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..
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 - -
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.
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.
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.
There was no mail yesterday, nor did I write. I had several reasons for not writing, as you shall presently learn.
After work yesterday my dad and I rode up to Marshall St. with George. George had to go to the dentist and since it would take him at least an hour before he could take us home, we decided to go the rest of the way by trolley,
My dad had to pick up some meat and things he had ordered and I decided to look into some dress stores, to see if there was anything worth while. Most of the stores were closed, but as we were passing one place, a little suit caught my eye and I determined to have it. It was the sort of thing I wanted and I figured it would be kind of high.
I saw someone in the store and asked if I couldn't please see the suit in the window. It turned out that it was the last one they had in my size and he agreed to let me try it on. The price, $14.95 wasn't too bad. The suit itself is 100% wool of a very heavy material, on the slightly roughish side (the quality I mean) and it is composed of grey and white checks, red grosgrain ribbon trim and huge silver buttons. The skirt is very plain tailored with a slight flair and two pockets on either sides of the skirt, at the waist. The jacket is a lumberjacket style with long puffed sleeves, red trim that looks like pockets and silver buttons. The outfit can double for either dress or suit, as I choose. At first I thought the sleeves could be longer, but they are comfortable and just about right. It's only the beginning - I need dresses very, very badly. In fact I have but one winter dress - my blue wool with dubbonet velvet trim (I've discarded all the others). I also have my black velvet suit, my sports suit and a black silk skirt, That, sweet, is my entire wardrobe and I don't have to tell you how many things I need to have a half decent wardrobe. Thank God I've got coats and some shoes. Now I need a nice pair of black high heels to accompany the new suit.
I also forgot to mention that Dot called me yesterday to inform me she was back. She got in yesterday. morning and wants me to come out, so she can tell me all about her trip. I've promised her I'll be out on Sat. night.
When I got home Fay called and asked me to go along with her to a Gin Rummy game. I was about to renig, being very tired and then I said to hell with it - I'll go along, She came over to our house and then we went to another girl's house on 4800 N. Ninth. Altogether we were five girls and we were headed for D and the Blvd. We took a cab, each one contributing 15¢. When we arrived we were six altogether - all Army wives, four with children and two pregnant. How's that for a gathering? However, I had the oldish child and hadn't seen my hubby for the longest time. I never played Gin Rummy as it really should be played, but I picked up the game in no time. In the end I lost 20¢. I had a very nice evening, but got to bed about one o’clock, I've had a terrible time getting to sleep this entire week. Last night I don't recall closing my eyes for even a second. Consequently I'm dead tired this evening. I can never recall losing sleep as I did this past week and I hope that this so-called phase or whatever it is will pass off tonight. I'm very tired when I get to bed, but I can't sleep. Sounds funny, doesn't it? I do know that I “want" you, but I can't say that it's that bad that it is causing loss of sleep for an entire night. It's bad enough, and when I think that I'm a woman (women are supposed to be more self sufficient sexually) I have a pretty good idea of how strong your desire must be. Phil, darling, I'm afraid it's a long way off - and that hurts so much I just want to cry.
I was terribly disappointed at the lack of mail, since Fay had mentioned that mail from her brother (his APO was changed from 637 to 559 also) has been coming through more regularly than ever before. Phil, I haven't the slightest idea of why your mail should be so slow in coming through and it's that more than anything that is annoying me to death. Today is Friday and I haven't had mail since Monday. If I don't get some mail tomorrow I'm going to be in the dumps again. I can't stand these long drawn out sessions of waiting and I have an idea that it is responsible for my loss of sleep. Please, Phil, try to write daily, if only a small letter and keep the mail coming through regularly.
Harry opens the place tomorrow. Etta was due to have her baby on the 1st, but nothing doing yet. - Ought to be some news most any day or even hour.
I'm so tired, honey, that I feel I shall drop. I'm sure you'll understand why I hereby, at this very minute, say I love you, sweet, and a fond good night.
Your Eve
Nov. 1, 1944
Dearest Phil,
I thought I’d try “writing” instead of typing this evening. Jessie is busy typing a letter to her hubby & I thought I’d take advantage of the opportunity to write - for a change.
There was no mail this morning except S & D's check. I'm sending along two more pin up girls that I thought very attractive. We have many of them about on our blotters and I thought you’d enjoy looking at them.
