Post #497 - October 30, 1944 Mr. First is Most Anxious to Have Me Learn the Insurance Business and It Was Your Dancing that Attracted Me to You from the First

 

Oct. 30, 1944

Dearest Phil,

This morning there was quite a bit of mail. Your letters of Oct. 11,13 & 14 were present and letters from Jack N. and Jack S. I am enclosing Jack N's, in the hope that you'll find some time to reply. I am a little surprised at you for letting it go this long.

And now to answer your mail - I can't believe that anyone can make $8000 gambling in one day - or is just that I'm not used to that kind of money. I wouldn't mind getting used to it -

The "eye doctor" is an optometrist (I'm sure I've mentioned it before). Mom only needed glasses to read the newspaper, as she could never see the type clearly. I think I told you that also.

I like the idea of those courses you mentioned and only hope you get to take advantage of them. I'll bet you could teach "Elementary English Grammar"! “No kiddin’”!

That just about answers all three letters, except, of course, your loving sentiments. I'll get to that in due time.

I didn't get to a movie last night after all. I was too tired by the time I got Adele to bed, cleaned her shoes, washed the few things there were to wash, and straightened up. I try very hard to get away in the evenings, but just can't seem to manage it. I'm in need of some recreation, but I don't mind waiting for a chance, as long as I have some mail from you to keep my spirits up.

Mr. First, the notary public and insurance man a few doors away, is most anxious to have me learn the insurance business, so that I can be of help to him in my spare ??? time. It isn't a bad idea, for he pays well and I like to work for him. I do a bit of work for him from time to time in the evening. Usually I type some minutes for him or a letter or two and he gives me a dollar for about an hour's work, which isn't bad at all.

Jack N.'s new address is as follows: Pvt. J. N. ,32,983,798, Ward C-12, Borden General Hospital, Chickasha, Oklahoma.

Goldie had a letter from Jack S, and he said he was put up for Sgt. and expects his stripe any day.

Since I'm just about out of news, I'll get on with the "sweet sentiments". Your letters only made me wish harder for the day when we will be reunited once more. The whole thing seems to be dragging along and I can't help getting rather impatient with it at times. Phil, darling, I adore you so much, and it's so hard to wait and wait and wait. It's as you say, "if 14 months is a long time, then all the time we'll be together after will be that much longer".

And so we come to the end of another day. I'm glad you at least had word from Eddie since it has been so long since we heard from him. As long as things keep going as they are I haven't a complaint though it wouldn't do me any good to complain. There are so many things that aren't as they should be - but they'll all be alright some day - they've just got to be! Good night for now, precious one, God bless you and keep you for

Your Eve

30 October 1944

Eve, dearest, 

Last night Klein and I went into town to visit with Evelyn and Bert. Evelyn's father, Mr. Cohen, was also there. He is a very nice old gentleman, and must have been very handsome in his day. He, Bert, and I played rummy for a while until supper time. Believe it or not, they eat supper at 10 P.M.! Evelyn received your letter, and had a great time teasing me about it. I asked her if I could see it, and you should have seen the reaction! Evelyn, Mr. Cohen, Bert and even Klein acted like I had committed murder or sumpin! No kiddin', Sweet, their shocked expressions and condemnation for presuming to ask to read my wife's letter, were so spontaneous and outraged, that I was dumbfounded. I'm still not sure whether they were kidding me or not as to whether they were really indignant at my request to read other people's mail, but I do know that I didn't get to see the letter. All the time, they kept talking among themselves (for my benefit) about whether they should answer your query about whether I make dates with other women over here. That, I knew, was strictly the bunk, ’cause I flatter myself that you wouldn't dream of asking them a question like that one. I told them as much, but that didn't deter them from ribbing me. By this time, I was most impatient to read your letter, and I threatened Evelyn with all sorts of dire reprisals if she didn't produce it, but evidently she wasn't impressed, ’cause she persisted in being contrary about it. Now that they've had their fun I guess they'll let me see it next time I visit. (I hope!)

Today, I was kept busy with the Company History. In the afternoon, your three V-mails arrived - hallelujah! They are dated 16, 19, 22 Oct.

