Post #456 - September 14, 15, 1944 Steel Pier was Damaged and Some of the Boardwalk Washed Away and I Don’t Mind Anything As Long As My Peace of Mind Concerning Money is Clear

 

Sept. 14, 1944

Dearest Phil,

It rained for the third straight day in a row and what I mean rained! A hurricane of large proportion has hit the eastern coast and I understand Atlantic City has been hit hard. I heard reports that Steel Pier was damaged and some of the boardwalk washed away. Today, though it rained, most of the storm consisted of a heavy wind. It wasn't raining when I went to work and since I was rather late I didn't have the opportunity to stop for the bottles. I feel a heel for putting it off day after day, and I'll positively make it my business to stop for them tomorrow without fail. I've sort of caught up on my correspondence, for a change, and I'm catching up on my housework little by little. I just finishing ironing the kitchen curtains. I called Dot this morning and half-promised to stop out there Saturday night to play Gin Rummy, if'n I'm not too tired. Yale is being transferred from Oklahoma to Denver, Colorado as he requested. He claimed the weather in Oklahoma was detrimental to his health and although no one else has ever been transferred for that particular reason, he was the first lucky guy. He has connections in Denver that will benefit him and undoubtedly Shirley will now rejoin him. She has been waiting here at home to learn definitely whether or not he would be transferred. I let Adele call Sarah on the phone this morning and Adele practically carried on a regular conversation with her. She told Sarah that she played in the "playpen" and that it was "raining" out and said "yes" when asked if she was a good girl. I double spaced this evening, sweet, cause it is very late and I’m sort of anxious to hit the hay. Darling, if only I could draw you oh so close, and whisper in your ear how much I adore you. 

Your Eve

Sept. 15, 1944

Dearest Phil,

At long last I bought the pyrex bottles and a half dozen nipples and I shall mall the package off to you tomorrow morning along with a box of salt water taffies that Ruth got for you. The rain broke today and we had sunshine galore, which was mighty welcome.

There has been no mail for three days now and I'm looking forward to receiving some either tomorrow or Monday. I am working for four hours tomorrow and then I shall have from tomorrow afternoon til Wednesday afternoon, which is exactly four days, I have a lot of things to do in the house, but I certainly hope to find time for a little recreation this time.

While purchasing the bottles and nipples I noticed some nice invisible hair nets and bought one for 10¢. Imagine my surprise to find it is made in England! I've taken to wearing a net more often to keep my hair neat. I also managed to get a 10¢ box of Kleenex and it's the first box I've been able to get in about four months.

It is very warm today and I can scarcely believe I had to wear my wool suit all week to keep warm. This is the weather for catching colds, but I aim to steer clear. This afternoon, just before quitting time, I had an opportunity to knock off a letter to Jack N. I sent one off to Jack S. yesterday morning and I'm almost completely caught up on my mail. It won't last long - It never does. But I feel better knowing I did what I could.

You know, honey, I like my job immensely for it is an interesting job. What I dislike is the uncertainty of it all and the strain of having to be at a certain place at such and such a time. However, that is how It is when you have a baby, so it isn't that much of a hardship. The thing most important is that I have peace of mind financially and, sweet, if only you knew what a relief that is to me! I don't mind anything as long as my peace of mind concerning money is clear. I'm very well satisfied with our income and though there are many things I should like to own I am content knowing that there is a possibility of my having all those things. I'm sure the knowledge that we have some money saved and that we'll be able to plan and do some of the things we want most to do is most pleasing to you, too. A long time ago I told you that as long as I had enough money to manage without having to skimp I would be satisfied. This should be ample proof.

I haven't had the opportunity to get a cold chain for the pretty piece you sent me, but I will, honey, I will! I always did want some sort of a locket and this is it. I have a desire to own something else, something I've always wanted - a wrist watch, a good one with a few little chips to match my rings. Just dropping a hint for some day when you can do some thing about it. I see I'm clean out of space so I’ll close with my usual I adore you, my darling and remain

Your Eve

Post #455 - September 13, 1944 Tonight, Ruth Mailed Ed Four Letters and Fairly Long Ones at That and I’ll Never Stop Appreciating You, Nor Will I Ever Take You For Granted.

 

Sept. 13, 1944

My sweet,

Just as I thought, it rained all day today for the second day in a row. The air is heavy with dampness and it is sticky and uncomfortable. The paper says more rain, but I hope it is wrong.

This morning (I guess Mom and Harry had a consultation) Mom told me to have the radio repaired and that she and Harry would pay the cost. However, I'm still going to take it to some other places to see if they, too, will charge $8.50. I neglected to tell you what was wrong with the radio. The whole trouble is merely two tubes, one of which is practically unobtainable except through black market, which, naturally, makes it costly.

I know where I can get pyrex bottles and I am going up tomorrow morning (providing it doesn't rain as hard as it's been raining these past two days ) to get them once and for all. Don't worry, dear, I won't forget the nipples.

I also forgot to tell you that I malled you a Jewish letter from Mom two days ago. Undoubtedly you'll get this before that arrives.

I'm glad you advised us not to be expecting mail from Ed. I assure you Ruth keeps the correspondence going strong. Tonight she mailed him four letters and fairly long ones at that.

I wore my suit to work every day this week thus far due to the rain and chilliness and believe me, honey, that suit has certainly served Its purpose. I enjoy it more than anything I have to wear and hope to be able to buy another before this winter is out. I get more wear out of such an outfit than anything else.

You know, I almost forgot to send along my wishes for a Happy New Year, so I hereby do so at this moment. Let's drink a toast to our reunion in ’45 - early ’45 if you please. I love you, my darling Phil, and can hardly wait for the day when I gather you close to me and love you with all that I've stored up within me these many months, I think I'd better sign off before I just evaporate, and I wouldn't want to evaporate til I had a chance to give you the love of

Your Eve

P.S. Sorry this has to be so short, but I’m really at a loss of words this evening—surprised!!!

13 September 1944 

Dearest One,

Your happy V-mail of 6 Sep, arrived this afternoon, and it is a welcome change from the glum letters you have been writing here of late. I gathered from it that you had written on the 5th but I haven't received that one yet. You must have received my longie about my visit to Eddie on that day, 'cause you voice no apprehension on his behalf. Moreover, your letter is just packed with news. First, you say you are going to write to the Woolfs, but that you will have to send the letter in my care. If I remember correctly I sent along their address in my next letter. Hope you find those pyrex bottles and nipples (they call them teats over here), First time I heard Evelyn call them that, I think I blushed—no kiddin!! 