I got into work earlier today, so that I could finish some of the work that had piled up.
l'm strangely at a loss for words, and am trying to dream up something to say. Suppose I talk about Adele - when we come downstairs in the morning she refuses to allow me to help her down the steps. She says “Mommy, yeave me ayone - I’m tomin’” - (that’s exactly how she speaks). Adele likes to tell me stories about the Baby bear, Momma bear & Poppa bear & delights when I tell her a “tory” (story). Adele is a few inches taller than Ricky, who is 11 days older. Yes, she is rather tall for her age.
My check came in the afternoon mail, and as usual, I intend to buy a $50 bond, with the remains of the check. When I receive your Oct. bond and buy the aforementioned bond, we'll have a total of $1100 in bonds - and - mister that ain't hay!
I'm enclosing a circular that the United Gas Co. printed for Harry, as an announcement.
And that just about winds up the news for today. It's costing Harry $512.00 to get started and if the station does not pay he'll get every cent of it back,
Good night, baby, I love you so very much - - - (you should be flattered - this is my second letter to you today) -
Your Eve
1 November 1944
My Darling,
Had to skip writing last night because something came up that kept me busy far into the evening, and when I was through I was too tired to attempt it. It was a very full day for me, and the time fairly flew. Today was another busy one for me. I am CQ tonight, and just because I'm in a letter-writing mood and have plenty of time to get off a "longie* - there wasn't any mail for me today or yesterday. As a consequence, I have very little to write about. My semi-monthly 48-hour pass comes up tomorrow, and I was kinda wondering what to do about it. There are three alternatives and I have yet to make up my mind which one to choose, First, I could go to London, have a Turkish Bath, see all the shows, etc. This would cost me about ₤3 ($12.00). Or, I could spend the time in Colchester visiting with the Dees, Marks, or Woolfs, or all three. I could get by on about 10/ ($2.00) in that case. Or - I could take a ride to Worcester to see Eddie. That would also set me back about ten or twelve dollars. Damn this typewriter! You may wonder why I'm so concerned about money at this time. Well, Chippie, as I told you the other day - I'm completely “busted", so whatever I spend this trip will go under the debit column, and I don't want to go too far into the hole. Of course, it goes without saying that I'd like most of all to go out and see Eddie. The thing that makes me hesitate, though, is that haven't heard from him for so long that I'm not sure that he is still there and I’d hate to make the trip for nothing. However, I'll think it over. Maybe I'll take a chance. I'm really up-a-tree, Sweet about what to do, but I'll make up my mind by tomorrow afternoon - when I leave. What I'd like to do is to take my furlough, visit Eddie for a few days and try to reach Limey to spend a few days with him. But that would require some real capital, so it is out of the question. Even so, if they'd only write and keep me posted as to their whereabouts, so that I could be sure they'd be there when I arrived, I’d do it if I had to borrow my next two months' pay, As it is, I have very little appetite to go scurrying ’way across England - not knowing if they will be at the end of my journey. Oh, well - we'll see!
The enclosed pictures were taken in August on the occasion of our “beer bust" commemorating the anniversary of our arrival in England. I only managed to get my puss into two of the pictures (and I don't look any too good in either), but thought I'd send along the lot - anyway: Just to save you the trouble of looking too hard, I X’ed the back of the two snaps in which I appear. If you could get hold of some film, as I asked you to months ago, I'd try to get some really good snaps for you, Chippie.
There is really very little else I can write about, Sweet. I might say that it is getting colder, that we have rain practically every day and that we're burning wood of an evening in the tiny Nissen huts stoves in order to take some of the chill and dampness out of the place.
Just think, honey - here it is November already! It strikes me as queer that the time seems to go so quickly in spite the fact that I'm so impatient to see the end of the war and my return home to my loved ones, Guess you better count me out as a guest at the punkin's birthday party, Sweet. I'm almost convinced that I won't be able to make it. I don't think there's much hope that I’ll see you at all this year. But I refuse to believe that 1945 will be very old by the time my fondest dream comes true. - Maybe in time for our 4th anniversary, eh, Sweet? I haven't forgotten our resolve to return to "1777" That's another dream I'm living in hopes of seeing fulfilled before another year is out. Gee Baby, there are so many things t want to do soon after our reunion, that I'll hardly know where to begin! But I think "1777" would be the appropriate “beginning” - don’t you?