That of the 16th advised me that my mail was still held up, that you were feeling pretty glum about it, that Harry is getting the station, that Jack is undecided about whether he should come home for a few weeks; or stick it out 'til he can come home for good, that Ethel and Mary came down from Canada, and that the punkin is having her way with Abe (and you, too, you old softie). The only thing that calls for comment is Jack's little problem. You don't know it, Sweet, but there may come a time when I'll have to make a like decision, and that day may not be very far in the future. But I have definitely made up my mind that rather than take three or four months in the States and facing the possibility of shipping out at the end of that time to the Pacific theater, I'd rather stick it out over here that much longer, thereby greatly reducing the possibility for ever seeing the Pacific Theater. I know you will agree that this is the wisest course, ’cause I remember that you said that the next time we are re-united you don't want to face another separation. Neither, for that matter, do I! Personally, I think Jack would be a fool to come home until he knows it is “permanent." But, as you say it is up to him to decide. I'm sure he is level-headed enough to recognize the right thing to do.

On the 19th, you write that you had a letter from Syd. Poor kid - he must be having a pretty rough time of it! I'm glad I have a letter on the way to him. The remainder of the letter inspires no particular comment.

On the 22nd you devoted half the letter to a description of Adele's new suit that you bought from Mr. Gorin. From your description, I would say you got a very good buy. Tell the punkin to wear it in the best of health - for me. What's this about "short-pants" becoming such a swell dancer? He must be pretty darned good if you compare him with Jack N! Can't say that I blame him, though, for liking to dance with you, Sweet. You are (and I say this without prejudice) one of the most graceful dancers I ever saw. If you remember, it was your dancing that attracted me to you from the first. Keep in practice, Sweet, 'cause it's been so long since I've danced, that you may have to coach me for a while after I get back. You drew a pretty delightful picture, Chippie, when you described your dad dancing with your mom and Adele dancing with her dollie. I gather that your folks must be getting on much better with each other these days, eh?

Well, Chippie, that about finishes me up for tonight. See you tomorrow, Baby. Until then, I am

Your ever-lovin'
Phil 

P.S. 'My love to all - but especially to you, my Evvie.

Post #496 - October 29, 1944 I Guess We’ll Have to Wait for Adele’s Third Birthday to Celebrate It “All Together” and Does Adele Still Show That Tendency to Left-Handedness?

 

Oct, 29, 1944

Dearest Sweetheart,

It's exactly one month to Adele's second birthday and I guess we'll have to wait for her third one to celebrate it "all together".

Last night, when I finished writing to you, I proceeded to write to Phil, Eddie Strongin and Milt. Now I'm completely caught up on my correspondence with the exception of one letter that I must write to Mickey Brown. It's a great feeling when you're all caught up and I only hope I stay that way for a while.

When I finished writing all the letters, I knitted on Diana's sweater for a while and then took myself upstairs to shower and set my hair. I got to bed at 11:15 and had a very restless night. Yesterday and today were very windy and all night long a northeasterly wind howled away. All the doors and windows banged and since it was almost impossible for me to sleep I laid wide awake and thought of you, sweet. Many sweet memories crowded my thoughts and I wished very much that you were back home with me, so that we could make some more. There'll come a day -

I was up bright and early, though I would have preferred to sleep (but Adele had other ideas) and after finishing with my duties about the house I bundled Adele up and walked over to Anne's, where I stayed for about an hour. She dressed Richy (who is a regular doll) and we sat on the porch and tried to chat. I say "tried" for the kids got to hitting each other and throwing each other down and I thought it best to take my leave, which I did.

From there I walked over to Seventh Street and paid the Meadoways a long owed visit. They were almost shocked to see me walk in. Sylvia's little boy is a regular demon and though he'll be three years old in December, he still wets his pants. Syl has dropped some 25 odd pounds and hasn't been feeling well. Mrs. M. looks wonderful, in spite of all her troubles. Adele had a great time riding Ellis' rocking horse and little station wagon.

I left the Meadoways at 12 and started home to prepare Adele's lunch After lunch I put her to bed, cleaned the living room and dining room and had some lunch myself. Now I'm typing this and since I'm almost finished and feel rather tired, I'm going right upstairs to nap. I haven't had any recreation for weeks and hope to take in a movie tonight, if Adele will go to sleep early. That brings me right up to the minute, baby, and so until tomorrow when I shall write once more (darn it - wish, I could say "see" you tomorrow) I say "I adore you, my darling husband". Pucker up, sweet, cause here I comes with a great big hug and kiss. Um! Let's do it all over again. And again - and again - gee, I'm in the mood for love

Eve

29 October 1944

Dearest Eve,

Just received two letters. They were yours of 18 Oct. (with snapshots enclosed), and Dot's of 16th Oct. I had just finished writing to Milt and Syd (at last!) when the mail come in.