I was wondering why you weren't sending me any more candy. You divulged the reason in today's letter. What you tryin’ to do, kid, thin me down by remote control? Seriously, honey, a bar of candy each day isn' going to make that much difference. Bet you pictured me eating the whole box at one sitting, didn't you? Besides, I'm only two or three pounds heavier than my usual 176 pounds, and expect to get rid of the excess playing ping-pong. Now will you send the candy? Please?

Was surprised to learn that Mickey Brown is already in France. He'll probably wind up in one of the great port cities there—like Cherbourg, or Brest or Le Havre. He'll be O.K.

Of course I hadn’t forgotten that day at Delaware Park you met Ace, may he rest in Peace, it had just slipped mind. I still feel badly about his loss—I had so counted on having him up to the house to play pinochle, etc. We used to have fun together, and through all the years of our friendship, there was never a cross word between us. I'll miss him.

Now that Adele has finished cutting her teeth, you should be getting more sleep, Chippie, and putting on a few pounds. By the way, what is your weight these days, Sweet?

In your last long paragraph you sound very much the proud mama. You point with pride to the fact that the punkin has “grown up overnight,” that you can carry on a conversation with her, and how cute she “looks in her upsweep" hair-do. (Hope you're staying away from the curls.) The thing that really amused me, though, was your annoyance at my habit of referring to her "fatness". We'll pass over the fact that I never used that adjective in speaking of the cheesecake. I may have made some allusion to her “fat little legs,” but I'm not admitting it. You are very painstaking in your efforts to convince me that she is not as “chubby" as she looks in her pictures, and that tickles me, too. (Don't ask me why. I could never explain it.) Don't fret yourself about it, honey. I'm sure that she is just as you say, and that none of her pictures do her justice. Her daddy is very proud of her, you may rest assured, and he is equally proud of her mommy, who has so efficiently performed the hard task of nurturing her through her infancy. When I consider the few years it took you to develop from an irresponsible kid to a loving wife and devoted mother, my pride and admiration in you knows no bounds. I know I've said as much on a few previous occasions, darling, but I want you to know that I'll never stop appreciating you. Nor will I ever take you for granted. You are wonderful, my Evie, and I could never say as much as I feel about that!

You'll excuse me now, I know, so I may get cleaned up in time to make the first show at the theater. The picture is "Murder in Thornton Square". I believe it goes under the title of "Gaslight” in the states, The principals are C. Boyer and I. Bergman, so I don't see how it can fail to be a good show Tell you all about it tomorrow, sweet. Hasta Mañana, then, carissima mia. My love to Adele—and all.

Devotedly,
Your Phil

P.S. Don't forget the candy—that's all.

September 13, 1944

Dear Phil,

No doubt you already heard from your wife that I had contacted her for your address. Also she discovered that she knows my brother and his wife and her family. She’ll tell you all about it. Our phone conversation was very amusing. I kept kidding her saying that I discovered you were my cousin. When I pay my brother a visit, I’ll try and stop to say hello to her and your baby. Very best wishes for a speedy peaceful New Year.

(Clara)

Post #454 - September 12, 1944 It is a Funny Feeling as You Realize Your Baby is Not a Baby Anymore and Don’t Forget for a Minute, Sweet, that Many Like Me are Dying So That Others Dreams May Come True

Sept. 12, 1944

Dearest Phil,

Have a little time and thought I'd start on my daily missive, I was delighted beyond words when I received no less than 4 (yes 4) letters all from you, sweet, dated Sept. 5, 6, 7, 8. That means the last letter is but four days old and brings you about as close to me as we can possibly be. There wasn't anything exciting about the contents, but they were enough to make me feel especially good. 

Here I am back home, Sweet, and with a bit of interesting news. This evening shortly after supper I was called to the phone. It was none other than Clara Wagner of S & D inquiring after you. She wanted your correct address, as S & D plan to send packages to all the boys as last year. During the course of our conversation I learned that she is Mollie Reisner's sister-in-law and we were both surprised. Clara said that she was going to kid everyone in the place and tell them that you and her were related, since we know the Reisners so well. I asked her to dinner and she will be up some night in the near future. I also asked her whether or not she could obtain the combevita pills for me and she said she would. I don't know if I told you that the government got after all concerns making vitamin pills and put a ceiling price on them, which, in turn, lowers the price of combevita from what you used to pay wholesale ($2.16) to $1.68 per hundred. She advised me to get a bottle of 500, but I told her I wanted to try them first and then would buy the bottle of 500. She also told me that S & D have a new system. They no longer deduct from the employees pay for merchandise purchased - they have a store on the premises, for employees only. This same bottle of 100 combevita pills costs $3.33 in the drugstores.

I also heard that Carl Furr is in N. Y. on furlough from N. Africa. Ethel and Al were in N. Y. to visit his Mom's grave and that's how I know about it.

I learned that Ruth didn't mail off that letter she wrote you describing the things she bought Adele, as someone spilled ink all over it. So, honey, I shall describe them here and now. #1 - a pair of good dubonnet corduroy jodhpurs that set her back exactly $3.69 that fit to perfection. #2 - a dark powder blue jersey with long sleeves and two white buttons on the left shoulder. The round neck fits closely, as only the better jerseys do and no wonder - it cost her $1.29. It also has two little white scottie dogs on the chest. #3 - a lovely white blouse that would have cost $2.98, but she got it through the people she was with for $2.45. It has a square neck of Grecian lace (white) and six pleats down the front. The sleeves are very puffy and there is a narrow belt that tie around the waist to keep the blouse in place. It will be positively adorable with the cotton plaid skirt Mrs. Bader made for her. #4 - a two way doll of rag, one side a colored doll wearing an Aunt Jemima hat piece and a red print dress of the same material, the other side, a demure white doll wearing a blue print bonnet tied with red ribbon and a blue print dress. #5 - a sweet smelling cake of Castile soap shaped as a fish that I particularly like the odor of.

It's been raining all day long and looks very much like it's going to keep up all week.

