Post #506 - November 11, 1944 After Work I Went Straight to the Jewish Hospital to Visit Etta and Mickey and Over Here It is “Remembrance Day”. All the Boys are Wearing Red Poppies

 

Nov. 11, 1944

Dearest Phil,

At this very moment I am waiting for Nat to pick up Mom, Goldie and myself to take us to the party to be held at Lena's in honor of Vicki Paula Blank. I had a very full day today and I feel like going to the party just like I feel like having a hole in my head. I must compliment myself on my appearance, sweet, for I look, at the moment, just as you would want me to. My hair came out so perfect I am amazed. I have it up on both sides in a very soft pompadour and I have a large pile of fluff on my forehand (which is held in place by a net - only the fluff is in the net) and I have a large soft roll in the back, running up the sides to meet the pompadour, I have a large red flower in my hair and I'm wearing a pair of earrings I borrowed from Mom - silver rings that remind me of a native's earrings. I'm wearing my gray and white checked lumberjack dress that has the large silver buttons to compliment the earrings. I am wearing my new brown high heels, but I should be wearing black accessories to set it off right. I'll have to get some black accessories. The red trimming on the jacket compliments the red flower in my hair and it is a very attractive outfit. So much for yours very lovingly.

I went to work as usual this morning. After work I went straight to the Jewish hospital to visit Etta and Mickey. I got Etta a roly poly toy for Vicki and I bought Mickey a box of Helena Rubinstein dusting powder. Mickey was to check out of the hospital shortly after I arrived, so I got there just in time. Mickey, incidentally, had to go through the same test I went through for my kidneys while I was pregnant. Remember that day at the hospital, when I called you and told you I had fainted? Mickey didn't faint, but she, kept throwing up. The tests showed that she is perfectly okay, except for a slight inflammation near the bladder that will be cared for with medicine.

There was quite a gang to see Etta and I couldn't stay long. Etta looks well and the baby is a cutie. The baby is the image of Nat and I think it will be a "Blank" baby. The baby has small brown hairs on the top of her head, a small nose and a round face. Etta is nursing and expects to do so for a short while.

Nat's brother drove me home and I then had some lunch. My mother and Ruth agreed to keep Adele there until I finished what I had to do at home, I washed, cleaned, etc., had a bite of dinner and brought Adele home to bathe her and get her to bed. The little dear woke up this morning and said to me, “Daddy dear, come home, Mommy wants you daddy dear" (all in one breath) and she meant it too. I wish you could hear some of the things she rattles off during a day. Such things as, "Mommy, dress Adele" or "Mommy, go get washed" or "the choo-choo train is on Broad St.” and so on.

No more room, so will continue tomorrow. It's getting late and I hope Nat gets here soon. I adore you, my darling, and I wish very much that I could take you along with

Your Eve

11 November 144

Dearest Evvie,

Over here it is “Remembrance Day.” All the boys are wearing red poppies, which they acquired from the two English ladies who were distributing them in the mess-hall at dinner time. So you see, Chippie, the customs of the Americans and the British are pretty similar.

Today was clear, bright, and cold, but not nearly as windy as yesterday. I managed to take another chunk out of the pile of work I had on hand, in spite of the fact that Sgt. Overman is remodeling the Orderly Room, and things were in a bit of a mess as a consequence. Tomorrow, I hope to clear enough of it so that I can take off on pass on the 13th, Tonight I am going to try to call Eddie on the phone. If he is still at the hospital, I will visit him. I'm going to try, too, to reach Harry W. on the phone. Wish me luck, Chippie. If I am lucky enough to contact both of them, I will take a furlough and visit them. 

Your letters of 30 Oct. and 1 Nov. arrived this afternoon complete with Jack N’s letter and Jack S.’s. V-mail and those scrumptious pin-ups, and, oh yes, that announcement for Harry's new filling station. Wish him luck for me, will you honey?

Glad to note in yours of 30 Oct. that you received three of my letters all at once. That's more like it! Thanks for Jack N's new address. You know by now that I have written to him. I am currently awaiting a reply. Brother Jack's V-mail contained one item that aroused my curiosity. What was that rumor about Harry W. that he mentions?

Your paragraph about the punkin's independence about being helped downstairs is very sweet, darling. I'll have some more of the same, if you don't mind.

That second letter you say you wrote on 1 Nov. (and I am flattered!) hasn’t arrived yet.

Sorry if I seem to cut this short, sweetheart, but if I'm going to make those calls tonight, I'd better be moving along to the Aero Club, where the public phones are located.

See you tomorrow, honey. À loving kiss for you. Pass one on to Adele for me, will you? My love to all.

Ever,
Your Phil

Post #505 - November 10, 1944 I Wondered if You, Perchance, Would See That Same Comet

 

10 November 1944 

My Own Darling,

Just returned from the base theater, where I saw a very entertaining film. It was "It Happened Tomorrow," with D. Powell, Linda Darnell and Jack Oakie. It's a sort of a fantasy - but interesting as well as amusing. Darnell is darkly beautiful. By a strange coincidence, you write about her in your V-mail of 31 Oct., received yesterday. You saw her in “Summer Storm,” remember? You seem to have worked up a strong dislike for George Sanders (not Saunders) in this one. Your choice of words in the paragraph describing your reactions to the picture amused me, Sweet. Some day I'm going to ask you what you meant when you described the character Sanders played as "weak sexually.” There isn't anything else in this letter that excites any comment.

I know you are wondering why I waited 'til today to answer the letter received yesterday, so I’ll hasten to explain: Last night, in company with twelve other fellows from the base, I went to the theater. The party was arranged by the Red Cross workers here on the base, and it proved entirely worth-while. One of our trucks took us into town, dropped us at the theater, and picked us up after the show and returned us to the base. The play, in three acts, was titled "Murder Without Crime;’ the players were the Colchester Repertory Company, and we all enjoyed it immensely. There were only four principals in the cast, and all three acts took place on the same set, but so wonderful were the actors, and so ingenious the plot, that the production overcame these usually fatal handicaps to prove a great success. It was truly a thrilling experience, Chippie, and I wished very much that you could have been there.

Today was another busy one for me, but unlike the last two days - no mail! 