It has been a queer kind of day. One moment the sun is shining brightly in a cloudless sky, and the next thing you know, it is raining like hell from the dark storm-clouds that weren't there a minute ago. Very confusin’, but not amoosin! Haven’t yet made up my mind whether I’ll go into town tonight or not. I think I will if the weather clears, but I definitely won’t if it does not.

The snapshots are very nice, sweet. You look better much better than you did in the last set of pictures you sent. The punkin looks good enough to eat and very large for her age (or am I nuts?) Truly, honey, she is as big as any three-year-old I ever saw. Oh yes, you can tell her for me that daddy doesn't acknowledge any left-handed salutes, so she'd better learn how to use her right arm. Which reminds me does she still show that tendency to left-handedness? The picture would seem to indicate as much. That sport-coat you are wearing is neat as a pin, Baby, and most attractive - I'd love to hug you - coat and all!

Can’t, for the life of me, understand why you haven’t had mail from me for so long. I hope you get five or six at a time when they finally do come through, Chippie. That ought to keep you happy for a day or two, huh?

I half-suspect that your innocent? chatter about that $18 bike for Adele, to be had at your place, is in the nature of a hint, no? I wish, darling, that I could take that hint, but I must confess that I’m not only completely broke, but in debt as well. I realize that you won't take very kindly to this bit of information, but I'd rather you bawled me out for that, rather than have you think even for a moment that I am so thick that I can't recognize a hint when I see it, or so ungenerous that I'd fail to send you the money for the bike if I had it. You must know how sorry I am that I can't oblige you in this instance, honey. Forgive me if you can.

Adele seems to be making quite a to-do over my socks. As for "daddy home - socks on”, please make her understand that it isn't for any lack of willingness on daddy's part that he is unable to oblige her just yet. And to answer your own query "whaddya say, daddy?”, I say this: I want to, honey - desperately, but I can't! So what can a guy do, eh? Your reference to the punkin as “(my) one and only daughter” makes me wonder if she would still be that if hadn't been away from you for so long, honey. – Or do you have some very definite ideas on the subject? - Yes, I know, just forget I mentioned it! Well, gee whiz, aint a guy allowed to wonder anymore without you getting all riled up about it? Now stop right there, dear, cause if you get me real good and mad, i'm just liable to do something that you'll be sorry for - know what I mean?

Gee, Baby, I can't even tease you anymore without suffering for it! Just thinking about how happy I would be to be with you once again and not knowing when it will be makes me feel so bad I could yell. I adore you, my Evvie—

Give my love to my “one and only daughter" (sounds almost like a reproach, doesn't it?). My love to all.

Devotedly, 

Your Phil

Post #495 - October 28, 1944 My Uncles are Dragging the Matter of My Grandmother’s Estate to Court and I Divided My Time Between Keeping the Fire Going and Knocking Out a Letter to the Editor of Coronet Magazine

 

Oct. 28, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I had decided not to write this evening, for I am in anything but a good mood. There was no mail again today, much to my dlsgust. In fact I'm just about so fed up with the mall situation that I've almost given up hope of ever getting any mail. God but it is annoying!

I had very busy day. In the morning I worked for Mr. Bellet and in the afternoon I worked for Miss Hahn. She was so happy that I gave up my time to come in that she gave me $2.50 instead of the usual $2 for four hours. I’m not very tired considering, but the lack of mail is getting on my nerves. I realize that it's not your fault, but I do hope you have been writing often, so that these long delays will not occur again. I don't think I told you that George got a 30 day deferment and so he won't be leaving until the end of Nov. Mr. May, our bookkeeper, was discharged today. Mr. Bellet gave him two weeks notice some time ago, as his sister is taking over. Mr. Bellet treated the bookkeeper very decently, even giving him his Xmas bonus in advance. I've been told that he gives bonuses for Xmas, and I'm wondering if I'll be in line for one. Here's hopin'!

I don't think I've told you, too, that Mom has dropped 20 lbs. as a result of her dieting. She looks and feels fine. She's noticeably thinner and it's flattering to her. To give you an idea of how well she does feel - she walked to and from the doctor's office today - 10 blocks up and 10 blocks back. Ain't that sumpin'? Especially for her! She's even going to buy a coat from Mrs. Frommer, that Mrs. Frommer no longer wishes. Can you imagine Mom fitting into one of Mrs. Frommer's coats? The coat she is going to buy is a good looking tweed coat, trimmed with black persian lamb. It's a fitted coat and it is most flattering. Mom went to the movies with Mrs. Frommer this evening. I'm going to do a little washing and hit the hay early, so I'll be fresh as a daisy tomorrow.

