I intend to post almost daily, and in roughly chronological order, the thousands of pages of daily love letters that my parents sent to each other during WWII and any other documents that pertain to these letters..
Last night, after I finished writing to you, I walked down to the mess hall with Klein for supper. I don't usually eat supper, but when someone told me hot-dogs were on the menu, I couldn’t resist. "Dragon-Seed’ which I had seen a long time ago in London, was the feature at the base theater today, so instead of taking in a matinee, I came back here to start this. Managed to get a letter off to Dot last night, so slowly but surely, I’ll be catching up. The only trouble is, once I start a letter to you, honey, I hardly have time enough to write to anyone else! However, tomorrow is another day…
The new Russian offensive, which Moscow claims will not stop before it reaches Berlin, and the elimination of "Rundstedt’s salient" is big news in the papers today, and everyone is more or less excited with the way things are going. The Allies seem to be making good progress against Japan, too. Who knows, Sweet, maybe ’45 will be the year.
I've been looking thru your letters, Baby (and they make quite a pile), but they are, for the most part, "gossipy’ letters that somehow don’t require answers, .
Your "X-mas letter,” though, was nice and long, and I enjoyed reading about the various gifts everyone received, especially about Adele's “stocking". Wish I could have been there to see how she reacted! I think you handled it all very nicely, Ev, even to convincing the punkin that there is a Santa Claus. Don't ever make the mistake of telling her there isn't - she’ll find that out for herself all too soon.
It just struck me that you are, in all likelihood, in New York at this moment. It certainly is a nice gesture on your part to make the trip at this time, and I'm sure everyone you visit will be delighted to see you, especially Jackie. I do hope you find him well-recovered from his operation, and that the Gutkins have gotten over the first shock of their grief. Need I tell you how much I would have liked to go along with you, darling?
There are a coupla specific questions in your letters which I will not risk your ire by ignoring. Eddie, when you visited him, evidently gave you the impression that I was fat! You want to know? - so I'm telling you! When I saw Eddie, I weighed exactly 182 lbs., which, if you remember, is just about what I weighed when you saw me last. Recently (the last time of was in London - when I spent the night at the Turkish Baths after leaving Harry W.) I tipped the beam at 148. Since then, I think I have dropped a few more pounds. So, after all is said and done, and in spite of the impression Eddie got, I am, if anything, thinner than you knew me. Two things may be responsible for Ed’s impression: (1) My face may be a bit fuller. (2) My clothes are very ill-fitting. But never fear, Baby - I dislike being fat just as heartily as you do, and if I do.come home looking too heavy for your taste, I’ll join up at the Broadwood immediately and get rid of the excess by swimming and playing a lot of hand-ball. Which reminds me - you mention Mr. Bellet going to Young's for a work-out. I understand they have a swell layout, including some nifty handball courts, so I’ll join up there instead if I find it to my liking. By the way, Chippie - I haven't given up hope of teaching you to swiM, so don't think for a minute that you'll be alone those evenings when I’m at the gym. You'll be with me - O.K.? (I wish it were tomorrow!)
I'm returning the picture of Lenny and Lee and ? as you requested, Ev. They look swell, don’t they? I feel a queer premonition, though, on account of "?". There's something about Lee that makes me fear for her. I hope it's nothing more than a silly notion on my part, though. Of course, Chippie, you won't be foolish enough to
discuss my premonition with anyone—
Your V-mail of 7 Jan. just arrived. It was Sunday, and the punkin reminded you to put her “yoshes" on 'cause it had snowed during the night. It informed me that Yale and Shirley are “expecting” too! Now that is news! Seems like the next generation will be all of an age - at least, in our family. Did I acknowledge the receipt of the news that Miriam Brown had a little girl? I don't think I did - but I know about it, and I'm glad. Please tender my heartiest congratulations to Uncle Nish and Tante Bosh. Explain why it is so difficult for me to write to them under separate cover,
So you were kidding brother Jack about who would have the first little boy, eh? (And then you are naive enough to warn me not to “get any ideas"- and then, to top it off, you say " who knows??? etc.) Lady, y’wanna know what I think? No? Well, I'll tell you anyway - you don't know your own mind on the burning question - to have or not to have! Furthermore, dearest one, I'm not thanking you for continually teasing me about it. It means far too much to me to “kid" about it with equanimity.
