New Guinea
Thurs. eve.
Oct. 5, 1944
Sweetheart;
I told you I thought I could safely answer the last letter I had 'cause I felt I'd get some today. I did. Sept 24 [2 of them] and Sept 25 from my wife. One from Mom and one from one of the Aussie boys I met on the trail. The fellow who was from the sheep station in south Australia. I'll tell you a bit about it. This chap, his name is Neville B. Smith, is the one I talked to most that night. I never got his age but I'd judge him to be 25 or so. Married too. We exchanged names and address before we parted that night.
The next morning we had decided to push on early to avoid the heat, contrary to our decision of the night before to accept their hospitality until noon at least. Well I slung my pack and picked up all my gear and went in to say goodbye and thank them for everything.
Smith was missing and I supposed he had either gone early or was still in bed so I left my best wishes with his two "mates". Now it seems by his letter he was in the back room washing and when he looked in he didn't recognize me with all my gear on so he didn't come out. He very humbly apologized for his bad manners. Few Americans would have thought anything of it. I know I wouldn't have. He hopes I'll forgive him. He goes on to talk about things he's heard from his home since I've seen him and so on. A very nice letter. I'm going to try to send it on to you. Find out first if it will violate any censorship regulations. I think you'd get a kick out of it. Looks like I've now got a friend in Australia.
Don't know if he's got a red headed sister or not but he may know some. Get me a chance to go to Australia and I'll look into it. See, I'm taking care of Norm in any way I can. That's one way, I don't think you had in mind, when you cautioned me to. Don't worry honey, I'm just teasing as you well know. I wold like a trip to Australia but beyond looking, I'd do plenty of that you can be sure, I think I could behave myself unless they actually attack me in numbers. Not much danger of that ever happening if they ever get a look at my head. Not knowing, they'd think, "That old guy is too slow to be interesting." I'm very safe. Beside that. I love my wife and I'm very particular.
Yes, honey, even after six months and seeing only blacks for four of them, I'm as particular as ever. If it gets to be several times six months, I'll still be the same. I've got so much waiting at home for me that I can wait until then and have the best there is to be found any place in this old world. That's a lot of words to use for telling you, " I love you my sweetheart wife."
No more progress to report on the surprises. I'm being mean to start teasing you so far in advance but, after all, you asked for it. You devil.
Say, honey, I just had a thought. It won't be too long before my calendars run out. Keep on the lookout for a couple like you sent last year. Will you? I have to have something to keep track on, you know. Really, no sense in it, but I still put the x's in when you send the information. Got to see that you're working all right. According to my records the third should be crossed off. Anywhere near right?
I've got some coins ready to send to you for Mrs. Claggett. There is a copper pence [ 1 1/4 cents] that I haven't been able to get hold of. Not used very much. Haven't ever had one yet. I'll mail them tomorrow.
Another weather report. Hottest at eight this morning. 104 in shade and beyond the capacity of my thermometer in the sun. Don't think it will frost very soon down here. I'm getting quite a kick out of that little instrument you so thoughtfully sent. I believe you said Vi donated it. I thank her too. Remember how I used to like to watch the temperature at home. Like to watch and feel your temperature too. Don't need any gauge for that though. Guess I better hadn't think too much about that or my own temperature as well as something else will begin to rise. We're missing you plenty.
Heard a short wave rebroadcast of the first series game tonight, sent from St Louis. It came in fairly well tonight. Only a few times when I couldn't hear for short periods of time. I hope they do that with some of the big football games. I'd almost desert writing you to hear them, if necessary.
Here, I've written a big part of this letter and haven't answered any of yours yet. I'll start on the Sept 24th now.
You wrote two of them the same day again. How you can do it! Beats me. You had a very good excuse too. Not feeling so good because of a cold. While I hardly know what they feel like any more, I can remember how mean they used to make me feel. Poor Mummy. Think she needs someone to warm her feet for her. Would that do any good? I'd like to do it anyhow. Wouldn't stop there either. I loves you, sweetheart.
Apparently you still have some wood left for the fireplace. Sure is lasting isn't it? It won't do any good this fall 'cause you'll soon start the furnace but if you are running out of wood and if you can find any to buy, it might be wise to have some on hand for next spring and even for real cold days this winter. Afraid I won't be there to start the furnace for you this fall. Damn it all anyhow. I got there just in time last fall didn't I? Surprised you too. Drinking your coffee in front of the fire and not even dressed. Gosh that was fun. 53 weeks ago! I've only seen you for eight days in all that time too. Hell of a note. I want to see you all the time cause I love you and need you, you big, beautiful, bewitching bundle of charms.
Take care of that cold, honey. Hope you don't have a bad one.
Koppes barn burning sure is a tough break. The barn wasn't worth much but all the feed and tools and etc. were lost too, I suppose. Probably very little if any, insurance too. I feel bad about it too. The neighbors will give them a hand I expect.
I'll watch for the Sad Sack cartoon you mention. It sounds good and very true to everyday occurrences in an army camp, especially over here. Even the old men like me have trouble like that. Must be something is lacking to make us act that way. Wonder what it is? Can't imagine, can you? Never had any such troubles while I was home. Maybe it's some influence of yours that is lacking now. Think so?
Night, sweetheart. I'm loving you and thinking of you constantly. Might even dream of you some night soon. I loves my darling wife. Gee, I'm glad I got her.
your hubby.
Norm.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Letter # 487 October 3, 1944
New Guinea
Tues. eve.
Oct. 3, 1944
Hello Lovely;
How's my big beautiful lady tonight? Pretty ornery I bet. So am I. Too bad we can't get together. Be fireworks, huh?
No letters again today and I don't have a thing to talk about so I'm going to work on these letters I have.
Too bad Louise hasn't been hearing from Mickey but that's the way it goes at times like that. She'll probably be hearing one of these days again soon. That is one lesson you may be called upon to remember some day when you don't hear a word for long periods. Over here it is apt to be much longer than there. Most of this area is a long way from civilized as you well know.
Steve has been the supply officer for units of his type. While in Frisco he assembled all the equipment and supplies and sent them off. Over here he is doing the same thing. Seeing that all the equipment for his unit gets to them. Not at all a bad job, huh?
Gosh, honey, you're sure sending a lot of boxes. Ten request ones and some Christmas ones as well. That's a lot of them. I'm not sure but I think I've gotten five of them so far and then the little special boxes beside. You sure are doing your part toward the upkeep of the postal department. Ought to get a wholesale rate soon. I love 'em, sweetheart.
You can return Ida's "Hello" and tell her if the popcorn isn't good she's no friend of mine anymore. I expect she is still the same old Ida [Cannon]. Hasn't changed a bit as long as I can remember her. I bet her sale of cigarettes and hot peppers has gone down since all the boys are gone from the Hardware and Berrys. Have you ever heard any more of Thurston since he went to England? Is he over in France or not? Is Boyd still in La.?
Don't you worry about me getting so much stuff I won't know what to do with it. It doesn't last long here. Live good for a day or so after the boxes come and then a dry spell until the next ones.
I'd better be popular with you. That's where I really want to be popular. It's very nice to have so many friends and they're worth a lot but you come before any or all of them. I love you. That's why. You're the biggest part of my life.
I'm working on a cup of tea from one of the tea balls you sent. I'm getting to be a regular Englishman. I like my tea. It tastes so good down in this climate and in the absence of any other kind of drinks. I make it in cold water and it works good.
While I'm thinking about it, here is the temperature for today. 4 A.M.-72; 6:30-90; 11:00-98; and now, 7:30 P.M.- 85. That's all in the shade, so you see, I wasn't so far wrong on the guesses I made. I seem to be used to it 'cause I can sit down at 98 or more and never sweat a drop. Start moving though, and darn slow at that, and I'm dripping in no time. I surely don't mind it like I did in La. last summer. I feel cold when it gets in the 70's anymore. Maybe when I get back home you won't have so much trouble getting me to keep the fire up to 75 or better as you like it. Might even be easy to talk me into extra covers and a closed bedroom window. Think it possible?
You hadn't told me about changing gas stations. Do as you please, honey. You're running that end and doing a damn good job of it. One is as good as the other these days anyhow. That Shell station is very handy to you so why not? Certainly it's OK by me. Anything you do is OK by me. honey.
No, honey, you can't help my losing weight. You can sure put it back on again though. It's not hurting me a bit. I feel swell and there are no ribs showing or anything like that. It's only the belly that is taking much beating. My waist is the smallest now it has ever been since I've grown up. I just measured 30 1/2 bare. I have never found a scale but I judge I weigh around 165. See, you're bigger than I am these days. I like 'em big and soft like you so don't try to loose too much. Remember that padding. You'll need it 'cause I won't stand for any cushion between us.
Yes, Mummy, I guess we can stand a three or four month period of "no nothing" after all this training but I know darn well I won't like it. I don''t like that kind of vacations, but if we are lucky the results will be worth it, I hope. Don't you dare be one of these girls that put up a "hands off" sign right away 'cause they feel bad. I know all about the medical viewpoint of the subject.
You devil. Sure I like your picture. It's a beautiful picture of the most beautiful girl I know. I'm proud of it and keep you right here where I can see you and love you. Very passively though.