Walking back from the movies tonight, I was thinking of you, darling (as when don't I?). It is very cold and windy out, but the sky was clear, and the stars twinkled as if buffed to brightness by the careering of the wind. Suddenly, as I looked, a comet trailed a bright tail through the sky. I wondered if you, perchance, would see that same comet. Darling, I miss you so much, that you are hardly ever out of my thoughts. I'm so hungry for the sight and feel of you—.

Good-night, my lovely; my dearest love to our precious punkin. Love to all from

Your Phil

PROGRAM:

BOROUGH OF COLCHESTER 

THE COLCHESTER REPERTORY THEATRE TRUST
(Director of Productions, ROBERT A. DIGBY)
presents the COLCHESTER REPERTORY COMPANY
(Under the patronage of His Worship the Mayor, the Aldermen and Councillors of Colchester)

Murder Without Crime
November 6th-November 11th
“Our true intent is all for your delight"

PROGRAMME - THREEPENCE
Benham and Company Limited, Printers, Colchester

THE COLCHESTER REPERTORY THEATRE TRUST
(Director of Productions, Robert A. Digby) presents The Colchester Repertory Company in "MURDER WITHOUT CRIME"
By J. LEE THOMPSON

Cast in order of appearance:

STEPHEN                                  PETER BROWNING

GRENA (his mistress)                ESMÉE GULLAN 

MATTHEW (his friend)               MICHAEL LOGAN 

JAN (Stephen's wife)                  BARBARA WOOD

The action of the play takes place in Stephen's Flat in Matthew's house in Mayfair.

ACT I. Scene 1. Evening, Scene 2. About one hour later.

ACT II. Scene 1. Next morning. Scene 2. Half-an-hour later.

ACT III. A few minutes later.

There will be an Interval of 7 minutes between the Acts.

Furniture by S. Bond. Play produced by Robert A. Digby.
Cigarettes by Abdulla. 

Sets designed and executed by Diana B. Davis in the Theatre

Secretary
JUDITH VOWLES
Stage Manager
PATIENCE BROWN 

Assistant Stage Manager
PAMELA HAWKER 

Electrician and Carpenter
HERBERT WOODHURST 

Tea and Coffee supplied by Jacklins. 

AIR RAID WARNING. - In the event of an Air Raid Warning the sign on the right of the stage will be illuminated. The performance will continue.

For Two Weeks, November 13th-November 25th, "AS YOU LIKE IT," by William Shakespeare
Evenings at 6.45, Matinees Thursday & Saturday, 2.30. Box Office now open. Tel. 3948

Car and Lorry Owners PROTECT YOUR RADIATORS
with our Anti-Freezing Compound
(No restrictions) Non-inflammable, Odourless, Non evaporating, Harmless to Rubber Joints and Paintwork 

Kent, Blaxill & Co. Ltd
3a. 100/104, HIGH STREET, 

COLCHESTER. "Phone 2271 (3 lines)

Go to Tel. 2157

JACKLIN'S CAFÉ

for LUNCHEONS and TEAS 

Spend your Sweet Points with us 

Also Complete Tobacconists 

147. High Street, Colchester

One of the few Restaurants giving really efficient service at pre-war prices
You must try “LASTS” 

High Street Colchester

Every Small Ad. Appears in Over 21,000 Newspapers
ESSEX COUNTY STANDARD
COLCHESTER GAZETTE

Post #504 - November 8, 9, 1944 No, Darling, I Don’t Think I’ll be Home for Adele’s Second Birthday and I Read the News of the New Bombs V1 and V2

8 November 1944 

My darling Chippie,

I told you so! - and what's more, I'm highly gratified at the way it all turned out. Believe me, I would have been a pretty sad customer this evening if it had been. otherwise.

It was a very windy day, today, and it was a struggle getting down to the mess-hall. (When I write about the weather it's only because i'm rather at a loss for any thing else to write about.) It was a purely routine day which, these days, is synonymous with saying a busy day.

Just finished playing about a dozen games of ping-pong with Stahle and Nicholson. Stahle is good enough to beat me once in a while, but Nicholson just didn't have any luck at all. That's about all I can tell you of myself today, Sweet. Your letter (V-mail) of 29 Oct. arrived today and I’ll see what I can find in it to talk about.

You start off by reminding me that it is just a month to the punkin's second birthday. I was well aware of it at the time, Chippie, though I saw no point in mentioning it at the time. Never fear, Sweet, her present from daddy is in the making. I'm not going to tell you what it. is (don't you just love surprises?), but I will be sending it along in a few days. No, darling, I don't think I’ll be home for Adele's second birthday. Please convey my regrets to her and tell her that daddy will certainly do his best to be with her before her next birthday rolls around.

You go on to say that you spent a wakeful night and lay a long time sleepless thinking of me and conjuring up “many sweet memories." I'm flattered, my sweet, and grateful, but I do wish you had gone a little more into detail,—y’know?

The rest of your letter describes the routine of your day, so there isn't anything more I can say, is there? Thanks. for the kiss at the end, Baby. You make it sound so real I can almost taste it. But, as you say, sweetheart, “there will come a day!” - (and what a day!!!).

And now, if you'll excuse me, t'll say good night for the nonce. Pucker up yourself, Ev, 'cause here comes 

Your Phil

November 9, 1944

Dearest Sweetheart,

No mail this morning and I was terribly disappointed, but it is possible that there was some this afternoon. Here's hopin'.

I didn't make out so well in the Gin Rummy game last night, but then my loss wasn't so bad either. Only 20¢. I don't have any luck with cards, but that remains to be seen. Two of the girls from our previous game were present and we broke up at 11:15.

I got into work at 11 again today and I'm pretty tired this evening. I'm typing this at the office, but I shall finish it at home.

Nov. 10, 1944 

I was so busy with “little things” last night that it was 11 o'clock before I knew it & I was too tired to try to write. l started to iron in the morning & finished in the evening.

On our way home George stopped at Lil's & I dropped off the belated birthday gifts. I also called Clara & ordered a bottle of 500 combevita pills - cost 7.20 or thereabouts. Lil called to thank us and I chatted with her a while. Goldie went up to the hospital to see Etta & Nat brought her home. He stopped in to invite us to a large shindig which will be held at Lena's tomorrow night. Etta wants a party, regardless of whether it was a boy or girl.

Home again, only to find there is still no mail. Since tomorrow is Armistice Day I shall have to wait till Monday for mail, and the prospect is anything but enticing.

Seymour called home last night to inform the folks that he "is sailing" and has an idea they may be headed for the Aleutians.

