge of my nose, but he told me I will get used to it in due time. He also warned that I may have headaches from the glasses at first. I have another appointment on Friday, when he will give me another examination, as today. He is giving me this other examination, as he doesn't want to give me drops, for he doesn't think I need them. The second examination is merely a check on the first one. I should have my glasses by next weekend. I finally "dood it". I think Mom Is going to go along with me and have her eyes examined, too.
So much for the eyes. I called Dot just before starting this and she is leaving tomorrow. She will stay with Snuff indefinitely. Her trip is costing her $66 and she is taking $150 with her. Another correspondent. I told her to hurry up back, cause I'd like to have a few telephone correspondents.
By the way, Dr. Freed knows Uncle Sam for many years. I forgot to Inquire just how, but it could be that Unc had his classes made there.
I had to Interrupt this just long enough to answer the door. When I got there I found Mrs. First, who asked me to come right over to her house for a few minutes, as Mr. First needed me to do a bit of typing. It turned out that Mr. First had sold a house and wanted me to type up the agreement, lease and another necessary paper. It took me just a few minutes to type the whole works and he gave me $1 for my work. I also acted as a witness to the sale. Not bad, eh?
I just happened to think, I'm telling you what I did this evening and I may be short of words tomorrow. Oh well, tomorrow is another day and I’ll probably think of something else to say. The news continues good and everyone hopes it will be over in ’44. I hope so, though I am a bit doubtful about it.
My appetite has improved vastly and the pills seem to be a help in giving me added energy. My appetite always improves about this time of year anyway, so I should be gaining a little weight. I see I'm just about out of space, so, honey, I'll just say I love you dearly and call it a letter.
Yesterday I was at a loss for (got it right that time) words, but today I've got so much to say I don't rightly know where to start.
Immediately after I mailed your letter Dot called to inform me that she is joining Snuff for a short while, alone. They have cut his basic training from 17 to 6 weeks and the camp is closing up. He expects to ship out to Ft. Lewis, Washington state and perhaps overseas from there and wants her to be near 'him, while it is at all possible. She expects to leave tomorrow or Thursday. Yes, Jack N. got his basic at Claiborne, but I understand Snuff's outfit gets tough training and it beats the basic training handed the Infantry. He is in the Engineers and there isn't a doubt about it.
I'm sorry I forgot to tell you that Sy's ship is a battleship. He isn't thrilled about the “traveling and seeing the world idea” as you seem to think he would be. He told me he was "so happy" to leave camp and "hates like the devil to go back". He also said that anyone who likes either the Army or Navy is "plain nuts".
As soon as I finished getting Adele bathed and into bed the doorbell rang and in walked Mollie and Pearl and Clara Wagman. Yes, sweet, I finally am taking my vitamin pills as Clara was good enough to bring them along. We all chatted (and got very much on Harry’s nerves ) until about 11. Clara says that anyone who comes back to S & D is crazy. She thinks, by the way, that Donald Weitzel (is that his name) (the guy who has your job) is being groomed to take Mr. Farron’s place. I never did ask you about it, sweet, but do you think you might go back to S & D?
I notified her of the change in your address. She asked me to suggest what I thought you would like to have in your package. The only things I could think of were the yellow bole pipe and razor blades. I'm sorry. I didn't ask you what you would have liked to have previously. By the way, sweet, is there anything in particular that you would like to have this Xmas, beside, of course, home and family. I hadn't given any serious thought to a Xmas package, preferring to send along packages whenever I think you need something.
I promised to call Clara when I received a letter from you concerning her relationship to the Reisners. She said she didn't recognize me. I was wearing my hair in a different style other than she remembered.
I got to bed rather late, but didn't mind, cause I had had plenty of sleep the night previous. By the way, and before I forget, my mother also received her bond and by this time you must know that she finally managed to get a letter off to you.