Goldie's father sent her a playpen for Diana from Poughkeepsie and it was damaged in transit. All she did was mention in a letter to her dad that she was advised by the doctor to prop Diana up in a playpen and just a few days later comes a playpen. He sure is wonderful to her. She'll either be paid for the damage or be given a new pen. Diana has had a funny rash under her arms and in most of her joints since she began to eat food and Goldie is having a hell of a time getting rid of it. The doctor was here yesterday and put the baby on a strict liquid diet, in an effort to learn what is causing the rash.

My Uncles are dragging the matter of my grandmother's estate to court and my mother and dad have to appear in court on Thursday. There's a whole story attached to the estate, one that I'll say for "some day" to tell you. In the meantime, sweet, I'm very close to the bottom (what ever are you thinking Philip???) and before I get "fresh" out of space, I'll simply say "I LOVE YOU."

Your Eve

28 October 1944

Dearest Darling,

It's three days since I've had mail from you, and since I've answered all your letters up to and including your V-mail of 15 Oct, you'll have to excuse me if I write of my own activities for a change, and if this is rather dull as a consequence.

Didn't write last night ’cause I went to see "Up in Mabel's Room" at the base theater. The rest of the evening was spent cleaning up for today's inspection. The picture was very entertaining - even if it was a rather inconsequential sort of comedy. If one wanted to criticize it on the usual grounds, it would be possible to write reams about all the wrong and stupid things about the plot, the production, and the performances of the players. But as it was evident from the first that the picture had no pretensions to greatness and was concerned only with providing a few laughs, it would be unkind to judge it on any other basis. It would be much more sporting to admit that it succeeded admirably in what it set out to do - and that's that! - 

Today, there was very little doing in the Orderly Room, so I divided my time between keeping the fire going and knocking out a letter to the editor of Coronet Magazine. Seems the magazine is running a contest in connection with an article written by Rep. John M. Coffee which expounds the merits of his bill for converting the state Department to civil service. Now you might think, Chippie, that that is a subject which is way over my head and therefore beyond my ability to propound on, but you would be wrong, ’cause I have written a letter on just that topic, which makes sense (at least my colleagues, Sgt. Murphy and Pvt. Stahle thought so). I did mean to make a carbon copy for you, Sweet, but I got absent-minded and forgot to insert the carbon. But don't fret yourself, honey. I'll send it along when Coronet returns it to me with a polite little note telling me how much they appreciated my little effort, better luck next time, etc., etc. However, since there are fifty prizes of $10 beside the $500 for the best letter, I'll be disappointed if I don't win one of those $10 bills. I'd hate to think that I couldn't win one prize out of 50! Anyway, here's hopin! 

Guess that's about all for tonight, Baby, 'cause it's just about time to hit the sack. Tomorrow, I think I'll go along with Klein to visit the Woolfs, whom I haven't seen for almost a month now.

Kiss my girl for me, Chippie. Here's a kiss for you from 

Your loving hubby,
Phil

P.S. Love to all

Post #494 - October 27, 1944 I am Trying to Write This V-Mail and Listen to Pres. Roosevelt, Who is Speaking at Shibe Park This Evening

 

Oct. 27, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I am trying to write this v-mail and listen to Pres. Roosevelt, who is speaking at Shibe Park this evening. He toured Philly today, as part of his compaign. I wanted very much to see him, but it didn't work out. I had to take Adele to Dr. Lefkoe this evening, and just got back. Her new shoes come up to his prescription and I let her wear them home. He didn't charge for this visit and said the following: To let her wear the corrective shoes for a month. At the end of the month I should decide for myself whether or not the shoes have corrected her fault and If It seems alright to me then it is not necessary for me to visit him again. On the other hand, if I feel she could stand another pair of corrective shoes, I should call him and he will advise me further. I don't think he considers Adele's so called "fault" in walking anything whatever and merely gave me the prescription to make sure. Most of the cases I have seen while there were definitely in need of a doctor's care and made me realize just how small her "fault" is. I'm sure it will disappear in due time, especially now that she has the corrective shoes.