I'm inclined to ask like Melvin does. What have you got that makes people be so nice to you? I know it can't all be because of things I've done or even to be helpful to a war widow. It must be just you. I guess you could be shipwrecked on a savage island and in a few days be queen and have all the natives working for you. Don't forget though, I love you most. It really is swell that people do so many things for us. I say us 'cause when they help you they are helping me as much or more. Be sure and tell them all how much I appreciate their helping hand. Carl, inspects and checks the furnace and you can get along all right, I'm sure. Kindling, from little John to start fires so you are all set there. Art takes care of the car and repairs appliances. Some set up huh? Who's taking care of you personally now?
You are doing a swell job of tying up the boxes, honey. The knots are all in place like you put them. I have to sharpen my knife to get into them. I'm sorry about the blister on your fingers. Send it along and I'll kiss it for you.
You can bet I'm always glad to hear you say you are getting along swell and keeping the old chin well up. I can always tell from your letters but I like reassuring where you are concerned. Like having a priceless jewel put away and looking every so often, just to be absolutely sure it's still there and unharmed. You're the most precious jewel I've got you know. I loves you.
You may write what you have to say to me on paper, when I'm home again, but you won't get away with it. Especially not some of the parts you write. That will take a lot beside pen and ink to be satisfactory. You'll talk to me and love me and like it so there too. Remember the sweet little notes you used to leave when you were running out on me for an evening or something? I do. I got a kick out of them. Usually signed like the bracelet, "Love Babe". Gosh, how I wish you were only out for the evening now. I bet I wouldn't be asleep when you came in either. If you're hurtin so bad, you know how I feel. I'm way past hurtin too. I'm numb from hurtin. It's a numbness that will pass very easily and quickly when I get the proper cure for it. I know where and what the cure is too. When the opportunity presents I'll be looking for a treatment. Night, sweetheart. I love you.
Your dough boy.
Norm.
Tues. eve.
Oct. 3, 1944
Hello Lovely;
How's my big beautiful lady tonight? Pretty ornery I bet. So am I. Too bad we can't get together. Be fireworks, huh?
No letters again today and I don't have a thing to talk about so I'm going to work on these letters I have.
Too bad Louise hasn't been hearing from Mickey but that's the way it goes at times like that. She'll probably be hearing one of these days again soon. That is one lesson you may be called upon to remember some day when you don't hear a word for long periods. Over here it is apt to be much longer than there. Most of this area is a long way from civilized as you well know.
Steve has been the supply officer for units of his type. While in Frisco he assembled all the equipment and supplies and sent them off. Over here he is doing the same thing. Seeing that all the equipment for his unit gets to them. Not at all a bad job, huh?
Gosh, honey, you're sure sending a lot of boxes. Ten request ones and some Christmas ones as well. That's a lot of them. I'm not sure but I think I've gotten five of them so far and then the little special boxes beside. You sure are doing your part toward the upkeep of the postal department. Ought to get a wholesale rate soon. I love 'em, sweetheart.
You can return Ida's "Hello" and tell her if the popcorn isn't good she's no friend of mine anymore. I expect she is still the same old Ida [Cannon]. Hasn't changed a bit as long as I can remember her. I bet her sale of cigarettes and hot peppers has gone down since all the boys are gone from the Hardware and Berrys. Have you ever heard any more of Thurston since he went to England? Is he over in France or not? Is Boyd still in La.?
Don't you worry about me getting so much stuff I won't know what to do with it. It doesn't last long here. Live good for a day or so after the boxes come and then a dry spell until the next ones.
I'd better be popular with you. That's where I really want to be popular. It's very nice to have so many friends and they're worth a lot but you come before any or all of them. I love you. That's why. You're the biggest part of my life.
I'm working on a cup of tea from one of the tea balls you sent. I'm getting to be a regular Englishman. I like my tea. It tastes so good down in this climate and in the absence of any other kind of drinks. I make it in cold water and it works good.
While I'm thinking about it, here is the temperature for today. 4 A.M.-72; 6:30-90; 11:00-98; and now, 7:30 P.M.- 85. That's all in the shade, so you see, I wasn't so far wrong on the guesses I made. I seem to be used to it 'cause I can sit down at 98 or more and never sweat a drop. Start moving though, and darn slow at that, and I'm dripping in no time. I surely don't mind it like I did in La. last summer. I feel cold when it gets in the 70's anymore. Maybe when I get back home you won't have so much trouble getting me to keep the fire up to 75 or better as you like it. Might even be easy to talk me into extra covers and a closed bedroom window. Think it possible?
You hadn't told me about changing gas stations. Do as you please, honey. You're running that end and doing a damn good job of it. One is as good as the other these days anyhow. That Shell station is very handy to you so why not? Certainly it's OK by me. Anything you do is OK by me. honey.
No, honey, you can't help my losing weight. You can sure put it back on again though. It's not hurting me a bit. I feel swell and there are no ribs showing or anything like that. It's only the belly that is taking much beating. My waist is the smallest now it has ever been since I've grown up. I just measured 30 1/2 bare. I have never found a scale but I judge I weigh around 165. See, you're bigger than I am these days. I like 'em big and soft like you so don't try to loose too much. Remember that padding. You'll need it 'cause I won't stand for any cushion between us.
Yes, Mummy, I guess we can stand a three or four month period of "no nothing" after all this training but I know darn well I won't like it. I don''t like that kind of vacations, but if we are lucky the results will be worth it, I hope. Don't you dare be one of these girls that put up a "hands off" sign right away 'cause they feel bad. I know all about the medical viewpoint of the subject.
You devil. Sure I like your picture. It's a beautiful picture of the most beautiful girl I know. I'm proud of it and keep you right here where I can see you and love you. Very passively though.
I'm inclined to ask like Melvin does. What have you got that makes people be so nice to you? I know it can't all be because of things I've done or even to be helpful to a war widow. It must be just you. I guess you could be shipwrecked on a savage island and in a few days be queen and have all the natives working for you. Don't forget though, I love you most. It really is swell that people do so many things for us. I say us 'cause when they help you they are helping me as much or more. Be sure and tell them all how much I appreciate their helping hand. Carl, inspects and checks the furnace and you can get along all right, I'm sure. Kindling, from little John to start fires so you are all set there. Art takes care of the car and repairs appliances. Some set up huh? Who's taking care of you personally now?
You are doing a swell job of tying up the boxes, honey. The knots are all in place like you put them. I have to sharpen my knife to get into them. I'm sorry about the blister on your fingers. Send it along and I'll kiss it for you.
You can bet I'm always glad to hear you say you are getting along swell and keeping the old chin well up. I can always tell from your letters but I like reassuring where you are concerned. Like having a priceless jewel put away and looking every so often, just to be absolutely sure it's still there and unharmed. You're the most precious jewel I've got you know. I loves you.
You may write what you have to say to me on paper, when I'm home again, but you won't get away with it. Especially not some of the parts you write. That will take a lot beside pen and ink to be satisfactory. You'll talk to me and love me and like it so there too. Remember the sweet little notes you used to leave when you were running out on me for an evening or something? I do. I got a kick out of them. Usually signed like the bracelet, "Love Babe". Gosh, how I wish you were only out for the evening now. I bet I wouldn't be asleep when you came in either. If you're hurtin so bad, you know how I feel. I'm way past hurtin too. I'm numb from hurtin. It's a numbness that will pass very easily and quickly when I get the proper cure for it. I know where and what the cure is too. When the opportunity presents I'll be looking for a treatment. Night, sweetheart. I love you.
Your dough boy.
Norm.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Letter # 486 October 2, 1944
New Guinea
Monday eve
Oct 2, 1944
Hello Babe darling;
I got another package today. Date on it was Aug. 26. That's good time for that one. I haven't kept track but it seems to me there should be another one or so before that one. This one had a round tin Christmas box with candy, three P.A's, one flat fifty of Chesterfields, a roll of film, a thermometer, a box of peanuts and some more funnies. Bar of soap and those soap papers. They're something new to me, never even heard of them. They might be handy though. Everything was in good shape but the candy. It had all melted and run together. It was plenty good though when I got it separated from the paper. Ate it with a spoon. Only trouble it didn't last long enough. Oh yes, there were some more tea bags too so I can bloody well have my cup o' tea before I retire. Honey, you are doing a grand job of sending me things. So many little things I'd never even think of and yet they help out a lot. You're a very sweet girl and I love you a lot. Smart too.
I did my duty today and voted. So that is out of the way and you won't need to give me any more pep talks on the subject. I never have been one to talk politics and don't think I ever will. It's similar to arguing religion. No end and no proof of anything.
I also sent you a check for $110.00. It'll probably get to you by the end of the month. Now, don't forget, honey. I'd like you to buy yourself a Christmas present at least, if nothing more. At the rate I can save money over here, I'll have more on the way before the first of the year. We'll spend it some day when we can have some fun out of it. That means we'll be together. I can't seem to get nearly as much kick from things when you aren't with me. So help me, honey it's the truth. I'm a lost man without my special woman.