Well, Baby, I'm just about “writ out” for the time being, so I’ll sign off now with a big kiss and hug for you and my beloved punkin and all. I adore you, Chippie—
All your December letters have been put in the order of their dates and are living at my right elbow on the small card-table on which I am writing. I'll read three of them commenting on anything that excites comment. I am alone in the hut (my hut-mates are still at work), and I hope to write uninterrupted for a few hours. The severe cold of the past week is now diminishing. A light rain has washed away all traces of the recent snow-fall, but it is still more comfortable to stay close to the wood fire in the oil-drum, which has been converted into a stove. It was a grand experience when I was awakened this morning at 8 o’clock by the chatter of the guys just returned from breakfast. I was snug and warm under the blankets, so the prospect that I could remain there as long as I pleased was most welcome! I pleased to sleep until 11 A.M., when I rose, dressed, washed, and went to lunch. After lunch, I took in the 1:30 matinee at the base theater. The picture was "Lost in a Harem” with Abbot and Costello. It was the typical Abbot–Costello sort of nonsense, but it had its moments. The one scene I really enjoyed was the oriental ballet to the ballet music from Borodini’s opera “Prince Igor,” (at least, I think that's what it was)! Anyway, I enjoyed the music. Which all brings me right up to the moment I started this. There is very little else of interest to report from this end, Sweet, so I'll proceed to your letters—
In closing your letter of 1 Dec., Chippie, you ask me for suggestions about a coat-and-legging set for the punkin. I’m grateful for your offer to let me "pick it out” honey, but the fact is I’m not at all clear on the appearance of such a costume. That is, they all look more or less alike to me. Moreover, I regret to confess that I haven't seen enough of them to be able to establish any kind of preference. As to color, I think the combination you suggested should be very nice. Gray and white will show off her coloring, if nothing else, to the best advantage. Sorry I can't help you much with this, dear, but thanks again for asking me.
Your V-mail of 2 Dec. asks a question which presupposes a notion on your part that is entirely in error. You wanted to know if the furlough I took to meet Harry W. "decreases your chances of a furlough back to the States": 'I don't remember that I ever gave you cause to believe that I might get a furlough at home. Where then, did you ever get the idea? The fact is, there is no chance whatever for such a leave, and I believe t've told you that I wouldn't take it if it were offered me. I died a little on each of the two occasions when I had to leave you for an indefinite period of active duty, and I don't think I can take any more of the same. At least, I don't want to! I think you understand and appreciate my attitude in this regard, darling. In fact, you give me to understand in your letters, that you feel pretty much the same way about it. Like you, I want our next re-union to be the last one - nothing less will do,
On 8 Dec. you were good enough to remind me of several birthdays, which I should have acknowledged, but which I never seemed able to find the time for. However, I’ll write to both Jacks tomorrow. After all, a belated greeting is better than none and it's just possible Jack N.’s may arrive in time. In his case, tho’, I'll have to address it to you, Baby, as I don't know just where he'll be about 25 Jan.
Your letter of 9 Dec. was a real “longie", Sweet, and is the kind I just love to receive and to read. You tell of receiving five of my letters at once, about Adele's reactions on getting the “yocket,” and other interesting things which I intend to say something about. First, though, about the “yocket"! Yes, Red made it, all right, but what do you mean when you say "I didn't know you saw him that often"? After all, we're in the same outfit so what is surprising about it? I see him almost every day, although we aren't quite as thick" as we once were. His interests are entirely different from mine, so we don't go out together at all. But we are still the best of friends. In a later letter you want to know what happened to “Cpl.” Barnhart? Since then, he has been appointed Pfc, but the reason for his "bust" must remain a secret! Sorry, Baby, I was surprised when you wrote to tell me that you and the punkin had received a Xmas greeting from him, but Red's full of surprises. I knew, of course, that the locket would be much too large for our diminutive little girl, but she’ll be able to appreciate it when she gets a little bigger and older, so there's no harm done, is there? In the meantime, Sweet, you may wear it if pleases you to do so. By the way - do you have any difficulty keeping it polished. If you do, get some “jeweler’s rouge” at any store where they sell military supplies, and you will find that a good rub will bring it to a high polish. I wasn’t going to tell you this, honey, but the temptation is too strong - Right now, I have another item of jewelry in the making for you, and, unless I miss my guess, this will be the prettiest piece of all, I won't spoil the surprise by telling you what it is, but I want you to know that the fellow who is making it for me is putting a great deal of time and effort into the task (for a price, of course) but I am convinced that you will like it very much indeed. He's been working on it for three days now, but it’ll probably be another few days before it's finished. I was going to save it for your anniversary or birthday present, but I’m hoping that I’ll have enough money by that time to send you something other than plexi-glass costume jewelry. In any event, I couldn't withhold it from you so long—