Today brought me your two exceptionally long and especially welcome letters of Sept. 25 and 26, along with my check. It was raining this morning and I left early, wanting to buy the Charles of the Ritz powder I told you about yesterday. I caught the post man as I was taking Adele over to my mother's and had to keep your letters in my bag til I got on the subway. Then I eagerly tore them open and proceeded to read quickly. Then I reread and re-reread. I managed to do the first two on my trip down and the third on my way home. I'm glad you finally decided to try to "click" with your short story and I'm not any the less proud of you for failing. You must know by now that I'm not that easily disappointed. I don't give a hang if your stories are rejected a hundred times. It will give you valuable experience and make you work harder for perfection. I'm right with you, baby, and I'm sure you've got what it takes to make the grade. Just keep writing! I like your attitude concerning the whole thing. In fact, here's a big kiss for trying.
I managed to get into town just in time to have the girl mix the powder for me. She looked closely at my skin and advised me to give my skin a pore treatment with their special cream and skin freshener. I can't make the whole outlay at the moment, but I fully intend to get the other articles and try to get my skin into really good shape. I love the smell of the powder. I'd particularly like to have a bottle of perfume, for it must be ages since I wore perfume or even toilet water, of their brand. They have a toilet water called Spring Rain, which ought to be very nice. I shall get all their items gradually. This was the first time I spent $1.20 for a box of face powder, but it should last me quite a while. I wish you could see how they mix the powder. She has a whole tray with various jars of ingredients of all colors, such as purple, green, blue, brown, orange, etc. and you would never think they would blend into regular face powder, but they do.
I got into work at 11:15 and had a fairly busy day. Mom went into town with Theresa today and bought herself a complete new outfit. She got the following: A black coat, trimmed with Persian Lamb (I haven't seen it yet, as she told them to send it) for $60.00, a pair of black suede and patent trimmed shoes - $10.95, a black hat, small, but nice, and two dresses - a grey sports dress, button-down-the-front for $8.95 and a dressy black dress with a fuschia top and black sequins at $13,95. Mom now wears a size 18-1/2 dress, so that ought to give you an idea of how much weight she has lost. Don't get me wrong, honey, she is far from being thin, but nevertheless, she is much thinner than I ever remember seeing her. I hope to follow suit and get a complete outfit for myself. If I don’t get myself some other clothes I'll wear this suit out. Now I know how you feel wearing the same suit day in and day out.
And last, but not least, I made an appointment with the eye doctor, whose name happens to be Dr. Freed and he is located at Old York Rd. and Ruscomb Sts. on York Rd. for tomorrow evening between 7:30 and 8. In case I do need glasses and I'm fairly sure I do, what sort of shaped glasses should I get? I sort of remember you liking octagon shaped glasses, rimless. I only intend to use the glasses for reading, knitting and at work, when I'm typing.
That just about brings me up to date, except for the fact that I called Lil to notify her of your change of address and learned that she had sent you a large package. You're not supposed to know it, but I'm telling you just the same so that you might not hold your grudge or doubtful feelings toward her. If guess that's her way of replying.
One more thing - we had a letter from Gloria today. She received a $10 monthly raise, and was disappointed with it, having expected a larger raise. She's pretty busy these days, what with work and school taking up most of her time.
And now to answer some of your questions. If you tickle Adele she'll yell "top eet" and then "more". As concerns my question about whether or not I should quit work before you come home, I merely asked to get an idea of what you thought on the subject, My mother will care for Adele if I decide to work for a while even after you come back - til we get on a settled financial footing. It was really a silly question, as things are so unsettled that it is hard to decide anything definite, but I just wanted to talk about it. I want you to get started on the right foot this time and if my working will help us to that end, then I'll continue to work for a while. I'm going to buy a $50 bond this month with my check, as I said I would, so that we'll have the total I quoted - $1025. Do you know, Sweet, that one of our bonds is over 2-1/2 years old? It was the first one we got through the weekly deductions of your pay. I hope we'll not have to cash it til it matures. So, actually we have approximately $770 cash by way of the bonds and our bank account stands at $150, which, in case you didn't know it, brings us mighty close to having that $1000 in cash I hoped to attain. I'm sure we'll pass that figure before the year is out, don't you? Gosh, sweet, I just can't believe it. It just goes to prove that a systematic savings account brings good results, no matter how small the amount saved. You seemed a little hazy on our finances, so I hope I've enlightened you.