I'm remembering to enclose the powder sample this evening. Hope you like it. I'm very weary again this evening and so I shall say good night, shower, set my hair and hit the hay. I love you so much, my darling -

I read the news of the new bombs V1 and V2 and I can't help wondering how they effect you, if at all. I wish very much that the mail would start to come through regularly. And so baby, I say again, I am and always will be

Your Eve

Post #503 - November 7, 1944 Etta’s Daughter’s Name Will Be Vicki Paula Blank and Pvt. Stahle is Possessed of a Delicious Sense of Humor, and Being a Talented Story-Teller and Mimic, He has Me Laughing thru Most of the Day

 

Nov. 7, 1944

Dearest Phil,

Am banging this off during office hours, as we seem to have very little to do this past week. I didn't get into work till 1:30 and by that time most of the bills had been finished by Jessie.

Forgot to remember to tell you that Snuffy is being shipped to Aberdeen Proving Grounds to learn about Diesel engines and expects to be there for at least four weeks. I wrote so damn much on Sunday I can't remember what I did write. I wore my dubonnet shoes out to Dot's and they hurt me so much I'm going to discard them. I promised to give them to Dot, just as soon as I get another pair of shoes.

I voted the straight Democratic ticket this morning. Did you vote for president? We gave your name for the soldier ballot.

I also forgot to send along the sample of powder you requested and I only hope I don't forget to put it in when I get home.

I wore my new grey checked lumberjack dress today and Jessie thinks it very flattering to my figure. They sold this dress at the place where I bought the light yellow one and it sold for $18.95 there. I only paid $14.95, so I guess I got a bargain.

I had another v-mail from Milt today dated 10/25/44, and my last letter from you, which I received on Saturday was only dated 10/20. That's the mails for you. No doubt they will be slow coming through what with Xmas just a few weeks away.

Notice that I started the past four paragraphs with "I" and that's not good. It's a little past five, and I'm keepin' our date, but I'm afraid I'll have to finish this later, as some work just came in and I want to complete it before leaving the office. See you later, sweet,

Here it is Nov. 8th and I did not manage to finish this yesterday. There was no mail during the past two days and I'm terribly disappointed once more. I'm very happy, though, to know that President Roosevelt is still "in" and I know you are, too.

Understand that Etta's daughter’s name will be Vicki Paula Blank, Pretty isn't it? Nat is as proud as a peacock.

We had a v-mail from Eddie Strongin today and he is now in France. He mentioned that he rode through the streets of Paris and it is a nice city.

Ethel and Al came over last night and we were busy chatting and when I finally decided to write, it was much too late and I was too sleepy, Paul is getting hebrew lessons' and is picking it up quickly.

I worked a long hard seven hours today. I don't know if I told you or not, but Jessie is teaching me all the bookkeeping in the event she has to leave suddenly. I shall be able to take over the entire office. Of course, if this. should be the case, I would expect him to make up the difference in salary. Mr. May made anywhere from $44 to $52.

What a job I had with the Accounts Payable. It didn't balance in the end, but I found my errors soon enough. I felt kinda proud of myself, for I did it in fairly good time, considering my experience. Bookkeeping is a lot easier work than typing, shorthand, etc, but it sure does tire one mentally.

I'm rather weary this evening and intended to get right to bed. However, Fay just called and since today happens to be her birthday and she needs one more hand to complete a game of gin rummy, I consented to be "it". I intend to get home early in spite of the game and it never hurts to get out, even though you are tired.

"I'm hoping there will be some "late" mail tomorrow. Do you realize, sweet, that the last letter I had from you was dated Oct. 20th, and the letter we received from Eddie Strongin today was dated Oct. 27th! The mail from England is coming through very poorly.

I love you so much, baby, and this continual waiting gets me down. It's bad enough not to see or talk to you, but the lack of mail makes life unbearable for me. Love is such a wonderful thing! I just love being

Your Eve

Will send the powder sample some other time. Notice that I haven't mentioned anything about your darlin' daughter', but rest assured that she is fine and getting more talkative each day. She "woves " you very much, too.

7 November 1944

Dearest Eve,

Today is election day back home, and I see by the limey papers that it's a real hot contest. I have no doubts as to the outcome. Tomorrow I'll be saying "I told you so.” Today, too, was a very busy one for me. Seems like the more I get done, the more I have left to do for the following day. I like to be busy like this. I feel like I'm accomplishing something, and the time goes quickly, but I hate to be interrupted when t'm busy. When someone else is around to answer the phone, I get a lot done, but when I have to answer it myself, I gain nothing but a frayed temper. Today, fortunately, both Sgt. Murphy and Pvt. Stahle stuck pretty close to the Orderly Room, so I was able to work unmolested. Did I tell you about Pvt. Stahle? He just joined the company a few months back. He is a likable kid of about 21, a good typist, and pretty well-versed on correspondence. I am working with him on the payroll, officers pay.vouchers, service records, etc. and gradually breaking him in to the work I have been doing. He is a great clown, though, and I have a helluva time getting him to sit still long enough to get something done. He is possessed of a delicious sense of humor, and being a talented story-teller and mimic, he has me laughing thru most of the day. The wonder is that 't get anything done while he is around.

There wasn't any mail at all today, and because I am all caught up answering your letters, I'm rather at a loss for things to tell you, honey.

Right now, I'm sitting pretty close to the stove, ’cause it is pretty cold out. It looks very much like the winter is here at last. The picture at the base theater is "Mask of Demetrios", which I saw in London on my last pass, so I think I'll finish this and turn in early - for a change. Please excuse the brevity of this letter, Sweet, but I just don't seem to be able to think of another thing to say - except - I love you so much, my Chippie! Å kiss and a hug for the punkin. My love to all.

Always,

Your adoring Phil

Post #502 - November 6, 1944 It Was a GIRL for Etta and Wales is Too Far from Here to Make the Trip Advisable on a 48-Hour Pass

 

Nov. 6, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I got into work an hour earlier today, as tomorrow is Election Day and since I have no one to leave with Adele (my mother works at the polls) until Ruth comes home from school, I thought I'd make up for the time that will be lost. I called home to find out if there was any mail for me and was told that there is a letter from you. Gee, I can hardly wait til I get home to read it!

