Post #318 - March 12, 1944 It is Sunday, and an Unauthorized and Unofficial Lethargy Pervades the Atmosphere and A Letter from Eddie Paller

 

12 March 1944 

Evelyn, dearest,

 

Having completed making up the pay-roll and a few other minor details, I am now free to take my typewriter in hand and write my daily stint, during the course of which, I hope to answer and comment on the more pertinent items in your most recent and too-long neglected letters. It is Sunday, and an unauthorized and unofficial lethargy pervades the atmosphere. I am the only one in the Orderly Room at the moment. It is a typical "gray” English day and most conducive to introspective thought. If I am fortunate enough to continue uninterrupted, I hope to make this a real "longie". 

The earliest of the six letters I have before me is dated 19 Feb. The first paragraph informs me that you received the $75.00; the second, that your cold "has disappeared completely". Good! (on both counts). The third paragraph made me feel thankful for the fact that I received your V-mail of the 26th Feb, before this one. It says that Adele "has taken a turn for the worse and that her fever was soaring.” The V-mail had already informed me that the punkin was completely recovered, so I didn't worry one little bit about the outcome. Your description of her infant suffering in the grip of the fever is enough to melt the stoutest heart, and your intensified longing for me at such a time moves me deeply. God knows, Sweet, I ask no greater privilege than to comfort you in your time of trial, but the fates have decreed otherwise, and I can do nothing more helpful than offer my heartfelt sympathy and whatever spiritual strength I am able to imbue in you. You decry the fact that the punkin has become so attached to her "mommy" that she "haunts the windows" when you leave the house. I can understand why this is not good", but all the same, the thought of her loving you and depending on you to the exclusion of everyone else, is very dear to me. It is selfish of me to feel so, I know, but you can't change the spots on a leopard, and I was always selfish (ask Harry). Your attempts to convince me that Adele “knows" and "misses" her dad make very diverting reading, but you'll pardon me if I'm still skeptical. No doubt the pain in your shoulder, which you mention, was due to the cause you attributed it to - overexercise. I can readily understand how you strained it. Of course, you know without my telling you how to correct it. Stop carrying the punkin about. She is walking now, so there's no need for it. I'm surprised you condescend in this respect. It's not like you, Chippie. As for your protestation that "I don't even know why I mentioned it, except, perhaps, that it takes space and makes a "longie!", I can only reiterate what I've said before: Anything pertaining to you or to Adele, or to anyone in the family, however seemingly insignificant to you, is of prime interest and importance to me, I'll thank you to remember that in the future, Sweet.

In reference to your advice to me to get hold of "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn", I have a happy coincidence to report. The day before I received your letter, I noticed a friend of mine carrying it about. Outside of remarking the odd title, I thought no more about it. When I had read your letter, though, I went looking for Irving (I call him Oiving and he doesn't like it, although being a Brooklynite he himself couldn't pronounce it any other way for a million). I ran into him in the mess hall and asked for the loan of the book. He was sorry, but he had promised it to a coupla other guys previously. Later, at Services, I showed him your letter. For some reason this pleased him. So much, in fact, that he promised me next crack at the book, which he was just 

finishing. Result: this morning he came looking for me. The guys in the Orderly Room told him I was in the latrine, and that's where he found me (and I wasn't performing my ablutions, either). Did you ever get the meaning of the word straight after I called your attention to your unintentional faux pas? Anyhow, to get back to the subject, the book lies under my pillow at this moment waiting to be read. How's that for service? 

Those "jokes" of Rae's which you wasted your good time writing out for my edification (without being prudish about it) were vulgar rather than funny, and I'm afraid they were entirely wasted on me, Besides, I had heard them all years ago. If I thought them worth-while I would have told them to you myself long before this. Most important, though - I don't relish the picture of either you or Mom listening to that sort of tripe, much less recounting it. You know, I think, that I am not entirely devoid of a sense of humor, and that I enjoy a joke, however "dirty” just as much as the next guy (perhaps more), but I'll be damned if I can stomach out and out vulgarity in any way, shape or form. You knew this, too, Chippie, I'm sure, but I don't think you entirely understand the sort of thing I put in this category. So, just to make sure you don't lower yourself that way again (and it's most unbecoming to my conception of you), please refrain from repeating the “jokes" some misguided person tells you. I assure you that my buddies see to it that I am "up" on the latest and best of the so-called "dirty” jokes. Your effort to help out in this respect, while appreciated, is in the nature of "carrying coals to Newcastle". So much for yours of the 19th - and mine of the 12th. Just as I expected, there was no mail for me today. I'll continue tomorrow, when I will "deal" with your letter of 22 Feb. 