I promise not to double space again - nuff said?
I'm glad you had the opportunity to relax, though I understand the children gave you little peace. I often wonder how you'd react to some of Adele's habits. Sometimes when I think she is about to fall or bumps her head or gets into a tight spot I become very jumpy. It is these times, especially when I wonder what your reaction would be.
I'm sorry you don't like the ringlets, but I didn't have the opportunity to comb them out properly before taking the snaps. Those panties of Adele's that annoyed you couldn't be helped. The elastic in the panties today is just as good as nothing at all and in this case the elastic broke. So you see, sweet, it couldn't be helped. It rarely happens. I'm anxious to get on a scale to see how much I've gained. I think I've gained back most of the weight I lost and perhaps a little to boot.
I called the Gas Company, as we must have heat now. It will be a few days before the man gets around to us, It rained all day and the house is damp. I skipped Adele's bath tonight for the first time in months. I've also been calling about her corrective shoes, but just can't get them. I'm really at my wit's end - it's a big pain in the ear as far as I'm concerned. I can understand cutting down on other items of apparel but baby's shoes are so necessary that it seems a little ridiculous that a mother has to go through so much to get one lousy pair of shoes. (I'm getting mad in case you hadn't noticed).
As far as I know Harry is still jobless. My folks. had a nice letter from Eddie today, their first letter in a month. I haven't read it yet, but I understand it's the nicest one he's written to date. Have you heard from him lately?
Sat. night when I got the ride downtown with Fay's mother (who is employed by the gov't, making soldiers clothes) she told me that the Army has cancelled all orders for the old type of jacket, and have copied the British style, except for a few small changes, for it is neater and saves material. I mention this only cause you said something about buying a British jacket in a previous letter, due to the fact that it was neater.
And now, sweet, I think it high time I told you that I adore you beyond words, that I miss you keenly and I want you very much, Baby -
Your Eve
P.S. Excuse the errors - I’m kinda sleepy -
3 October 1944
Dearest Darling,
Seems like there is always something popping up to prevent my writing to you every day. Believe me, Sweet, it is not my intention to write every other day. I would want to write each and every day, but I’m afraid I have fallen far short of the mark. Last night, just as it was getting ready to write, there was a power failure and we didn't have lights for the rest of the night, so I did it any sensible thing under the circumstances. I went to bed.
Day before yesterday, after I finished my letter to you, I wrote to Eddie and Harry W. to ask them if they could let me know where they are so that I may visit them about the end of this month, when, if nothing prevents, t expect to take a furlough.
Yesterday, after another busy day at the office, I rode down to the base theater, where “Rose Marie” was supposed to be showing only to find that there was no show owing to mechanical difficulties. Your nice long letter of 18 Sep. arrived in the afternoon and I’m still reading certain parts of it over and over again.
Today, after a most exasperating day (because I got nothing done in spite of my best efforts), your mail of 25 Sep/44 arrived to lighten my spirits. First, I'll answer the “longie”.
You tell about Shirley's visit, describing her as the (one you thought was so chesty in a snap with Harry and Goldie". Sorry honey, I haven't any recollection whatever of her. Wonder what you gabbed about 'til 1:30 in the A.M.?
Then you talk about going in town with Goldie and Shirley to see “Janie”. Glad you liked it, Sweet. I haven't seen it yet, but am looking forward to seeing it. From what you say about recalling certain memories in connection with Broad & Chestnut and later, over that chocolate sundae, and who knows how many more references you made to me, Goldie and Shirley must have been pretty well fed up with you. But as long as you had a good time, Baby, I don't care if you bored them to death.