Immediately after I mailed your letter last night, Mom walked in with the announcement "That it was a GIRL for Etta". Can you beat that! Not one Strongin has had a boy - yet. Al says he's going to change his name and perhaps they, too, will have a girl, I'll probably see Etta some time this week at the hospital and I'll give you more details. I intend to gift the newcomer with $5.

Know something, sweet, I feel lots better for that long letter I wrote yesterday. I feel as if I can contend with anything now, for the weight in my chest has lifted somewhat.

I also wrote to Gloria last night, as I had to forward her check. I'm dropping her a card tonight to tell her about the happy event. They tell me Nat was disappointed, for he wanted a boy very much.

I guess you know, honey, that I'm voting for the first time in my life - for President. No need to tell you who gets my vote - you know. I intend to vote the straight Democratic ticket.

Today, for the first time in months, I'm wearing that girdle I ordered shortly after Adele's birth. It helps my posture a great deal, but I just can't seem to get comfortable in it. Today, too, the weather is freezing and it helps to keep me warm, if anything,

Tomorrow is my Dad's birthday and I've already promised to buy him a good felt hat to go with his new topcoat. Since I'm flat till I get paid this weekend, he'll have to wait til then.

I got to bed very early last night and had a good night's rest. Adele woke rather early and I found her wet, so I took off her wet sleeper bottoms and took her into bed with me, and we slept together for the next two hours.

I shall finish this at home, as I'm anxious to see what the contents of your letter are. It's just a little after five, baby, and I'm keeping our date. If you reach out you could touch me - that's how close I feel, See ya later, sweet.

I found your very short letter of the 18th Oct. waiting, Nothing in it inspires any comment on my part. I'm sure you've received the package containing the bottles and nipples by this time.

You know, sweet, I've made it a point never to "ask" Mom to take care of Adele, I simply tell her that I have to go somewhere and if she doesn't offer to take the kid off my hands I make other arrangements. Tomorrow, for instance, she would merely have to give Adele lunch and put her to bed. Ruth would be here by the time Adele got up. As it is I'm staying home from work long enough to put Adele up to bed, as well as give her lunch. Mom must have sensed that I was mad, for this evening she said to me, "I guess I'll have to take care of Adele from the time you leave til Ruth gets here". I told her there was nothing to do, for in all probability Adele will be sleeping till Ruth arrives, My mother has promised to stop in to see that everything is alright while she is sleeping. My mother is going to be a watcher tomorrow.

Etta's baby weighed 6 lbs. 14-1/2 ozs, or one-half ounce more than Adele did. Considering how enormous Etta was, I'm sort of surprised.

I also managed to write to Jack and Gloria at work and now I must write a v-mail to Milt, as I had one from him today. That's what I call "keeping up with my correspondence."

I ate supper with Mom (Goldie waits for Harry to come home now) and while she is washing the few dishes I am typing this to you. I'm going to run along now, for I must bring Adele home, bathe her, play with her and get her to bed. Adele is still just as pretty as a picture, but I'm having a hard time keeping her hair neat, It's at a stage where it's just a little too long and a little too short to do anything with it. I part it on the left side and pin the fuller side back with a beret. (She calls it a beeyet).

Sure do hate to go, baby, but you know how it is, I'm loving you more with each passing day and missing you more than ever. Sometimes I think I'll just die if I don't get to see you soon. Phil, darling - -

Your Evvie

6 November 

My darling, 

Went to the movies last night to see " That Night in Rio" and came away very pleased with it. It had everything! The production and settings were no less than beautiful, Carmen Miranda was at her best both musically and as a comedienne; the music was wonderful; Don Ameche gave his best performance to date; Alice Faye was radiantly lovely, and the plot was delightfully daring and risqué What more could one want of a picture? I have no idea how old this one is, but if you get a chance to see it, don't pass it up, Chippie - you'll love it!

Today's mail brought your V-mails of 27th and 28th Oct. You talked about trying to see F.D.R. on the occasion of his appearance in Philly. I gathered from this that he is the man you intend to vote for tomorrow. I mailed my ballot about a week ago. You know, of course, who got my vote. I'm pleased, Chippie, that you concur with my choice. You go on to talk about your visit to Dr. Lefkoe, and I'm very glad to know that the punkin's "fault", as you call it, is nothing to be concerned about. That is the best news I’ve had for months. It takes a great load off my mind - you may be sure.

Thanks for Eddie Strongin's address, honey. Wales is too far from here to make the trip advisable on a 48-hour pass, but if one of us gets a furlough, maybe we'll get together.

Now, about your brother Eddie—From the tone of your remarks, Sweet, I gather that you are disappointed in me because I haven't seen him again, or tried to find out more about him. I thought I made it pretty plain, honey, that I'm not one bit concerned about Eddie's condition, and tried to make you understand that you should rely on my word in the matter. He is perfectly O.K., of that I am sure, but to further reassure you, I am planning to see him about the 14th of this month. At the same time, I may try to see Harry W. I think I know where he is, but it is pretty far from here. I may take a furlough (if I can get hold of enough money), in which case I'll try to see both Eddies and Limey. Please don't think unkindly of me, Ev, because I don't seem to be sufficiently interested in Eddie. The fact is, if you only knew it, that there are factors involved that you don't appreciate, and which I can't explain here. Just trust me to do my best in the matter. If it doesn't strike you as being good enough, you may take it for granted that I could not do otherwise. I must apologize, too, honey, for failing to write for those five days you mention. For the life of me, I can't remember what it was that prevented me, but I do know that it is inexcusable. Nor do I expect to be forgiven for it. I can only say that I am very sorry, and that it certainly won't happen again. You have my word for it, darling.

The biggest news in your V-mail of the 28th was that Mom has dropped 20 pounds by dieting. I can hardly believe it! Somehow, I just can't picture her wearing one of Mrs. Frommer's coats. You simply must make her take a picture. I gotta see her new stream-lined “figger” for myself. The rest of your letter is “small talk,” and calls for no comment except - your closing sentence. I loved it, Chippie, 'cause it was as cute and clever as anything you ever said or wrote. Next time you "get ‘fresh’ out of space" I hope you have as happy an inspiration as this one. Lady, I could just eat you up for something like that, so have a care!

And now, because Stahle and I are going to work on the payroll tonight, and because we don't expect to finish much before midnight, and because I'm just about “writ out,” anyhow, I'll say au revoir, my dearest. My dearest love to Miss Adele Bara. As for you - well, I just adore you! (—or did you suspect that?) My love to all.