I got another note from Steve today. He talks as though he would be soon on the move north and doubts very much if he'll get in this area again. Oh well, we'll meet again somewhere, maybe the next time at home,
I hope.
He says his drunk wasn't on jungle juice. One taste cured him the same as it did me. He says he still has 20 qts. he brought over with him so I'd say he was well supplied. Would last me a long time. That's for sure. Since we've been married a couple of quarts seemed to last us nearly a year. Don't need alcoholic spirits when I have you. You can make me feel so good. Even float a little.
He was wondering about Claude, if he was still the same as always, and etc. I guess he kinda wanted to see him in the army. That would be wishing a lot on any one.
Leo tells me tonight that he received a cable today, informing him that he is the father of an eight pound son.
His wife and son are both doing nicely and he's pretty tickled about it. Guess I would be too, only I'm still glad we haven't and aren't going to have any until I'm home by you. We better hadn't anyhow or I'll be forced to believe you cheated on me. Don't think for a minute that I'm worried about that. I'm not and never would be under any circumstances. I know my Babe. Love her too. When we have our first offspring
I want to be right there and not 10,000 miles away. It took the cable four days to get here.
I was certain I wouldn't get any letters today and I didn't. Can't get them in fives and get them everyday. I've plenty of them to answer so I'm not hurtin. I'm not as good at writing a nice long letter without one to answer as you are. Still can't talk like you can. 'Course, you're smarter than I am too, and that makes a difference.
Now for the letters: Honey, you would make a swell publicity agent for someone from the sounds of things. You seem to be doing a swell job of spreading my letters around to acquaintances and friends. That's swell, honey. I can't write to all of them and yet, I don't want to be forgotten. Who knows? I might want to go into politics or something like that and need all the old friends I had in and around Medina.
You're developing so many of your latent talents that I'm beginning to believe you'd be a better bacon getter than I could ever be. You're some girl. honey. I'm loving you and very proud of you.
So you have another mouse to trap for now. Being in the basement, I'll bet he came in with the coal or while the coal was being put in. I don't think you ever said if they troubled you upstairs anymore. Do they? Anyhow, I know you can take care of catching them so why am I speculating on it? I'm glad to hear we have a crop of acorns and the squirrels are already coming for them. They're such cute little buggers. Too bad we can't have a crop of acorns every year. Maybe we can figure out a way of feeding them and attracting them on the lean years. If we have better luck than we had with the birds. That's another thing, along with the plans for cribs, bunks, and names, for you to file away for reference. Plans for bird and squirrel feeders. You probably see a lot of such things in your everyday work now. My librarian. I like that. Better than my teacher, I think. My wife, is still the only real title. I love you, sweetheart.
Sept 19. I haven't heard from Jim either. I wrote last. It must have been over six weeks. He has probably moved or been busy or something.
It surely does seem that you or I or both of us do have a lot of really swell friends around home. It takes something like this to really sort them out. I'm going to have a lot of favors to return one of these days.
Gosh, two new first line tires and one other. I guess that should put the old car on her wheels for some time as far as footwear is concerned. I'm glad to hear that Art thinks the old girl will run you through the winter. I had rather doubted it. She is behaving like all our friends. Coming through in swell shape. Everybody and everything seems to want to do things for you I know why too. It's cause you're so sweet and nice to do things for.
Uh Huh, I guess I was nearly correct in my summing up of your picture. I thought you had purposely gone to a lot of trouble to be all fixed up like I like you. No lack of the old personality in that picture. I could sure maul you good if you'd only get within reach. I've seen that look before and it usually netted you a mauling and more and you wanted it too. I do like that picture an awful lot. I love you more than that. Mom mentioned the one you gave her and liked it a lot. You're beautiful. Did you know it?
I have the other package so you can tell me about it now. I like it too. No kidding, honey. I do. Our motor officer complimented me on such a nice identification bracelet today. See, I'm wearing it and others like it too.
I guess I'll call this a letter whether it is or not, and get me some shut eye. I'm a sleepy head these days. Can you believe it? Maybe you'll have to wake me up to get any action from me. Night, sweetheart, I'm loving you so much and missing you like hell.
I forgot to say your thermometer registered 110 in the sun and 102 in the shade. Rather cool day too. Bye, lovely and luscious.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Monday eve
Oct 2, 1944
Hello Babe darling;
I got another package today. Date on it was Aug. 26. That's good time for that one. I haven't kept track but it seems to me there should be another one or so before that one. This one had a round tin Christmas box with candy, three P.A's, one flat fifty of Chesterfields, a roll of film, a thermometer, a box of peanuts and some more funnies. Bar of soap and those soap papers. They're something new to me, never even heard of them. They might be handy though. Everything was in good shape but the candy. It had all melted and run together. It was plenty good though when I got it separated from the paper. Ate it with a spoon. Only trouble it didn't last long enough. Oh yes, there were some more tea bags too so I can bloody well have my cup o' tea before I retire. Honey, you are doing a grand job of sending me things. So many little things I'd never even think of and yet they help out a lot. You're a very sweet girl and I love you a lot. Smart too.
I did my duty today and voted. So that is out of the way and you won't need to give me any more pep talks on the subject. I never have been one to talk politics and don't think I ever will. It's similar to arguing religion. No end and no proof of anything.
I also sent you a check for $110.00. It'll probably get to you by the end of the month. Now, don't forget, honey. I'd like you to buy yourself a Christmas present at least, if nothing more. At the rate I can save money over here, I'll have more on the way before the first of the year. We'll spend it some day when we can have some fun out of it. That means we'll be together. I can't seem to get nearly as much kick from things when you aren't with me. So help me, honey it's the truth. I'm a lost man without my special woman.
I got another note from Steve today. He talks as though he would be soon on the move north and doubts very much if he'll get in this area again. Oh well, we'll meet again somewhere, maybe the next time at home,
I hope.
He says his drunk wasn't on jungle juice. One taste cured him the same as it did me. He says he still has 20 qts. he brought over with him so I'd say he was well supplied. Would last me a long time. That's for sure. Since we've been married a couple of quarts seemed to last us nearly a year. Don't need alcoholic spirits when I have you. You can make me feel so good. Even float a little.
He was wondering about Claude, if he was still the same as always, and etc. I guess he kinda wanted to see him in the army. That would be wishing a lot on any one.
Leo tells me tonight that he received a cable today, informing him that he is the father of an eight pound son.
His wife and son are both doing nicely and he's pretty tickled about it. Guess I would be too, only I'm still glad we haven't and aren't going to have any until I'm home by you. We better hadn't anyhow or I'll be forced to believe you cheated on me. Don't think for a minute that I'm worried about that. I'm not and never would be under any circumstances. I know my Babe. Love her too. When we have our first offspring
I want to be right there and not 10,000 miles away. It took the cable four days to get here.
I was certain I wouldn't get any letters today and I didn't. Can't get them in fives and get them everyday. I've plenty of them to answer so I'm not hurtin. I'm not as good at writing a nice long letter without one to answer as you are. Still can't talk like you can. 'Course, you're smarter than I am too, and that makes a difference.
Now for the letters: Honey, you would make a swell publicity agent for someone from the sounds of things. You seem to be doing a swell job of spreading my letters around to acquaintances and friends. That's swell, honey. I can't write to all of them and yet, I don't want to be forgotten. Who knows? I might want to go into politics or something like that and need all the old friends I had in and around Medina.
You're developing so many of your latent talents that I'm beginning to believe you'd be a better bacon getter than I could ever be. You're some girl. honey. I'm loving you and very proud of you.
So you have another mouse to trap for now. Being in the basement, I'll bet he came in with the coal or while the coal was being put in. I don't think you ever said if they troubled you upstairs anymore. Do they? Anyhow, I know you can take care of catching them so why am I speculating on it? I'm glad to hear we have a crop of acorns and the squirrels are already coming for them. They're such cute little buggers. Too bad we can't have a crop of acorns every year. Maybe we can figure out a way of feeding them and attracting them on the lean years. If we have better luck than we had with the birds. That's another thing, along with the plans for cribs, bunks, and names, for you to file away for reference. Plans for bird and squirrel feeders. You probably see a lot of such things in your everyday work now. My librarian. I like that. Better than my teacher, I think. My wife, is still the only real title. I love you, sweetheart.
Sept 19. I haven't heard from Jim either. I wrote last. It must have been over six weeks. He has probably moved or been busy or something.
It surely does seem that you or I or both of us do have a lot of really swell friends around home. It takes something like this to really sort them out. I'm going to have a lot of favors to return one of these days.
Gosh, two new first line tires and one other. I guess that should put the old car on her wheels for some time as far as footwear is concerned. I'm glad to hear that Art thinks the old girl will run you through the winter. I had rather doubted it. She is behaving like all our friends. Coming through in swell shape. Everybody and everything seems to want to do things for you I know why too. It's cause you're so sweet and nice to do things for.
Uh Huh, I guess I was nearly correct in my summing up of your picture. I thought you had purposely gone to a lot of trouble to be all fixed up like I like you. No lack of the old personality in that picture. I could sure maul you good if you'd only get within reach. I've seen that look before and it usually netted you a mauling and more and you wanted it too. I do like that picture an awful lot. I love you more than that. Mom mentioned the one you gave her and liked it a lot. You're beautiful. Did you know it?