Today there was quite a bit of mall. There were your letters of Oct. 8 & 9 with the two snaps of you enclosed, your Sept. bond, a letter from Milt and one from Eddie Strongin. Eddie also sent along a picture of himself and he looks very well. He asked for your address and I shall send it to him. In case it is possible for you to see him, here is his address: Pfc. E. S. 33,326,173, 290th N. P. Co., APO 65, c/o P. M. New York. I liked both snaps of you, honey, and it's good to see your well-loved countenance (a two bitter) again. Sure do hope I get to see it in the flesh real soon! Your letters inspired little comment, except that if you ever let five whole days pass without writing at least a card to me, I shall not respond for double that time. I, for one, cannot see, especially when you have a few whole days to yourself. why you cannot get one measly letter off. It would have saved me a lot of aggravation, believe me, and it makes me feel very badly to think that you could go five days without writing. I don't ever remember my doing that and I certainly don't want you to do it. I hope you don't think I'm "sounding off" but honestly, sweet, please consider how I've felt all month without mail and perhaps you’ll understand my attitude. I had hoped, too, that when you had some time off you'd go to see Eddie. I've been told that you, more than anyone, can be of aid in this matter. If you could speak to the hospital authorities and advise what they have to say and whether or not Eddie could be shipped back to the States, we’d all be immensely relieved. It's almost two months since we had mail from him and we’re all most anxious to have a report from you, If it is at all possible. You said, after visiting him, that you thought your presence did him a world of good. Perhaps If Ed were shipped back to the States to a hospital where we could visit him he would recover that much more quickly. I’m happy that you had a chance for some real relaxation, for I realize how important that is these days. I wish very much that I could have been with you, but I will be one day. I love you very much, darling, and am Immensely relieved to have some late mall, if you can call it that. Perhaps there will be more tomorrow. Night -

Your Eve

Post #493 - October 26, 1944 I Wonder If You Still Believe That You’ll See Me in ’44? and I Still Can’t Bring Myself to Dance with Any of These Gals

 

Oct. 26, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I don't think I have to tell you how disappointed I was when I failed to receive any mail from you this morning. It is two days since your letter of the 3rd came through and I had been hoping there would be a pile of mail for me. C’mon sumpin' and quickly!

I got to bed rather Iate last night. During the course of the evening (Rae was our guest) I managed to write four letters, (one to you, Eddie, Syd and Milt). I sewed the buttons (plain white ones) on Adele's newly made pink sweater and started on a sweater for Diana Jean. I have quite a bit of pink and blue wool left and am combining the two to make the sweater for Diana. Adele slept soundly through the night, but once more has gotten into the practice of arising early. I had a picnic getting up this morning but up I got anyhow. I accomplished much this morning before going into work such as, ironing a few personal pieces, blocking Adele's sweater, so it is now ready to be worn, cleaning, washing, etc. I also typed a v-mail to Jack Strongin.

We had a letter from Gloria this morning and she sent along a set of the snaps we took when she was here. She mentioned having sent a set to you, so I'm not sending them along. I don't like any of them, if’n you're Interested in what I think of them.

Mom received a check from the Insurance company (the interest on your policy) and had it in the drawer a week before she remembered to tell me about it. The check was for $3.25, which I thought was more than we've received in previous years. Do you recall? At any rate, I had a lot or trouble getting it cashed last year and finally deposited it to our account, marking it "For Deposit Only". I did the same thing this year, signing my name below yours. The teller, in adding it to the last balance, made a mistake by adding an additional $100 to the original figure. They had to go to a lot of trouble to straighten it out. All's well that ends well, so we now have $3.25 more to our credit.

October is almost over and I have yet to learn what you accomplished this month, if anything. Somehow you seem terribly far off, more so that I ever remember. I wonder if you still believe that you'll see me in ’44? I can't even conceive of any situation that would permit you to "see" me in ’44. I'm sure I'll see you in 45. In fact, I think it will be the latter part of ’45.

