Post #641 - May 1, 2, 1945 I’m Looking Forward to Playing Pinochle with Uncle Nish, the Limeys and Harry Once Again and The End of the War in Europe is Beginning to Drag and I'll Be Mighty Happy When the Official News Comes Through

 

1 May 1945

My own Darling,

I didn’t write again last night. The probability is—I could probably think of some plausible reason for not writing - one that would keep you from hating me a little less - but the plain, unvarnished, shameful truth is - I got into a card game early in the evening (the first time in months and months) (cross my heart) and my luck was very gratifyingly running with me, so I played ’til one in the morning - so there! Seriously, though, honey, and all excuses aside (they somehow never compensate for a missing letter anyhow) it seems that I only get to write every other day (on the average) in spite of my best intentions. Please try to be big about it and understand, will you, Chippie? Lord knows, this matter of letter-writing is my one cause for anxiety these days—it’s the countless ones that I should, but don’t write that worry me.—But I’ve used up too much of the space already, selfishly, trying to justify myself. Let’s talk about something else, shall we, baby? Like your V-mail of 23 April that arrived today, for instance. Was surprised to learn the the Weinsteins did call after all, ’cause Marty showed me the letter saying they would. Guess something prevented. I'll get Marty's address next time I see him and forward it! Didn’t see “Between Two Women” yet, but I expect I'll catch up with it soon. Glad you enjoyed it, Sweet. I’ve remarked your increasing friendship with Sylvia, and I’m glad for that, too. You two certainly have a lot in common. Give her my best next time you see her, and tell her I’m looking forward to meeting her someday (I hope soon). The Browns must think I’m an awful stinker that I don't write to any of them—not even Milt, who is most prolific in his correspondence compared to me. Tell them I think of them often with the utmost affection, and that I’m looking forward to playing pinochle with Uncle Nish, the Limeys and Harry once again. The rest of your letter tells of your latest visit to Dr. Gayl with the punkin. You’ve certainly put up with a lot, Sweet, and I can’t very well blame you for wanting to cut the shots short. You’ve been very patient in this instance—and altogether an angel. Guess that’s why I love you so—angel.

Always,

Your Phil

P.S. A kiss for Adele. My love to all.

May 2, 1945

Dearly Beloved,

Much as I wanted to, I had not the time to get even a v-mail off to you yesterday. I had a very full day at work, and before I got Adele to bed, ironed my clothes and helped my dad fill in an application to obtain a job as an insurance salesman, it was 12:30 and I was half dead. So, I did the only logical thing - I went straight to bed.

The month of May was ushered in by strong winds, driving rain and bitter cold. Today, however, was much nicer, though it is still cold. Monday evening, after I posted your v-mail, Adele woke, vomit for all she was worth and went back to sleep. She slept peacefully the rest of the night and there is no need to tell you how grateful I was for that. There was no mail for me yesterday, but today I received your letter of April 24 and v-mails of April 25 and 26, along with my check. Your letters contained very little to comment about, so I'll just say how sweet they were and give you big hug and kiss for writing so often.

Jack N.'s aunt, Sonya, was in Philadelphia yesterday and called Mom. Jack's letter had given us all the impression that no one knew of his marriage, but we were wrong. They all know and heartily disapprove, although they say it's his life to do with as he sees fit. Sonya said that her parents disapproved strongly, but Marjorie gave them no choice, saying that she would marry Jack regardless of whether or not they accepted him, and they did. Sonya said Marge is tall (taller than Jack), very thin, blondish and very “shicksa" looking, but nevertheless very intelligent. Marge makes $60 per week and hasn't a cent to her name. Jack bought her a lovely wedding band for $80 and they had to honeymoon at Sammy & Ann's because they had no money for a honeymoon. In fact, Sonya said, Sammy had to make a loan of $200 for them so that they could get back to their various Jobs. Sonya also said that Marge's dad is a $7000 a year man, pretty well to do, but she doubted if he would do anything for them. That, dear, is the picture painted by Sonya. Jack and Marge were married on April 13, the same date that Harry and Goldie chose to call their anniversary.