I have the other package so you can tell me about it now. I like it too. No kidding, honey. I do. Our motor officer complimented me on such a nice identification bracelet today. See, I'm wearing it and others like it too.
I guess I'll call this a letter whether it is or not, and get me some shut eye. I'm a sleepy head these days. Can you believe it? Maybe you'll have to wake me up to get any action from me. Night, sweetheart, I'm loving you so much and missing you like hell.
I forgot to say your thermometer registered 110 in the sun and 102 in the shade. Rather cool day too. Bye, lovely and luscious.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Letter # 485 October 1, 1944
New Guinea
Sunday eve.
Oct 1, 1944
My Sweetheart;
The first of October and a nice lazy Sunday I made of it too. I am even caught up on all my writing except for one to Mom & Hazel and now yours. I just kind of fooled around, read a bunch of funnies Oil had gotten, read a little in the Reader's Digest and also in the Coronet you sent. Then this afternoon I got busy on my surprises for a little while. They are coming along slowly but they'll get there yet. One is nearly completed. I think you'll like it too. It's kinda like things I've seen you get for yourself. Don't you wish you knew what it was? Not much, but anyhow, I'm sending you something.
I hit the jackpot again at mail call tonight. Five of them all from you. That's ten in three days so I guess I'll be without any for a few days again. They were all in rotation again. 18, 19, 20, 21, & 22. That's only eight days on the last one and the best time so far. I've got a pile to work on again.
While I'm thinking of it. You can tell Max Blakeslee I thank him a lot for the offer of the lantern. I know what it is and I can't get batteries for it either so it won't be any use to me either. It's swell of him to offer though. The gasoline lantern Mrs Berry has located is the thing. Always have gasoline or this outfit won't be much account. Gosh, honey I didn't mean for you to go to all that trouble. You seem to have everyone working for you and getting things done too. You're some girl. Is it any wonder I love you? Everyone else seems to like you a lot too. No wonder people can't see why you married me. Was it 'cause you were so sick of teaching? I guess I'm lucky you didn't get this library job before you said "yes". You'd have been satisfied and wouldn't have wanted to marry me then.
Tomorrow is election day here so I'll dutifully take my ballot in hand and make some X's before the proper witness and have my part of that business taken care of. Does that satisfy you? The ballot, of course, has to be shown unmarked and then the procedure is the same as at the polls. By doing it as a unit it will avoid so much confusion to the voting officer.
Now I must get at these letters or I'll be as far behind as I was when I came back from school.
Honey, only people in love are supposed to pull tricks like the one you pulled on the phone at the library. Are you in love? You'd better be and with no one else but me too. Yes, I remember how you'd play like you were listening to me and never hear a thing I said. Remember it used to catch up to you once in a while then. You'd ask later about something I knew darn well I had told you. So there too, you devil.
I have never yet pulled the stunt Laurence did but I caught myself in the nick of time at least once I remember of. Still at Polk and I had a letter to Mom & one to you. I had them in the wrong envelopes when I thought I'd better check. Good thing too. It was rather a naughty letter and I'm afraid Mom would have blushed when she read it. Since then I've been very careful.
You are probably very nearly right in your guess in Sept 15 letter. My own opinion is that no big action will break out down here until the end of Germany. If that ends on schedule it won't be so long until the final big push over here sets in. The sooner it comes the better I'll like it. Get it over and get back home where my heart is. These days I'm finding out I'm very much a home boy. No more roving for me any more alone. I say alone 'cause I'm always alone unless you're with me. Other people may help but they sure don't fill your place. I love you, sweetheart.
You'd better not buy any more new pajamas, honey. Wear out the ones you have 'cause you'll never see them again after I come home. I'll not have a clothed woman in bed with me. I'm surely not getting in the habit of wearing anything. I haven't even slept in a pair of shorts since I left the states, except for the days on the trail when I was fully clothed for warmth. I think we can "adjust" very quickly once we get at it.
You old devil. I wasn't trying to pull any wool over your eyes about this jungle trip. I wasn't aware that I was trying to cover up the fact I was tickled about it. I think I even said, "The only thing I don't like about it is I won't be able to write to you." I wanted to go and was plenty pleased when I got the chance. By this time you know that I didn't change my opinion any, even if it was a bit tough. I knew you'd say you wouldn't mind not getting any letters but, all the same, I bet you were let down a bit. I know what mail means in the everyday routine. I missed not hearing from you and had plenty new and interesting things to occupy my thoughts. You were always creeping in. I learn or see something and make a mental note to tell Babe about it sometime. Most everything I do includes you even if remotely. Your letters, so far, in the "no letters to answer period", don't show any signs of finding it hard to write. You always do a good job of writing. I like to hear you ramble on, on anything. It's all you.
I guess I told you that Dick Elder took the march like a good soldier. He even seemed to like it. He doctored a blister for me too. When we were at the end of the trail I had a picture of he and I together taken. You can pass that information on to Mrs. Elder.
Yes I know who Emeric Ceaser is. He was always around the store. Quite a guy and likes to talk and tell stories. I return his hello. It seems you are meeting a lot of my old business acquaintances since you're in the library. If I go back to the store it will make it easier to talk to you about my day. As it was before you didn't know a lot of them I saw every day or so. If I know your charm they'll be asking about you too. From the sound of things you'll be getting too smart for the old man to keep up with at all. You'll really have to play teacher to me. I still like teachers and they don't have to be red heads either.
To the best of my knowledge you are right about B. Batchelder. The address is the same as Steve's. I'm almost sure he is where you said. [ Sept. 16 letter].
So you are now a member of the Beagle Assn. At least enough to get a present out of it. Did you tell them you go hunting and shoot so you don't hit the rabbits? Good enough shot but won't try to hit them. Remember the day across the road in the orchard and the time in Pop's pasture when you didn't even have a shell in your gun? You did kill one sitting once and then felt bad about it. You're a funny sweet old thing.
You sure do think of plenty of ways to tantalize me don't you? Now you are sending something that has to be cut in three pieces and yet it can be spliced and serve its purpose. I've a guess on that but I'm not sure enough to air it. I'll wait until I see it, you devil.
I do like your two early Xmas presents very much. The picture is in front of me whenever my desk is open and, believe it or not, the bracelet is on my arm and will stay there too. For a man that never cared much for things like that, it's proof that I like it, isn't it?
Read my letter again, honey where I told you where Steve was. Either I was absent minded or you missed it. Steve is north of me.
Sure I believe I have a smart wife. I always did but I couldn't start telling you too soon or you would have become too conceited to live with. I always told you I saw a lot more than the physical in you when I married you. The physical attractions are perfect to me, plenty of them, quantity and quality both, but that is only half of you. The other half is just as perfect and attractive. Either half, by itself, is more than most girls have. I love you, don't you think? I sure do. Very much.
Don't worry about it if you don't manage to send a box every week, honey. It's a lot of work and you're a busy girl. They're fun to get alright, but don't kill yourself trying to keep up. I'm only doing what you ask in sending requests each week. I don't mean you have to honor them all.
I had seen the notice in the Gazette about Ted Underhill. I wasn't sure but thought it was the one Mick & Louise talked of. If I can get any information I'll do it but such things are darn hard to dig out. The official notice is as far as you can go unless you're lucky and run into someone who knew him. Be sure and give me his organization.
I think your letters have shown a bit of a rise in spirit since you've been working. I always was of the opinin you would be happier when busy but before this you never liked your job at all so it wasn't any help. I'm glad you're settled. I know you'll be good at it, I'm only afraid they won't want to let you go when I come home again. We'll fool them won't we? Lots of things to do that will be more fun even than being a librarian. I'll keep you busy too. First, I'll need a lot of loving and being by you. Second, I'll need a lot of my wife's good cooking to fill out the hollow bony places. Third, washing and mending clothes, ironing and lots of things. Still want the job or would you prefer to stay a librarian? Night, sweetheart, I love you.
Your hopeful lover
Norm.
Sunday eve.
Oct 1, 1944
My Sweetheart;
The first of October and a nice lazy Sunday I made of it too. I am even caught up on all my writing except for one to Mom & Hazel and now yours. I just kind of fooled around, read a bunch of funnies Oil had gotten, read a little in the Reader's Digest and also in the Coronet you sent. Then this afternoon I got busy on my surprises for a little while. They are coming along slowly but they'll get there yet. One is nearly completed. I think you'll like it too. It's kinda like things I've seen you get for yourself. Don't you wish you knew what it was? Not much, but anyhow, I'm sending you something.
I hit the jackpot again at mail call tonight. Five of them all from you. That's ten in three days so I guess I'll be without any for a few days again. They were all in rotation again. 18, 19, 20, 21, & 22. That's only eight days on the last one and the best time so far. I've got a pile to work on again.