What's all the mystery about Myra and Lil - and why can’t you talk about it? [At this point I interrupted my writing long enough to ride down to the mess-hall to have supper.] You might be interested in the kind of meals the Army is feeding us these days. Anything to fill up space!) – Anyway, supper consisted of the following: Three hot-dogs (I can see you grinning already, but wait!), potatoes in jackets, pickled beets and onions, carrots & raisins (not for me), catsup, bread, peanut butter, cocoa - and butterscotch ice cream - and because they were almost through feeding when I got there and had plenty, I had two portions, which was damn near a quart. Outside of that, I didn't eat a thing! Dinner wasn't anything to brag about. Just a big, tender steak, lyonnaise potatoes, string beans, b & b, peanut butter, coffee and cherry cobbler. So you can easily understand, Chippie, why am just wasting away - oh yeah!! If you think that is too much food for one day, just consider the gluttons that also eat breakfast! Now, where was I?
Here we are. Your story about Adele and the soldier was real cute. But if she should slip up and say “uh-uh" to me, I think i'd die - no kiddin'!
Poor Dottie! I feel for her - I really do, and I’m darned if I'd discourage her from going to Snuff and staying with him wherever he goes. On the other hand, she had better look to Hal's welfare first and foremost when she's making plans in that direction. If Snuff is against the idea - and I can imagine a reason or two why he might be - then she should stick it out for the time being where she is until Snuffy can no longer bear it without her. You may not agree, Chippie, for a number of reasons, and the foregoing is strictly between you and me, but that is my opinion - and I'll stick to it. Don't compare their situation with ours, Sweet. There are more points of variance than you would imagine - off-handi
Say hello to our new neighbors for me. You say they are “very nice". That's good enough for me.
Your recollection of Sep 18/41 brought many tender memories crowding. It was easily one of the happiest days of my life, and I'll never forget a minute of it. Like you, Baby, I am looking forward eagerly to a repetition of that glorious day of homecoming and re-union. Only this time it will be a thousand times sweeter. I'm sure I don't. have to enumerate the reasons for your benefit!
I know it isn't right to say so, but the picture you draw of the punkin being “fresh"; sticking her nose up in the air and saying "a very definite ‘no’” is infinitely appealing to me. I'm very much afraid that were I there to see it, I would kiss her for it instead of spanking her. Don't ask me why and stop muttering “what a pop you'll make!"
Thanks, Chippie, for Rae's regards, and give her my love next time you see her, and ask her if she and Mickey won't be good enough to drop me a line. By the way, did Stevens go out of business, or not?
You apologize for any technical errors" there may have been in your letter ’cause you "rushed through it,” there were surprisingly few, Chippie, considering - but never fear, I forgive you. Now - ain't that nice of me? How's about a nice, big kiss, huh?
So Sarah painted Adele's finger nails and she reacted like a real woman, eh? Hmmm! Interesting! – and just a bit disturbing, too. Makes me wonder if she'll ever be “my baby” before she gets to be “my little girl"
Your closing paragraph was mighty sweet, sweetheart, and each time I read it I thrill anew. In it you recalled a few incidents that belong exclusively to “us". Thanks for reminding me, honey. Not that I had forgotten - never that! But I hadn't thought about those particular “excitements" lately. Of course, all the things you mention are as vivid in my mind as they were on the “mornings after" - and will be just as vivid and dear to me fifty or a hundred years from now. Your plaintive cry that “the best days of our lives are slipping by unnoticed" draws forth no agreement from me. You're wrong, darling - it's the worst days that are “slipping by” - the best are still to come. Don't doubt. it for a minute! Neither do I feel as you that “this part of our youth is most important”. Chippie, believe me when I say that I am not a day older than I was the day I left you. I neither feel nor look older. Down deep inside me is the conviction that one does not really age (in the sense you mean when you speak of “wasted youth") until one has either ceased to love, or expended his love. Your sympathy on my account is very touching, dearest Evvie, but wholly unwarranted, I assure you.
In closing, let me leave this thought with you, my darling: Youth is more a state of mind than a springy step, a rosy cheek, and a sparkling eye. What price the physical aspects of youth if the heart beats to no harmony or rhythm of love? Conversely, what meaning has the halting step, the sallow check, the lustreless eye of age, if the heart is full of the sweet stuff of love? In a phrase - You are as young as your love. – And how old are you, my dear young lady? Me - I’m a mere babe in arms! Some day, dear wife, I'll prove to you that the above are more than empty phrases and pretty words. - Until then, know that I adore you in all the fullness of my heart.