Lest I end this on a “sour note", I hasten to assure you, darling, that I don't think any the less of you for a mere misconception on your part. You are the sweetest of women, in my eyes. I just want to keep you that way. Love to all from 

Phil

12th of March 1944

Dear Phil:

Received your letter of March 3rd, and as you see, I have been holding off too. Here's the way the situation stands. We're receiving 30 hour passes beginning Saturday evenings till Sunday night. Any other days are impossible at this time. There's many things I don't know, such as the schedule of trains leaving for London, whether we can get transportation on weekends and many others, which I expect to learn soon. Though we were just paid, I am pretty low. If you could get a pass to Bristol I could meet you, but I don't know where 'cause I haven't been down there myself yet. I expect to find all of this out very soon so we can meet one another. I'm fine and everything's O.K. I just received 12 letters in which I heard from practically everyone. Eve wrote and told me she received your letter about a day before mine. Beat me to the punch. Dad changed his job and that is what I call wonderful news. Everybody is fine and I hope you are. Till you hear from me, I hope, soon,

Truly,

Ed

Post #317 - March 11, 1944 It’s Getting Close to Our Third Anniversary and The 9th was Purim, and Fifteen of Us from This Station Went to Services in Norwich

 

March 11, 1944 

My dearest, 

I didn't give Betty that $12 after all. I spent it, as you shall presently learn. 

Last night I went to Broad St. to cash the checks and properly dispose of them. I stopped at the Cameo Shop to buy Bea a birthday gift from the Strongins. The gift stood us $6 - a lovely pair of pale green silk pajamas. My share was $2. I tried on a lovely brunch coat and wound up buying one for Goldie as a birthday gift and one for me. They were $4 apiece. I could use a dozen more, for they are so handy and neat. They are chintz material, white background splashed with large bouquets of multi colored flowers. The outstanding color of mine is red, Goldies, blue. It has red ricrac about the neat sports collar, has a tight fitting waist that buttons with one large button, a full skirt and bust, and puffed sleeves. Last year I bought two for the price of $4, so that ought to give you an idea of how prices have advanced. Of course, this is the nicest one.

When I told the girl at the Cameo Shop my name was Mrs. Phil Strongin, she asked me if "Phil's sister ever married". I immediately told her that I wasn't married to the guy with the muzzy, but his cousin. This girl, Bea Slivin Smith is a close friend of Sylvia Meadoway. We became quite chummy and exchanged our life's history. Her husband is in the Infantry and she described it as "hellish". Later in the evening I stopped at Ben's for ice-cream (it's getting to be a daily habit) and got talking to Dotsy's married sister. Her husband is now is Hawaii having left a short time ago. She sure is pretty and has the loveliest set of white, pearly teeth I've seen. She asked me to stop over and I asked her to do the same. 

 

Harry and Goldie got in about 11. The pinafore her stepmother made has lovely lines, but her stitching is extremely poor. If you don't get too close it's lovely. It is made of a silky powder blue material that has roses strewn all over it (green leaves about each flower). It has a low square neck and back, large ruffled shoulders, flared skirt, belt in back and buttons running down the back. It's a bit too big for now, but will do nicely in the warm weather, being washable. And there was surprise for me - an early birthday gift of a tearose silk night-gown, the bust outlined with Grecian lace (wide eyelet cotton lace that is very pretty) wide gathered pieces to form the shoulders, size 34, from Harry and Goldie. 

I haven't anything to sleep in except the two nighties Goldie gave me (remember the one she gave me when I had Adele?) and have to get some pj's. I'm not particularly crazy about nighties, but they do have their advantages, don't they, dear? I'm also in dire need of silk stockings and plan to get them and the pj's shortly. My other pj's were rags, which I discarded just recently. 

Goldie put on six pounds this past month and the doctor gave her hell. She's gained about 12 or 13 pounds already and has three months to go. She's getting enormous and I'm afraid she'll have a bad time of it. She went to the doctor's today. She's crazy about the brunch coat, incidentally. 