In this letter (9 Dec.) you also say quite a “mouthful in retaliation” to my letter ? our post-war plans. It's so hard, sweet, to explain on paper where your concepts are in error, but take my word for it, you are presupposing a number of obstacles that exist only in your imagination. But we won't argue the matter any further - until such time as I can talk to you (what a day that will be!). One point that you have challenged me on, though, has to be discussed right here lest you get the notion that I'm going off “half-cocked", or "talking thru my hat." That is in regards to a government loan, as provided for by the G.I. Bill of Rights. Your objection is that I cannot make such a loan without “security, as well as interest." The quotes are yours, honey, and they speak for themselves. In the first place, a “gov”t loan" is called by that misnomer because the gov”t puts up the guarantee (security) to the extent of 50% of a loan (not to exceed $4000. The loan itself is procured from a bank, bldg. & loan, or other institution that depends on loaning money for their revenue. Furthermore, under the provisions of the Bill of Rights (which is now law), the interest rate cannot exceed 4%. Most important, the gov’t pays the interest for the first year to the institution making the loan. In brief any G.I. or vet can make such a loan to finance a business, provided, of course, that the agent for the gov’t, (who will no doubt be an expert in his line) thinks that said business has a good chance to succeed. That my dear, is the only “security” that the gov’t. requires to make itself responsible for 50% of the money you (or I) borrow. You may check me on any of the foregoing if you're not convinced. I may have been wrong about a total I said I could borrow, but I believed I could get that kind of money from the neighborhood bank if they saw a chance that I would succeed. Security, phooey! Someday, when I have the opportunity, Sweet, I shall endeavor to explain a few things to you in this connection that you have only the haziest conception of. In the meantime, I'll just keep my “bright ideas” to myself. By the way, Chippie, how would the prospect of living in Massachusetts appeal to you? It's not too far from Philly, and it's just possible that something I have in mind in that connection will develop. (You needn’t ask me what it's all about 'cause I wouldn’t tell you. This time I want more than just an idea before I commit myself.) As for my calling myself a "most unambitious fellow, I guess you never will understand what I mean by it, honey. I suspect that our respective conceptions of "ambitions are greatly at odds. Just another thing we'll have to get straight between us - some day.
I'm most grateful to you, Baby, for being so patient and considerate as regards moving out of 4920. I would never suggest that you put up with the inconvenience and aggravation entailed by remaining there an instant longer than you choose to, but I am grateful that family harmony means enough to you to cause you to delay the break-up a while longer.
You devote the latter part of the letter to a detailed description of the punkin's activities these days. This was in answer to a request I made for the same. Thanks a million, honey. You wrote it up very cleverly, and I was highly gratified with it all. It might interest you to know that Adele's fear of the dark is hereditary. Mom may have told you that all of us (Harry, Jack and I) were also afraid of the dark as youngsters, and that we refused to go to bed in the dark until we were eight and nine years old. The lights stayed on until we fell asleep, by which time Mom and Pop were going to bed. They switched off the lights then. Your suspicion that the punkin walks pigeon- toed because she thinks it's “funny or cute” may or may not be true, but if such is the case, it occurred to me that you might discourage this tendency by ridiculing her. My thought is that feminine vanity (even in so young a chippie) won’t stand up to ridicule. If you can make her understand that her affectation is ugly or unattractive (by mimicking her and deriding her ridiculous pose), I think she will make a real effort. Don’t you think it's worth a try, Sweet? .
Guess that'll have to do for now, Baby, ’cause the fellows are back from work and I find it impossible to concentrate with all this chatter ’round me. I'll continue answering your letters tomorrow. So long for now, my darling. Kiss my adored little girl for me. My love to all.
Devotedly,
Your Phil
Sunday, January 14, 1945
Dear Phil—
Please don’t judge by my belated replies that I don’t enjoy and appreciate your communications. It must be dull for you to get my repeated apologies - so I’ll just skip it - & hope you’ll understand.
Your Chippie brightens the New York atmosphere by her presence this week-end. I sure enjoyed having her here and hope she’ll manage to repay my visits to Philly more often in the future. I’m sure you’ll get all details from Ev - so I’ll let her out-scoop me. Anyhow, we went a-visiting mostly - but nuff sed! I really hope her next trip will be longer & we can do the town properly. Better still, I hope the near future will allow Messrs. Phil & Jack Strongin double-dating their wives at a good B’way show! Well - I can dream, can’t I?!
I keep dreaming of seeing your kid brudder in a nice gray sport suit - & said color would suit you too, methinks.
Yes, we’ve discussed Jack’s chances for furlough pro & con - & have arrived at the same unsatisfactory conclusion. Of course, I have left it up to Jack (I can hear you say “Are you kidding?!’) as he knows the advantages and disadvantages of taking the furlough best. Ev tells me you are also entitled to a furlough after your 18 months, but as you say, perhaps it won’t be wise (but oh so wonderful!) to take this proffered furlough. Golly, all talk of furlough is very unsatisfactory. Let me know if you still feel the way you did at the time of Dec. 2, 1944 writing e.g. no furlough.
Ev & I chatted away most of the time (between visits & especially “bed-time”) & you can imagine our favorite & most frequent topic of conversation. I wonder if Jack’s & your ears didn’t burn! Or did it? Well - a gab-fest does us woman-folk some good - & we sure talked our hearts out.