While I'm thinking of it. You can tell Max Blakeslee I thank him a lot for the offer of the lantern. I know what it is and I can't get batteries for it either so it won't be any use to me either. It's swell of him to offer though. The gasoline lantern Mrs Berry has located is the thing. Always have gasoline or this outfit won't be much account. Gosh, honey I didn't mean for you to go to all that trouble. You seem to have everyone working for you and getting things done too. You're some girl. Is it any wonder I love you? Everyone else seems to like you a lot too. No wonder people can't see why you married me. Was it 'cause you were so sick of teaching? I guess I'm lucky you didn't get this library job before you said "yes". You'd have been satisfied and wouldn't have wanted to marry me then.
Tomorrow is election day here so I'll dutifully take my ballot in hand and make some X's before the proper witness and have my part of that business taken care of. Does that satisfy you? The ballot, of course, has to be shown unmarked and then the procedure is the same as at the polls. By doing it as a unit it will avoid so much confusion to the voting officer.
Now I must get at these letters or I'll be as far behind as I was when I came back from school.
Honey, only people in love are supposed to pull tricks like the one you pulled on the phone at the library. Are you in love? You'd better be and with no one else but me too. Yes, I remember how you'd play like you were listening to me and never hear a thing I said. Remember it used to catch up to you once in a while then. You'd ask later about something I knew darn well I had told you. So there too, you devil.
I have never yet pulled the stunt Laurence did but I caught myself in the nick of time at least once I remember of. Still at Polk and I had a letter to Mom & one to you. I had them in the wrong envelopes when I thought I'd better check. Good thing too. It was rather a naughty letter and I'm afraid Mom would have blushed when she read it. Since then I've been very careful.
You are probably very nearly right in your guess in Sept 15 letter. My own opinion is that no big action will break out down here until the end of Germany. If that ends on schedule it won't be so long until the final big push over here sets in. The sooner it comes the better I'll like it. Get it over and get back home where my heart is. These days I'm finding out I'm very much a home boy. No more roving for me any more alone. I say alone 'cause I'm always alone unless you're with me. Other people may help but they sure don't fill your place. I love you, sweetheart.
You'd better not buy any more new pajamas, honey. Wear out the ones you have 'cause you'll never see them again after I come home. I'll not have a clothed woman in bed with me. I'm surely not getting in the habit of wearing anything. I haven't even slept in a pair of shorts since I left the states, except for the days on the trail when I was fully clothed for warmth. I think we can "adjust" very quickly once we get at it.
You old devil. I wasn't trying to pull any wool over your eyes about this jungle trip. I wasn't aware that I was trying to cover up the fact I was tickled about it. I think I even said, "The only thing I don't like about it is I won't be able to write to you." I wanted to go and was plenty pleased when I got the chance. By this time you know that I didn't change my opinion any, even if it was a bit tough. I knew you'd say you wouldn't mind not getting any letters but, all the same, I bet you were let down a bit. I know what mail means in the everyday routine. I missed not hearing from you and had plenty new and interesting things to occupy my thoughts. You were always creeping in. I learn or see something and make a mental note to tell Babe about it sometime. Most everything I do includes you even if remotely. Your letters, so far, in the "no letters to answer period", don't show any signs of finding it hard to write. You always do a good job of writing. I like to hear you ramble on, on anything. It's all you.
I guess I told you that Dick Elder took the march like a good soldier. He even seemed to like it. He doctored a blister for me too. When we were at the end of the trail I had a picture of he and I together taken. You can pass that information on to Mrs. Elder.
Yes I know who Emeric Ceaser is. He was always around the store. Quite a guy and likes to talk and tell stories. I return his hello. It seems you are meeting a lot of my old business acquaintances since you're in the library. If I go back to the store it will make it easier to talk to you about my day. As it was before you didn't know a lot of them I saw every day or so. If I know your charm they'll be asking about you too. From the sound of things you'll be getting too smart for the old man to keep up with at all. You'll really have to play teacher to me. I still like teachers and they don't have to be red heads either.
To the best of my knowledge you are right about B. Batchelder. The address is the same as Steve's. I'm almost sure he is where you said. [ Sept. 16 letter].
So you are now a member of the Beagle Assn. At least enough to get a present out of it. Did you tell them you go hunting and shoot so you don't hit the rabbits? Good enough shot but won't try to hit them. Remember the day across the road in the orchard and the time in Pop's pasture when you didn't even have a shell in your gun? You did kill one sitting once and then felt bad about it. You're a funny sweet old thing.
You sure do think of plenty of ways to tantalize me don't you? Now you are sending something that has to be cut in three pieces and yet it can be spliced and serve its purpose. I've a guess on that but I'm not sure enough to air it. I'll wait until I see it, you devil.
I do like your two early Xmas presents very much. The picture is in front of me whenever my desk is open and, believe it or not, the bracelet is on my arm and will stay there too. For a man that never cared much for things like that, it's proof that I like it, isn't it?
Read my letter again, honey where I told you where Steve was. Either I was absent minded or you missed it. Steve is north of me.
Sure I believe I have a smart wife. I always did but I couldn't start telling you too soon or you would have become too conceited to live with. I always told you I saw a lot more than the physical in you when I married you. The physical attractions are perfect to me, plenty of them, quantity and quality both, but that is only half of you. The other half is just as perfect and attractive. Either half, by itself, is more than most girls have. I love you, don't you think? I sure do. Very much.
Don't worry about it if you don't manage to send a box every week, honey. It's a lot of work and you're a busy girl. They're fun to get alright, but don't kill yourself trying to keep up. I'm only doing what you ask in sending requests each week. I don't mean you have to honor them all.
I had seen the notice in the Gazette about Ted Underhill. I wasn't sure but thought it was the one Mick & Louise talked of. If I can get any information I'll do it but such things are darn hard to dig out. The official notice is as far as you can go unless you're lucky and run into someone who knew him. Be sure and give me his organization.
I think your letters have shown a bit of a rise in spirit since you've been working. I always was of the opinin you would be happier when busy but before this you never liked your job at all so it wasn't any help. I'm glad you're settled. I know you'll be good at it, I'm only afraid they won't want to let you go when I come home again. We'll fool them won't we? Lots of things to do that will be more fun even than being a librarian. I'll keep you busy too. First, I'll need a lot of loving and being by you. Second, I'll need a lot of my wife's good cooking to fill out the hollow bony places. Third, washing and mending clothes, ironing and lots of things. Still want the job or would you prefer to stay a librarian? Night, sweetheart, I love you.
Your hopeful lover
Norm.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Letter # 484 September 30, 1944
New Guinea
Saturday eve
Sept 30, 1944
My Bewitching Babe;
Another month gone again. Good old September. I always did like the month for the weather and comfortableness after the heat of summer. The last few years, but to be exact, I've had a lot more reason to like it. It gave me you for my very own and that is plenty to put it on top for good in my calendar of months. The last couple years I've been glad to see it pass like all the rest, as quickly as possible. One of these days I'll be sorry to see it over and October coming up. That will be when I'm back in your arms again for always. You will hold me won't you, honey? You'd better say yes or, so help me I'll look into the W.A.C. situation.
No letters today. I haven't any kick on that though. I only got four yesterday. There were quite a few packages but none for me. They had July postmarks and I've had them for almost two weeks. Last one I got was July 28, I think. Mac, Oil, and Bowman each got a package. Almost all candy, so I'm fessing as I write this. Bowman's wife sent a whole box of homemade nut fudge. That's going fast as you can well imagine. By the way, she is a red headed "Mick". Sounds interesting, huh?
Payday again and once more I have more money than I know what to do with so if I get time, I'm going to send you another little pile, Monday. A hundred or a little more, how ever it figures out. That will still leave me a roll of nearly $60.00 and unless something unusual happens that will last a year over here. I've said this before and I'm saying it again. If you want anything take some of this money and get it. Call it a present from me if you want. I can't send you anything but I'd like for you to get yourself a present now and then. Darn it all, honey, I love you and haven't any way to show it at present.
Our washing machine threatened to turn out the same as the sawmill. The old peep engine is so darn near worn out that it is giving trouble. Isn't enough work for the engine so being an oil burner it carbons up enough nearly every day so it has to be cleaned to run the next day. Parts for such things are almost impossible to get so we made some modifications of our own. No new rings to stop the oil pumping so we drilled a lot of new oil return holes under the oil rings, hoping to keep it out of the head. Haywire job. We sure do get plenty of chance to experiment. It's running again, but I don't know for how long.
The censorship rules are getting a bit stricter but it won't bother me much. I have purposely stayed clear of shady subjects or went way around the bush in mentioning them and evidently they have all gone through
intact. Also informed we are to use no vile language so if I don't do much cussing it's not because I've become a priss and got religion, it's just rules.
Johnny has been putting in way too much in some of his and lately he has gotten several of them back. I can't see any profit in that so I try not to say too much. I guess you understand all this anyhow. You're a very sensible girl and smart too. You seem to get a lot from the letters that isn't put in words. Guess maybe you know me and how I work inside. Bet you're the only one who does though. Somehow you wiggled through my lines of defense and hard shell and got inside. That's where you belong. I'll keep you there too, if I can. I loves my three "B" girl.