In the meantime we learned that Jennie Zaslow is going to marry her brother-in-law's brother. Dave’s brother is being discharged from the Army and he and Jennie will be married June 10. Jen doesn't want a large wedding and they will have a small affair. So it is that two sisters marry two brothers.

By the way, that coat Mom is wearing in the snapshot you like so well is the one she bought from Mrs. Frommer. We had larger duplicates made and Rae also appeared, so you got gyped. No, I'm not going to Lorstan to have my picture made. When Glo comes this weekend we're going to have family pictures made in the house by the fellow who took that picture of Adele writing on her blackboard. I have yet to find the opportunity to get to Lorstan to have Adele's pictures made. Phil, I'd like to know if you are doing the same work at headquarters and whether the change will effect your status in any way.

First Mussolini and now Hitler, though I'm inclined to doubt the latter. The end of the war in Europe is beginning to drag and I'll be mighty happy when the official news comes through. Do you think, sweet, that you have a chance to get a furlough now (is that what you mean by some of your hints?) No more space, so will close now, baby, with oceans of love.

Your Eve

Post #640 - April 29, 30, 1945 It Shows How Difficult It Must Be for Employers to Get Help These Days!!? and In Just a Month, Our Little Girl will be 2-1/2 Years Old

 

   

29 April 1945

Darling Chippie,

Like you, I am missing a good deal of April's correspondence. As a consequence, I am a little confused about the proper sequence of things in general. Like today,—I received your V-mail of 28 Apr, which tells me that you aren’t going to have “my” picture colored by Lorstan. I presume you finally had your photo made, but this is the first I heard about it, and I don't know the details. Are you talking about the punkin’s pictures? On second thought, I guess you are. Well, honey, I think it's a good idea to get three black-and-whites rather than one colored picture—especially since you say the 8x10 will be in color.

Was interested in that offer you got to work in that insurance office at $35 per—mainly because it shows how difficult it must be for employers to get help these days!!? You didn't seem to think it advisable to take the job, so I take it for granted that you had some pretty good reasons for turning it down. Dot’s job at the bakery (I think it’s the place we occupied from 1920-21) sounds like a pretty good deal, too. Tell her that I received her midget Bulletin today, and can’t blame her for wondering why it’s so long between letters, but she must understand that I would be only too glad to write to her if I could. She's been a dear to be so patient with me, and I sincerely regret that I have barely enough time each evening to knock out a skimpy V-mail to you, let alone keep up with my other correspondence.—Which reminds me to note that I couldn't write last night, and when I say I “couldn't” I mean just that. It was a hard day, there was no letter, my spirits were low (for no good reason), and I was plain knocked out.

Today was a replica of yesterday, and I feel relieved that I have “done my duty” for today. The sack is beckoning. I never thought a hard single cot (with no blandishments—if’n you know what I mean) could be so tempting. I adore you, Ev. 

Love to all from  

Your Phil

April 30, 1945 

My dearest:

Today I received your letter of April 4th (the nasty one) but strangely enough it didn't make me mad - not one little bit. I do have to admit that all the things you said were right. However, I do wish you would have explained in fuller detail so that I could have understood clearly right off the bat. It made me very, very angry to think you could cut the allotment (though I realize your intentions now and cannot be angry because of it) but don't you think it would have been better if you had explained just a little bit then instead of just upping with "There won't be any more bonds. I stopped them because I needed the extra money for gifts." Oh what's the use of talking on and on about it. I feel certain that we'll see eye to eye on finances once we're united, so let's wait for the day and not discuss it any further.

Got back from Dr. Gayl's a short while ago and am beginning to feel very weary again. This was her last needle (I can't thank God enough for It) and I'm simply waiting for the "after effects". Adele screamed so much this evening every time Dr. Gayl came near her that I thought she'd take a fit. All's well that ends well and tomorrow can't come too quickly for me. As I told you I must go back in a month for the Dick test, but as long as the preliminaries are over I'm as happy as can be. They were really getting me down. Adele is still 37-1/2" tall and weights 34 lbs. I weighed 118 this evening. Last night I had a malted and an ice-cream cone and I ate an enormous dinner before going to the doctor's, so that may account for the extra weight.

I received a letter from Syd, one from Gloria, who will visit us this weekend and a card from Emma and Phil who are "gloriously happy". I wonder what it's like to be "gloriously happy"?