I typed this at work, since there was a lull in the afternoon. I can't think of anything else to say, except, of course, that I miss you and your letters very, very much and that I love you even more. I might be Impatient for word from you, but I'm doing my best not to let it get me down too much. Darling - - -

Your Eve

26 October 1944

Dearest Eve,

Having nothing to do for the moment, I thought I'd knock this out to make up for the letter I missed writing last night. Yesterday being Wednesday, there was the regular Enlisted Men's dance at the Aero Club. I had no real intention of stopping in there, but there was a USO show at the theater, and I was passing by the Aero Club on my way back to barracks when I remembered about the dance. At first, having two days’ growth of beard, I was reluctant to go in, but when I heard the swell music of the nine-piece G.I. band, I said to hell with it, and went in to watch and listen - beard and all! The U.S.O show was noteworthy only for the swell comedian, an old vaudeville star from Boston who is over here to help entertain the troops. I admire people like him and his partner, who are old enough to enjoy nothing better than home and fireside and peace and quiet, but come thousands of miles to put up with discomfort (and danger sometimes) just for the sake of bringing a few laughs to the boys in uniform. They are worthy of the highest admiration of anyone and everyone. The dance was very well attended, and the band just made me wanna dance. It was really in the groove. However, I still can't bring myself to dance with any of these gals, although I have no moral objections whatever where that is concerned. Every once in a while, a buddy of mine passing by would ask me why I wasn't dancing, and not knowing myself, exactly, I didn’t know what to tell them.

Your V-mail of 15 October arrived yesterday, but it was one of the "newsy" type that calls for no comment.

There was no mail today, except for a New Year's greeting from Dot. I'm wondering what is holding up that letter of your Mom's that you said she had sent off. Don't think I'll write tonight, since there was no mail. I intend to make the first show at the base theater, where "Double Indemnity” is the feature. Everyone says it's very good. Afterwards, I must clean up my web equipment (cartridge belt, leggings, etc.) for Saturday's inspection,

That’s about all I can think of to say right now, Sweet, so I'll sign off with my usual quota of love and kisses for you and Adele. My love to all.

Ever,
Your adoring Phil

Oct. 26, 1944

Dear Evelyn,

I’ve not heard from Phil since at least a month before my furlough. Tell him to get on the ball or else I will; then I’ll roll all the way over and scare hell out of him in London. Cheez! Wish I could!

Well, I’m enjoying a pleasant vacation in this man's army. When they’re done with me is the only time I'll be able to sensibly tell what this is all about.

Till then you'll have to be patient, at least for two months.

Have you heard from Phil by now? What's new with your brothers? Harry get that gas station yet? Wish him luck for me. Nice hearing about Adele, honest. Sure hope Jack gets in. No, I have not your letter in front of me; just thinking back to it. Did I tell you I stopped smoking? Yup, thirty four days ago and never a puff since. In person, I’ll tell you why. Quite a story. Gained 10 pounds since.

Marilyn????

You can see I’m doodling. Bye now my love to you all.

As ever,
Jackie

Post #492 - October 25, 1944 Milt Sent Me Some Jap Invasion Money for a Souvenir*

 

Oct. 25, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I was terribly disappointed to find that there was not even a single letter from you today. I thought the mail would come through in bunches once It got started, but evidently I was wrong. After that lovely letter yesterday I guess I can't complain, but when you consider it was written on Oct. 3rd - well that's a horse of another color.

I called Mike Nerenberg the other day and learned the following: that he and Frances are house hunting for a home to buy and that Mike expects to go overseas (Frances has an idea, but doesn't fully realize). I asked why he was house hunting at such a time and he said he thought it best to get her settled In a house.

I had another letter from Milt today (my third this week) and it was an air-mail letter, for a change. He sent me some Jap invasion money* for a souvenir. He wrote of his feelings when the Japs try to bomb them out and they are anything but pleasant.

I also had a letter from Dot and she says very little. Snuff signed up to take a diver's course and if it goes through he'll be sent to school in N.Y. for 17 weeks. Of course, it's all very indefinite, as the Army generally is. She doesn't expect to be there for more than a week or two. She said she’d tell me all about her adventures when she gets back.

We also had a letter from Shirley. She joined Yale the beginning of this month and never did stop in to say goodbye. I guess that was her way of saying goodbye. She says Yale's job is wonderful and that he works from 8 to 5 daily. She has the exact same hours and they go to work together. In fact they do everything together.

Rae is our guest again this evening. Adele recognized her instantly and made quite a fuss over her. She kept reminding Rae of the doll that Rae bought her some time ago. Rae, as usual, sends her best.

Harry expects to open the station this weekend. He's been working there all week, getting the place in order.

I called Lil this morning and learned something else. Myra's other brother, who is in Italy, was wounded in the hip. Boy, that family certainly has had its share of misfortune.