Now about the article from the Post you sent. It's interesting and basically true. I think I can safely say I know 'cause I've been very close to there. However it's like all stories and articles written for the public. embellished a bit here and there. Skeleton Country is very true. Have made their acquaintance myself more than once. I imagine the actual experience took place at least a year ago. I see you underlined "cold and wet". That may be hard to believe but it is true at times. When it is cloudy and stormy it really is cold in the hills, especially at night. Several nights I was plenty cold with two waterproof covers wrapped around me and completely dressed. Even down here, like this afternoon. Plenty hot until about 3 P.M. and then it clouded up and a breeze sprung up. I was sweating when I went to the shower but as soon as I got wet the goosebumps came out, even on me. Queer climate. The part about G.I. shoes being comfortable to walk in is nothing but crap. No foot soldier would ever make that statement, not if he had the rubber soled ones I've had all the time. They burn my feet every time I go on a march of any length. They were so badly burned on this trip I took, that now the soles of my feet are all peeling. I don't mean they are sore now. They got over it every night and haven't been sore a bit since I got back. Like sunburn, takes a while for the dead hide to loosen up and peel.
Now I'm going to answer a letter or two.
Sept 14. You should talk about your letters rambling on and on. How about some of mine? They sure ramble, anywhere and everywhere. I like to just talk to you though. Our letters to each other don't need to follow the rules set up by Hoyle. I like to be me, and yours surely are you. I love 'em like that. Makes it so much more natural than an ordinary letter. Keep it up, honey. You're doing swell.
Go ahead and thrive on bitching if you want to. Both kinds. I can always listen to the verbal kind coming from you and usually get a grin out of it. The other kind? Well, I'm a pretty good tamer of that kind of bitch. Ready to crack the whip any time and keep on cracking it a long, long time. Just hold on, sweetheart, I'll tame you again. No, I don't get it, but I'm expecting to, but good.
Uh huh. Teasing me again about another surprise. I knew it. I always knew you were a big tease. I sure like to have you tease me though. I'll be in heaven again when you can tease me in a different way. Get it? You will.
I don't imagine you will have to worry about our pines and the landscaping project. I think they'll respect the start we made and there isn't much bank to work on anyhow, except the far east side. They better hadn't molest our honeymoon pines. They're one souvenir I think a lot of. Growing all the time, like our love too.
I sure am tickled to pieces that you like your library job so much. I have been told by others, Mom & Hazel & Mrs, Dulaney that you like it a lot and were looking very good, so I have further proof of your statements. I hope it is due to the job and not your pestiferous husband's absence that you look so well. I know it's the job. I'm a bit conceited too, you know.
You and your names for problematical children! You're incorrigible. Honestly honey, they all suit me. I'll probably have other and rather unspeakable names for them most of the time. I haven't gotten and don't intend to get any farther at present, than the thinking of things that come before names are necessary. I like the idea and will be very glad to do all I can to make it a reality. I do get a kick out of your enthusiasm though. Just like you are about a surprise. Bubbling and all tickled. Keep it up, honey. That's one of your traits that are very dear to me. I love all about you.
Night, honey. Continued tomorrow. Continued tomorrow and forever is my love for you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Saturday eve
Sept 30, 1944
My Bewitching Babe;
Another month gone again. Good old September. I always did like the month for the weather and comfortableness after the heat of summer. The last few years, but to be exact, I've had a lot more reason to like it. It gave me you for my very own and that is plenty to put it on top for good in my calendar of months. The last couple years I've been glad to see it pass like all the rest, as quickly as possible. One of these days I'll be sorry to see it over and October coming up. That will be when I'm back in your arms again for always. You will hold me won't you, honey? You'd better say yes or, so help me I'll look into the W.A.C. situation.
No letters today. I haven't any kick on that though. I only got four yesterday. There were quite a few packages but none for me. They had July postmarks and I've had them for almost two weeks. Last one I got was July 28, I think. Mac, Oil, and Bowman each got a package. Almost all candy, so I'm fessing as I write this. Bowman's wife sent a whole box of homemade nut fudge. That's going fast as you can well imagine. By the way, she is a red headed "Mick". Sounds interesting, huh?
Payday again and once more I have more money than I know what to do with so if I get time, I'm going to send you another little pile, Monday. A hundred or a little more, how ever it figures out. That will still leave me a roll of nearly $60.00 and unless something unusual happens that will last a year over here. I've said this before and I'm saying it again. If you want anything take some of this money and get it. Call it a present from me if you want. I can't send you anything but I'd like for you to get yourself a present now and then. Darn it all, honey, I love you and haven't any way to show it at present.
Our washing machine threatened to turn out the same as the sawmill. The old peep engine is so darn near worn out that it is giving trouble. Isn't enough work for the engine so being an oil burner it carbons up enough nearly every day so it has to be cleaned to run the next day. Parts for such things are almost impossible to get so we made some modifications of our own. No new rings to stop the oil pumping so we drilled a lot of new oil return holes under the oil rings, hoping to keep it out of the head. Haywire job. We sure do get plenty of chance to experiment. It's running again, but I don't know for how long.
The censorship rules are getting a bit stricter but it won't bother me much. I have purposely stayed clear of shady subjects or went way around the bush in mentioning them and evidently they have all gone through
intact. Also informed we are to use no vile language so if I don't do much cussing it's not because I've become a priss and got religion, it's just rules.
Johnny has been putting in way too much in some of his and lately he has gotten several of them back. I can't see any profit in that so I try not to say too much. I guess you understand all this anyhow. You're a very sensible girl and smart too. You seem to get a lot from the letters that isn't put in words. Guess maybe you know me and how I work inside. Bet you're the only one who does though. Somehow you wiggled through my lines of defense and hard shell and got inside. That's where you belong. I'll keep you there too, if I can. I loves my three "B" girl.
Now about the article from the Post you sent. It's interesting and basically true. I think I can safely say I know 'cause I've been very close to there. However it's like all stories and articles written for the public. embellished a bit here and there. Skeleton Country is very true. Have made their acquaintance myself more than once. I imagine the actual experience took place at least a year ago. I see you underlined "cold and wet". That may be hard to believe but it is true at times. When it is cloudy and stormy it really is cold in the hills, especially at night. Several nights I was plenty cold with two waterproof covers wrapped around me and completely dressed. Even down here, like this afternoon. Plenty hot until about 3 P.M. and then it clouded up and a breeze sprung up. I was sweating when I went to the shower but as soon as I got wet the goosebumps came out, even on me. Queer climate. The part about G.I. shoes being comfortable to walk in is nothing but crap. No foot soldier would ever make that statement, not if he had the rubber soled ones I've had all the time. They burn my feet every time I go on a march of any length. They were so badly burned on this trip I took, that now the soles of my feet are all peeling. I don't mean they are sore now. They got over it every night and haven't been sore a bit since I got back. Like sunburn, takes a while for the dead hide to loosen up and peel.
Now I'm going to answer a letter or two.
Sept 14. You should talk about your letters rambling on and on. How about some of mine? They sure ramble, anywhere and everywhere. I like to just talk to you though. Our letters to each other don't need to follow the rules set up by Hoyle. I like to be me, and yours surely are you. I love 'em like that. Makes it so much more natural than an ordinary letter. Keep it up, honey. You're doing swell.
Go ahead and thrive on bitching if you want to. Both kinds. I can always listen to the verbal kind coming from you and usually get a grin out of it. The other kind? Well, I'm a pretty good tamer of that kind of bitch. Ready to crack the whip any time and keep on cracking it a long, long time. Just hold on, sweetheart, I'll tame you again. No, I don't get it, but I'm expecting to, but good.
Uh huh. Teasing me again about another surprise. I knew it. I always knew you were a big tease. I sure like to have you tease me though. I'll be in heaven again when you can tease me in a different way. Get it? You will.
I don't imagine you will have to worry about our pines and the landscaping project. I think they'll respect the start we made and there isn't much bank to work on anyhow, except the far east side. They better hadn't molest our honeymoon pines. They're one souvenir I think a lot of. Growing all the time, like our love too.
I sure am tickled to pieces that you like your library job so much. I have been told by others, Mom & Hazel & Mrs, Dulaney that you like it a lot and were looking very good, so I have further proof of your statements. I hope it is due to the job and not your pestiferous husband's absence that you look so well. I know it's the job. I'm a bit conceited too, you know.
You and your names for problematical children! You're incorrigible. Honestly honey, they all suit me. I'll probably have other and rather unspeakable names for them most of the time. I haven't gotten and don't intend to get any farther at present, than the thinking of things that come before names are necessary. I like the idea and will be very glad to do all I can to make it a reality. I do get a kick out of your enthusiasm though. Just like you are about a surprise. Bubbling and all tickled. Keep it up, honey. That's one of your traits that are very dear to me. I love all about you.
Night, honey. Continued tomorrow. Continued tomorrow and forever is my love for you.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Letter # 483, September 29, 1944
New Guinea
Fri. eve.