We sat and talked until almost one and I had to get up at 6:30 and just couldn't go back to sleep. Perhaps the fourth mailless day had something to do with it. I'm used to getting your mail so regularly that I know you either didn't write, went to London, (you said you couldn't go this time) or something is up and I'm just dying to know what's what. There'd better be something for me on Monday or I shall really be alarmed.

 

There was a big writeup in the Record the other day about Mayer Taylor, Syd's brother. Read it yourself. The whole neighborhood is talking about it. 

It's almost ten and I'm asleep already. Do you mind very much, baby, if I continue this tomorrow? You don't! You always was so understanding and I appreciate it immensely. Good night, honey, I love you dearly. 

March 2, 1944 

We're having company for dinner today the Browns and Sylvia. They made Bea a surprise birthday party last night and she received many lovely gifts. 

Adele slept (except for one interruption) straight through the night - my first night's sleep in over a week. I feel fine, though I could use a few good nights of rest, uninterrupted.

I've taken to wearing my hair pageboy all about the bottom and it runs up the sides in a curve-like effect. I don't like it as well as fluff on me, but it is neater. It's easier to keep, too.

Adele is wearing a dress for the first time since she was ill. She looks so tall and grownup and I can scarcely believe she is my daughter (I should have said "our", but I still can't believe she belongs to me too). 

I called Dot last night and we gabbed a while. Snuff is going to enlist in the Navy, for he feels he has a better chance there, being a machinist. Marcelle's hubby, Bernie, was sent overseas and when they learn his destination, perhaps you'll be able to see him too. He has a N.Y. APO. I hope i to get out to see Dot some time this coming week. She moved back to her mother’s on Friday and her address hereafter will be 6013 Sansom Street, Phila. The trip out will be easier.. 

Flash! Adele climbs up on the sofa and gets off all by her little self. When she wants to get off any high surface she rolls over on her tummy and gradually slides off, being extremely careful all the time. She walks up and down the steps with my aid. I hold one hand and she clasps the bars with the other. No two steps (by her) on any one step at any time. No sir! She walks up and down like a regular person, one step to a step. 

Did I tell you that I'm working on the sleeves of Mom's sweater? I sewed the fonts and back together 

and what there is of it fits nicely. 

I neglected to mention that Adele can only climb the sofa on Betty's porch as it is extremely low. She plays ring around a rosie by walking in circles herself til she gets dizzy. When she wants to somersault, she puts her head on the floor and I tum her over. Then she comes back for more.

Phil, sweet, it's getting close to our third anniversary and no doubt you will receive this after it. I know I'm going to miss you terribly that night. I only pray to God it may be our last anniversary apart. The three years have shown me what a wonderful fellow I married. Your thoughtfulness and understanding at every turn, your loving devotion and tenderness are my priceless, most precious possessions and I have and always shall appreciate then and you. I’m in an awful loving mood, baby, and if I could get my hands on you -

Uncle, Tant, Bea and Sylvia came about 4:30 and brought along Bea's birthday cake, which was utterly lovely. I damn near died when Unc. plopped down $5 on Adele's hichair - he said it was a Purim gift and I begged him to take it back, but no dice. Honestly, Phil, they have been perfectly wonderful to us and have gifted Adele so often with cash that I hardly know how to reciprocate or thank them. Tant is mighty grateful that I write regularly to the boys for I write the type of letters she would send if she could. Tant has been crying a great deal about Milt, fearing, as I do, that he doesn't have much of a chance. She said, "I hate the god damn Infantry." She said she didn't feel as badly when Syd left as she does about Milt.

Well, angel mine, I come to the end of another "stint” and I shall end with the customary "I adore you, my own sweet Phil" 

