OLIVE COOLIDGE Correspondence 1941 Bob to Oggy AUG-SEPT

Pine Mountain Settlement School
Series 09: BIOGRAPHY – Staff
Olive Coolidge, Asst Nurse, 1941-1942
Olive Dame Coolidge (1920-2008)
Correspondence 1941 August 25 – September 19
Bob (Robert) to Oggy (Olive)

Olive Coolidge Collection. Entry gate to the Infirmary at PMSS. [coolidge_post-car_1916037.jpg]

TAGS: Olive Coolidge, 1941 correspondence, Robert Butman, WWII, Pine Mountain, Harlan County, Marcia Butman donation

OLIVE COOLIDGE Correspondence 1941 Bob to Oggy AUG-SEPT

CONTENTS: August 25 – September 19, 1941

1. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 August 25 – Miami, Fla.
2. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 August 26 – Coral Gables, Fla.
3. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 August 26 – Miami, Fla. [2]
4. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 August 28 – Miami, Fla.
  [Bob to Oggy – Date Stamp: 1941 AUG 30 – Telegram from Jacksonville, Fla.]
5. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 3 – Miami, Fla.
6. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 5 – Miami, Fla. JPG images not available
7. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 6 – Miami, Fla.
8. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 7 – Miami, Fla.
9. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 9 – Coral Gables, Fla.
10. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 10 – Coral Gables, Fla.
11. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 11 – Miami, Fla.
12. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: 1941 September 12 – Miami, Fla.2b. Bob to Oggy – Postmark: September 19. Forwarded letter to Oggy, written to Bob from Ruth Coolidge, September 6, 1941. [transcription only]

TRANSCRIPTIONS: OLIVE COOLIDGE Correspondence 1941 Bob to Oggy

1. Postmark: Aug. 25,1941 – Miami, Fla.

[Notation on outside of envelope] “Dunno whether this will catch you at Nantucket or not – I hope so.”

Aug. 24, 1941
Sunday – 5:45 P.M.

Oggy Sweetheart,
Because of lack of time this letter may be a bit short – but I just wanted to write to tell you how glad I am [that] you feel better. I didn’t realize how much difference it made and I hope that statement sounds all right.

Got up about 10 A.M. this morning – late because we worked for a while last night as well as yesterday afternoon. Went to work about 11 and quit about 5 – and plan to get back around 7 P.M. So you see we really are having a siege of overtime. It cant be helped though – the transmitters just have to go out – “the mail must go through “ you know. As soon as I finish this I’m going out – have a belated dinner before going back to work.

Really though – I felt much better after getting your letter – Thursday’s, of course. And it dawned on me that perhaps you had a good reason for feeling blue – I’m so thick sometimes.

It’s too bad P.H. fell through but I suspect nothing can be done about that. Chalk it up on the red side of the ledger. I hope you will like Pine Mtn. if you go there. I admire you very much if you take it – just simple ordinary admiration. Don’t take it if you think you will dislike it too much though. I would hate to have you unhappy. I love you too much to be happy when you aren’t. Which, I suppose, makes my motive a selfish one – which was not the original idea.

In spite of the fact that I feel badly about not seeing you soon – I suppose we shouldn’t – as you say – complain too much as we have plenty of things to be thankful for. Each other – for instance, – as long as we have each other …….Lets show ‘em – “em” being no one in particular – Lets show ‘em what we can do – huh?

Yours forever,
Bob

2. Postmark: August 26, 1941 – Coral Gables, Fla.

[n.d.] Monday – or rather just barely Tuesday morn

Oggy Dearest,
Before I fall asleep – which will be no trouble at all – I just wanted you to know that I’m thinking of you. Which is not at all unusual. I just got home from Miami – went in, ate, and saw a movie, just for amusement. It was a crazy thing to do, but I didn’t feel quite like staying home, the way I should have. We didn’t, as you can easily see, have to work tonight – I guess we are more or less ahead of the game for a while at least.