When I started this v-mail I hadn't the slightest Idea of how I would fill it up. Aren't you glad I'm so versatile when it comes to making speeches ? (Don't tell me). Anyway, sweet, I love you to bits - so there now.

Your Eve

*Japanese Invasion Money

Post #491 - October 24, 1944 I’m Glad You’d “Kiss” Adele Instead of Spanking Her and There is Nothing About Eddie’s Condition that Justifies Worriment on Anyone’s Part

 

Oct. 24, 1944

My Sweet,

At long, long last - “a" letter and very old one, too, as it is dated Oct. 3! However, it is still some form of mail and it is a delightful letter and I couldn't have had a better tonic for what ailed me the past few weeks. I get hungry for you just reading this letter -

I can't help wondering, at this late date, whether or not you are on furlough at the present time - or whether you have been moved, since you mention that you will take a furlough at the "end of this month if nothing prevents".

The meals the Army sees fit to bestow upon their men sound so good that my mouth is watering. Sure do wish I could keep you company at one of those meals!

I'm glad you'd "kiss" Adele instead of spanking her for being bad, and many is the time I wish you were here so that you could take her off my hands for a little while.

Stevens’ didn't go out of business as far as I know. I believe one of the family took over, or sumpin'.

The end of your letter is very beautiful, baby, and very little of it excites comment from me. All I want to do is get as close to you as possible, so I can do all the things I'm aching to do to you - (sigh)

As is usual when I use this stationery, I'm at the office. It's ten minutes to six and we'll be leaving shortly. I cleaned up every bit of work I had today and so I'm filling in the extra time with this, whether they like it or not. I had quite a busy morning; went to Broad St. to shop with my mother and then shopped in town for a short while before coming to work. Gimbel's had a big sale today and I thought I might pick up some thing. I darn near did, and there were some good buys to make, but I didn't had sufficient time to try on the suit and sports coat I might have purchased. For instance; the coat I liked was reduced from $42 to $28 and the suit from $35 to $20. That's what I call good buys. As long as I have the money I can always get something,

This evening I'm taking home three packages for Adele. The three packages set me back $2, but all items are very nice. One is a box of brightly colored chalk 12 sticks, for her blackboard; another is a set of five celluloid toys (some of the first to be released) that float in the water and keep a child amused while it is bathing; the third is a complicated affair to explain and so I shall cut the picture of it off the box and send it along to give you an idea of what it is. The blocks whirl around and around until they are barely visible. Adele ought to keep occupied for a little while, at any rate.

Back home again, sweet, and there was no more mail, though I had sort of expected some. My dad forgot to give me the stick to the toy (picture enclosed) and so we could not demonstrate the toy to Adele. She loved the celluloid toys, which consist of a red goose, a red ball, a red hoop with a dog looking through it, a little natural colored figure of a boy and a white celluloid dog. I floated all of them in the tub while she bathed and she didn't know which one to play with first.

As soon as Adele was asleep I washed and then I worked on her pink sweater. I am happy to report that I just finished the sweater, all except sewing the buttons on and blocking it. It came out nicely and I think I shall put her initials on it.

It's kind of late, sweet, and I'm very sleepy. Adele was restless all last night and woke several times. I felt sleepy all day long and I'm anxious to get to bed, as it is now eleven. You've undoubtedly been sleeping for hours and are probably ready to get up. So instead of saying my usual goodnight, I shall say "Good Mornin!". It's another day to love you my dearest one and how I love you! I am

Your Eve

24 October 1944 

Eve, dearest,

Sorry I missed writing these past two days, but something interfered both nights when I was about to settle down to writing. Nothing remarkable has transpired in that time, however, so you really haven't missed anything. Your letters are coming through regularly now, honey, and I have your “longie” of the 10th Oct, and your V-mails of 12, 13 Oct. As I have already said, nothing of any account has taken place, so t'll get right on with answering your letters. Did I tell you about the 3 lb. box of Loft's candies that I received from Gloria the other day? Well, I just finished writing to thank her for them. They are delicious candies, and I and my hut mates are enjoying them very much.

On the 12th, you bought home that blackboard for the punkin. That ought to keep her out of mischief for a while. You described that coat you were looking at for Adele as a "moss green, pimply plaid, but I’m hanged if I can visualize it. I always thought a plaid was a mixture of colors—then where does the moss-green come in? - Unless that is the predominating color. If such is the case, why didn’t you say so? Very confusing.— 

Just how big is a kid's (7-1/2D) shoe? Is it average, small, large, or what?