Your Eve

P. S. Enclosed are samples of Jack S. valentine, etc.

March 11, 1944

Dearest Darling,

This is the first opportunity I have had since the 8th to write to you. The 9th was Purim and fifteen of us from this station went to Services in Norwich. We were transported via truck and command car. If you remember, Sweet, we did the same thing on Chanukah. The turnout at that time far exceeded expectations (about 500 G.I.s of both sexes—of every service branch of the American and British Armies, Navies, and Air Corps—of every grade and rank. It is interesting to note that there are only twenty Jewish families in the town, and they do not even have a citadel of their own, but must share a church building (I think I explained the setup in a previous letter); yet—they arranged to receive that many people. Not wishing to subject us to the crush we experienced on Chanukah, this time they decided to hold the services and attending festivities in Stuart Hall. That, if you recall, is where our company held its party on the 24 Nov. It is fairly large, as Halls go and would have been ample to house the “Chanukah crowd” comfortably. The catch was—this time 600 attended. Even then they managed to seat almost everyone. After the service, which consisted of a brief period of prayer and the telling (by the U.S. Army Chaplain) of the Story of Purim, our hosts, the twenty families, had arranged a show and dance for our entertainment. The show, although corny by American standards at times, on the whole was very entertaining. The hit of the evening was a young English miss who played the accordion and displayed a lovely pair of gams through a black sheer floor-length skirt. She was an accomplished musician on her instrument and sang very creditably to her own accompaniment, but when she branched off into American swing and boogie-woogie, the G.I.s couldn't contain themselves and drowned her out with their own voices. First thing you know, we had a regular “jam session.” Everyone enjoyed himself thoroughly. (I know I did.) After the show there was supposed to be dancing and refreshments, but since the size of the mob made the former out of the question, we settled for the latter. That is, most of the crowd did. Klein was there with his gal-friend (or should I say—one of his gal-friends—since he has at least one in every town and hamlet from here to London—and a little beyond). Neither of us had eaten supper, and we were famished. Too hungry, anyhow, to push through the mob to the tables which were arrayed with all kinds of sandwiches, cakes, etc. in sufficient quantity to feed a thousand hungry soldiers. (The good people of Norwich weren't taking any chances this time.) Klein and I, though, were “too far gone” to settle for a coupla sandwiches, so we went out to a restaurant for a meal of fish and chips. It was the first time I had tried this English delicacy, but I certainly did enjoy it. That just about finished up the festivities for the night. The trip back to camp was uneventful. Before parting company, the officer in charge of our little party, Lt. Resnikoff, asked Klein and myself to come to Services at the Post Chapel Friday evening and Saturday morning. We promised to be there and kept our promise. Friday evening Lt. Huttner conducted the service, after which he told the story of Purim, ad-lib, in modern terminology. He's a very clever guy, with a delightful sense of humor, and his version of the story of Esther and Mordecai and Haman was as entertaining as a modern novel. He also explained the make-up of the Old Testament, dividing it into its various parts, giving thumb-nail sketches of the Prophets, old and new, and generally making his “spiel” so interesting that I, for one, hated to see it end. Incidentally, Sweet, you would do well to read the book of Esther, in which the narrative of Purim is contained. It has its hero, villain, heroine, and element of suspense, just like any modern novel, and is very easily read and understood.

All the foregoing, Chippie, pretty well explains why you will not receive letters for the 9th and 10th. I might have managed to write during the day, but for the fact that I was busy making up the pay-roll. The greatest drawback, though, is that I haven't had a chance to answer the six letters I received from you in those two days. I hardly know where to begin. I have all your letters now for the entire month of February. The chances are—I will receive very little, if any, mail for the next four or five days. I'll try to answer them during that time. Time doesn't allow of any more writing today.

It just occurred to me that you will receive this on or about 20 March, which, as if you didn't know, is our third anniversary. Therefore—HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, DEAR. May the next one see us reunited. My love to you Adele and all the family.

Lovingly,

Your Phil

Post #316 - March 10, 1944 I Had a Chocolate Fudge Sundae, the First Sundae I’ve Eaten Since I Saw You

 

March 10, 1944 

Darling Sweetheart, 

Last night, for the first time in a long while, I skipped my daily letter. I was "dead" mentally, as well as, physically and just not in a letter-writing mood. I had worked all day for Miss Hahn, as you know by now. Let's start at the beginning. 

Wednesday night I wrote you a short v-mail, telling you I was on my way to town with Anne. I accomplished what I had set out to do. I bought Jack N.'s gift. I could not purchase leather gloves, or an overseas cap as he had previously requested, for they do not sell them. This second request of a gabardine shirt and tie was the one I fulfilled. The shirt cost $3.50, the tie (reversible, by the way) was $1 and they send the package free of charge. I was very weary after having housecleaned and the warm department stores wearied me still further. Anne bought her baby shoes (she buys them without having them fit) and some wool for a sweater for him. We stopped at some little restaurant on Market Street and I had a chocolate fudge sundae, the first sundae I've eaten since I saw you. I looked at some corday thread to make myself a handbag and liked it immensely. However, they didn't give instructions and I didn't feel like tackling it without them. I landed in bed about 11.

