Love Letters to Lois by Art: Letter #29

Introductions by Debra

This is a true, first-hand account of the innermost thoughts of Art to his beloved Lois, written while serving our country as a United States Marine during World War II. My name is Debra and I am sharing the gifts of Art’s Love Letters. Art was my grandfather and Lois was my grandmother. It was 1944 and they were 21 years old when the letters began.

The Letter Transcript

Friday, July 7, 1944

My Dearest Lois,

Time to write my daily letter to you. How am I doing by the way? Your letters simply are the best ever maybe it’s because we are engaged.

You know darn fool that I am, I forgot to enclose the ten dollars last night. Remembered it today when I looked in my wallet. Know I should not have so much money and it finally dawned that no money was enclosed in your letter. Make sure of it tonight.

I know your feelings, Honey, looking out the office window and writing on the inside. Reminds me of school days, just hate to stay indoors. Myself I live for outdoors.

I went sailing this afternoon and there was quite a wind blowing. The sound was rather rough but the sail was all the better for it. Only wish you were along, Lois, to make the ride all the more enjoyable.

That is really a swell idea having Florence draw a picture of the ring. My folks will really appreciate it. I hope Darling, you write them pretty soon as I told them you would be writing soon.

Yes, Lois, have been a darn “good boy” all week. Surprise myself but so help me don’t even miss it. Usually after a shower everybody goes to the slap shoot and drink beer or coke. When I even go, cokes are all I drink. You get all the credit in that, Lois, think of you so much I couldn’t go wrong.

The fellow that turned me in and I are buddies again. Got what was on my chest off and he figured it was his job to do it. Difference of opinion is all I guess.

As for the other trouble, still no word on that boy. The “Ma’am” in the case went “over the hill” last night. Trying very hard to get a discharge. Imagine she will get it this time when they catch her.

Lois, Honey, when we get married and it will most likely be in Harrisonburg. All my family will not be there. Will find out for sure on that. See, Mother can not take long trips very well. If they all do, well, we can go elsewhere for our honeymoon. A ten day leave should give us a bit of time when and if I get it. What I was thinking, maybe we could go on a short honeymoon some place and then head back to my base so we can set up home together. What do you think of that? The next time we are together we’ll talk that all over. By that time, I should have plenty of dope from home. Probably you will also from your letters when you write them.

Have my change all set for Sunday afternoon. Talking to you will keep me happy for the weekend. Wish we had a special phone just for the two of us. Something like a “walkie talkie” and then we could hear each other all the time.

Been finding out quite a bit of information about our talks. That married fellow really gave me stuff I never heard of before. Maybe I should write about it or should I wait?

Going to close Darling. Sure wish I was in Washington DC this evening. Would be there at just about this time. In fact, we were leaving for the show as I write this letter. Remember how I wanted to talk and how you had a job keeping me quiet? All I wanted to do is hold you and look at you. The people around us didn’t appreciate my feelings but I didn’t care I’m afraid. Bye for now Honey.

Your Ever Loving Husband (to be),
Art

PS: Hello to the girls.

Questions, Conclusions and Commentary

Commentary:

It is fascinating to me that not only 80 years ago this relationship was building purely through their thoughts and words in letters they would need to wait to receive. Even phone calls were uncommon and he would have to save change and plan ahead to engage in. He writes of his dreams for a special device like a walkie talkie they can use to hear each other all the time. The modern day cell phone is exactly what he was wishing for. We are very blessed communication is not a barrier for us today.

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