Really, Phil, I haven’t written before this because I promised myself that I’d really write you a “letter” - instead of my usual excuse for one. Please bear with me, Phil, but when it comes to literary effort, I usually confine it to the classroom, our requirements are a bit too heavy to allow much extra time. I have just finished a theme on Shakespearean drama which was assigned to us 2 months ago - & which this silly student did all in one night - last Friday to wit. I honestly wish you were at hand to help me out, Phil - you could really do the job. Am having my finals this week & as per usual - cramming at the last minute.
You know, Phil - I think school is a good discipline for the mind, but I’d drop it oh so fast to devote my full time to Jack. But, of course, you know that!
Though I really think your question was rhetorical when you asked if it was wise to be so much in love that nothing means anything unless shared with my “other half” - I do think this worthy of discussion. I know how you feel, Phil, and would like to quote something I came across and liked well enough to remember.
“Tis said that absence conquers love;
But oh believe it not!
I’ve tried, alas! its power to prove,
But thou art not forgot.
Perhaps you are familiar with the above. I thought it very appropriate to our lives at present. Perhaps, Phil, our present void will even serve a purpose. At any rate, we will appreciate the nearness of our respective mates in the future the more as a result.
Well, Phil, it’s rather late - & time I ended off. I note your statement about the routine of your life being unchanged. At any rate, let me hear from you in more detail - your thoughts, if not your actions are interesting material for a letter - And I don’t have to tell you that your literacy skill is well appreciated. I only wish you’ll have the opportunity to really devote a career to it in the happy day when you resume your civvies. Of course, I keep your letters - they’re the best written (if infrequent) scribes I get - & only your brother Jack’s letters top them in interest to me.
I have postponed my next trip to Philly until I hear of Sid Brown’s arrival - I’m sure you’ve heard of his pending furlough - & I certainly am anxious to meet this long-absent member of the clan.
I’ll say ’by now - & hope to hear from you real soon—
Lots of love,
Gloria
January 14, 1945
Dear Phil:
Have a little extra time today, so I’m dropping you a line. I’m feeling fine, and hope this letter finds you the same. Had a letter from Evelyn about a week ago & everyone at home seems to be doing fine. How’s things with you, & what’s new going on? I guess you heard I’m an uncle now. I sure did guess right, as I told them it would be a girl. Miriam & the baby are doing fine from all the reports I hear from everyone at home. Sydney’s latest letter of Dec. 12 tells me that he is relieved of his duties & is waiting any day to leave. I sure do hope he is on his way home by now. I expect you know he is getting a 30 day furlough. He surely does deserve it, being overseas so long. I sure could stand one myself, but I guess its not in the books. We moved again a few days ago, but we are still on the same island. It sure does feel better to be where we are now, for where we were before we were split off from the rest of the outfit, but here we are all together again & it sure is good to see all the boys again. At least here we can see a show once in a while at nights, & that sure does help out a lot. We also can buy a few things at the PX here. The war news surely is sounding good over here and I expect to hear more good news shortly. Japan is just now getting a little taste of what we have in store for them & I guarantee you they haven’t seen anything yet. I don’t think that day is too far off before you will see Japan down on her knees asking for mercy. Here’s one boy, though, that they won’t get any mercy from for I’ve been through & seen too much of how those yellow dogs work. They asked for it and, boy, they’re surely going to get it. It rained pretty hard here the other day & this place sure is a mud hole. We get a tent that leaks & inside it looks more than a pig pen. That’s the infantry for you, though. Any place is home to us. What a life. Boy, you don’t know how lucky you were to get out of that Infantry Outfit you were in, or do you? We haven’t been doing much since we have been here, & I don’t think it will be too long before we will be moving on, as I imagine they have something coming up for us. I read something that I thought was pretty good last night, so I’m passing it on to you, as you may enjoy it. Here goes:
In a South American Mining Town a Mrs. Smith presented her husband with a 12 lb. baby boy. Mr. Smith was so delighted that he decided he would tell the news
officer. When he entered, he told them he found a 12 lb. nugget of gold, as good as anybody found in South America. The paper anxious to get all the details, sent a reporter to Mr. Smith’s house & this is what he found:
Does Mr. Smith live here.
He does.
Is he in.
No, not at the present.
I understand he found a 12 lb. nugget of gold.
(Mrs. Smith seeing the joke) answered yes.
Can you show me the exact spot where he found it.
I’m afraid Mr. Smith would object to that.
Ok! iIs it private.
Yes.
Is the hole far from here.
No, it’s quite close.
Has Mr. Smith been working the claim long.
About 10 months.
Was Mr. Smith the first to work it.
He thought he was.
Was the work difficult
At first, but it got easier after the shift opened.
Is the water plentiful.
Yes, sufficient to carry on the work.
Has he gotten to the bottom yet.
No, but I told him last night it was time he did.
Did you help him.
Yes, I did my level best.
Do you think he will sell the claim.
No, he finds too much pleasure in working it himself.
May I see the nugget.
Certainly, she brought the baby boy out, & the reporter fainted.
Well, Phil, that about winds it up from this end. Take good care of yourself & drop me a line when you have a few minutes to spare. Write you again soon.