In just a month, our little girl will be 2-1/2 years old. Every time I talk about it it seems more Incredible. She's so much the little girl we wanted in every way. I wish you could have heard the conversation she had with the driver of the C bus this evening. In the midst of the conversation she said she would rather ride on the J bus. The C bus driver wanted to now what the J bus had that the C bus didn't have. Adele favored the J bus and when he said, "Is that so?" she said, "Sure, that's right!” Adele and Diana are inseparable and are extremely fond of each other. If Adele cries, Diana cries too. Adele likes to pat Diana's head and kiss her hand. And Diana just eats it up! By the way, I have still not had the opportunity to go to Lorstan. Gosh, I'm beginning to wonder if I'll ever get down there. Today there was a holdup on the el and I had to get a special pass to take the trolley. I got to work late and was busy all day long. In fact, since tomorrow is the first, I'll be busy for a few days until I get caught up. I worked on statements most of the day and we'll probably get them off tomorrow. Good night, baby, I hate to go now, but I must. I love you so much, honey!

Your Eve

Post #639 - April 27, 28, 1945 No Buzz-Bombs or Rockets Have Fallen Since the British Over-Ran the Launching Sites a Month Ago and In a Few Days You'll Have Completed Four Years of Service

 

27 April 1945

Dearest Chippie,

No mail from you today, and I'm starting this without the vaguest idea of what comes after the first sentence. It was a typically routine day even unto the rain. Still working at headquarters, and making good progress. 

Received a letter from Judy Davies in which she asks me to meet her and her parents in London on the 30th. She wants me to get tickets to a show for all of us, and she would settle with me. Frankly, Chippie, I've been looking forward to this date ever since my last pass, three weeks ago when we arranged it, and I had every intention of making it my treat. But, sad to state, I can't leave for a coupla weeks yet due to the preponderance of work that was the consequence of the “change-over.” So—I have no choice but to call them and tell them that I can’t make it. I haven't been so disappointed about anything in a long time, honey, and I really hate to renege on the deal, but there isn’t a damned thing I can do about it, so I'll just have to make my excuses and swallow my disappointment. Incidentally, darling, I believe you know by now that the V-weapon threats to London have ceased. No buzz-bombs or rockets have fallen since the British over-ran the launching sites a month ago. I'm looking forward to my next leave, which I expect to spend in London, but I don't think it will be for two or three weeks yet.

We're looking for the war in Europe to end at any moment now, Sweet, and the likelihood is that it will all be over by the time this reaches you.

Just enough white space left to to forward my best love to you and the punkin and all. I love you, my Evie.

Ever, Your Phil

April 28, 1945

My dearest,

This is my first letter since Wednesday evening. I started to write on both the following nights and each time I felt too tired to continue. So it is that I have accumulated enough news for a "longie."

Does the enclosed letter from Jackie do anything to you? I was in a funny mood all day because of it. I hardly know what to say. I do feel that you should make every effort to write to him immediately, regardless of what you may have to give up to do so.

Today, for the first time in three or four days I received some mail from you - those bearing your new address. There were four v-mails in all of April 17, 18, 21 and 22. I had a funny premonition about your change of address, and Jackie's marriage. As soon as I tore your letter open I looked first at the address and immediately noted the change. I had written to Jackie, Seymour, Harry W., Milt and Glo a few nights ago and in my letter to Jackie I told him I was worried and was he married.

I'm wondering now just what the change means. What's this "good news" you might have later? Why in heaven's name do you get me all “hep”?? My, mind isn’t at all peaceful when I don't know what it's all about and how it may affect us. Is the change for the better? Will you remain in England? Do you stand a chance of getting a promotion?