Sept 29, 1944
My Precious;
I'm going to start this with an apology. This is going to be a short letter 'cause I went to a show tonight instead of writing to you. It was "Secret Command". Pat O'brian and Carol Landis. Pretty good and I enjoyed it for a change. First time I've gone to a show for over a month. I just got an idea to go so I did. It's really not late by the clock yet, only 9 o'clock but it has been dark since five. I'm like you, I can't understand this business of changing time down here. Seems like they set it the wrong way. We are getting up at four in the morning and start work at 5:30. Quit for noon at 10:30, go back to work at 12:30 and quit at 3:30. It's just breaking day when we get up and by the time we stand retreat and have supper it is dark again. Little more daylight here at any time of year than we have at home in the winter. That's a long story just to explain why a letter is going to be short, but I almost have to be in bed by 10 to get enough sleep. Either the old man is slipping and can't go without his sleep or this climate does it. I think it's the climate mostly. Constant heat seems to slow a man down. I think I can see it in all the fellows. I do know that I'm feeling perfect and fit. Skinny but hard as nails. Anyhow I promised you I'd take good care of me and I'm doing it. I never get less than six hours sleep and most of the time it's eight or more.
I'm rating at mail call again. At least I did today. Four letters from the sweetest girl on earth. I'd even turn away from Carol Landis if you were available, and one from the folks. I also am told there is a bunch of packages for tomorrow. Gosh, honey, a few letters sure do brighten up the day plenty. Your letters were all in order. Sept 14,15,16& 17. There was another with the Beagle club card and the article from the Post. I haven't really read the article yet, but in glancing over it, I can almost see familiar territory. I'll read it closely and comment on it in another letter.
They have us taking calisthenics and road marches all the time these days so we are interrupted in our work a lot of the time. I don't like the calisthenics any better than I ever did but the marches are rather easy to take. Especially so after this recent one I took with a heavy pack. The one we took today was really good. Only walked about five miles and stopped for an hour in the middle for a swim in the river. Those kind are fun. I'm sure getting lots of opportunity to indulge in swimming this year. Haven't been to the beach for some time but one of these days I'll go again. The ball playing cut into my time for a while so I've quit now. It should be winter and time for football anyhow. Funniest kind of winter I've ever seen.
That's the stuff, honey, you see the football games for me. Maybe next season we'll be able to go together again. We did have fun at them didn't we? I have fun at anything when you're around. You add that something that seems to magnify all the pleasures and make them really worthwhile. If what you do to me isn't love, it'll do for the rest of my life anyhow. Nothing could be more precious to me. This all adds up to the simple fact that you are my one and only love and wife. You've got 'em all beat so far I can't even see them. Well not much anyhow and when I'm looking I'm only taking note of how far they miss being as nice as you are. Best loving ever came down the road, sweetheart. I'm not kidding either. I mean it, every word. Proof - I haven't even made an attempt to see the W.A.C. or the Red Cross girl either. If you don't think that much proof, just try imagining yourself in a similar position. Lots of girls around you all the time but you've only seen a half dozen white men [and only at a distance] for more than four months and see if it isn't proof.
Aw, honey, I know you know, I can't really see any girl but you. Somehow though I want to keep telling you so you don't forget and get interested in some other man. I've just got to keep you somehow. You're necessary to my well being even at this great distance. When you are close or closer than that - gosh, honey, there is nothing more to be desired. I love you, you beautiful hunk of desirable feminine charm.
I guess I better quit and get my beauty sleep. I've got to keep in shape so I can make a good try at carrying out all the promises and threats I've made. I'll sure try, I betcha. Night sweetheart, I love you so much.
Your Hubby.
Norm.
Fri. eve.
Sept 29, 1944
My Precious;
I'm going to start this with an apology. This is going to be a short letter 'cause I went to a show tonight instead of writing to you. It was "Secret Command". Pat O'brian and Carol Landis. Pretty good and I enjoyed it for a change. First time I've gone to a show for over a month. I just got an idea to go so I did. It's really not late by the clock yet, only 9 o'clock but it has been dark since five. I'm like you, I can't understand this business of changing time down here. Seems like they set it the wrong way. We are getting up at four in the morning and start work at 5:30. Quit for noon at 10:30, go back to work at 12:30 and quit at 3:30. It's just breaking day when we get up and by the time we stand retreat and have supper it is dark again. Little more daylight here at any time of year than we have at home in the winter. That's a long story just to explain why a letter is going to be short, but I almost have to be in bed by 10 to get enough sleep. Either the old man is slipping and can't go without his sleep or this climate does it. I think it's the climate mostly. Constant heat seems to slow a man down. I think I can see it in all the fellows. I do know that I'm feeling perfect and fit. Skinny but hard as nails. Anyhow I promised you I'd take good care of me and I'm doing it. I never get less than six hours sleep and most of the time it's eight or more.
I'm rating at mail call again. At least I did today. Four letters from the sweetest girl on earth. I'd even turn away from Carol Landis if you were available, and one from the folks. I also am told there is a bunch of packages for tomorrow. Gosh, honey, a few letters sure do brighten up the day plenty. Your letters were all in order. Sept 14,15,16& 17. There was another with the Beagle club card and the article from the Post. I haven't really read the article yet, but in glancing over it, I can almost see familiar territory. I'll read it closely and comment on it in another letter.
They have us taking calisthenics and road marches all the time these days so we are interrupted in our work a lot of the time. I don't like the calisthenics any better than I ever did but the marches are rather easy to take. Especially so after this recent one I took with a heavy pack. The one we took today was really good. Only walked about five miles and stopped for an hour in the middle for a swim in the river. Those kind are fun. I'm sure getting lots of opportunity to indulge in swimming this year. Haven't been to the beach for some time but one of these days I'll go again. The ball playing cut into my time for a while so I've quit now. It should be winter and time for football anyhow. Funniest kind of winter I've ever seen.
That's the stuff, honey, you see the football games for me. Maybe next season we'll be able to go together again. We did have fun at them didn't we? I have fun at anything when you're around. You add that something that seems to magnify all the pleasures and make them really worthwhile. If what you do to me isn't love, it'll do for the rest of my life anyhow. Nothing could be more precious to me. This all adds up to the simple fact that you are my one and only love and wife. You've got 'em all beat so far I can't even see them. Well not much anyhow and when I'm looking I'm only taking note of how far they miss being as nice as you are. Best loving ever came down the road, sweetheart. I'm not kidding either. I mean it, every word. Proof - I haven't even made an attempt to see the W.A.C. or the Red Cross girl either. If you don't think that much proof, just try imagining yourself in a similar position. Lots of girls around you all the time but you've only seen a half dozen white men [and only at a distance] for more than four months and see if it isn't proof.
Aw, honey, I know you know, I can't really see any girl but you. Somehow though I want to keep telling you so you don't forget and get interested in some other man. I've just got to keep you somehow. You're necessary to my well being even at this great distance. When you are close or closer than that - gosh, honey, there is nothing more to be desired. I love you, you beautiful hunk of desirable feminine charm.
I guess I better quit and get my beauty sleep. I've got to keep in shape so I can make a good try at carrying out all the promises and threats I've made. I'll sure try, I betcha. Night sweetheart, I love you so much.
Your Hubby.
Norm.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Letter # 482 September 28, 1944
New Guinea
Thurs eve
Sept. 28, 1944
Hi Beautiful;
Another day and still no letters from you. There has been very little mail coming into the outfit for several days. Must be some holdup either at the base or in the movement of mail. It'll all come at once one of these days again. I do miss having those nice sweet letters every day though. I know I can't kick. You just had two weeks with no letters at all. T.S. isn't it, honey? I love you even if I do go gallivanting off and don't write.
Got our issue of cigarettes for October today. I got one carton of Luckies, two Chesterfields, and one Raleigh. Some mixture isn't it? No more get used to one brand and you get three others the next time. Also could buy two packages of pipe tobacco. Bond Street. I sure don't know where all the Camels are going. We've never even seen one over here yet. No beer this month either. I don't care about that at all. Warm beer isn't anything to go wild about.
Things have been happening in the outfit. Since we've been overseas our commander has been loosing his grip and paying no attention to business, except monkey business, and "chicken", so an I.G. [inspecting general] was called in and listened to all the bitches and complaints of the officers and enlisted men alike. The result is we have a new commander. An old army man and boy is he G.I. He'll probably be a much better leader if we do any fighting, but it's basic training all over again now. Our Captain says he is ok. I'm withholding my judgement for a while yet. I can't see any sense in a lot of the things he is having done so at present I'd be prejudiced against him. I'll see what happens in the future and then draw an opinion. One thing that tickles me is he seems to have put the officers as well as the men on the ball. That's a big point in his favor.
I haven't done any more work on my little projects but they are still cooking and one of these days they'll be on their way to you. Gosh I'm having a lot of fun getting back at you for teasing me so long. I guess I'm not being quite fair about it either 'cause these won't be as nice surprises as the ones you sent me. I love 'em, honey. I love you too.
Almost the end of September again. Time sure does fly doesn't it? Even as much as I miss and want to be back with you the time isn't dragging. I wish I knew how much longer it was going to be though. On second thought, maybe I don't want to know either. I remember a year ago about this time. I knew I was coming home in a couple weeks and boy, how those two weeks did drag. Time just wouldn't seem to pass fast enough to suit me. Then they made me wait another two days before I could come home. That was a swell furlough, honey. I'll never forget a minute of it. We loved and loved and went places and had so much fun. The next one will be better yet 'cause I think it will be a permanent furlough from the army. Happy day for us. I know for one, I'm going to try to make up for all the things I'm missing. Sound like fun? I'll say it does.