My love and admiration to my cute and clever punkin. My love to all.
Yesterday, today and in all the tomorrows – Your Phil
I am banging off a few words before dinner, as we are all waiting for Rae, who is to dine with us. I feel kind of knocked out this evening, for the first of the month is always a big day. I look forward to the first, cause that's when my check comes through, but now - I don't know.
I left for work a little earlier this morning, stopping off at Strawbridge and Clothier. I wanted to buy some Charles of the Ritz face powder that is now on sale. It costs $2 per box plus tax and the sale drops the price to $1. If you recall, it is the powder Dot's cousin Gladys wore the night she went out with Syd, you and myself and I complemented her for her sweet odor. A girl at the store mixes up all sorts of stuffs that makes up your shade of powder and I'm most anxious to have she mix a shade of powder for my complexion.
The girl was out to lunch when I arrived and I didn't have enough time left to wait. I'll try to get down there earlier tomorrow morning, as the sale is on all week.
My brother Seymour is a second-class seaman, as he finished his boot training. He gets $64.80 per month now.
I can't think of another solitary thing to say honey, cause I'm hungry and I've got a headache. So, I'll end off now, eat my supper and keep Rae company this evening, after I get Adele to bed.
Harry, by the way, hasn't found anything in the line of a job an talks of going to Poughkeepsie to start a business. We shall see -
In the meantime, darling, baby, I love you ever so much, more every single day. Today is four months I'm working - I never thought it would be that long. I am and always will be
I started a V-mail to you yesterday, but never did finish. Instead I tore it up and am sending this along to cover Sept. 30 and today. Yesterday was a hectic one for me, as you shall learn presently.
To begin with, I worked my usual four hours on Saturday morning. After work I headed straight home and did a bit of cleaning. I stayed at my mother's with Adele the rest of the afternoon, as it was raining out. Adele had dinner there. Then the sun came out for a little while, so I took her out. We stopped at Fay's and then Betty's. Betty has returned to work once more.
I returned to the house, and had my dinner while Natalie, who had come along with me, played with Adele. Natalie, by the way, paid your daughter a lovely compliment. Nat says Adele is the most brilliant kid she knows, that she understands everything much better than any other kid she knows. Adele shows a keen interest in everything, while most kids just nod and pass up the subject.
After dinner I called Dot, fully intending to see her that evening. The weather was bad again and I was undecided. Dot told me that her sister-in-law has a stroller for sale for $8 and perhaps I would be interested. Well, to make a long story short, I went out to see Dot.
Adele was asleep by 8:15. Goldie and Mom went to the movies to see Double Indemnity, which they both liked very much, while Harry stayed in.
I called Anne just before I left, as she hadn't heard from Tony for over two weeks. There was a reason - he is now in Belguim. From England, to France, to Belgium in only eight weeks! That's traveling!