By the way there is a part of one or your letters I wish to take exception with. Just because I wrote that Dolly gets $90 per month from Gotham is no reflection on my outlook of finances, I didn't write anything about Billy cause there isn't anything I could write about him. I asked about him several times and only learned that he had been stationed down South. I thought it mighty nice of Gotham to pay his wife that amount. When you consider that the government only pays a wife $80 it is something. And besides they must think a helluva lot of Bill to pay his wife that amount. I only wrote it because I thought it unusual for a company to pay a wife so much and didn't like the attitude you took. Next time I'll just keep my letter than much shorter and avoid such comments.

Our next door neighbors moved in today, having had the house completely redone. They put in new fixtures all over the place and have a lovely crystal chandelier in the dining room. It will really be gorgeous when they get done with it. I can't wait til we will be able to do the same. This whole house needs a painting from ceiling to floor and inside out. There'll come a day—

I've started to comb Adele's hair with a part on the left side and completely combed back, instead of the usual pile in the center of her head. She doesn't look very much like a baby anymore, but a regular little girl and it is a funny feeling, as you realize that your baby is not a baby anymore.

Adele has been sleeping fairly well of late and usually (not always ) sleeps til 7:15 or 7:30, which gives me a chance to sleep now and then. I find it difficult to get to bed much before 11 so I manage to get my 8 hours of shuteye.

And now, precious one, it is time to say good-night once more. If only I could say it to you in bed after - - -

I've loved you. HO - fooled you didn't I! No, you were right, sweet, and I am

All ways
your Eve

P. S. Did you know that Clara was related to the Reisners? I think it's high time you sent off a letter to S & D, don't you?

12 September 1944

My Darling,

Another very busy day for me. I started on the payroll first thing this morning, and by working steadily on it, managed to get it done by 6:00, when I went to supper. After supper, I challenged Sinneway to a game of ping-pong. Before I was through, I had played Sinneway (and beat him), Chumley (who beat me), and Lowry (who won one out of four games). Not a bad evening for yours very lovingly. I managed to work up a good sweat, and I figure it won't do me a bit of harm if I lose a coupla pounds by playing regularly. Now I'm all washed up (I mean I washed myself, of course), and am all set to answer your last three V-mails. They are dated 1, 3, 4 Sep.

On the 1st, you had not heard from me for eight days - at least that's what you say, but, checking back, I find that you were feeling “unusually good" ’cause you had received two of my letters on the 28th! Tsk! tsk! Better learn to add or subtract - or sumpin. And, NO, I definitely am not in France!!!! You sound mighty impatient, honey. Better calm down again, 'cause it looks like it may be quite awhile yet before "R" day. Then again, it may not be more than a few months yet. However it may turn out, Sweet, please keep your patience well in hand. Sooner or later there'll come a day— 

Your puzzlement at the fact that Ed wrote once from hospital and then stopped writing, is understandable, but you must know now the reason for it!

Bet Sy hated to go back to base ofter his ten days at home.

You didn't write on the 2nd cause you were “depressed" (that's a new reason for not writing - I must remember it).

On the 3rd, you were still concerned cause you hadn’t received mail. You say Dot refused your invite to “come out and sleepover" because she didn't want to leave her mother alone. That beats me! How anyone can turn down an offer to “sleep over" with you is just beyond me, that's all! Wish you'd ask me sometime! Lady, I'd not only sleep over, but under, side-by-side, and every other way of can think of - and I can think of plenty - know what I mean? You do? Why, Evelyn—!

On the 4th you inform me that your grandmother passed away. Guess I'm supposed to say something appropriately sympathetic, but I'm afraid the only sympathy I can offer you, dear, is that she wasn't the kind of person you would have wanted her to be. She did nothing in her lifetime to earn your love or respect, and her reward is that she died unlamented by anyone.

Glad to learn that Mom was expected home on the 4th. Maybe she'll get off that letter she owes me now.

That little incident you recount about Adele and “Harry eat”  gives me an inkling of how fast my punkin is growing up, and makes me realize just how much I am missing these days.

What is wrong with Betty's brother (isn’t his name Abe?) that he is being discharged on a CDD? In the next breath you want to know if “it” is “still far away,” the “it” meaning, I assume, my homecoming. I wish I knew, honey, but I don't even have an idea on the subject. You see, so many things must come to pass before I can take it for granted that I am going home. However, I just can't feel too pessimistic about the prospects. The enemy seems to be failing rapidly on all fronts, and our boys over there are doing everything they can to hasten the process of dissolution. Everything depends on their success, Sweet, and since they are risking their lives in the effort to end the war for all of us, I think it's very bad taste to “chafe at the bit." The least we, who only wait, can do is to wait as patiently and quietly as we are able, and to appreciate the efforts being made in our behalf. Don't forget for a minute, Sweet, that many like me are dying so that others’ dreams may come true. Remember it always - and be properly humble, that you may be worthy of the eventual return of

Your adoring Phil

 

Post #453 - September 11, 1944 It is Surprising That I Can Find Time for Everything Somehow, Isn’t It and I Lay Down to Grab About 40 Winks—and Didn’t Wake Up ’Til I’d Grabbed About 40 Thousand

 

Sept. 11, 1944

Dearest Sweetheart

Received yours very lovingly of Sept 2 and 4, one of which contained the brooch. It is lovely and I shall get a chain for it first chance I get. Theresa suggested that I make a pin out of it, which is also a good idea. Thanks so much, honey, and if only I could hug and kiss you for it! I can anyhow, if you'll use your imagination a bit. By the way, sweet, I have another request for an 8th Air Force insignia from Ruth. If you can get one for her I'd like her to have it; if not, well that's that.

Phil, our little radio is deader than a doornail. It stopped playing several days ago and it will cost $8.50 to have it fixed. I had decided to sell the radio rather than pay that price to have it fixed, but I don't feel that it is worth $8.50 to have repaired. I could get a good price for it now and we could buy a white cased radio after the war for our bedroom and a large one for the living room. I seldom have the opportunity to play or even listen to the radio and Mom and Harry being the only two that derived any pleasure from it I thought perhaps they might chip in just a wee bit to ease the cost to me. Since such is not the case I'm not particularly fond of expending a large sum of money at the present time. My dad has promised to take it to several places to try to have it repaired at a lesser cost and if he is successful then, and only then will we have a radio in the house. Would you want me to sell it or hold on to it, sweet? Since it is yours, as well as mine, and a wedding gift in the bargain, I though it best to ask your advice. Adele once knocked it over when Mom was taking care of her, and she broke the handle on top and one of the knobs which is used to regulate the stations. Otherwise, nothing was wrong for the radio has been playing all along. I shall wait to hear from you.