Yesterday it was freezing out, though sunny. I worked all day and the time flew. My pay, usually $4, was half spent before I left. She paid me $2.35. I spent 85¢ on that Mother Goose Book for Adele and I bought a box of assorted cards, birthday, congratulations, etc., 14 cards for 80¢. They are regular 15¢ and 25¢ cards and very, very pretty. I have to send out scąds of cards this month and figured it would cost me way over that amount to buy decent cards. I have to send one to Bea Brown, Syd Brown, Rae, Ethel (her anniversary), Goldie's birthday, and so forth. Adele gave me a royal welcome and then kept me up all night, much to my regret. I was dyin' to get some sleep but I guess I was only dyin'. Adele, (hooray!) has cut a molar on the left, top side of her gums. That makes nine teeth in all. 

My sister went to "town" again. She bought herself a stunning powder blue "blazer" jacket (Blazers are sport-jackets trimmed with white edging) and a white, powder blue and brownish plaid skirt, pleated. The jacket cost $15, the skirt, $5. She looks swell in it. She also had a kelly green all pleated skirt made to order at the cost of $8.50. She has lovely clothes and is very clothes conscious. 

We had a long, detailed letter from Jack, the nicest one yet, in which he enclosed sample of the Valentines he and another fellow made up for the fellows to send to their wives and sweethearts on a mimeograph. They also composed lovely poetry to accompany the drawing of a pretty girl. I'll send it along after Harry and Goldie see it. They are due back tonight. 

I had a nice letter from Lee Nerenberg and one from Gloria. Do you remember Gloria's girlfriend Gert? Well, she is engaged and Gloria says her ring is dazzling. 

This morning there were two allotment checks in the mail - but - three mailless days for me. Can't understand such a long delay. Sure do hope there is something for me in the morning. My check is for $72. I'm giving Mom $60 (that clears us) and the other $12 I'm giving Betty on account of the $20 I owe her. Mom's check was for $68 - meaning that your allotment was raised to $37 also. Mom will now receive $74 monthly, $37 from you and $37 from Jack. The $68 was four months arrears on your allotment of $17 per month. Mine was $18 per month. Mom is going to buy a fur coat very shortly. It's cheaper to buy during the warmer months. She needs a coat badly and once used to a fur coat 

a cloth coat does not feel warm, as I have learned while wearing my fur coat. She wanted to get it, but didn't know how she could. She'll probably give a deposit on one and pay it out. I'm getting her a $25 bond with part of the money, as a saving. The balance will be put in her account until she decides to get the coat. 

I'm going to give notice at the bank for $54 to pay Adele's Insurance. I'm going up tonight to cash the checks as the bank is open late. 

I took my new sports coat out of the tailor’s today and Phil, it's a beauty! In fact it's so rich looking that I'm not going to use it to wear while out with Adele and around the house. It's too light, much lighter since it was cleaned. You'd love it - it's the type you particularly like. Boy was that some bargain. I still can't get over it. What do you think? 

Today is my Dad's last day at Parkway and he's not one little bit sorry about leaving. I hear he’s made quite a hit at the new place and the boss even wanted him to start tomorrow instead of the planned Monday of next week. My Dad has several things he wants to do and decided to let it go til Monday. 

I hope to look at a carriage next week if they have any on hand. 

Adele looks like a "punkin' with a little hair ribbon tied about her curls in the middle of her head. Sarah and I put her into a big paper bag and it all but covered her. She enjoyed it for while - exactly one minute - like every thing else. She wheels her dolly around the house in the stroller and when the dolly happens to fall down she has a fit til someone sits the dolly up again. She learned how to hold her breath while she drinks from a glass, long enough to keep the glass at her lips til she finishes the entire contents. She takes a mouthful, swallows, breathes, and starts all over again. She has developed a taste for milk and is drinking more of it these days. Phil, if you saw her walking around the house, tending to her own business, playing quietly and more often, getting on someone's ear, you wouldn't believe your eyes. We all call her ugly cause she's so gosh darn pretty. She has the loveliest, sweetest, most infectious laugh you ever heard. - I love to hear her laugh and tickle her and whatnot to get her to laugh. She's going to be a really beautiful girl someday, especially when she matures into a woman. 

I want to get this in the mail as I just returned from Broad St. and it is very late. More tomorrow, baby, I love you so much! 

Your Eve  

Post #315 - March 8, 1944 It Feels Good to Really Dress Up Once in a While and A Bill has been Introduced in Both the House and Senate to Award a “Bonus” to Us G.I.’s

 

March 8, 1944. 