Now I guess I'll tell you a little about the rubber industry here in N.G. Full of lessons ain't I? I can't figure any rhyme or reason for the location of these rubber plantations. I'd think they would be as close to the coast and transportation as possible. Instead of that they go way back into the interior where, until very recently, the only way in or out was on foot or by air. Like Australia, N.G. used air transport for nearly everything back from the coast. The rubber seems to grow any place it is planted in the lower altitudes. It is a very fast growing tree and gets rather big. It is white barked and has leaves similar to an ash only bigger. In thirty years the trees grow from seedlings to 3 feet through and 70 ft tall. Very bush top. Trunks usually divide a few feet above the ground into three or four sections and makes a beautiful shade tree. Nice places to camp or stop for a rest. Rubber trees are native to only S. America and all of this in the S.W.P. has been planted here. They are the only tree here that looses all its leaves for a short time each year. The rest of the trees here are evergreen. I don't mean of the pine family, and loose leaves all year around, few at a time so they always look the same.
The rubber trees are tapped all year around at present. In normal times the owners will let them have a rest of three to four weeks a year, at least, and may give them more. The tapping is started when the trees are eight to ten inches through. The trunk is divided into three equal sections and the first slanting cut is made about four feet above the ground and as long as the one third section. The cut is only through the first bark. A small wooden trough is stuck into the bark at the low end of the cut. The thick milky sap follows the cut and drips from the trough into a cup. A tree will only yield about a pint a day. The tapping is done every day, only a very thin shaving being taken from the bottom of the former cut. The shaving is so thin that it takes three years to tap to the ground. Then another one third section of the trunk is tapped for it's three years and then the last. That makes nine years that the old scars have had to heal before re tapping is started.
The sap is gathered every day and is handled in two ways, depending on the size and equipment of the plantation. On the larger ones it is poured into divided wood settling tanks to a depth of about two inches. The divisions are about ten inches wide. A small amount of chemical is poured into it to hasten the settling. Stands over night and the crude rubber has settled into a spongy sheet about an inch thick. It is taken out and put through a wringer to squeeze out all the water and compress the rubber into a pure white sheet about 1/8 inch thick. This is hung out to dry like the wash. From a distance it does look like a big wash of handkerchiefs or three cornered pants. I thought that when I first saw it. When dry it is hung over sticks in the smokehouse and smoked like ham for another day. That cures it and turns it a rich golden brown. It is now ready to bale and send to the rubber factories. Pure gum rubber.
The cruder way used on plantations of small size and run by natives is to gather the sap in a bucket or any kind of container and just leave it stand for several days. By this time the same spongy mass has settled and the natives then pack the crude rubber to someplace where it will be smoked before being shipped. This rubber looks like a dirty white sponge varying in size and as thick as six inches. Doesn't take much equipment does it? A tree of average size will produce about $20.00 worth of gum rubber a year or about 280 pounds. There, sweetheart, is another bit of information I picked up first hand on my trip. Now do you begin to believe it was worth the trouble and the lack of letters to you? I really did see and learn as much as I ever have in a comparable length of time. If I could do as well every two weeks I'd be an educated man and be able to keep up with my librarian.
Night, sweetheart. I'm not getting much loving in these letters but love and lessons never did mix. To hell with the lessons. Give me the love every time. I'll write a loving one soon. I do love you more and more all the time. You're my perfect wife.
Your hubby.
Norm.
Thurs eve
Sept. 28, 1944
Hi Beautiful;
Another day and still no letters from you. There has been very little mail coming into the outfit for several days. Must be some holdup either at the base or in the movement of mail. It'll all come at once one of these days again. I do miss having those nice sweet letters every day though. I know I can't kick. You just had two weeks with no letters at all. T.S. isn't it, honey? I love you even if I do go gallivanting off and don't write.
Got our issue of cigarettes for October today. I got one carton of Luckies, two Chesterfields, and one Raleigh. Some mixture isn't it? No more get used to one brand and you get three others the next time. Also could buy two packages of pipe tobacco. Bond Street. I sure don't know where all the Camels are going. We've never even seen one over here yet. No beer this month either. I don't care about that at all. Warm beer isn't anything to go wild about.
Things have been happening in the outfit. Since we've been overseas our commander has been loosing his grip and paying no attention to business, except monkey business, and "chicken", so an I.G. [inspecting general] was called in and listened to all the bitches and complaints of the officers and enlisted men alike. The result is we have a new commander. An old army man and boy is he G.I. He'll probably be a much better leader if we do any fighting, but it's basic training all over again now. Our Captain says he is ok. I'm withholding my judgement for a while yet. I can't see any sense in a lot of the things he is having done so at present I'd be prejudiced against him. I'll see what happens in the future and then draw an opinion. One thing that tickles me is he seems to have put the officers as well as the men on the ball. That's a big point in his favor.
I haven't done any more work on my little projects but they are still cooking and one of these days they'll be on their way to you. Gosh I'm having a lot of fun getting back at you for teasing me so long. I guess I'm not being quite fair about it either 'cause these won't be as nice surprises as the ones you sent me. I love 'em, honey. I love you too.
Almost the end of September again. Time sure does fly doesn't it? Even as much as I miss and want to be back with you the time isn't dragging. I wish I knew how much longer it was going to be though. On second thought, maybe I don't want to know either. I remember a year ago about this time. I knew I was coming home in a couple weeks and boy, how those two weeks did drag. Time just wouldn't seem to pass fast enough to suit me. Then they made me wait another two days before I could come home. That was a swell furlough, honey. I'll never forget a minute of it. We loved and loved and went places and had so much fun. The next one will be better yet 'cause I think it will be a permanent furlough from the army. Happy day for us. I know for one, I'm going to try to make up for all the things I'm missing. Sound like fun? I'll say it does.
Now I guess I'll tell you a little about the rubber industry here in N.G. Full of lessons ain't I? I can't figure any rhyme or reason for the location of these rubber plantations. I'd think they would be as close to the coast and transportation as possible. Instead of that they go way back into the interior where, until very recently, the only way in or out was on foot or by air. Like Australia, N.G. used air transport for nearly everything back from the coast. The rubber seems to grow any place it is planted in the lower altitudes. It is a very fast growing tree and gets rather big. It is white barked and has leaves similar to an ash only bigger. In thirty years the trees grow from seedlings to 3 feet through and 70 ft tall. Very bush top. Trunks usually divide a few feet above the ground into three or four sections and makes a beautiful shade tree. Nice places to camp or stop for a rest. Rubber trees are native to only S. America and all of this in the S.W.P. has been planted here. They are the only tree here that looses all its leaves for a short time each year. The rest of the trees here are evergreen. I don't mean of the pine family, and loose leaves all year around, few at a time so they always look the same.
The rubber trees are tapped all year around at present. In normal times the owners will let them have a rest of three to four weeks a year, at least, and may give them more. The tapping is started when the trees are eight to ten inches through. The trunk is divided into three equal sections and the first slanting cut is made about four feet above the ground and as long as the one third section. The cut is only through the first bark. A small wooden trough is stuck into the bark at the low end of the cut. The thick milky sap follows the cut and drips from the trough into a cup. A tree will only yield about a pint a day. The tapping is done every day, only a very thin shaving being taken from the bottom of the former cut. The shaving is so thin that it takes three years to tap to the ground. Then another one third section of the trunk is tapped for it's three years and then the last. That makes nine years that the old scars have had to heal before re tapping is started.
The sap is gathered every day and is handled in two ways, depending on the size and equipment of the plantation. On the larger ones it is poured into divided wood settling tanks to a depth of about two inches. The divisions are about ten inches wide. A small amount of chemical is poured into it to hasten the settling. Stands over night and the crude rubber has settled into a spongy sheet about an inch thick. It is taken out and put through a wringer to squeeze out all the water and compress the rubber into a pure white sheet about 1/8 inch thick. This is hung out to dry like the wash. From a distance it does look like a big wash of handkerchiefs or three cornered pants. I thought that when I first saw it. When dry it is hung over sticks in the smokehouse and smoked like ham for another day. That cures it and turns it a rich golden brown. It is now ready to bale and send to the rubber factories. Pure gum rubber.
The cruder way used on plantations of small size and run by natives is to gather the sap in a bucket or any kind of container and just leave it stand for several days. By this time the same spongy mass has settled and the natives then pack the crude rubber to someplace where it will be smoked before being shipped. This rubber looks like a dirty white sponge varying in size and as thick as six inches. Doesn't take much equipment does it? A tree of average size will produce about $20.00 worth of gum rubber a year or about 280 pounds. There, sweetheart, is another bit of information I picked up first hand on my trip. Now do you begin to believe it was worth the trouble and the lack of letters to you? I really did see and learn as much as I ever have in a comparable length of time. If I could do as well every two weeks I'd be an educated man and be able to keep up with my librarian.
Night, sweetheart. I'm not getting much loving in these letters but love and lessons never did mix. To hell with the lessons. Give me the love every time. I'll write a loving one soon. I do love you more and more all the time. You're my perfect wife.
Your hubby.
Norm.
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