I also just completed a letter to Evelyn and Bert. Since I do not have the bottles or nipples, I told them I would send them along if I could get them and if not, that I would appreciate if they would request something else for the baby. I have so little time to really shop, honey, or to do many of the things I would like to do.

I broke the ice last night by taking in a movie. I treated Ruth to a movie and some ice-cream at Ben's. The picture, “White Cliffs of Dover" was excellent, but left me with a bitter taste in my mouth. How can one person endure so much! I don't recall if you saw the picture. Did you? Irene Dunne was the star.

Phil it is positively uncanny the way we think of the same things at the same time. For instance, your letter of Sept. 4th warned me not to expect you home directly after the war in Europe ends. I think you will find that I wrote about that very same subject just about the time you did. It hurts so much to know that, Phil, and I could cry and cry and cry about it. However, we shall wait and see exactly what is going to happen. If you have to, you have to - -

We had a censored letter from Seymour today, care of Fleet postoffice N.Y. saying that he had been assigned to the U.S.S. New Yorker. I wonder where he'll wind up?

I had a flock of letters both Sat. and today from Syd, Phil, Glo, Jack N. and Milt. Phil has been transferred from Tacoma, Wash. to Atlanta, Ga. where he will attend a surgical technician school for three months. As he said, "Pop said I had mazel and I do". In case you want to write to him, his address is Pfc. P. S. 33.310,990, Lawson Gen. Hospital (ST school). Atlanta, Ga.

Jackie didn't say much, except that he was seeing a lot of Marilyn and that nothing is definite. yet. He'll probably write to you shortly. I owe him a letter, but want to wait til a duplicate set of the snaps is ready.

Syd wrote the usual letter and said he wasn't mad that I hadn't written all this time. I'm going to try to get a letter off to him tonight, if time allows. It's pretty late already.

Glo informed us that she will visit us Sept. 23rd (I wonder if you recall that particular date) and asked me to reorder some of this stationery for her.

Milt wrote the nicest letter I've had from him since he went overseas. They had moved out of the jungle onto a beach and had some decent food and a cot to sleep on for the first time in a long while. He killed several more Japs. He says the natives there are a big help, carrying their food and supplies for them.

You ask me in your letter to tell you how it feels to hug Adele "for the third time". It's hard for me to put it down on paper, but, honey, I will say that next to love of man and woman and their embrace there is no more beautiful feeling than the arms of a child. She is soft, smooth and very cuddly not to mention responsive. She loves to love and isn't at all bashful. She hugs me very tightly and kisses me on the lips just as you would. Now, ain't you jealous, Sweet?

Ruth and I got the biggest kick out of Adele last night. After her bath I let her lie on our bed and Ruth and I joined her. We sang to her for a little while, until she started to sing herself (uh uh a baby) and suddenly Ruth broke the silence. I said, Ruth, shut up and Adele piped in with the exact same words. It sounded so funny coming from her and since neither of us heard her say it before, we both burst out laughing. She also says "top it" for stop it. What a kid! Phil, if only I knew you'd come home soon - - -

Gloria complained that Jack does not receive enough mail from home. On this particular occasion I mentioned that Glo writes to Jack as often as I write to you and that you never get any mail from us at home. There are always excuses, excuses that just make me mad at times.

I promised to make Diana an outfit and intend to start just as soon as Goldie selects the wool. Goldie says she has no patience to knit, but I reminded her that I don't have the time or the patience, but no one will do it for me, which quieted her, but good. I'm most anxious to make the baby a nice outfit, especially in view of the generosity of her family as well as Harry and Goldie, and it is surprising that I can find time for everything somehow, isn't it.

I didn't get to bed til 12 for the past few nights and since I fully intend to get some semblance of sleep tonight I'm going to sign off right this minute. I worked as usual today - things are very routine at the office. Phil would you want me to work til you come home and perhaps for a short while after til we were settled financially or quit before you come home? I was wondering what you thought about it. I'd like to know where we stand before I give up this job with it's favorable hours - but we'll leave that up to you too. Baby, I love you so much I just don't know what to do or say. Darling - -

Your Eve

11 September 1944 

Dearest Evvie,

First I must explain why I didn't write yesterday. The truth is - after a pretty hectic day, I lay down to grab forty winks - and didn't wake up 'til I'd grabbed about 40 thousand. I was as mad about it as you must be, ’cause I'd received your long typed letter of 28-29 Aug 44 and your V-mail of 1 Sep that afternoon, and I had fully intended answering them in the evening. Please accept my apology, Sweet - and I'll try to make it up to you here.

Your V-mail of 3 Sep arrived this afternoon, so now, I have three of your letters to answer. Before I go into that, I flatter myself you'd like a few sentences about what I’ve been doing these past coupla days. Well - yesterday found me pounding the typewriter practically all day on a miscellany of letters, forms, etc. You already know how I wasted the evening—please, no recriminations, now! Today - same thing. I was busy typing from 8 A.M. ’til well into the afternoon. Afterwards, I played eleven games of ping-pong on our new table against five different opponents and won them all, which explains why I’m in a pretty good humor right now. Another factor influencing my rather mellow mood, is that we had ICE CREAM at supper for the first time in about seven months. It wasn't very good, as ice-cream goes, but who can be fussy after so long a time without it? Mentally, I’m pretty tired right now (do you sense it?) but I'm fighting off the desire to relax until I finish this. Now, let’s see what your letters call forth.

You were feeling "unusually good” when you wrote on the 28th due to the fact that you had received a couple of my letters that day. You explain that Mom and Harry and Goldie wanted to help me out in the bond drive, but just didn't get around to sending the money. It's good to know their intentions were good, but good intentions didn't raise our total one little bit!