Last night, at long last, I made a break in connection with 4906. Goldie had been planning to go to Poughkeepsie for a few months with Diana and Mom said she wanted to go away for the whole summer - all of which meant that I would be left practically alone with a big house. So I had a quiet frank talk with the three of them and told H & G to look for an apartment. After a lengthy explanation we all agreed that no one was satisfied, that we were all merely awaiting the opportune moment and that this was just as good as any. Naturally each one wanted to know your opinion. I told them that we had discussed such a possibility even before you had gone overseas (in fact I spoke of giving up the place immediately after my return from Columbus) and that you were agreed, especially if I felt it too much to upkeep. I reassured Mom that once you returned she was more than welcome to join us and if she wanted any further reassurance she was free to write to you. Phil, it would be too difficult for me to put down on paper the bulk of our conversation, but if Mom does write to you and you reply just don't mention anything about any previous discussions - reassure her that she is welcome to come with us and that you are not in a position to discuss the matter further. There was no dissension - and each one talked sensibly. At the moment I am not in a position to tell you exactly what will transpire. A lot depends on whether or not they are able to get an apartment. Please, honey, whatever you do, do not feel badly about it. I'm sure the war will be over in a matter of hours or perhaps days (there were rumors that Germany surrendered this evening) and it may be that you will be home before the time for action arrives. It's something that must happen sooner or later and I feel the sooner the better. We're going to start out all over again. We had a bad start and must have a good finish.

Your letters were all very sweet, dearest, and it did me a world of good to read them. You made me feel so good that all I wanted to do was gather you into my arms and love you to bits,

Phil, at this point, I find myself without the patience to continue on this. I'll continue tomorrow. Perhaps you may not be able to understand my negligence but I cannot, for the life of me, get myself to sit down and actually write in detail some of the things I should like to tell you about Adele, etc. Please bear with me. I'm very weary this evening. Adele was very trying most of the day. She and I had dinner at Betty's this evening. Mom went to see "National Velvet". I shall make it a point to see that picture as I've heard everyone rave about it. Good night for now, darling, I love you so very much -

April 29, 1945 

This April 29th was a far better day than an April 29th just four years ago! When I think of how I felt - Adele slept until 8:30 this morning, giving me ample time to get a good night's rest. I awoke at 7:30 and lay abed that full hour. Gosh, but it felt good! After breakfast, I cleaned our room thoroughly and dressed very hurriedly. Adele and I walked over to 11th St. to buy a belated birthday gift for Stuart. I bought him, a pair of white gabardine shorts with straps (like a sunsuit), and a blue jersey. While at the store I "splurged," but good! I bought Adele a smartly tailored dusty blue spring coat, a navy blue derby and a navy blue handbag. My bill totaled $20 before I left. However, baby, if you could only see Adele in her newest outfit - I have to pinch myself every time I look at her. She's a full fledged grownup without a trace of babiness. After the "splurge" we came back, had lunch and Adele rested in our bed for a half hour. Adele was dressed to the hilt today and was really something to see. Mom, Adele and I (I was kinda dressed up myself in my black and coral dress) took the J Bus and 59 trolley and arrived at Ethel's at 4. Mickey told me I looked like a regular glamor gal today though I thought I looked too tired to look glamorous. Paul made such a fuss about Adele and I wish you could see how they kiss - right on the mouth! Paul only wanted to kiss her but she didn't want to. Several times she relented after we coaxed her a bit. Paul got to be a regular lover. As soon as we arrived Adele wanted to see the canary. (The canary died several months ago). Paul saved the moment by taking her up to his bedroom to show her his goldfish. Rae gave Adele a peach and blue rag doll (poor Adele - she hasn't got one doll - much) and I'm beginning to run out of names. We decided to call this one Phyllis. Betty Jane continues to be fondest of Betty Jane. She almost becomes rapturous when she is able to play with the blond haired doll. Adele says, "Mommy, I won't throw her down. Daddy, will come home and take her away from me". Another thing. Adele wants to get into every car she sees on the street. She loves cars, buses, trolleys, etc, and to keep her out I tell her that the cars don't belong to her and that she'll have to wait till daddy comes home and buys one. Whenever she comes upon a car now, she says, "That's not mine. Have to wait till daddy comes home and buys one."

Ethel and Al went out this evening and had several other people with them. Since they were leaving about the time we were and had only room for one, Mom went with them and Adele and I took the trolley and bus. Adele had a bath, her hair washed and went to bed straightaway after getting home. Adele had dinner at Ethel's, but we ate home. I thought I go to the movies with Fay this evening, but it would have meant going to bed late and I must get sufficient rest for the Monday night ordeal, Tuesday morning can't come too quickly for me. This will be her last needle. A month from now I'll have to go back for the Dick test, which proves whether or not she is immune.