Darling Hubby, 

I didn't think I could get a letter off today as time is short and I didn't want to skip a day. I'm ready to go downtown with Anne as we had planned earlier in the day and I'm taking a few minutes, sweet, to type this. I'm going 'cause I have to get Jack N’s birthday gift and this is a fine opportunity. No mail today and I'm hoping there will be tomorrow. I house cleaned the living room, doing every stitch of woodwork, every nook and cranny, in preparation for Passover. I took Adele out all morning and Anne and I went to Broad Street and 11th St to shop. It's very cold today. 

My mom is tickled about my Dad's new job and she has been told by several people that if my father comes up to qualifications and is a success at it, he can work himself up to $100 per week. Boy it does my heart good to know it! My mother even suggested the possibility of you getting into that concern once the war is over. Think you’d like something like that? I don't know about the job, but the wages sure do appeal to me. 

I'm all dressed up in my fur outfit. It feels good to really dress up once in a while. I wish I could do it at least once a week. Well, sweet, I really must dash if I'm to keep my appointment. I have to work all day tomorrow, but I'll try to get a long letter in somehow. Mind if I add the oft-used, never worn phrase, “I LOVE YOU, DARLING” Just once more? I do, you know, and just for extra measure I'm sending all my kisses. Adele’s too. She sings herself to sleep with this tune, “Ah, ah, da-da.” Shows you how much she thinks of you! Good night, angel, 

Your Eve 

March 8, 1944

Darling Eve,

Just received a gratifying pile of mail. They are your letters of 12-13, 14, 17 Feb. with Jack N's enclosed, your birthday card, and Jack N's of 5-9 Feb. Your letters, Sweet, are both informative and tender, and could I only do so, I would kiss you for each and every loving thought. Jack's letter is the usual mixture of wit, sentimentality, and information written in his usual clever manner. It is six pages of very delightful reading, which is just about three pages more than he usually favors me with. He flatters me unmercifully on my knack for letter writing and applied adjectives to my "furlough” letters out of all keeping to their actual worth. However, I won't say it's unpleasant to know that he holds me in so high esteem. From the tone of his letter, he evidently considers you one of the world's finer women, and takes no pains to hide his affection for you. In that respect, Chippie, he is only "one of the mob.” He makes no bones, either, about his latest "love" (the quotes indicate that I'm still skeptical), but for his sake I hope it's not the customary one-sided affair. "His" Adeline would do well to recognize the worth beneath that rather plain exterior. I mean to answer his letter immediately after I finish this one.

First, I'll deal with the enclosures, the dress ads. I thought both styles very attractive, especially the black and white check. Too bad the quality was inferior, 'cause I certainly would have loved to see you in that particular dress, Chippie, The "Hollywood" print would be a radical change from the type you have been accustomed to wearing, and while it looks mighty attractive in the drawing, I'd want to see it on you before I would commit myself. While we’re on the subject - you never did tell me what you thought of my idea of a hat to go with your new fur coat. Is it because you didn't think much of the idea that you failed to mention it in any of your subsequent letters?

Hal Cohen certainly is a good looking lad, but he better be if he expects to stand a chance with our Adele. Wish I could have been there when the Cohens visited. Bet the kids were more fun than a circus.

Delighted to hear that Dad got himself such a swell position. I can well appreciate how happy you must all be at the break. One thing puzzled me in this connection, though, I can understand that the Pallers will need new furniture, but in the same breath you say "us" need to completely furnish a house! Maybe I'm crazy, but I thought we had just about everything but that elusive coffee table, and perhaps a coupla end-tables and accessories. Maybe you're thinking 'way ahead of me, Ev. Anyhow, I'd appreciate it if you would explain yourself. 

Sorry to learn that you haven't had the opportunity to visit C. P. yet, due to Adele's and your own recent indisposition, but it's enough for me to know that you have it in mind. I know I can depend on you to fulfill your promise in this respect at your earliest opportunity, Sweet. 
Your paragraph about the punkin and the Frommers made a very charming picture. I begin to understand why our daughter is lionized by all the neighbors.

Your precious day-dreams (and you had better keep them such) about joining a USO entertainment unit in order to get "over here are just so much foolishness, of course, but the very thought that you think in that vein thrills me to the core. (Tell me more, Sweet - I love it!) 
If you haven't as yet shopped for that cap and the underwear - forget it, I've managed to procure both since I asked you to get them for me.