But I don't intend to re-open the subject. You say that Harry made a “terrible stink" when you went back to work. He might have had some justification for his objections if you had left the punkin on Mom’s or Goldie's hands, but since you were forced to leave her in your Mom's care, I can only say he had a colossal nerve in even venturing an opinion. As to that, I have a few opinions that I never aired cause I didn't want to start any dissension among you, but don’t for a minute, Chippie, think that I am entirely unaware of what goes on back there or that I am forgetting it. Don't even give a second thought to the possibility that we will live anyway but alone once I get back. 

You declined to answer my letter of the 20th Aug as I had asked you to, but you asked me to “remind“ you to do so "sometime". - Well, I'm reminding you. Sure would like to hear what you have to say on the subject, Sweet. 

Then - you tell me all about your visit with Mike and Frances and Norma. I enjoyed reading about it, honey, and I'm glad you had a nice time. I certainly would like to see those "movies" Mike made of you and the cheesecake, but I guess it will have to wait for the duration plus—, ’cause I don't know where I could get my hands on an 8 mm projector. Have you invited them up to visit “us"? I haven’t had a reply to my letter to Mike, but if I don't hear from him within the next few days I'll write again and thank him for the good time he showed you and the punkin. By the way, how old is Norma?

Adele's new trick of saying "daddy, dear" intrigues me and makes me wonder if she enunciates the "r" in dear" (Why do I pick on these inconsequentials"?) I didn't think that 8th Air Force pin I sent you would make such an impression. Truth to tell, I've seen prettier ones, and I mean to send one along for Mom as soon as I can get into town to see Bert. He sells them. Makes me wonder how that brooch I sent along will strike you. You want to know what I think about that table and chair set for Adele - - I already knew that you had bought it, but it sounds like a good idea, anyhow.

I got an idea that Snuffy, being an experienced machinist, will wind up in an Ordnance outfit - at least, he should.

You say he wired from St. Louis, and then (naively) "Guess he’s headed for the west coast - er sumpin'," - And then, because you “haven't time to start another page this evening,” you ended your letter - rather abruptly. But I'm not complaining, sweetheart, ’cause it was quite a long one, and made delightful reading.

Sorry, honey, but I must sign off now, ’cause the guys are all in their “sacks" and clamoring for me to put the lights out. Just want to remind you that I love you very much, and that I'm keeping our "date" faithfully. My dearest love to the punkin. My love to all! Remember me to the Frommers. Good-night, baby mine - snuggle up close - closer - that’s it - ’night, Sweet.

Lovingly,

Your Phil

Sept. 11, 1944

Dear Phil,

Well, the army finally got me! I guess you have known for quite a while now. As you can see I am at Camp Claiborne, La. and if there is one place I don't want to be is down here. The sun is hot and l do mean hot and we just can't go through a day without having a good rain. You take your clothes off wet from perspiration and put them on again in the morning just as wet as when you took them off. You can't wear underwear twice even if you want to. That means that I have a good wash every week. I can't give it to the laundry as you never get back what you give them.

I hear Evvie hasn't heard from you in quite a while, so l guess that you are now in France, behind the lines I hope.

I was supposed to start basic today but went on sick call instead. I can see two black spots with my right eye whether it is open or closed and wanted to find out what caused it. All I got out of that was some drops. If that doesn't help which I don't think it will, l'll keep going back until I found out just what is wrong.

I had a nice trip coming down here from New Cumberland and had a five hour layover at St. Louis. I took a walk around the town and say they have a damn nice U.S.O. club there. I had played ping pong with one of the boys for an hour and got in a little dancing at the same time.

Well Phil let me know what is doing with you as I would like to correspond with an old friend like you.

The one and only Snuff.

Post #452 - September 9, 10, 1944 A Big Fire Broke Out Under the Vanity and We Had a “Live” Subject as a Topic: “Demobilization”

 

Sept. 10, 1944

My dearest,

It is about 4 P. M. and I have just finished cleaning. Adele woke up a short while ago and I dressed her all in pink, with a large pink bow in her hair. Ruth has her out in the walker, so that I may write this and get dressed and catch a bit of rest.

I started to write yesterday, but was too tired and went to bed instead. Ruth tells me she has described in detail the various things she brought Adele. Well, baby, I just wish you could see your dotter in the blue jersey and dubonnet jodhpurs! They fit her to perfection and then some. The blouse is adorable and also fits beautifully. Ruth brought you some salt water taffys and I shall mail them off this week along with the bottles and nipples, which I hope to get. Ruth also brought Adele a two-way doll, with a black face on one side and a white face on the other - and - a cake of soap shaped like a fish that has a very pleasing odor.)

I worked yesterday morning for four hours and shopped on Broad St. for groceries when I got off the subway. Later I went shopping with Ruth and Adele and bought Adele a lovely pair of dark powder blue corduroy overalls and myself a pair of stockings, I also bought two decals for her table and chair set and Ruth put them on the chairs. They represent the figures of a teddy bear, duck and a bunny. I'm going to get a large one for the center of the table. It makes the set more attractive. I paid Mr. Bellet another dollar and now owe only four on the set. Someday I'll tell you some stories about Mr. Bellet and that table & chair set.

You should have been here this morning. Boy was I excited! I was cleaning our room and was about to remove one of the torches when a big fire broke out under the vanity - but I mean a fire! The cord from the torch was broken right at the lamp (on the bureau) end and had been sparking. When I went to move it in order to dust I caused a short and the wall, varnish on the floor and cord created a big fire. I screamed to Mom, who was in the bathroom for water and immediately withdrew the extension from the wall (the fire broke out on the floor between the cord end of the torch and the extension cord). I spilled the water on everything, just to be sure. Boy was I nervous when it was over! Adele gets frightened when she sees I am and I was plenty frightened. Even she began to cry. Now she keeps mentioning me - Momrny - fire! When I ask her who made the fire she says, "Mommy".

And, Phil, Adele repeats after me every single letter of the alphabet. I have noticed that her only fauIt in speech is that she can not say "k" or “c". For instance, for candy, she says "tandy" and for cake, "take". I was up at the shoe store to see if the corrective shoes came in, but still no luck, So I hasten to tell you that I can notice no fault whatever with her walking at the present time. However, I shall let her wear this particular pair of corrective shoes and then I hope to get her oxfords. She also counts up to ten, but usually when I say two she follows up with six (those two seem to be her favorite numbers).