In a few days you'll have completed four years of service (if that year counts) and I've heard they may release men with four years or more of service. Do you become eligible for any further increase in pay by virtue of the four years? I remember your telling me that after three years you were entitled to 5% of your base pay.

Good night, darling, and I'm praying, almost desperately, that I'll see you soon. On the bus coming back from Ethel's I met a girl I hadn't seen for 8 years and she introduced me to her husband, a soldier, who had just come back to this country after two years of service in Iceland and England. He must go back to England next week. That's the first I'd heard that fellows from England are getting furloughs. Harry Weinman is definitely coming back to the states. He says in his letters that he'll see us all soon, but he can't say definitely when. But I must sign off now if I'm to get any rest at all. I do hope you'll be able to replace the bracelet, for I do feel terribly about it. I adore you, Phil dearest, and shall end this with a hug, and kiss from

Your Eve

Post #638 - April 26, 1945 I Have Never, For As Much As a Moment, Stopped Missing You

 

26 April 1945

Darling Chippie,

Today was another day like yesterday and the day before except for two things: 1) It rained. (2) No mail. Otherwise, the routine was exactly the same. When I came back to barracks I was pretty weary, and lay down to grab a cat-nap before riding down to the mess-hall for supper with Klein. Ordinarily, I skip this meal, but when there is (are?) hot dogs and sauer-kraut and cherry pie with vanilla sauce, well, I just make it a point not to miss supper - that's all. After eating and getting back to the hut I was still tired, so, since you weren't here to prevent me, my sweet, I indulged myself to the extent of another hours nap (n’yah!). Then I gathered up my paraphernalia and headed for the ablution for a much-needed shave and wash, whence I have just returned to write this. Oh yes, forgot to tell you I got a hair cut yesterday. What's so remarkable about that? Well, nothing, except, perhaps, that the barber was a woman - and an attractive blonde at that! If nothing else, it was a novel experience. - Which all brings me pretty well up-to-date, honey - and also leaves a pretty big stretch of white space to fill. What shall I tell you now, baby? I know you've been waiting for me to enlarge on a few hints I let drop recently, but I’m sure you realize that the only reason I haven't is that I can’t. However let your fondest hopes be your guide, darling.

In closing, let me say once again that I have never, for as much as a moment, stopped missing you. My love for you, my Chippie, has withstood the tests of time and absence from your adored presence, and is, I am proud to say, stronger and tenderer, and more securely enshrined than ever. In a word, my sweet, I love you. Kiss Adele for

Your Phil

Post #637 - April 25, 1945 I’m Certain, Baby, that VE Day is Very Close and That We will See Each Other in the Very Near Future and Seems Like We're Privileged Characters These Days and A Letter from Milt Brown

 

April 25,1945

Dearest One,

Did not get the opportunity to write last night. It was the first opportunity I had to read your 22 page manuscript to Mom and when I finished it was 12 o'clock. My dad and I had to ride home via the el and bus last night and got home rather late. After a delicious dinner of chopped herring and blintzes I brought Adele home and put her to bed. She had a slight  fever most of the day and it was gone this morning. I can scarcely wait until next week, so I'll not have to be bothered with the injections. Adele has lost her appetite and is losing weight too rapidly. She doesn't look well at all and regardless of what the doctor may say I quit after next Monday. I shall have to go back to him in a month for the Dick test to see whether or not Adele is immune. Once she is on her feet again and eating better I shall make an appointment with Dr. Lefkoe. Adele doesn't need shoes immediately, but she will need them soon. I don't want to tire her out too much after the injections by dragging her all over town for shoes.

I started on this at work and am continuing at home. There was no mail from you today, but there was a nice letter from Milt (dated April 20th) with a snap enclosed. How's that for mail service? Imagine getting mail from the Pacific only five days old!

This is it - the big day our beloved President couldn't live to see! It's a pity. Let us hope the conference turns out to be all that he would have wanted it to be.

We've been having cool weather and have had to use the heat continually. It poured buckets all day today, regular April weather. Adele was fine this evening and had no fever at all. She ate next to nothing and is practically existing on a liquid diet.