I was glad to read, Chippie, that you're not waiting for Milt to write, but are writing to him at intervals, anyhow. Now that I have written to all those to whom I “owed" letters, i'm only waiting for another break to write to Milt and Syd. I feel very guilty that I have not done so for so long a time,

Those vitamin tablets seem to be doing you a world of good, Chippie. Think you'll pull your weight up to 120?

So everyone thinks your new glosses tend to make you look more “intelligent.” (Not a very intelligent observation, if you ask me, but they probably meant that they made you look more “intellectual.”) Evidently, Sweet, glasses don’t flatter you.

That was a pretty expensive outfit your dad bought himself. For that kind of money, I used to be able to buy two suits and two top-coats but isn’t it sorta late in the season to be buying a "topcoat"?) Seems to me, with winter approaching, he'd do much better to get himself an “overcoat" (or is that what you meant in the first place?)

Tony Arcaro is certainly traveling! Don't hold your breath when I tell you this, Baby, and, above all, don't read into it any meaning other than what the bare statement implies, but there is a 50-50 chance that at least half of Anne's dream will materialize. But what's Anne wasting her dreams on me for?

I purposely left your letter of the 10th for the last, since it is the longest, and I wasn't sure. that I’d have time enough to answer it at this time. However, it's still early, so I'll start on it, anyway.

This was the day that you were “so happy" because (1) you received two of my letters and (2) because you finally got those shoes for the punkin—"and white ones, at that!" What can I say to that, darling, except my most hearty congratulations!

Don't let that War Dept. letter stating that Eddie is “still seriously ill" alarm you, Baby. Please take my word for it that there is nothing about his condition that justifies worriment on anyone’s part. If you'll re-read my letter on my visit to him, and give it a little thought, you may begin to understand why there is an apparent discrepancy between the opinions of the WD and myself. You may even get an inkling as to why his letters are so few and so “queer". Fershtaist?

I'm delighted, Sweet, that you liked the sweater patterns. Please, darling, make it your business to make at least one of them. I'd like few things better than to see them all one day in your wardrobe. Don’t think I’m not looking forward to watching you complete that bed-spread, either!

From what you say here, I gather that I needn't have any apprehensions on the candy question. Of course, i’m happy about the whole thing. I thank you, dear for your broad-mindedness in the matter. I half-suspected that you might discourage any tentative gifts of candy.

Reading about how much Adele loves to ride in cars makes me wonder if we'll be able to “manage” one once I get home. I certainly would like nothing better than to take my Chippies riding!

Your clipping that you enclosed proves that you, too, are thinking about what we shall do once I am home again. No, I don't think it would be a good idea to invest what money we have and can raise in a 10,000 home. I think it would be a much better idea to use the money getting established in business. Who knows, in a few years we may be able to put a substantial payment on a home, too. The gist of it is that a home cannot provide the revenue to start in business, but a business might easily pay for a home, ketch? Therefore, always being one to take first things first I’ll give you just one guess which it is to be.

I'm surprised anew each time you tell me that cousin Phil has written to you. Seems like the older I get and the more I see of people, the less I know about them and can judge them. I don't believe t have his address, and I think I owe him a letter. Speaking of Phil reminds me that I had a letter the other day from a Lt. Gene Forman, who ran across my name in the Red Cross Club at Norwich, and thinks he knows me. Evidently, he has me mixed up with cousin Phil, cause I never heard of the guy. However, since he isn’t stationed very far from where I am, I may get to meet him some day. I have replied to his letter, and am currently awaiting an answer. 

Well, Baby, that's about all, except that when you write, as you have here, about “picking up your arms and flying to (me)”, I can't help wishing that it were possible. - Which prompts this little thought:

If angel’s wings were mine to gain

Thru faith, or alms, or blameless life,
I'd scorn to to “look upon the wine”

I'd give my all to those in need—
I’d try my brand-new wings in flight—

And meet you half-way, angel mine.

All right, so it doesn’t rhyme - gee whiz!)

Oh well, if you insist it must rhyme, I’ll fix it—but I wouldn’t do it for anyone else!

Well? Oh, so you don't like that either, eh? Just skip it, then. Maybe some other time, when it’s not quite so late and I can think a little more clearly, huh?

G”night for now, honey. Cuddle up a little closer, will you? Ah—that’s better—much better! Did you remember to kiss the punkin for me? Good! I love you, Chippie.

Sleepily,

Your Phil