Gosh, honey, I could go on for hours talking about Adele and things I want to do, etc. I saw a gorgeous pair of vanity lamps, crystal bases with dubonnet shades and priced them, only to find that the pair would cost $26. And we hesitated to spend $22 - remember? Oh, Phil, darling what I wouldn't give to be able to take you in my arms now and tell you that I adore you and that I am and always will be

Your Eve

9 Sep. 1944 My 

Darling,

Your V-mail of 30 Aug. arrived this afternoon to brighten up a pretty dull day! This morning, after I cleared up and mopped the Orderly Room, (part of the chores of the CQ), I shifted my bedding to my own bunk and proceeded to catch up on the sleep I missed last night. I had to get up three times during the night. 2:45 to wake the cooks, 5:00 to wake the K.P.'s, and 6:30 to wake the company. I didn’t even bother to undress. This morning I slept from 8:30 to 11:00, when I went to lunch.

This afternoon, just after lunch, we had our weekly "bull session.” The Army calls them “orientation talks". An hour each week is set aside for this, and usually about half the company participates. The idea is to discuss a predetermined subject, but invariably the allotted subject is either pretty dry, or a dead issue, so we discuss anything and everything we happen to be interested in. Today, for a change, we had a "live" subject as a topic: "Demobilization. We discussed the pros and cons of the plan as we read it in the Stars and Stripes, with everyone professing a rather gloomy outlook as to his chances for getting out. It all went pretty smoothly until one of the guys took exception to the fact that married men with dependent children are given consideration over the single men. Usually, at these talks, I manage to get into the discussion. Today, I had made up my mind not to open my trap. But when that guy made that statement, I felt impelled to speak up for my side. Anyhow, while nothing is ever decided at these bull sessions, it was a pretty lively discussion, and I, for one, enjoyed it. 

Your letter started off with the complaint that my mail subsequent to the 20th Aug, was overdue. I guess you know by now, Sweet, that there just wasn’t any for about six days after that - and why. Hope the news I gave in my next made up for all those mail-less days.

You tell about buying a flock of new things for the punkin; the table and chair set, new bonnet, jacket, overalls, and sweater. As the benefacted party's father, I feel I owe you some expression of gratitude. Thanks a million, honey! And tell our little hostess (serving coffee hmm!—I might even say "fancy that"!) to wear everything well, and that her daddy will be delighted to sup with her just as soon as he can break away from the more pressing business of the moment.

I expect you'll be making and sending along some pictures of Adele in her new outfit, Baby, and I just want to suggest that you so get into the pictures. Don’t disappoint me this time, Chippie.

Sorry you're experiencing some delay in getting those corrective shoes for her, but I'm glad that we know definitely now that her trouble isn’t serious. Wish I could be there, Baby, ’cause every time I look at those chubby little legs in her pictures, I feel an urge to massage and shape them with my own two hands. I'll bet it wouldn't do any harm. Did the doc suggest anything along those lines? Seems to me regular massaging might work some of the extra weight off them and tend to tone up and strengthen the muscles. What do you think, Ev?

Bet you know what's coming next! That's exactly right! Move right up to the head of the class, Evelyn—or better yet, come on over and sit on teacher's knee. Ah yes, massage your legs isn't half bad, either! mmm! where was I? (Better cut out this foolery before I drool all over this nice clean paper.

Now that I've worked myself up into a lather of longing and homesickness, I’d better sign off right here and now. But, gee honey, if I could only—

Definitely!

YOUR Phil 

P.S. Send the candy, etc.

Post #451 - September 8, 1944 Lots of Children are Not Going to Go Back to School Until There is a Definite Decline in Cases and It Pleased Me Mightily that Everyone Goes Out of His Way to Stop In and See You

 

Sept. 8, 1944

Dearest Phil,

Last night was a killer diller. I was amazed at the way the family conducted themselves, but the trouble is I didn't come in til all the fireworks were over. To begin with my beloved Uncle Morris brought Bessie along as a mouthpiece and in the end my Aunt Sally conked my Uncle Morris on the head with her handbag. My Uncle Morris, naturally, won't agree to an amicable settlement, but the others agreed perfectly. I've begun to appreciate that my Uncle Maxwell and Uncle Harry are "menshon" and that "there is somebody home".

I started this in the office, but didn't have the opportunity to complete it. By the way, sweet, if you will look real close at the picture of me sitting behind Adele, just above my heart you will see the 8th Air Force insignia you sent me. (the pictures I sent you yesterday)

Tomorrow we start to work Saturdays and I intend to work for the next two Saturdays to make up for my two vacations - Labor Day and the Jewish Holidays. After that I'll only go in on a Saturday when there is important work to be done.

Mr. Bellet broke his heart yesterday and gave me a tea strainer for nothing. I was disappointed in him for not giving me a reduction on the chair and table set. I guess his conscience bothered him. I’m going to let him wait for the balance of $5.00.

My appetite has picked up and I expect to put on all those pounds I seem to have lost. Soon as I get the matter of Adele's corrective shoes settled I'm going to start giving her the scarlet fever injections. Have you heard about the epidemic of infantile paralysis that has swept through the state? Lots of children are not going to go back to school until there is a definite decline in cases. There have been something like 200 cases.

Do you know, Sweet, that I haven't been to a movie for two months? I’m going to try to take one in this weekend to sort of break the record.

I’m knocking this off before eating supper so that I may accomplish a few other duties in the house this evening.

Your Aug. bond came in the mail this morning and that was all the mail we had. I had mail two days ago, but I'm anxious to have some mail again. Ain't I awful!

Eisenhower states the war will be over sometime in November. I sort of figured it will be over on Armistice Day, just in time to celebrate Adele's second birthday in a big way. Gosh, honey, it's hard to believe that she will soon be two years old.

Baby, I miss you so much and am so anxious to get my arms around you that - - - 

Suppose we put it this way - I love you very much, honey, and hope that you'll soon be with

Your Eve

8 September 1944

Ev, sweetheart,

Just received your longie of 22 Aug. Toward the end you ask me to write a little more often than the “twice a week" I had been "favoring” you with. Sorry, Sweet, that I couldn’t do any better, but now that I have a little more time for correspondence, I expect to be able to write daily, as of yore. Viz., the last few days.

Your account of Jack's visit, your trips to the Zaslows, Dave's and Hilda's good fortune, the visit of Yale, Shirley and Em, etc. etc. made very cheerful reading, and it pleased me mightily that everyone goes out of his way to stop in and see you.