I had a busy day at work and the time flew quickly. Sometimes when I look at the calendar and see that May is almost here, it seems like a dream. May 2nd will be 11 months that I have been working for Bellet. I never thought, when I took the job, that I would work for him that long. I shall be most grateful when the war is over and you come back to take up your rightful responsibilities as husband and father. That day can't come too quickly for me. Some day when we've been able to sit down and talk about what we went through you'll understand more clearly why I said some of the things I have said that have cut so deeply. Perhaps then you will realize, as I have learned from bitter experience, why it is so important for us to be financially stable. I’m certain, baby, that VE day is very close and that we will see each other in the very near future. If it weren't for that -

Good night for now, my dearly beloved, I love you so very much that it hurts. Dot tells me that Snuff's hand is bothering him again.

Your Eve

25 April 1945

My Darling

Nothing out of the ordinary happened to me today. I was up at 7:30, and at work by 8 o'clock. At ten, we knocked off for a fifteen minute break and cupsa coffee. At twelve noon we all piled into the truck that took us to the mess-hall. There, at the price of some good natured bitching by the guys who were compelled to wait, we "bucked" the line. Seems like we're privileged characters these days. By 12:30 we had finished eating, and the waiting truck was filling up by ones and twos. At 12:45, we continued where we had left off. At 3:00, time out again for bottlesa "cokes". We finished at 4:45, when I hopped on my bike and rode back to the barracks. Klein had picked up my mail for me (your V-mail of 17 Apr), and handed it to me when I came in. This one told about the ill effects the punkin experienced after her latest shot, and a closely detailed account of your and Adele’s routine in the morning which, you may be sure, conjured up some very appealing images in my mind's eye! When I came to the part about you two Chippies taking a nap together, and you said "wish we could make it a threesome,” I got goose-pimply at the mere thought of it. Hell, Chippie, don't you realize that if you indulge me that way I'll just never get out of the bed? Frankly, I can't even imagine what could possibly induce me to leave such a delightful place at all, a-tall (unless it might be a little forceful persuasion delivered in the right spot by your perfectly beautiful right foot and leg.) But you wouldn’t do that, would yuh, honey, huh?

Now see what you went and done - you got me all excited and I couldn’t say anything rational now - even if I did have the space! I do love you - so much, my darling. A kiss for Adele from

Your Phil

April 25, 1945

Dear Evelyn:

Just came back from the movies, & don’t feel sleepy yet, so I’m dropping you a few lines. I’m feeling fine, & hope this letter finds you all the same. Today is the day for that big three meeting on the west coast, & also my birthday, so here’s hoping we hear some good news from that meeting. Got back my pictures last night, so enclosed you will find same. Some of them did not turn out good, but the ones that did, I sure have a job dividing them out. Please excuse the pencil writing as my pen is where I can’t get to it for the present time. How’s everyone getting along, and what’s new. Evelyn you know sometimes we don’t get a chance to write as much as we liked to, but I guess it just can’t be helped. I’m sure you understand what I’m trying to say. I’ll write you again the first chance I get. Give my regards to all.

Sincerely,

Milt

Post #636 - April 24, 1945 I was Rather Surprised that You Took the Death of the President So Much to Heart and A Letter from Jack Nerenberg Announcing His Recent Marriage

 

24 April 1945

Dearest Darling,

Yesterday I started work at Headquarters. At the end of the day I was mighty glad to remember that it is only a temporary detail of perhaps two weeks duration. It is a tedious, monotonous procedure, and as tiring mentally as the heaviest labor physically. At any rate, when finished, I was in no mood for anything but the sack. Before turning in, though, I promised myself I would write a real, honest-to-goodness on the morrow to make up for the V-mail I missed writing. That is why, for the first time in a long time - this.

Today, if anything, was even tougher than yesterday - except for one fact - I received four of your letters at once. They were your Air Mail letter of 4 Apr, and your V-mails of 14, 15, 16. There isn't much of anything that is new or startling in your letters, Sweet, but I was rather surprised that you took the death of the President so much to heart. I didn't know you thought so much of him until now. However, I do admire your judgment, and can appreciate your sense of loss. He was a great and good man. Humanity lost a great friend and supporter with his passing. God knows what might have happened to our United States if he hadn’t happened along in 1932 to pull us out of the doldrums. Let us hope that our new President is a worthy successor. I don’t know very much about President Truman, but from the little I do know, I have every hope that he will live up to F.D.R.’s high ideals.