I stopped at Fay’s before catching the subway and it was a good thing I did, for her mother and uncle were going into the center of town by car, So I got a ride to 15th & Market. I caught the el out to Dot's and got there about 9:15. Instead of looking at the stroller as I had intended, we decided to take in a movie, seeing "Step Lively" at the Mayfair with Frank Sinatra, George Murphy and Gloria DeHaven. That G. DeHaven is really something lovely, what I mean lovely and I'm sure you've noticed her. Frankie leaves me positively frigid and I think his looks are revolting. He does have a pleasant voice and I like to listen to him. The picture made good entertainment and I laughed heartily many times. That, plus the other musicals I've seen lately, have been especially good for what ails me, I sure do get the blues often! When the movie was over (about 11:15) we went to Dot’s grandmother and grandfather's apartment (across the street. from her mother's house, where I slept with Adele) and had coffee and cake. Dot's Uncle Jack, who is a New Yorker and an Arthur Murray instructor, was in and naturally was a most interesting guest. Later in the evening, about 11:45, we went over to Dot's where she danced with her Uncle Jack. I jitterbugged two numbers with him, if'n I may say so. I enjoy dancing so much and do so little of it! Some day, honey -
I left Dot’s at 12:45 and arrived at Broad and Allegheny in good time. There I waited, along with another girl, for about 40 minutes, but still no bus. A young fellow approached me and tried to make time with me. There were several other girls waiting for a trolley, but he had to pick on me, He noticed my rings and kept telling me not to worry about my husband (whom he guessed was overseas or in the Army) that everything would be alright some day. I was about to make for the subway and catch another train up to Logan stop, when the girl beside me asked me to go half with her and take a cab. I readily agreed and we ran like hell for a passing empty cab. When we reached 9th & Rockland and I tried to pay my share of the ride, she stoutly refused and all but threw me out of the cab, so that I wouldn't pay. Well, baby, I was never so glad to get home. I particularly hate to make the trip out to Dot's alone and since I never can leave the house much before 8 I dislike going altogether. But if I'm to see her at all, I must go out once in a while, even though I do get there late. After all, I was only there a scant three hours. I had a swell time, as I always do when I visit Dot. She promised me that she'll try her best to come here with Harold next week. She gave me several snaps of Harold and Snuff that are very nice. She sent you some too.
I found Adele in a pool of sissy, almost up to her ears. I changed her completely and hit the hay. A short while later she awoke again and was soaked. This time I took off her wet sleeper bottoms and took her into bed with me, for I felt that she was through wetting. Besides, it was freezing last night and the cold may have been responsible for her wetting so much. She fell asleep and so she spent a good two hours sleeping with me. At least she stays covered when she sleeps with me!
This morning I learned that Sy had come in about 2 this morning and is in til 6 this evening. Phil, he looks so good, I just can't tell you how well. His ship, the U.S.S. New York (not New Yorker) is due to embark Nov. 2nd, and naturally it will head for the Pacific. He doesn't think the ship will have heavy duty, since he says it's one of the oldest ships in the Navy. Adele recognized him instantaneously and did all her tricks for him. I especially like this: I snap into position and raise my hand to salute, saying Salute Daddy, drawing out the last syllable of salute. She immediately follows, putting her hand to her head and saying "alute, Daddy." I dropped something this morning and she told me to "find it". When asked how old she is she says, "two". Sometimes she slips and says "four". Ruth is working at the 5 & 10 again and brings her mother goose books. Adele can sit for hours and point to the various subjects. It's very educating, too. Adele knows how to make the sounds of many animals, like the dog, cat, cow and sheep. She imitates a train, too. I love the way she says "top eet" for stop it. She sounds like a Frenchy. She tries to say every word she hears and nine times out of ten it's correct.
The weather today is positively gorgeous and it always makes me wish for you that much more. I was up bright and early and was out with Adele from 9:30 to 11:30. Adele had lunch at my mother's and now she is sleeping. I'm going to end this very shortly as I want to eat my lunch and catch a catnap before she awakes.
I forgot to mention that the $100 bond came in the mail yesterday. It came almost to the date you said it would - six weeks. Ruth just walked in announcing that she has a roll of film, so I hope we'll get some nice snaps of Adele with Seymour for you.
Well, baby mine, I close once more with my usual "I love you, Phil" and am always
Your Eve
P.S. I never did see the stroller—
1 October 1944
Dearest Eve,
Received your mail of 22 Sep. yesterday afternoon but was kept so busy that I didn't find the time to answer it until now. Today is Sunday, but from the amount of work I put out this morning, you'd never guess it. Just a while ago I received Snuff's letter, and answered it immediately. Now to answer yours.
Your discovery that “we think about the same things at the same time" may come as a revelation to you, but I have been aware of it for some time and had grown more or less inclined to take the “phenomenon" for granted. After all, it's not very surprising, when you consider that our hopes and thoughts and desires.are centered about the same things.
You say you “think" you've regained that lost weight. Only costs a penny to find out, Sweet, and there are plenty of scales in the neighborhood. Ketch?