You mention Petey making pictures of you, Adele and Jack. - Sure would like to see 'em, Baby.

I'm waiting expectantly for Jack's letter about his trip to New York and Philly. Hope he doesn't wait too long to send it off. 

You make much of the fact that Gotham pays Dolly $90 per month (what am I supposed to do—swoon?) but not one word about what interests me far more. Namely, what is Bill doing these days and where is he? Seems like our senses of values still don't coincide, doesn't it, Chippie? I'm equally unimpressed by the fact that Harry expects to be making between $85 and $100 per week shortly. All I can say is - good for him! Believe me, Sweet, I don't envy him one little bit. Let them pile up the shekels back there - I’ll enjoy mine more - you can bet your life on it!

As for that family across the street who lost one of their men in battle, while I sympathize with them, I don't think they are very wise to express the sentiments you attributed to them. Where do they get off condemning everyone and everything because they suffered the same loss as tens of thousands of other American families. They're a disgrace to their boy’s memory, who, I’m sure could he see and hear them, would be heartily ashamed of them. Did they ever stop to think, I wonder, what would have become of them if all the sons and brothers in the country hadn't been willing to sacrifice themselves so that their dear ones might come to no harm? Bitterness is usually born of self-pity, and self-pity, like self-praise - well, you know how the saying goes. Anyhow, I have no respect whatever for people like that.

Tonight I am CQ and I hope to get off a letter or two that I haven’t had time for these past few weeks. Think I’ll write to Milt and Syd, now that I have their addresses. Come to think of it, Syd should be coming home with the first batch, as soon as the war with Germany is over. Also while I think of it, my best love to Uncle Nish, Tante Bosh, Bebe and Miriam.

Haven't done anything today that's even worth writing about, so I guess I’ll just have to call it a letter.

A kiss for your punkin and mine, A fond embrace for you, my Ev, and love to all.

Devotedly,
Your Phil

Post #450 - September 7, 1944 Tonight My Mother and Her Brothers are having a Consultation About the Affairs of My Grandmother and Playing with the Idea of Spending My Leave in London, Now that the Black-Out is Being Lifted

 

Sept. 7, 1944 

Darling Hubby,

No mail from you today, but I did have a nice v-mail from Milt Brown and my check from S & D. And besides that here are the snaps made while Jack N. was here, I think I look frightfully thin and I'd appreciate if you wouldn't show the snaps in which I appear to the Woolfs, I like the one of Adele in the vestibule of what was once Dr. Gayl's home and we caught her as naturally as one could be caught. I like the one of me, Jack and Adele the best. What do you say, honey?

I called Mike last night and was quite surprised to hear that he had a letter from you. You failed to tell me about it and here I was calling to apologize for you. I'm glad you finally managed to write to him.

I didn't tell you yesterday that I bought another $50 bond with the remains of my allotment check and when I get your Aug. bond and the $100 bond you bought with the money I sent we shall have $925 in bonds. If everything goes alright, sweet, we shall have $1000 in bonds on Oct. 1, for at that time I shall buy another $50 bond and will receive your Sept. bond. However, my goal is not $1000 in bonds, but $1000 in cash. Think I'll make it? I hope so.

I was reading about the possibilities of a GI's getting home once Germany collapses in the paper and they don't exactly make me optimistic. There is even a possibility that you may be sent to the Pacific according to this article. It says that Air Forces and service forces almost in their entirety will be shipped to the Pacific. They also advise that it will be many months before the boys will get home. Guess they don't want us to become any more optimistic than is necessary.

Tonight my mother and her brothers are having a consultation about the affairs of my grandmother and I certainly hope they settle it peacefully. I'm anxious to know about how much of an estate she left, for there ought to be quite a bit what with insurance bank accounts and clear properties.

Ethel is crazy about the sweater-set I made for Stuart and dropped Mom a hint that perhaps I would make another for him on his forthcoming first birthday. I hope I have the opportunity to do so.

Mickey returned my suitcase after her trip to Maine and made me a little sorry I let her borrow it. There is a small piece missing on the inside and it is all beat up. Oh well -

We made a snap of Diana and Goldie with the batch enclosed, but Goldie was anxious to send it home to her folks so you'll just have to wait a little while longer to catch a glimpse of Diana. I thought the snap very good and undoubtedly Goldie will send one along shortly.

Well, honey, I’m writing this early tonight and I have still to get Adele bathed and into bed. It is a bit after eight and Mom is listening to Fleisher. Adele is busy on the porch with her table and chairs and toys. Goldie and Harry went to see Goldie's doctor so that she could have her final after-birth examination. It is unusually cool this evening and I like it that way. How I wish you were draped across the sofa! I love you so much, darling Phil and I'm so anxious to get back to a normal married life! In just a few weeks it will be exactly two years since you left for the Army the second time. God grant that you be with us this time next year and that you will have been with us for some time then. Good night, sweet, I am

Your Eve

7 September 1944

Dearest Chippie,

No mail again today. It rained most of the day, and I got soaked walking to lunch. I spent most of the afternoon drying out by the stove in the Orderly Room. I'm pretty well caught up with my work now, but there are still a few things to be attended to before I get busy on the payrolls. I had meant to take advantage of the "breather" to take a pass, but Sgt. Murphy took off, so I couldn't. Guess the next chance I'll get will be about the 14th or 15th. If I could be sure that Ed would still be at the hospital, I would go out to see him again, but it would be just my luck to get there and find him gone. It is much too long and arduous a trip to warrant taking a chance on. I've been waiting for Harry W. to reply to my last letter asking him to tell me where I can meet him, but I have not heard from him as yet. So, when my next pass comes along, if I have not heard from him, I will probably spend it with Bert and Evelyn. By the way, Chippie, have you written to them yet? I have also been playing with the idea of spending my leave in London, now that the black-out is being lifted and the buzz-bombs have stopped coming over. But I won't go until you release me from my promise, Ev, so how's about it? Mickey Brown has asked me to meet him in Birmingham, but it is so far away that t'd have hardly any time with him before I had to start back.