Devotedly,
Your Phil

Post #501 - November 4, 5, 1944 All I Can Say to the Whole Setup is a Very Definite NO and Who Needs Pin-Ups?!

 

4 Nov. 1944

Dear Phil,

I have been trying for some time to settle down so as to let you in on what is new. Well I guess by the time you get this letter you will already have received one from Dot, so by me telling you that she was down here should not be of a surprise to you. Well Phil it sure was a damn good feeling to see her. It was only a short time that I was away from home, and I missed her like I never thought I could anyone. I now have a faint idea of what you fellows over there must go through,

I am Bn. C.Q. today and there isn't a damn thing to do. I just finished a letter to Dot. & you were the next one to come to come out of my little red book. It is about time isn 't it. Do not give me hell as I know I have not been a good boy. As I have once told you before it is one hell of a job to sit down and write to anyone. By the time I finish my daily letter to Dot, I haven't the patience to write to anyone else. Enough of this so maybe I can give you some news.

I have been alerted that I am going to Aberdeen Md. for a four weeks course in Deseil Motor Mechinics, personally I don't know the first thing about it but what the hell it may be interesting. There is one good point about it and that is that. I have hopes of going home for the weekends.

I received a letter from Evie. last week and she tells me that she has not heard from you lately. Again I hope that you are still in England. If I remember correctly she said that you were going to see her brother. Have you? If so how is he?

We are in 0.D's down here as of Nov, 1st and let me tell you that it is still as hot as the devil here. Oh hell, what's the use of griping I’ll be up north very shortly.

We have been having a lot of fun in camp, ever since we finished basic training. Let me tell you about a Lt. we had with us, at one time. He asked me how you take an Aerial photograph, with an aerial of course. He liked of died when he heard that. His old cry was "You ain't listening  tell him sargeant, tell him. He once put another question to me." What is the best way to protect yourself from Syphilis”, Keep your pecker in your pants I told him,

Well Phil. so long for now and take care of yourself.

As ever

Snuff

Nov. 5th, 1944

Dearest Phil,

I didn't write yesterday, as I went out to see Dot. I did have three gorgeous letters from you, sweetheart, all of which dealt mostly with your plans upon our reunion. Since you see fit to go into detail, I'm going to go to a lot of trouble and give you a lot of details about things I've been wanting to tell you for a long, long time. Your letters were those of the 16,17 and 20 Oct. As for my reaction - at the present time all I can say to the whole setup is a very definite NO. Phil I detected a million flaws in the idea, not that I wouldn't be willing to try it, but there are very many things to consider which you neglect completely. Do you, for one minute, think I would sleep in boarding houses with Adele? It isn't like it was before and it never will be that way again until Adele is a grown young woman. Your life is not your own when you have a child and while this applies more to me than you, you are, nevertheless, more tied down than previously. I like the idea of going into business, but I don't want to go into business immediately upon your return. I'm sure you realize that when you have your own business you must devote double the time you would to an ordinary job, and I don't particularly care for the idea of being tied down more than necessary when you first return. It's really very difficult to even plan, though it does make interesting conversation and gives us something to look forward to.

When I mentioned the idea to the Moms, they both disliked it intensely. Mom (yours) doesn't think Jack Nerenberg would make a good partner and she isn't too crazy about Jack anyway. However, and of great importance is this: You, evidently do not wish to live at 4906 when you return. That is the conclusion my mother drew. For a long time now, my mother has been urging me to give up the house and return home. She would only charge me a small amount for caring for Adele and my board, say $12 to $15 per week and I would have my entire allotment check, plus a good portion of my salary to myself, plus your bond. In that way we could really save a lot of money and I wouldn't have to break my neck for it. I want you to answer me “yes" or "no" as to whether I should give up the house and go home and I shall await your reply before saying or doing anything.

Of course, there are many other reasons why my mother is dissatisfled. She claims that this house was "ours" and not the "Strongins" who have every benefit mentionable, but refuse to cooperate in the matter of caring for or even having anything to do with the house. My mother cannot understand why I must go to work and come home and clean a house - for whom??? Phil, I worked very hard and I know it was not appreciated. I once had an argument with your Mom and she claimed that she and Harry are doing my mother a favor by staying here. Her words were, we're paying for what we're getting, that my Mom is not losing anything. Phil, do you realize that if my mother either rented or sold the house, she'd have a good income which would enable her to stop working as hard as she has been working? She doesn't make a cent on this place and many is the time Mom gets a little peeved ’cause she won't fix certain things. My mom could make a $1500 profit on this place if she sold it today or else she could get $50 or even more if she rented it. Betty is paying $60 for her place. And I've also learned that a daughter's mother is not like a son's mother. No Phil, there is a world of difference and it makes me very happy that I have a daughter for that very reason. Phil, do you recall that argument we had when we went to Columbus that Mom did not wish to help me with Adele. Well, it's worse now than it ever was. She loves to play with the kid and will help me with her but God forbid if I have to leave her with Adele and go away. She tells me to get my mother to care for Adele and she even tells me that I don't appreciate what my mother is doing for me. She never makes me feel like my mother does when I leave in the evening to go out. She doesn't mind if Adele is sleeping and even then she always says "I hope she doesn't wake up and be troublesome". Sometimes I say to myself "I'm going out and the hell with what happens" and that's the only way I get out. You know, as well as I do, that I would never, never take advantage of your mother. In fact no one of her daughter-in-laws has done as much for her as I did, but just as she claims I do not appreciate anything, neither does she. Everything is coming to the Strongins, or so they think.

I hate to hurt you in any way and you know that full well. Phil. But one of the sentences in your letter hurt very deeply. You said that I would never have to "suffer privation in any shape or form" being your wife. I hope not any more for I feel that I've had more than my share of it already.

Furthermore, Adele is like a caged bird in her own house. She mustn't dare go here or touch that and I can't leave her alone for a minute when she's in our house for fear that she’ll get on either Harry's or Goldie's nerves. I'm tickled to death that she can run freely at my mother's. Besides the porch is so taken up with Diana's carriage, miniature crib and playpen that the kid hasn't anywhere to play. Half of Adele's things are at my mother’s and half here and it is most inconvenient.