All the foregoing just about answers your three letters.

Now I'm trying to think of "news" from this end, and believe me it's no cinch. I think the one big item is the direct reaction of the guys to the news in the “Stars and Stripes" that a bill has been introduced in both the House and Senate to award a "bonus" to us G.I.'s on the basis of $3.00 a day for domestic service, and $4.00 a day for Foreign Service, with a maximum of $4500.00 per man. Well, you can just imagine what effect that bit of news had on us! (or can you?) For the remainder of the day, and even today it is just about the sole topic of conversation and discussion. Everyone had his own particular idea of the ideal way to use that money. As for me, all I can think about is how many Duplex Apartments I can "tie down" with that kind of money. I've heard a hundred different money-making schemes from a hundred different guys, but I'm more than ever "sold" on our original plan - remember, Honey? Moreover, I intend, once this mess is cleaned up, to do my utmost to make our plans materialize, If that bonus doesn't go up in the smoke of political dissension, we stand a good chance to make a break in that direction. I'll be watching developments closely - and hoping. Even if the bill is "killed", I won't give up my planning and working to that end. There are other ways to make a start, and I mean to exploit them all. When I asked the state of our finances in a recent letter, I was thinking along these same lines, What are you thinking these days, darling? 

There isn't any other news worthy of the name for the time being. 

In closing, I return all your avowals of love and adoration in like measure, my Evvie. In that department you are peerless and I hesitate to enlarge on the simple fact that I love you above all things material and imagined, convinced as I am that you have said it in a thousand better ways, Tender my love to all, kiss the punkin for me, and wait with equanimity and patience for the corporeal evidence of the love of your

Phil 

Post #314 - March 7, 1944 Adele Particularly Likes My Brother, Jack and Do Not Envy Anyone Anything, for in All Likelihood, You are More to be Envied

 

March 7, 1944 

My Sweetness, 

Yours lovingly of the the 28 and 29 Feb. received this morning. Sorry about the lone

v-mail but the others must have showed up by now. I sure hope your luck was good

on your investment. You, as well as I, feel badly about that two day pass. Please try

to figure your money more closely to provide for the future. Getting a monthly

allotment gives me an opportunity to look ahead and plan for the month. I do, but

sometimes I wonder about you. You asked our financial state, sweet, and I had

purposely kept you in the dark for I wanted to reach a certain figure before disclosing

our present condition. I think we are darn close, so here Tis. I'd say we aren't doin’

badly, but that doesn't give us any reason to slow up. Heretofore, when I say I'm

broke, I don't say it meaning that we haven't a cent to our names, but that our

allotment won't see me through a given month. Our bank account reads $155. Our

bonds total $450, plus an additional $8 in 25¢ stamps toward the latest bond. Our

debts are as follows: Mom - $60; Betty - $20 (for my coat and bag); Adele's

insurance (due in April) $54; Adele's stroller $? (About $15 or $20) (I hope). I have

funds for the carriage, so actually we owe $134. Those debts, however, will be wiped

clean with my "large" overdue allotment check, which I figure should total about $152

or thereabouts. All in all I figure us to be close to $500 clear, “our" savings. How does

that make you feel? That, however, is strictly between you and me and no one else.

I saved all the money you sent me, managing as best I could on what I had or made

at Miss Hahn's. Incidentally, she called me today and I shall be working for her all

day Thursday. That extra money will see me through the month beautifully. Once

my $80 comes through regularly and I pay $40 board, I shall endeavor to save $10

monthly, but I'm counting on you to do the "Big" things. Both Moms would like to see

me return to work if the war continues. It would afford us a chance to save for a

home of our own. I know that I want my own home above all, but I don't wish to

purchase it (if we can some day) immediately after the war. I want to see, first, what

your earning power will be before I make any post-war plans. I want some thing

concrete to plan on. Guess that covers all. Any comments? (The $450 figure is

maturity value by the way). It would be worth approximately $340 if cashed in.

(I'm not thinking of returning to work, not at the moment, at any rate). 

I shall have to withdraw $54 for the insurance if I'm to pay board and manage next

month. "You have it, Bud", to close the subject. 

I mailed off the Milky Ways this morning and one of Ruth's packages for the English

children. I got the latter through on your request for razor blades. If you're wondering

what to write to fill up space at times, please, remember to request chocolate.I can't send packages unless I have requests and I doubt if I have more than one

on hand at present. 