There isn't much else to talk about, Sweet, except, perhaps, that I learned more about the demobilization plan. From what I can gather, “the priority is the thing.” In other words, it a fellow has a lot of points accrued from service, combat, and dependent children, he has a fair chance to be placed on the “surplus" list whereupon his only worry would be “sweating out” a boat back to the States. Now, the question arises - on what basis will my service time be counted? If my year in the Enlisted Reserve (on which I am currently drawing longevity pay) is also counted as "good time” in computing the points, then I have 3 yrs.-5 mos. service to my credit. This, added to the fact that I have a dependent child, would give me a rather high priority rating. On the other hand, if they do not choose to count that ER time, I will be only a little better off in the ratings than a coupla million other guys, so you see, darling, my chances for being placed on the surplus list depend very largely on that Enlisted Reserve time. As yet, there is no way I can find out about it, but as the thing develops, I’ll keep you posted. In the meantime, don't give up all hope of an early reunion, 'cause I can imagine a few eventualities that could, if they materialized, bring me home before too many months have passed. Let's just hope for the best, Chippie, and try to be patient as we are able—shall we?

My dearest love to you and the lass, darling. My love to all.

All ways and always, 

Your Phil

Post #449 - September 6, 1944 Adele has Finally Cut All Her Teeth—Hooray and There is a Reason—A Good One—That Even I Cannot Tell You

 

Sept. 6, 1944

Dearest Phil,

Today I received yours very lovingly of Aug. 31st. I'm very happy to know that you doubled your quota and I'd like to know who won the long distance telephone call. Your letter was awfully sweet and made me feel good. I guess I should write to the Woolfs, but I'm afraid I'd have to write them a letter and send it addressed to you. If I find time to write before I hear from you that is how I shall send it. I have very little opportunity to shop during the week, but on Saturday I shall scan the neighborhood for pyrex bottles and nipples and perhaps some candy for you, though I'm not too happy about sending candy along since I've heard that you “gained weight".

I forgot to mention yesterday that we had a letter from Maxie Brown and that he, too, is now in France. He said he was sorry he didn't get the opportunity to see you and he "guessed it would have to wait til the war was over."

You asked me in this letter not to be mad at you for not writing. I’m not mad, honey, but how would you feel if you didn't get mail for about 12 days? Even though, in my heart, I know you are alright, it still annoys me no end not to have mail from you. I had so little mail from you last month that I couldn't help writing as I did.

In the letters I received yesterday you mentioned whether I remember Ace. Yes, Phil, I remember him well. I'm sorry but I don't ever remember his coming to 4906, but I do remember a particular Memorial Day when six fellows and I (the only girl) went to Delaware Park for the races. Do you recall that day? It poured later in the day and my white chubby and large white straw hat were almost ruined. Yes, I remember very well how you used to warm my toesies - I wouldn't mind if you were right here now to do something of the sort to me.

Adele has finally cut all her teeth - Hooray. Phil, it is remarkable how overnight (or so it seems) she knows everything. We can actually carry on a conversation with her. This morning I said something to her and imagine my surprise at her reply, which was "Yes, indeed". I always comb her hair in the upsweep now with a part down the back of her head and she looks very, very sweet and demure with it that way. You know, dear, that the quality that I dislike most of Adele's pictures is that constant reference you make to her "fatness". Phil, she isn't fat at all. In fact she’s just about right. She is well rounded and not as soiid as she appears. That is why I'm so anxious for you to see her! Just recently everyone was complaining that she looked thin. Can you imagine! They are too used to remembering her as a chubby little thing and can't see her any other way. I prefer her to be just a little chubby, cause when they start to grow in height they usually become very skinny and if she has enough weight that won't happen. But I've just about reached the end of another missive, so I'll close now Phil dear, with all my fondest love and a long, long kiss from

Your Eve

6 September 1944

My Darling,

Today brought a lull in my activities, and I didn't do much of anything, It also brought a letter from Eddie, dated the 31st August, in which he implies that nothing definite has been decided by the hospital authorities as to the disposition of his case. He also said that he is writing home very infrequently. There is a reason for this that you may not understand, but I want to impress on you that there is a reason—a good one—that even I cannot tell you. So, no matter if he does not write at all, you must rest assured that he is perfectly well, or will be soon, that he was not hurt in any way while he was in France, and that there is good reason to hope that he may be coming home soon. All you, (and I mean the family as well) must do is to wait patiently as you are able 'til that happy day, and thank God that he has been spared you, I might also add that it would be a very good idea if you at home wrote to him frequently, regardless of the sparsity of his letters. He needs, most of all, encouragement and re-assurance—give him plenty of both.

There was also another midget edition of the Bulletin, sent along by Dottie. But there was no letter from you, my sweet. Somehow, everything looks much brighter and I am in a happier frame of mind when there is a new letter of yours to be read and re-read.

This evening, I went to the first show to see Joel McCrea and Betty Field in "The Great Moment.” It was more educational than entertaining, but what's bad about being educated?

On returning from the movies, I was just in time to hear the radio give out with a general outline of the demobilization plan as made public this afternoon. I don't know all the details, Sweet, nor will they be published before Germany surrenders, (or is over-run, which is more likely), I but from what I heard, I got the impression that the procedure is eminently fair. Doubtless, there will be hitches of one kind and another, but we must realize that they cannot be helped. The main thing is that the whole program is intended to let out those men first who have the greatest right to be out first, How this will affect me personally, I cannot even guess at this stage of the game, but it is good to know that steps are being taken to let some of us out. I'll talk more about this as I learn more about the plan and what disposition will be made of “1807." It may be a long, drawn-out process, honey, so I must caution you to keep your patience well in hand. When you are inclined to feel dispirited or discouraged, give a thought to all those wives who no more have even the consolation of waiting for their men, consider yourself fortunate that you are not one of those, just as I consider myself very lucky that I am still able to look forward to an eventual reunion with all my loved ones.

There isn't much else to say right now, Baby, so I'll say good-night for the time being. God keep you all well, and keep me safe for you. I live only for the opportunity and the privilege of bringing you every happiness I can as husband, father and son. And if that sounds a bit too dramatic for your taste, it is nonetheless, no more than the simple truth, believe me. I am

As ever,
Your Phil 

Eddie address in case you've mislaid it.
Cpl. Edw. J. Paller- 33782822 

Detachment of Patients 

4174 U.S. Army Hosp. Plant
APO 121, U.S. Army