Glad you decided to get the radio repaired honey. Wait ’til you see the television set we get once I get home! (Don't hold your breath until then, though).
Your paragraph about Adele and our bed is real cute, Chippie, but if the little vixen has any ideas about keeping me out of my own bed unless she is also invited, she’ll darn soon be forced to change her prejudices - I guarantee it! However, (and don't you dare tell her this!) I just can't picture my self denying her her wish to sleep with us. (Guess I better change my mind, too - huh?) Y’know, Sweet, if there is any prospect that pleases my fancy more than that of holding you once more in my arms, it is that of holding both my girls in my arms at one and the same time. Just contemplating it makes me “goose-pimply”! You say the punkin loves to be loved. Lady, that is right up my alley, 'cause if there's anything I delight in, it's giving out with the love and believe me, I’ve got more than enough of that commodity to take care of the two of you! As a matter of fact, I suspect that it will take both of you to satisfy my own cravings after affection Oh, baby, if only the waiting for that glorious day weren't so hard to take!
Reading about Mill, and the trials and dangers he has had to endure, I must count myself very lucky by comparison. Hope he is on his way home by now, ’cause there's a limit to what even the toughest man can take.
Haven’t heard from either Ed or Limey for some time now. I'm going to write to both of them, find out where they are, and try to get a furlough so that I may spend a few days with each of them. I'm hoping like everything it works out that way.
Tell Dot how sorry I am that I have not yet found the opportunity to write to her. Give Mom my love, and tell her I'll write as soon as I get the time. My best to the Frommers, and all the neighbors. My love to all the Pallers and Strongins.
My dearest love to you, darling, and our very own punkin.
Ever,
Your Phil
Oct. 1, 1944 (based on positioning among other letters)
Dear Phil:
Ran into your name on a list at the canteen in Norwich—it was way back in last December.
I’m supposing you’re still around here and I’d like to see you sometime if you can get into Norwich.
I can get in to Norwich almost any evening, so write if you can meet me sometime, or you can call me on Burra? 211 - Extension - 78.
If you write, name some time—I get in about 6:45 P.M. and some place—the Bell Hotel is good as any.
How’s everything at home—Milt’s got a big family now, and Sam’s pushing into Germany with Patton.
In case you don’t remember me—it has been a long time—I’m Milt’s brother,
Today, sweet, your most welcome letter of the 20th arrived. So you're company clerk now with a man to help you out! If only they'd give you that Sgt. stripe - By the way. Gloria said she has a feeling Jack will make Sgt. in the near future. Many men keep moving in and out and he has an opportunity, so who knows?
We have our radio back and it plays once more. It's a pleasure! Well, honey, it's exactly two months to our daughter's second birthday - do you still have hopes of making it? I guess you’ll have to wait for the third one, but definitely! I've been calling the shoe stores every few days and am still unable to obtain the corrective shoes for Adele. Besides this her other shoes are getting smaller all the time and it will soon be necessary for me to have shoes - corrective or not. Why is it I always have to get everything the hard way? No shoes, no stroller - I don't know. How I wish you were here to shop for me!
Last night I succeeded in writing four other letters besides yours. I wrote to Sy, Ed, Phil (cousin Phil Strongin) and Jack N. I had just received the reproductions of the snaps we took together and sent them right along to him. I'm not surprised that you haven't heard from him, but, undoubtedly, he is so wrapped up in Marilyn that he hasn't time to think, let alone writing. I sent several of Adele's other snaps which were my favorites for Jack to enlarge for me.
It became cooler again today, but it still isn't necessary to turn on the heat. I love this not too warm, not too cold weather. I'm still giving my suit daily wear, wearing a different blouse each day. I think, sweet, that I am going to have my eyes examined first chance I get. My eyes get tired too quickly and nine times out of ten they cause me severe headaches when that way. Remember how you used to ask me if I could see little print at at distance? Well, I haven't tested myself, but I intend to have them examined to be sure. My brother Jack is familiar with an excellent eye doctor in the neighborhood and I shall have Jack talk to him for me. I do use my eyes more than ever these days, what with knitting, typing, etc. It's only a wonder they get so tired.