Was glad to learn that our punkin is over the worst of the scarlet fever immunizations. She's a brave little lady. Tell her how very proud her daddy is of her. 

You say something about visiting Lorstan. Does that mean you mean to have your own photo made, Sweet? I certainly hope so!

Yes, I remember that Mom often spoke of Mrs. Garfinkel, although I have only a very dim recollection of her. The name suggests to my mind's eye a rather buxom lady with a beautiful head of black, wavy hair. - But I may be thinking of someone else, I don't know. You might check with Mom. I'll bet Mom was all thrilled about it, though - she always spoke of wanting to meet her again with such wistful longing - By the way, I forgot to mention, as I meant to, that Mom's topcoat (the one she wears in the snapshot) is very smart-looking and attractive. 

Well, Chippie, there is remarkably little to write about these days. Of course, if I were permitted to repeat the rumors that are floating around the base, I could write all night - but since I can’t, I'll only tell you the only thing I can think of at the moment - I adore you, Evie darling—My dearest love to Adele - and all.

Always,
Your Phil

April 24, 1945

Dear Evalyn,

I don’t know of anything nicer to tell you than that now I am married.

I don’t know of any excuse to offer for not having called you on the phone to tell you about it, except this: You would have gotten all tied up in an effort to meet my bride, had I told you of it. In some future time that will take place and it may be nicer because Phil will be there too. Please understand that I didn’t forget about you, merely that the many times I started to phone you, something stopped me. This is the first time I’ve put it into some definite thought even to myself.

Anyway, if you think I need to be forgiven please do so. If not, you’ve agreed with my definite feeling of above and then the intangible feeling that followed. I sort of feel that you’ll agree with me. I hope so.

Friday the 13th

We were married in Arlington, in her home. It was a lovely wedding. A minister performed the service. The house was all decorated with beautiful flowers, and it made a lovely setting.

We spent a rapture filled five days in New York and now we’re back at our jobs, lonesome as ever.

Her people have treated me grandly and it’s made us both happy because we were quite anxious about that part of it all.

I expect to get situated in a short while. When I do, she’ll leave her job if it seems my situation is fairly permanent (in the army).

I know this is a skimpy letter but I’ll bet I’ll write a longer one if you ask me a bunch of questions. So go right ahead and I’ll answer every one of them. Fair deal?

I wonder if you could send that letter you spoke of: the one after Phil’s visit on furlough in a London suburb. Hell, I don’t get any mail from him. I may as well read yours. You could guarantee its safety by registering it, and I’ll do the same on returning it.

I do hope you’re all well, and that some time soon we can all be together.

All my love,

Jackie [Nerenberg]

Post #635 - April 22, 23, 1945 I Wonder If You’re Familiar With the Favorite Exclamation of the G.I. - "Oh, My Aching Back"?? and If Adele Doesn't Have Enough Scarlet Fever Serum in Her Now to Prevent Her from Getting the Disease She Never Will

 

22 April 1945

My Darling,

Never did get to take that shower last night. It was much too late when I finished writing, so I hit the sack instead. This evening I finally got around to taking that bath, and feel fresh and clean for the first time in longer than I care to admit. Right now, clad only my shorts, I'm sitting on my bunk and listening to a program on the radio called "Fiesta", while three of the fellows are playing a quiet game of pinochle on an adjoining bunk, and three others are resting their “aching backs” (I wonder if you’re familiar with the favorite exclamation of the G.I. - "oh, my aching back"??). Right now, the radio is giving out with my favorite tango "El Choco". The night is bit chilly, and the wood fire in the pot-bellied stove feels good.

Was looking thru "Coronet" for April earlier this evening and noticed the list of prize-winners in that contest. I had forgotten all about it until now. I never had any real hope of winning anything, so I wasn't disappointed when I failed to find my name mentioned, but I would have liked to win for one particular reason - to make you proud of me, Sweet. Someday I hope to justify your high opinion of me. 