'Bye now, my darling. Try your best to be patient. Some day, all our empty todays will be just so many memories. The day when “us” again becomes an actuality, and all the days that are to follow, will be the only ones that count. Keep punchin’, sweetheart, I love you more than ever. Love to Adele - and all from
I am writing this v-mail on the morning of Nov. 1, shortly before leaving for work. I wasn't in a good mood last night and decided to go to a movie though it was rather late. I called Fay and Anne and they agreed to go along, as both were anxious to take in a movie.
As soon as I finished getting Adele to bed, which was about 9 o'clock, we left and headed for the Logan where "Summer Storm" is playing, with George Saunders, Linda Darnell and Edward Everett Horton. It was a "different" picture and had plenty of "zip". When I left the theatre, I found I had acquired a violent dislike for George Saunders, I've always enjoyed his performances, but somehow, and although this performance was just as excellent as his previous ones, I found myself disliking him more with every minute. Perhaps it was the character he portrayed, for he was weak physically as well as mentally (instead of physically, I should have said sexually). If you do have the opportunity to see it, I'm sure you will enjoy it.
There was no mail yesterday, except a $15 check for Diana (from one of Goldie's rich cousins) as a belated gift. I was very busy at work yesterday as the first of the month always means statements, and statements always mean lots of work. The day passed quickly and I'm always thankful for that.
After Fay and I dropped Anne at her place and although we had decided it was too late to eat ice-cream (it was 12) Fay and I changed our minds and stopped at the candy store at 8th and Ruscomb Sts., where I had a big luscious sundae just bathed in oodles of whipped cream. I thought about you all evening and wished very much that you could share the sundae with me. It was almost one when I got to bed, and even though Adele woke me twice during the night I had no difficulty whatever getting up this morning. No doubt I'll feel it later in the day, but I intend to get to bed early this evening to make up for it,
It is exactly four weeks to Adele's birthday and I don't think I'm going to make any sort of a party. Don't quote me on it, for I may have a change of mind at the last minute.
Mr. Bellet informed me that he expects an order of 12 strollers of the type I wish to buy and they should be in shortly. My mother and dad do not have to appear in court on Thurs. after all, as the family "may" have an agreement quietly, though I doubt it - extremely. I wanted to start Adele's scarlet fever injections, but I want to wait until my mother isn't so taken up. It's hard to take days off near Xmas, as we're very busy and he is depending on me, considering the hours I do put in. Jessie is a big help as I'm not there in the morning to do the bills and she can fill in on my job for the hours I can't be there. I'll write again this evening - if there is mail. So long for now, baby, I love you so very much!
This morning there was quite a bit of mail. Your letters of Oct. 11,13 & 14 were present and letters from Jack N. and Jack S. I am enclosing Jack N's, in the hope that you'll find some time to reply. I am a little surprised at you for letting it go this long.
And now to answer your mail - I can't believe that anyone can make $8000 gambling in one day - or is just that I'm not used to that kind of money. I wouldn't mind getting used to it -
The "eye doctor" is an optometrist (I'm sure I've mentioned it before). Mom only needed glasses to read the newspaper, as she could never see the type clearly. I think I told you that also.
I like the idea of those courses you mentioned and only hope you get to take advantage of them. I'll bet you could teach "Elementary English Grammar"! “No kiddin’”!
That just about answers all three letters, except, of course, your loving sentiments. I'll get to that in due time.
I didn't get to a movie last night after all. I was too tired by the time I got Adele to bed, cleaned her shoes, washed the few things there were to wash, and straightened up. I try very hard to get away in the evenings, but just can't seem to manage it. I'm in need of some recreation, but I don't mind waiting for a chance, as long as I have some mail from you to keep my spirits up.
Mr. First, the notary public and insurance man a few doors away, is most anxious to have me learn the insurance business, so that I can be of help to him in my spare ??? time. It isn't a bad idea, for he pays well and I like to work for him. I do a bit of work for him from time to time in the evening. Usually I type some minutes for him or a letter or two and he gives me a dollar for about an hour's work, which isn't bad at all.
Jack N.'s new address is as follows: Pvt. J. N. ,32,983,798, Ward C-12, Borden General Hospital, Chickasha, Oklahoma.
Goldie had a letter from Jack S, and he said he was put up for Sgt. and expects his stripe any day.