Phil since the day Goldie married Harry and moved into this house she has never once lifted a finger to aid in the cleaning of it. She helps in the kitchen with the dishes and many was the time that Harry thought that too much for her. I once casually mentioned to Mom that it would be so much easier on the both of us if we had a little cooperation, but she said she wouldn't say anything to Goldie for fear of hurting her feelings. Your Mom is always so considerate of some one else's feelings - except mine.

I once told her that she sticks with her other children more than she sticks with me and she said that I hurt her more than they did. When I asked her why, she said "I told her she was short and didn't want to walk beside her. Well, I was shocked. The last time Gloria was here she kidded the ears off Mom cause she is such a shortie and all I did was look at Mom. Phil, way down deep in my heart I don't think Mom ever wanted me to be your wife. I know it's a pretty awful thing to say, but many is the time I felt that way, even when you were home and since I'm anxious to get it off my chest, you have it for once and for all. It sort of reminds me of the fuss Mom made when Gloria and Jack got married.

It's only natural that there is vast differences and inconveniences when so many people live together in a house with two small children. We've all gotten along pretty nicely, considering, and have managed that way cause we keep out of each other's way. For instance, Goldie bathes Diana first thing in the morning. I’ll be in my bedroom with Adele and she'll suddenly have to "go". I must go down two flights of steps with her to the cellar and hold her on the seat so she can make and trudge up two flights of steps. When I get back up there I'm fairly well exhausted. All of it is just small things, things that you stand for day in and day out until you think you'll just about bust.

My only consolation for this whole mess is the fact that we can save a little money and look forward to better days. Your mom has said many things to my mother that have hurt her deeply too, For instance, when Diana was born, she said that "my Goldie doesn't have anyone to wash her baby's clothes or do this for her or that for her". Goldie only has the diaper service to help her out. My mother is broken hearted cause she has to be of such a help to me, when in all right, it should be my husband's responsibility. Harry can't understand why I'm hard hit by the war, cause my mother helps me out. I think they are all a little jealous, if anything, my mother didn't do much for me when I was home and I shopped and cleaned this house beside. At that time Harry use to boil up cause I didn't do most of the shopping and he had to go to the grocery. Now Goldie doesn’t even have time to shop. I realize that Harry says many things he doesn't really mean, in fact most everyone does, but I can see that no one else gives a good god damn about you. When you're so down and out that you must have help - well then you get a little consideration,

I'm glad that you reassured me that we will live alone someday and I only pray that someday is soon. I'm not anxious to go back to my mother's place either, though it will be much easier for me. My mom says I’m worn out and need a rest and that living with her will make it easier for us all around. My job is a regular cinch, for I am seldom tired when I get home. Even my Dad’s job is a cinch. Of course we have our busy days, but on the whole both jobs are very nice. But taking care of cleaning and many other duties of a house isn’t necessary for me and she can’t see why I should. Harry claims it’s harder on Mom since I went to work. Mom washes the porch floor once a week, sweeps the front, washed the kitchen and bathroom floors twice a week and cleans her room once a week. I take care of my room, hall, living room and dining room on my day off. This place is always so filthy looking that it turns my stomach. I usually only find time when I have a day off to clean and during that time this place could pile six inches high with dust, but it waits til I remove it. I don't expect anyone to clean my house for me but I do believe in cooperation.

If you want me to stay here and we will live here after the war - alright, but I doubt if my mother will continue to allow us the $35 rate. If you and I lived here she'd even lower the rate, but she will not permit it any longer. I’ve not said a word of any of this to the family and I wish everything I’ve said in this letter to be kept strictly between us and never to be aired before any of the family. I've held my speech for a long time now, in the hope that we would soon be reunited and when all of us lived apart we'd all be good friends, and so any nasty speeches would only make hard feelings, and there is no need for that. It's only a matter of time and I think I can take it that much longer, if I must.

You once said that I become annoyed with more little things than you do. I don't think so, Phil, for you are under very similar conditions in the Army. You can't do whatever you like when you like and so you hate it.

There are many other things I could tell you, but I'm just not in a mood for any more of this. Just think it over and let me know what to do. I’ll naturally abide by your word, as I feel the decision is yours. You may feel differently and that's what I want to know.

Mickey Wyman has not been feeling well for a long time. Nothing serious, but she always seems to be ailing with this or that and her doctor suggested that she go to a hospital for one week for observation and perhaps they could put their finger on what is the matter with her. She is always having trouble with her stomach, headaches, dizziness and the like and is rather disgusted. So, today she is going to Jewish for a week, as the doctor suggested. Mom went over to their house this morning alone, so she could say so long to Mickey.

Mom received a bracelet and necklace set from Jack just like the one Gloria has. Since the necklace is a little long, she is having two of the pebble-like shells removed and will have earrings made.

I worked my usual four hours yesterday and came straight home as Mom had telephoned the office to inform me that at long last there was some mail. I had some lunch, stayed out with Adele, who did not nap yesterday and was very cranky, gave her dinner (she ate just a drop) bathed her and put her to bed. I then took something to eat myself (Mom went to see "Dragon Seed" last night) washed some clothes and left for Dot's. I was very tired, but decided to go anyway. I left her house fairly early and walked home from Broad St. so you needn't worry about my going alone. I detest going alone, but I have no one to go with me. (Fay does not like Dot, or she would go with me.) I wore my new lumberjack dress and it is really a gorgeous outfit. Betty and Mrs. Feldman raved about it, and Dot said that she "must get a lumberjack. dress". Once out on 60th St. I bought Lil a pair of pajamas in exchange for the nightie Mom gave her, which was too large, and then to Dot's. Dot and I chatted a while and then she showed me some bath mats she made while down South. Phil, those mats were lovely and just as soon as I have a little more time and some spare cash I'm going to make several, Dot looks grand, having gained 8 lbs, while with Snuff. The trip cost her $300, but she said it was worth every penny for a most important reason. She said she and Snuff have never gotten along sexually as you will recall my telling you, but that her stay with him changed both of them completely and for the first time since they were married they were compatible. Can you beat that!