Just got back from seeing the second swell picture in two days. It was “Home in Indiana,” and I certainly enjoyed it.
Received your two V-mails of 3, 4 Jan. this afternoon. You seem to be having trouble with my mail again. I’m sorry, Chippie, but maybe these past few V-mails I have written will make better time getting home.
You say that my November bond is way overdue and ask me to trace it. I think, Chippie, that you could get much better results by writing to the Army War Bond Office, Chicago, Ill. Any letter I might write would take about a month to clear channels. So if it hasn’t arrived by the time you get this, just drop them a line.
It was good of you, Sweet, to write on the 4th - even if, as you say, you were not in the mood.
Sorry to hear that Harry is not doing too well with his business, but I was thinking he’ll be pretty lucky if he can stay out of the Army, now that they are putting the pressure on the 4-F’s.
Was surprised to learn that the punkin knows the whole alphabet. As for her singing - do you actually mean to tell me she can carry a tune?? Forgive me if I seem dubious, but I find it hard to imagine Adele doing some of the things you tell me she does.
Tomorrow, I start my “pass,” which, I have told you, I will spend right here - writing a flock of letters. I still have some of yours which I haven’t found time to answer, but I’ll take care of that in the next day or two - you may depend on it, honey.
Until then, darling, I’ll say my usual fond good-night. Give my love to the punkin and all the family. I love you more than ever, Sweet Chippie! I am
As always,
Your Phil
January 13, 1945
Dear Eve:
Received your letter and I was very glad to hear from you. Has Ed been in on weekends yet. I guess he needs a few more months rest before they let him go. I’ll bet he’ll have some real stories to tell me when we both get together again. It was good to hear that Phil is still stationed in England. I’m sorry I forgot when Adele’s birthday was, but I’ll make it up to her.
The first thing early this morning, the phone rang. Can you imagine how Goldie felt, when upon picking up the receiver, she heard Uncle Nish exclaim, "Syd is back in the States at a port of embarkation and will be home within a week." Gosh, it makes me chill all the way through! He was overseas 31 months - and I wonder how long we shall have to wait for that happy day. I wouldn't want it as Syd has taken it - so it may be a long time. The Browns are so excited they can't contain themselves and I don't blame them one bit. I feel just as happy as they do about the whole thing.
I had started a letter to Milt last night and did not get the chance finish, so I finished off with the good news this morning. I am writing this before going into work, as I doubt whether I'll have the opportunity to write this evening, as I want to pack and give myself some attention in preparation for my trip to New York tomorrow. I'm glad that Syd didn't decide to come this very weekend, for then I would have had to postpone my trip. I want to go with the gang to see him.
By the way, honey, Sylvia tells me that two of her father's bonds, which were supposed to reach him through the mails went lost. Both your Nov. and Dec. bonds are overdue (they were never quite so late before, except at the beginning) and I'm inclined to believe they are lost, for I've heard of several cases within the past few days. I think it would be easier for you to check since you must have some receipt for your payment, but if you would like me to write, kindly advise. I hope that your mail to me hasn't gone lost too, but it could well be the cause for such a lengthy delay. I guess you remember about how many times you wrote during Dec. so let me know, for I have only received about ten letters with Dec. dating. Perhaps the mail will have something to offer today.
Adele's supposed cold has completely disappeared, so it looks very much like I am going to New York, honey. I can't get too excited about it somehow though it is going to a big change and that's what I need most. I shall try to write at least once from New York and if I do not get the opportunity I trust you will understand. Most travel is being cut down and I doubt if most anyone will be able to do any traveling in the future. I haven't any intentions of going anywhere after this, unless I go with you.
Today is brother Jack's birthday, in case you might have forgotten. I’m going to write him a letter and wish him well. I set my hair and got to bed early last night and feel rested today. I intend to do the same this evening. And now I am going to try to get that letter off to Jack. I hope there's mail for me this morning, as it would help my spirits a lot. I love you so much, sweet, and it's so hard to wait indefinitely for some word from you. I miss you sweetheart, and I especially miss the mail that brings
something of you directly to me.
Your Eve
12 Jan. 1945
My Darling,
Just got back from seeing “Janie,” and have just about enough time to dash off a quick V-mail to you. I enjoyed “Janie” very much indeed - just as you did, Honey. Joyce Reynolds is just about the cutest and freshest young thing to hit the screen in a long time, and if ever I saw a natural-born actress, she is just that! Her kid sister was the real hit of the picture with most of the guys, but you know me when I like something or someone; I just can’t see anything or anyone else at the same time - and I liked “Janie!” Right from the start, I felt that I had seen Joyce Reynolds before, but knowing that I hadn’t I was puzzled to account for the feeling. Then, it suddenly occurred to me that she is almost a “dead ringer” for Joan Leslie - at least her smile is almost identical - that’s why she looked familiar. But enough of this—
Today brought me a pile of mail, and it sure is a glorious feeling! There were five of your letters, one from Dotty (plus a midget Bulletin) and a Xmas card from Gloria. I’m about six or seven letters behind in answering your letters, Sweet, but I’ll certainly catch up day after tomorrow when I will write all day (as I did once before in October). I’ll also write to everyone else who has been good enough to drop me a line occasionally. You may expect a real “longie” on the 14th, Baby.