Since I'm just about out of news, I'll get on with the "sweet sentiments". Your letters only made me wish harder for the day when we will be reunited once more. The whole thing seems to be dragging along and I can't help getting rather impatient with it at times. Phil, darling, I adore you so much, and it's so hard to wait and wait and wait. It's as you say, "if 14 months is a long time, then all the time we'll be together after will be that much longer".
And so we come to the end of another day. I'm glad you at least had word from Eddie since it has been so long since we heard from him. As long as things keep going as they are I haven't a complaint though it wouldn't do me any good to complain. There are so many things that aren't as they should be - but they'll all be alright some day - they've just got to be! Good night for now, precious one, God bless you and keep you for
Your Eve
30 October 1944
Eve, dearest,
Last night Klein and I went into town to visit with Evelyn and Bert. Evelyn's father, Mr. Cohen, was also there. He is a very nice old gentleman, and must have been very handsome in his day. He, Bert, and I played rummy for a while until supper time. Believe it or not, they eat supper at 10 P.M.! Evelyn received your letter, and had a great time teasing me about it. I asked her if I could see it, and you should have seen the reaction! Evelyn, Mr. Cohen, Bert and even Klein acted like I had committed murder or sumpin! No kiddin', Sweet, their shocked expressions and condemnation for presuming to ask to read my wife's letter, were so spontaneous and outraged, that I was dumbfounded. I'm still not sure whether they were kidding me or not as to whether they were really indignant at my request to read other people's mail, but I do know that I didn't get to see the letter. All the time, they kept talking among themselves (for my benefit) about whether they should answer your query about whether I make dates with other women over here. That, I knew, was strictly the bunk, ’cause I flatter myself that you wouldn't dream of asking them a question like that one. I told them as much, but that didn't deter them from ribbing me. By this time, I was most impatient to read your letter, and I threatened Evelyn with all sorts of dire reprisals if she didn't produce it, but evidently she wasn't impressed, ’cause she persisted in being contrary about it. Now that they've had their fun I guess they'll let me see it next time I visit. (I hope!)
Today, I was kept busy with the Company History. In the afternoon, your three V-mails arrived - hallelujah! They are dated 16, 19, 22 Oct.
That of the 16th advised me that my mail was still held up, that you were feeling pretty glum about it, that Harry is getting the station, that Jack is undecided about whether he should come home for a few weeks; or stick it out 'til he can come home for good, that Ethel and Mary came down from Canada, and that the punkin is having her way with Abe (and you, too, you old softie). The only thing that calls for comment is Jack's little problem. You don't know it, Sweet, but there may come a time when I'll have to make a like decision, and that day may not be very far in the future. But I have definitely made up my mind that rather than take three or four months in the States and facing the possibility of shipping out at the end of that time to the Pacific theater, I'd rather stick it out over here that much longer, thereby greatly reducing the possibility for ever seeing the Pacific Theater. I know you will agree that this is the wisest course, ’cause I remember that you said that the next time we are re-united you don't want to face another separation. Neither, for that matter, do I! Personally, I think Jack would be a fool to come home until he knows it is “permanent." But, as you say it is up to him to decide. I'm sure he is level-headed enough to recognize the right thing to do.
On the 19th, you write that you had a letter from Syd. Poor kid - he must be having a pretty rough time of it! I'm glad I have a letter on the way to him. The remainder of the letter inspires no particular comment.
On the 22nd you devoted half the letter to a description of Adele's new suit that you bought from Mr. Gorin. From your description, I would say you got a very good buy. Tell the punkin to wear it in the best of health - for me. What's this about "short-pants" becoming such a swell dancer? He must be pretty darned good if you compare him with Jack N! Can't say that I blame him, though, for liking to dance with you, Sweet. You are (and I say this without prejudice) one of the most graceful dancers I ever saw. If you remember, it was your dancing that attracted me to you from the first. Keep in practice, Sweet, 'cause it's been so long since I've danced, that you may have to coach me for a while after I get back. You drew a pretty delightful picture, Chippie, when you described your dad dancing with your mom and Adele dancing with her dollie. I gather that your folks must be getting on much better with each other these days, eh?
Well, Chippie, that about finishes me up for tonight. See you tomorrow, Baby. Until then, I am
Your ever-lovin' Phil
P.S. 'My love to all - but especially to you, my Evvie.