After chatting a while we took a walk on 60th St, and I wanted to shop or rather, window shop for a dress. It subsequently developed that Dot took me to a place where she always buys her clothes and I wound up buying another dress. How's that for action! Two dresses in three days. Not bad at all! The new dress cost $10.95 and 50¢ for a zipper. It is plain, yet very dressy. It's very different from most dresses I've had. It's a wool dress of the palest (is there such a word) shade of lemon yellow I've ever seen. It has no collar, just plain round neck with three large buttons of the same color to button the top part of the dress. It has three-quarter sleeves (which I detest, but almost all dresses. have them) and the edges of the sleeves are trimmed with a bit of rouching of the same color, pale lemon yellow. At the shoulders, only in the front, along the sleeve is a large tuck that gives fullness across the bust. It has a fitted waist. and a large gathered skirt and has slash pockets on either side of the skirt, trimmed with the same rouching that is on the sleeves. It's the first dress I’ve ever had that really requires a necklace and I'm hoping my moonstones will look well. However, this dress would look best with a pin and earring set of acqua stones and I mean to get it, just as soon as I can. I also need black shoes and bag and hat and gloves to set off both my new dresses, but that will also have to wait for a little while. Gee, but I wish you could see how I look in them!

I gave a deposit on the dress and Dot is going to pick it up for me when it is ready.

So much for that. In your letters you ask me to discontinue buying bonds and build up a cash reserve at the bank. I was figuring on doing that myself, starting January 1, 1945. I'll buy one more $50 bond with my December check and then I'll merely deposit the balance of the check to our account. As I told you in a previous letter, we now have $1100 in bonds, I also have $6.75 toward another bond in 25¢ stamps and hope to finish it also in December. If that is the case, we shall add another $100 in bonds to our original total next month and then I'll stop buying bonds. Since you are investing your money in bonds and since we already (have) a goodly amount of them, I too feel it would be better to save at the bank. Our bank account, incidentally, totals $185.00. So you see, sweet, we have attained a little more than $1000 in cash. That's enough to get us off to a fairly good start on most any enterprise, don't you think?

I asked Mom how Harry made out in his first day at the station yesterday and she said "fairly well". She doesn't think he'll make a lot of money right now, since gas is scarce, but as time goes on and he is able to sell tires, anti-freeze and the like, he should be able to make out very well. He likes the work and he particularly likes being his own boss.

And that is just about all I'm going to say today. I think I've said more than enough already. Just one more thing - if I should go back to my mother's, she would give me the front room. When the war is over and in the event all of the boys come home at the same time, we would have the front room, the boys would have a room and my mother and dad would have a room. Ruth would be put out for a little while, but I'm sure we could manage. It would naturally take a little while till we decided what we were going to do and where we were going to live. However, I'm leaving the entire decision up to you. I think you think things out more completely than I do, though I woman does look at things a lot differently, but I feel you know enough about the situation to decide our future.

I haven't any complaints whatever concerning how the folks have treated me. They have been as good to me as anyone would be, considering our relationship, and I'm willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. I guess they mean well in their own peculiar sort of a way. In spite of all I've said, I always want to be good friends with all - but I want to live alone and be friends, if’n you don't mind.

You asked me to send along your civilian shoes. I have two pairs of brown shoes (one pair had little dots all over them - recall) and they aren't too badly beat. If you would like to have them or just one pair, kindly let me know. I think the fancier pair is in better condition.

Dot's sister Naomi told me that a fellow from the ground crew of the 8th Air Force got a 30 days furlough home. Have you ever heard of such furloughs for men in the ground crew? I rushed through this letter so quickly that I have many typographical errors. Pardon, please.

I got to bed very late last night. When I got home I found Adele had wet the the bed, which necessitated a complete change. By the time I had washed, undressed and got into bed it was darn close to two o'clock. I arose fairly early this morning and felt tired all day. I cleaned our room thoroughly and just used the electric sweeper on the rugs downstairs. I had Adele out for an hour and a half this morning and chased after her til I felt worn out. I typed most of this while she slept and I'm going to get to bed as early as possible this evening.

When Ethel took Mickey up to the Jewish Hospital this afternoon, she met Nat and Lena. Etta is laboring at the present time, so I ought to have some good news for you most any hour. Looks like Etta and Mickey will be keeping each other company. I'm afraid Etta is going to have a terrible time of it, as she was positively enormous and I think the baby will be too large for her. We’ll know all soon enough.

And now baby I'm going to call it "quits" for the day. I guess I don't have to tell you that I adore you, that I love you and miss you so much I just don't know what to do with myself. I can think of just one more thing. Dot and I had banana splits at a ice-cream parlor on 60th St. that we visited frequently when you lived at 59th & Chestnut, It used to be Syds and now it is something else. Dot and I sat in the same booth we usually chose and just remembering made me kinda sick in the stomach. It's a funny way to remember things, but that's how I get. I never used to, but this long drawn out business affects one queerly. Today, baby, marks our 15th month. No, sweet, we'll never ever be separated really for sometimes you are so very close I could almost reach out and touch you. It hurts so much! I want so to take you into my arms and to love you -

Your Eve

5 Nov. 1944 

Dearest Darling, 

I couldn't write last night because I went into town on the Liberty run. I took the package along to give to Evelyn, but on arriving at the house, found no one home. So I proceeded on to the Marks. Mrs. Marks was getting the three kids ready for bed, and I didn't envy her the job I can tell you! Helena, being the oldest, is sedate compared to the devilish Stanley and the impish but cute Carol. Stanley was all over me a moment after my entrance. Helena, in her pajamas, was absorbed in a Yank magazine, and Carol was standing on the table, clad only in a brief sweater and clamoring for her pajama bottoms to cover her cherubic nakedness. She had just been bathed, and her rosy plumpness was so tempting that were she mine, I'd have taken a hunk out of her. After some wheedling and scolding, and after they had dutifully swallowed their nightly dose of syrup of figs, they all trooped off to bed.

A little later, Dave Dee and his wife and a British soldier named Charlie dropped in and we played poker until it was time for me to go. We only played for ha’ pennies, so while I was pretty lucky, I came out only a shilling to the good. The package I left with Rose Marks, who promised to see Evelyn next day and give it to her.

Today, Sunday, was one of those days when everything seems to go wrong. As a consequence, I was in a pretty bad temper all day. That is, until the afternoon mail came in bringing your two most welcome letters of 23rd and 24th Oct.

My first thought when you informed me that you had rented the garage as a store room for newspaper, was that it is a potential fire hazard. Please be sure, Chippie, that they don't pack the stuff too tightly, and that there are no oily rags or papers in the lot. The $5.00 monthly you are getting for the rest of the place, in my estimation is hardly worth risking the property for. Besides, in case you are unaware of it, if fire does break out in the garage, you wouldn’t be able to recover a penny's worth of the damage, your insurance notwithstanding. Talk to your Mom about it, honey, and ask her if she thinks it is a wise thing you are doing.