I finished the payroll this morning, and knocked out the “Bond Insurance Schedules” and a few other things in the afternoon. I went to the movie with Klein, who just returned from furlough. And what a furlough!! Chippie, you’d never believe the things that happen to that guy! But it’s time to say good night now, darling, and that I do - with all my love to you and the punkin and all.
No mail whatever, though I had been expecting a belated jackpot after waiting all this time except a lone card from Gloria giving me her phone number and telling me that she will meet me anytime after one when I arrive in New York on Saturday.
Last night, I threw Adele in bed early and though she was awake, I made up my mind to visit Miriam and see the new baby. First I went to the Wymans to pick up the four boxes of candy Rae ordered for me and that I am supposed to take along with me to distribute to those I visit in New York and from there on Al drove Ethel, Rae and me over to the Browns. Mom stayed upstairs with Adele until she fell asleep, so she was no trouble to anyone. Rae and Ethel had not intended going unless Ai drove, as it was freezing out. We got to the Browns house at 9:30 and Sylvia was there, beside the regular Brown family. Miriam doesn't look well at all and it is only a wonder when you consider her strenuous routine. She has to feed the baby everythree hours, cause the baby is terribly hungry all the time. Anita Rae is an enormous baby, and has nice features. She is the image of Mickey and I can't help wonder at the way most first babies look like their daddies. I had asked Tant what I should give her as a gift and she advised cash, so I gave her $5. I also gave her a box of candy. Do you know, sweet, that Mickey made out a Class E allotment for Miriam and she receives $30 additional dollars each month! Every single one of the girls gets anywhere from $30 to $40 per month additional allotment that I know of, and the husbands are no more than Cpls. I realize fully that you have more opportunity than they do in their present state to spend money, but when you admit that you are broke and in the hole, as you did not so long ago, I really can't help wondering why so much of your salary disappears so quickly. Now that you no longer have the opportunity to take extended trips such as those to see Ed and Harry. I trust that you will be able to manage on your salary.
After seeing Anita and all her gifts we went down to the kitchen and had some coffee and cake and got to talking about old times, etc. Al drove Sylvia and me home and I didn't get to bed until about one o'clock. Adele seemed hoarsy during the night and I was afraid she had a cold. Today, however, she was much improved and I rubbed her down with Vicks before putting her to bed this evening. I almost didn't get to go to New York and unless Adele is all well I may not go. It doesn't seem likely though, for she has good resistance.
0ur gas bill for the previous month of Dec. was $43. Mom can't get over it! It's only a wonder - we run our heat as high as 80 to keep the back room warm enough for Diana. We’ve never had such a large bill!
I’m so disgusted with the mall situation that I could scream! Let's hope I'll get something tomorrow, for I'd hate to go to New York without getting any more mail whatever. Good night baby. I love you dearly in spite of all! I wish very much that you were going with me to N.Y.
Your Eve
11 Jan. 1945
Dearest Evvie,
I just finished work for the day, and decided to make today’s contribution a quick V-mail so that I may catch the second performance of the U.S.O. show on the base tonight.
Was busy all day making up the pay-roll, and in the afternoon received your V-mall of 30 Dec, in which you tell of the punkin's rapidly expanding vocabulary. I particularly liked her answer when you asked her to repeat something she had already said. The little minx has a head on her shoulders - no doubt about it!
Glad to learn that you, at least, are keeping up with your correspondence, 'cause I’m way behind in mine. Currently, I owe letters to almost everyone. On the other hand, I have yet to hear from brother Jack, whom I wrote ’way back in October. At any rate, I've definitely decided to write to everyone in a day or two when I am taking my regular 48-hour "break.”
The weather has been very cold these past few days, and it has been snowing every few hours. The landscape is blanketed in just enough snow to cover everything, which isn't exactly an unwelcome change - one gets so tired with the sameness of the scene that any change is by way of being a novelty.
Otherwise, there is very little to report, sweetheart, so I’ll sign off now with my dearest love to my precious wife and daughter. God keep you both well for your adoring
Phil
P.S. Love to all.
11 Jan. 1945
Dearest Darling
Tonight I am C.Q., but while I have plenty of time to write, two factors keep me from knocking out a letter to you - hence the V-mail. (1) I've had a splitting headache all day today. (2) There was no mail. As you know, Sweet, it's very rarely that I am bothered with a headache, and I don’t rightly know the reason for it, unless it is the forerunner of a cold, but it sure did give me hell all day, and it’s still so distracting that I can barely think rationally. I’ve taken a coupla Anacin tablets, and am hoping that by tomorrow it will be gone with any further ill effects.