I spoke to Dot this evening. Remember Edith and Marty or didn't you meet them? Well, Marty was a 4-F due to underweight and was rejected many times. Finally they went on their own (they had been living with her folks) and suddenly he was recalled and accepted, having left today. Dot plays gin mummy almost every night in the week and I rarely find her home when I call. I've been meaning to see her these past few weekends, but never could manage it. Perhaps I’ll see her tomorrow, If Adele will go to sleep early. And now if’n you don't mind, baby, move a little closer so that I can love you some more. Gee, but I adore you!
Your Eve
September 29, 1944
My Darling Evvie,
Didn't write last night cause I was just too tired. Not physically, perhaps, but my brain just refused to function. I had another of those rare attacks of homesickness that leave me with no desire to do anything but lay on my bunk and court oblivion in sleep. What induces these occasional pangs of an overwhelming longing for you and home, I don't exactly know.
It may have been the snatch of song heard on a barracks radio while passing by, or the melancholy dusk of the autumn twilight, or something about the demure little walk of a sweet-faced, blond little girl I encountered walking along the road with her old grandmother, or it may have been a combination of all three - of none of them. I don't know. All I do know is that I suddenly felt horribly alone and lonely, and that I longed for the sight of you more acutely than I have in months. Anyway, Sweet, it brought on a torpor in me that I couldn't fight off long enough to write you the customary letter. Tonight, though I miss you as much as ever, only a vestige of last night's depression remains.
There wasn't much doing in the Orderly Room today, but a number of things came up that will have to be tended to tomorrow. I am CQ again tonight, and it is so still here in the Orderly Room that I can almost hear the scraping as I collect my thoughts.
Your V-mail of 21 Sept, which arrived yesterday, is propped up in front of me. You were in high spirits that day because you had received a lot of mail. Unfortunately, honey, your letter is chatty and informative and nothing in it inspires a thought or question on my part.
I was just out to deliver a message. It is a clear, cool night, and the harvest moon riding serenely among wispy bits of white cloud, is redolent of many memories, all tending to induce that sweet-sad feeling that is born of such memories. Memories that are more felt than remembered.
I'm in a very curious mood again tonight, Sweet, so if I say anything that sounds a little queer, please forgive me.
Right now I am trying to subdue an unwanted urge to cut this short and hit the sack, which seems to be beckoning invitingly. Really, Sweet, I hardly know what to write about. Everything that crosses my thoughts seems to be so insignificant beside the great intensity of longing that is as a tangible weight in my breast, that I am very little inclined to expend the little effort required to put them down. Darling, if faith and hope were not equally strong within me, I think I would just perish for the lack of something to live for. It is only the thought of being one day with you once again that sustains me in these senseless, wasted days and months. I feel, sometimes, that time is static - that I am living in an aura of suspense - and all sorts of odd impressions assail me from time to time.
The dream of coming home - of just being with you and Adele, visualized a thousand times since I left you, has attained to a pricelessness that makes the wish for its fulfillment so intense, that it is almost a physical discomfort to allow myself to dwell on it. I had flattered myself, Ev dearest, that the worst pangs of loneliness and heartsickness were far behind me, but unfortunately, I was wrong. I find myself wanting you (at this late date) almost desperately at times. There was a time, I’ll admit, when I thought I was the master of myself to the extent that I could learn to take this longing for you for granted, that I could live with it with equanimity. Instead, my distress, the result of the continued inaccessibility of my dearest - almost my only wish, is increasingly difficult to stifle. My head tells me that I am a fool to tell you this, my sweet, but my heart wants to cry out to you for solace and comfort and will not be stilled by the saner admonitions of my mind. Please, Baby, forgive my heart's impulsiveness. Still it's clamoring for you by re-assuring it with your love. It loves you so much ~! Do you begin to understand, honey, why it is almost impossible for me to write of anything else while I feel this way? Somehow, I feel better now that I got that off my chest. See you tomorrow, Chippie. My dearest love to you and the punkin. My love to all.