Thanks for the pin-up, Chippie. I really have no use for her, but I do appreciate your unselfishness in sending her along. Right now I have all the “pin-ups" I’ll ever have any use for - they are on my shelf, looking down at me so wistfully that I never look at them without feeling a tug at the old heart-strings. Perhaps I'm prejudiced, Sweet, but there are only two girls in the world for me, and I'll be content with just their likenesses until that blessed day when I'll have them to hold.

Your letter of the 24th was very sweet, Baby, and I'm glad you liked my letter of 3rd Oct. I think I'll start making carbon copies of my letters to you, honey, so that when you speak of a particular letter, I can refer back to it. 

Well, dearest one, that's about all for this evening. I'm going to the base theater tonight to see "That Night in Rio.” Tell you about it tomorrow.

I love you dearly, my Evvie, and often (very often) picture you in all the thousand-and-one aspects of you that are my dearest memories. (Who needs pin-ups?!) A kiss and a hung for your daughter and mine, the scrumptious Adele Bara.

My love to all.

Forever,
Your Phil

Sunday, Nov. 5, 1944

Dear Phil—

Here goes Alibi Glo—with the same old story of having meant to write & send these pictures to you sooner. However, I do believe you’re the correspondence lagger now tho. At any rate, I gather you’re quite busy—so let’s not quibble. (Say who started this anyway)!

As you can see from these snaps—your daughter gets cuter as well as bigger all the time. Your wife is not getting bigger, but as you can she looks lovely as ever. Too bad the snaps weren’t technicolor as the red is quite becoming to glamour Jr. The picture of yours truly, kindly disregard—didn’t want to ship a snap with cutey pie Adele Bara in it though.

I hear your A.P.O. no. has been changed. Unfortunately, I can’t find the letter in which Ev told me this fact—here’s hope this letter will reach you anyway.

How’re you doing—& what’re you doing? Your middle brudder Jack is quite busy, but is expecting a furlough next spring—as I gather you know by now from Ev—a gal who doesn’t let grass grow under her feet.

Don’t think I’ve forgotten my promise to send you a box of Hershey bars. I wish to tell I’ve given up hope—my girl friend in the wholesale drug concern says they’re not getting them any more. They’re all going overseas to the boy so they say. Soon we’ll have to be sending requests to you to send us poor civilians some chocolate bars. I did send a 4 lb. box of chocolates from Lofts in Sept. which I hope you received in good condition.

Am keeping quite busy myself—have gone back to college—twice weekly—taking English & Bio.—getting eddicated in my old age, you see (or probably don’t from this letter!)

So long, Phil. Let me hear from you if you get a moment.

Take good care of yourself. Be good—

Love,

Gloria

Post #500 - November 2, 1944 That’s the Kind of Talk I Like to Hear from My Chippie!

 

2 November 1944

Darling Evvie,

Just returned from the base theater, where I saw a show entitled "Take it Easy.” The cast consisted an M.C., a comedian, a slight-of-hand artist, a gal dancer, and a gal who played the accordion and provided all the incidental music for the show. Back in the States, it wouldn't rank with second-rate vaudeville, but we're so hungry for an American gag, some American jive, and a pair of good-looking gams in silk-stockings, that if these requisites are fulfilled - that's all that's necessary - and the performers obliged in all respects.

Today was the kind that I could very well do without - that is, as far as my work and my feelings were concerned. Just about this time every month, everything “gangs- up” on me. Beside having the Company History to worry about, there was also the Soldiers' Deposits, PTT's (money to be sent home), a pay voucher for an officer, and a few other odds and ends, Well, Chippie, I don't mind the work - I rather like it, but it so happened that Sgt. Murphy went on pass this afternoon, and the result was that every time I tried to get something done, the damned phone would ring and I'd have to drop what I was doing to go off and call someone or other to the phone. After this happened about five times, I was fit to be tied. (As Red would say it - “you could have bought me for a nickel"!) The upshot was that I got next to nothing done. However, balm for my wounded spirits arrived in the mail late in the afternoon. There were three V-mails and a letter - all from you, my dearest. As if this weren't enough, there were also two packages. They were the bottles and nipples, and the salt water taffies that Ruthie was good enough to send. (I’m munching on them as I write.) I'll deliver the package to Evelyn next time I go into town, which I think will be tomorrow. Nor have I forgotten my promise to get an 8th Air Corps pin for Ruth. (This is as much as I have time for tonight, Sweet, - I'll continue tomorrow, G’night, Baby.

3 November 1944 

Hello again, darling! Unlike yesterday, I got a lot done today. It was a dreary, muggy day, but I was too busy to mind it. The solitary letter that came thru was dated - 12 Sep! What do you think of that?! This one told me all about how Clara Wagman got in touch with you, about the things that Ruth bought for Adele, and some other items. The letter I received yesterday was dated 20-21 October. The V-mails were those of 25, 26 Oct. and 28 Sep. I'll start with the letter of 20 Oct. You were so concerned with the mail situation at the time, that you hardly had the heart to write about anything else. You even signed off with "Good night, wherever you are". Now, where on earth did you think I was - anyhow?

Your V-mail of 25 Oct consisted of a series of short paragraphs about all and sundry. Very informative, Sweet, but no comment.

Evidently you received my letter of 3 Oct. on the 24th, cause you say in your mail of the 26th that it's two days since it came through. There isn't much in this one, either, that calls for comment, except that you ask if I still think I'll see you in ’44. I think I answered that the other day. I particularly liked your closing sentence, in which you said "I might be impatient for word from you, but I'm doing my best not to let it get me down too much -". That's the kind of talk I like to hear from my Chippie!

Your "oldie" of 28 Sep. (V-mail) contains only two questions that should be answered. You wondered about the change of APO. There was a reason for it, which I don't think I’m at liberty to divulge, but it wasn't the reason you hinted at (as you can plainly see). The other question was about the package being delayed on account of the change of APO. You know by now that it did arrive a couple of weeks late, and I daresay that was the reason.

I guess that's about all for today, honey, so I'll sign off now with all my love to you and the punkin. My love to all.

Always, Your Phil