I expect to have the candy I ordered from Rae shortly and that will start off the

next package. 

Ethel felt the baby drop and I think the latest Chase will make its appearance most any day. I shall have to return Ethel's hichair before Adele is finished using it. I don't care, for my mother has a friend who has one down her cellar and told my mother she could have it. I understand it's a nice one,,all wood, with a leather seat and in good condition. I'll need it til she's past two and that will see me through. That takes care of a carriage and a hichair and I feel lots better. 

I doubt if you'll meet up with Milt for I hear he is headed for the Pacific. I have my fears about him more so than for any other one we know well, except Harry W. for Infantry never was to my liking. Bea Brown will be 16 on March 11 and is a regular "glamour babe."

March 18 is Goldie’s 23rd birthday, so try to remember it in one of your letters. By the way, did you ever get that letter off to her father? I haven’tt written, thanking them, for you said you would. Please do it immediately if you haven't. The address is: Mr. D. Silver, 502 Church Road, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. We had a card from Harry & Goldie and they are having a grand time

Adele brushes her lower lip with her fingers and makes a "bub-bub-bub-like" sound.

She is very imaginative (like her daddy) and “makes believe" constantly. Mom thinks

Adele has my. temperment, but I don’t think so. She pays no attention to Mom's

commands and sort of teases her if she can. Adele listens to me, though I must be

extremely firm. I can't help spoiling her myself, but those occasions are fairly far

between. I give her plenty of love - you ought to know! As much as I am privileged

to shower my love on her there is a terrible loneliness in connection with my loving you. They are two completed different. feelings and while hers keeps me busy the other is constantly there - for you, Phil. 

Adele particularly likes my brother Jack. It's no wonder - he gives her whatever she asks for or desires. He has a way with kids. 

I taught Adele to give me a "quickie" kiss. I kiss her cheek, a short, quick kiss, and 
she immediately returns it. When I'm lying down, she comes over and puts her head down beside mine. 

Dot called. She has her package ready to send out, but lost the request. I think I have one that I can spare. Don't forget to send requests!! When I told Dot I had bought another coat she was surprised. I didn’t tell anyone outside of the family what I paid for the fur coat or where I got it - so --I got them all thinking. I said I had gotten it at an unusual bargain price. Ellie's baby has the chicken pox, at the tender age of 9 months. Dot seems quite broken up, though she won't admit it." I'm afraid 
I know her too well. She can't kid me, and I think she knows it.

You said in your letter of the 29th that you dreamed of me and played a dirty trick on yourself - what was it - I'm all ears..I thought the asterisk stood for "Home" and all that it implies, but now I don't know. Am I right? I hate to be teased, as you well know. Come on, baby, out with it - oops - better put it back (I'll be good - honest). All my love, sweetheart.

Your Chippie

March 7, 1944

Eve, dearest,

Received yours of 15 Feb with Anne Furr’s letter enclosed. The mail situation gets no better. After I receive your letter of 25 Feb.—I get one ten days older. Do you wonder that I'm all mixed up?

Lucky Yale and Shirley to be able to get a furlough every few months. But we are luckier, Ev, in many ways. I'm sure you appreciate what they are, so do not envy anyone anything, for in all likelihood, you are more to be envied.

After a typically routine day, Burdine and I went to the movie to see “Miracle of Morgan's Creek” with Betty Hutton and Eddie Bracken. I enjoyed this one immensely and was sore from laughing afterward. It was just one hilarious situation after another, and the theater was in an almost constant uproar. Betty Hutton is as sweet and appealing in some scenes as she is rowdy and boisterous in others. She has a wonderful sense of dramatics and humor (a rare combination). To my mind, she is not only one of the most pleasing actresses, she is also the cleverest. Mark, my word, Chippie, she will yet make her mark in “straight” roles, although I'd hate to see her give up her singing and clowning. Eddie Bracken, too, deserves high praise. He is the perfect foil for Hutton, and makes the most of it. His performance, always good, is exceptional in this picture. The story itself is both clever and original. I wouldn't spoil it for you by telling you about it. If you can possibly manage it, Sweet, see it.

Today being Tuesday, we had ice cream at supper. On Tuesdays, too, we “air out” our beds and since it is late and I have not yet reassembled my bunk, I'll have to cut this short. My love to you, Adele, and all the family.

Devotedly,

Your Phil