Instead of going to the mess hall for supper tonight, Klein and I and another fellow ate fresh eggs that Klein procured, and tuna (thanks to Gloria) in the Aero Club.

I alternated between the Orderly Room, and the Finance Office today. The bulk of the day was taken up with transcribing the payroll. Tomorrow I start work with the “processing crew" at HQ.

Klein and Red and ten other fellows from my old company, the disbanded 1808 Ord. Co., share this hut now. Red and I aren't quite as close as we used to be, although we are still friends. Klein, on the other hand, has become increasingly attached to me and treats me as if I were his big brother. Surprisingly, I'm about the only guy he shows any real respect or liking for. For my part, I like the kid—for all his craziness, depravity, and myriad other faults. I like, I think, his honesty and sincerity. There was no fresh mail today. But I have come to the part of the page where I always say—I love you, Ev.

Your Phil

P.S. Kiss my punkin for me. Lots of love to all.

April 23, 1945

Dearest Hubby,

Today I received your v-mails of 15 and 16 April and both made me me feel good - for a change. I'm glad you're so fond of Adele's latest picture. Yes, it is a natural pose and it's just a pity that the quality of the picture is not as good as it could be, for then it would really be beauty.

No, no one by the name of Weinstein has visited or called me and this was the first I knew of it. I guess they just couldn’t make it.

I saw "Between Two Women" with Van Johnson, Gloria DeHaven and Lionel Barrymore last night (with Sylvia) and enjoyed it immensely. The news reel showed the funeral of President Roosevelt and the whole theatre was alive with sniffles and sobs. Every time I see something pertaining to him tears come. When we got back from the Logan I walked Sylvia to Fifth St. where she caught a 47 trolley immediately. I washed some clothes and showered before going to bed and it was a bit after one by that time. Since Adele had gone to sleep so early the night previous, she was up bright and early, much to my regret and though I was just dyin' to sleep, she insisted upon getting me up. Finally, and with much effort, I crawled out of bed. This was a full day for me. I was busy all day at work and felt terribly out of sorts when I got home. Beside your v-mails were two lovely letters from Seymour and I must get at least one letter off to him this week.

Returned from Dr. Gayl's office a short while ago and put Adele to sleep. Adele insisted on having a dixie "tup" first and went right off to sleep once in bed. It's only a wonder - it was past nine thirty. Adele began to howl once I got her into the office and I had to hold her down so that he could give her the needle. She made a terrible racket, but I stilled her quickly. Next week is supposed to be her last shot and it will be, even though he may decide to give her another. She’s had more than enough and I can't stand seeing her so ill. She's had five weeks of it now and (I had to leave at precisely this point for I heard Adele gagging and ran like mad). Well she threw up and threw up and then some and now she's resting. I cleaned up the mess and decided to finish this before going to bed. I can't see the sense to going to bed when I have to get up time and again and decided to wait until I thought she had thrown up all she generally does. At any rate, next week is going to be the last shot she'll have, regardless of what the doctor says. If Adele doesn't have enough scarlet fever serum in her now to prevent her from getting the disease she never will. Dot is not going to give the scarlet fever shots to Harold. She says too many doctors disapprove, stating that it has not been perfected and that it takes many months for the serum to take effect, still leaving the child ample time to contact the disease. There are so many varied opinions on the subject - All I know is that Adele has had enough. By the way Harold is sick with a severe case or laryngitis and 103 fever since yesterday. I called Dot to read her your v-mail. Have much more to say, but will call it night. I love you so much, honey!

Your Eve

Meadowcroft

Eston

Middlesbro’

22-4-45

Dear Phil,

Just a note to tell you that we are traveling down to town on Monday week (30th). Could you get seats for “See How They Run”, which seems the best show to see, for Monday night?

I expect you’ll have heard from Ernie by now,—we had a letter the other day, and Mummy is writing to him now, asking him to join us on Monday night, too. If you could get the seats, we’ll settle up with you when we meet.

We think the best thing would be for you to come to the Savoy at 4:30 p.m.  on Monday, and have tea.

Hoping that you are O.K. and not doing too much work.

Looking forward to seeing you on Monday.

Yours sincerely,

Judy [Davies]