I was busy all day working with Capt. Crane on personnel records, but it was a real effort to keep my mind on what I was doing.
I've built a nice, hot fire in the stove, and as soon as I finish this I will call the operator to give me a ring at five o'clock, and hit the sack.
Sorry, Baby, that I can't make better use of this opportunity to write, but I know you will understand that I can't help myself, that I would do better if I could. Please forgive
Eve dear, I received your letter of the 20th and I was very happy to hear from you. You don’t write very often, but when you do, you write a very interesting letter, full of news of people I am interested in hearing about. I just want you to know that your letters are very much appreciated by me.
During Hanuka, I attended an affair given by the Jewish people of this city. It was really swell. There was plenty to eat, and drink. They had sandwiches, cake, strudel, champagne, etc. A grand time was had by all.
Everything is about the same. I’m still M.P.ing, feeling swell, and very happy. I hope that this year sees the end of the War, and the safe return of all.
Keep well, and keep writing.
Love,
Eddie
Jan. 10, 1945
My dearest Phil,
I didn't write yesterday, for it was too late and I was too tired to attempt writing. Yesterday I received three letters, yours of Dec. 13th (which, incidentally you dated Nov. 13th and I can't understand why you made such a mistake) along with Ev’s letter and a lovely letter from Shirley and Yale.
Your letter explained your visit with the Woolfs and the oyster episode, which made very good reading. I'm very happy, Sweet, that you find the Woolf's such good company and that they relieve many hours that would otherwise be very lonely for you. Ev’s letter, too, made good reading, as you must know, having read it. I shall try to write her another letter in the near future.
There was one thing in your letter that hurt me very deeply. You mentioned that you had not written from the 9th to the 13th, and in your letter of Dec. 27th, received the other day, you also mentioned that you had not written for several days. Is it any wonder I haven't been receiving any mail? If you, who have but one job, cannot find time to write for three and four days at a time, then what should I, who have three jobs to do, and I do not say this for any reason of self-pity, should be able to write to you regularly. Phil, the answer is this; I have to give up an evening of fun, recreation, or whatever you choose to call it, even relaxation, to make darn sure I get that daily letter off to you. Even when it means loss of sleep, as it so often does since Adele has gotten into the practice of going to sleep at late hours, I have sat up and managed to write practically daily. I'm not going to do that anymore, and I do not say that to hurt you. You thanked me for writing šo regularly in your Dec. 27th letter, but that isn't enough for me. Ever hear the phrase that "action speaks louder than words". Well, pay heed. If you had to wait three weeks for some decent word from me, you'd be plenty mad too, and whenever I did want to skip writing, I thought to myself, "how will he feel if he has to wait many days for a letter from me" and then I wrote, regardless. I'm just wondering how many days you skipped between the 15th and 23rd of Dec. for I have yet to receive any mail of those dates. The mailman has not yet arrived and I am typing this before going into work, so we shall see. So much for letter writing -
The letter from Yale and Shirley disclosed what I mentioned in an earlier letter - that Shirley is pregnant. They both want a son. In this letter they paid us a very high compliment, to wit: Yale and I think Adele is the prettiest baby we ever saw and Yale thinks she is much prettier than Barbara was at her age - and you must know that is something coming from Yale. I do consider it a high compliment and am duly flattered, and I know you will, too. I'll bet that makes your chest swell up -
Later - The mail for me included letters from Milt, which was a real longie and one which I should like for you to read, and an equally nice letter from Snuff, who, by the way, wonders if you got his letter since no reply has been forthcoming. Snuff said he was glad I wasn't one of those "I owe you a letter correspondents" and said that that fact made him realize even more what true friends we are. He has thrumboplebitis, or a blood clot formed in his leg that caused it to swell and swell and the only way to correct the condition was to operate and tie up the veins. He told me this on the side - he's terribly worried that it doesn't occur in another part of his body and thereby necessitate another operation. Just room to say that I adore you, darling and am
After waiting for ages to get a letter dated after Dec. 9th, and finally getting two on Saturday dated the 14 and 15 Dec., today the mail became crazier still for I received your letter of Dec. 27th. How about that! Also received a letter from Jack N. (which I shall try to remember to enclose with my next air mail letter) stating that he will be staying with Sammy and Anne in Brooklyn and that he wants me to stay there while in New York. He still has dizzy effects from the operation, which was of major importance. He said he came around faster than the usual patient, who usually has vomiting spells. He has yet to vomit, and Thanks God for that. He said he put "the" particular ear to the radio to try to hear sound and that he heard just a wee bit. That isn't important - the important thing is that he "hears", even though it is just a wee bit.
I'm sorry you didn't get the opportunity to write more often during the holidays, but you're excused, honey. That K.P. sounded like a honey and I certainly wish you'd get your Sgt. stripe so that it wouldn't be necessary any more. And what did you mean when you said you'd be referring to Sgt. Murphy in another connection? I didn't get the significance of that remark. Or didn't you mean anything at all?
I guess the guests for dinner thought you were nuts when you passed up the chicken and turkey in favor of tomato herring. I think you're nuts too. I had no idea you were that fond of tomato herring.
I stopped at Lit Brothers on my way to work and returned the pair of white gloves I bought on Saturday. I didn't think they were worth $3 at all. The copper ones are very nice, and go with my other accessories perfectly. I can't get over how nicely the sweater and hat for Diana turned out. It is a beautiful set and Goldie is crazy about it. By the way, I certainly hope you get the opportunity to write directly to her to thank her for the letter.
Last night I dashed over to the yarn shop and bought some beige wool to make Paul the vest I had been promising to make for a long, long time. It’s really a very belated birthday gift - but better late than never. While there I noted that she gives instructions for the making of those crocheted handbags and even sells the materials, so that's the next item on my "make" list. I am going to make myself a black corduroy bag and get myself a pair of dressy black shoes with a low heel, so that I'll be able to wear my black velvet suit. I am unable to wear it cause I don't have the proper accessories. I am also going to make Adele a pair of mittens, if and when I get around to "making".
And so, baby, I find myself completely out of words. Adele gets smarter every day and constantly surprises us with her expressions. She’s as cute as ever! Gosh but I wish you could see her! There'll come a day!! I love you so much, my dearest - or had you guessed as much -
Your Eve
8 January 1945
Dearest Chippie,
Seems like it's getting increasingly difficult for me to write daily anymore - at least I notice that my lapses are becoming more and more frequent. I feel rather guilty on this score, Baby, although these fallings from grace are rarely voluntary. It's knowing that you write consistently even when you have just as much justification for not writing as I have that causes me to squirm whenever I miss writing - whatever the reason. My only consolation at these times, Chippie, is the hope that you understand and forgive these lapses, however eagerly you await my letters. I've been busy every minute of every day for more than a week now. When I’m not actually doing anything it is only because I'm thinking about what I must do next. I know you would be amazed, darling, at the amount of detail I am responsible for. There is a feeling extant among the uninitiated (and this even applies to the majority of men in my company) that the company clerk has a “soft touch". As far as they know, all I do is make out the payroll each month. They think that I sit around and twiddle my thumbs the rest of the time - that I have just about the easiest job in the Army, and never hesitate to throw it up to me. There was a time when I would defend myself against this sort of criticism, but I'm so weary of the prejudices, pettiness, and general ignorance of these characters, that I no longer bother to explain that quite a lot is expected of me, and that I try to do what is expected of me the best I know how. As you know, Sweet, our company is made up, in the main, of mechanics of one sort or another. There are Automotive Mechanics, Armament (guns) Men, Ammunitions men, etc. Naturally, being mechanics, and working with their hands and muscles, they have the mechanics’ instinctive contempt for a guy who holds a desk job, nor do they make any effort to conceal their distaste or inherent dislike for me on that account. Knowing the basis for this attitude as I do, I can almost forgive them the things they say and do that are calculated to hurt - and do, but not quite, 'cause I, in turn, have nothing but contempt for anyone so intolerant or prejudiced or unfeeling that he takes pleasure in tearing down another guy cause he don't happen to be a mechanic. I've tried my best to overlook all this, Chippie, and God knows I have enough to feel bitter about without having to contend with this ridicule from my own "buddies." Nothing angers me more than to have anyone look down their nose at me, and it would be hard for me to explain how deeply it hurts when I am made aware that one of the fellows is doing just that. I've tried everything I know [short of sheer back-slapping (the Army has a cruder term for it) and hypocrisy] to make friends in the company, but despite my best efforts in that direction, I can't truly feel that I have made more than a few friends who would go from here to the corner for me. I prefer to believe that this is due to the fact that I am the company clerk, but I know now that there is at least one more factor involved (which shouldn't take too much imagination on your part to guess), and that of course, is mainly why I feel badly about it. Nothing overt has, as yet, been voiced in my presence, but I have it from the best authority that such is the case. Altogether, it isn't an easy situation I find myself in, and I think you can appreciate how I feel about all this, but I guess I've been in the Army long enough to put up with any aggravations, both of the body and the mind, and if you'll permit me to go melodramatic on you for an instant) - of the heart. I remember that I promised myself a long time ago that I would refrain from any temptation to air my own private griefs to you, and really, Sweet, I don't know how or why I ever brought it up, but there it is, and because it is almost time for lights out, and therefore much too late to tear this up and write another letter, and because I hate to let this day go by without writing to you, I have decided to let this go through. I can only beg your indulgence, Baby, and your forgiveness for bringing to your attention a matter which is, after all, my own private problem. My best and dearest love to you, my darling (you'll never know in how many ways you’ve been my salvation), and to our adorable Adele, bless her little head! My love to all.