How does it seem to get back to 9 Hastings? – a bit queer I suppose. I’ll bet it seems kinda nice too. I know I’d like to drop around at 14 Newton. Incidentally, I’m afraid all is not well at the Butman estate. Mrs. S wrote the other day and remarked that “your Dad has quite a lot on his mind, and would probably write about it.” That means only one thing to me and I don’t particularly care for the prospect. And I’m sure Maxine and Doris like the idea even less. I dunno ….

I wish you were going to be here this weekend darling – 3 days off – and I do want to see you so. You know I love you – and I guess I always will want to have you near.

Goodnight Sweetheart,
Bob

3. Postmark: August 26, 1941 – Miami, Fla. [2]

Aug. 26, 1941
Tuesday

Oggy Darling,
I have become obcessed (sp?) with an idea [sketch of a light bulb] and, against all my better judgment, have written Dad and am about to do the same to you. The whole thing is impractical, extravagant, wild, crazy and way down deep I’m pretty sure it won’t materialize, but it is just one of those things you have to talk about and get out of your system.

This weekend we have Sat Sun and Mon off. Now, reasons Robert to himself, if I didn’t have to work Tuesday I could catch the 6:00 P.M. train out of Miami on Friday night – get home Sat night – and leave Mon. night late. Two days at home. It is I know, all damned foolishness as Dad would say – I can hear him say it now. But after all, a fellow has to have crazy ideas now and then.

I asked Dad to send me a wire before Friday night if he thought it wasn’t too stupid – otherwise I wouldn’t come. Will you please call the house as soon as you get this letter and get his opinion just to let him know you have heard about it too.

Gad, what a hell of a time it would be! If I may be a bit expressive. Whee! A crazy stunt like that is just what I need. As I have said I hardly expect approval from Dad or you but I just have to try – just to get rid of the idea if nothing else. Don’t misunderstand me, I don’t have a bad case of the blues – its just an idea that came to me out of the blue.

Don’t feel hurt at that statement – the practical side of anyone’s nature would disapprove.

I suppose the whole thing will be squelched but I’m just crazy enough to hope that I can do it. I wouldn’t do it without a nod of approval, though – simply because I know darned well that it isn’t practical myself. But I don’t want to be practical! Gad, what a time!

You know the idea gives me that buoyant feeling in my stomach and a desire to laugh out loud. In spite of the fact that I’m almost positive that idea will fall through. I hope you understand how I feel, and I think you do. But enough, says he firmly and with determination – I shall switch to other channels.

For example, your letters. Literally millions of ‘em. And I do appreciate them so much – I sure do. Got your Sat–Sun letter today and have given it several thorough – well, 3 or 4 – readings and I’m still not tired of it. I can read them several times without being bored in the slightest – in fact I might say that I read them avidly. Avidly is, I believe, the proper word.

And about going away to work. Well, I dunno dear. I don’t think your Mother would mind too much. However, if you decide that you would like to stay home, why not compromise and get a job near home – one that will allow you to commute. I think you should try and find something to do – I don’t believe you would enjoy yourself if you didn’t have a steady job this winter. Says he, repeating a statement made in a letter once before. Those are my sentiments – whether they are right or not is another question.

Well, honey chile, I guess I’ll ride up to town and get these mailed tonight. They are being mailed with my tongue in my cheek and my fingers crossed. I’m interested to see what the reaction to the Idea will be. Although I’m not a bit hopeful. You see the best thing is that I know it is so wild that I won’t feel too disappointed if it falls through – on the other hand I know I’d have a wonderful time if I came home.

I want to see you so much – you know how I feel – it’s funny – you would laugh to see me grinning at myself, and all the time the phrase, “Gad, what a time, “ keeps running thru my head. Oh well, we all have to dream some.

Love from your Hair-Brained – I’m stuck for a noun – so I’d better say love from me.

Bob

4. Postmark: August 28, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

Aug 28, 1941

Oggy Darling,
No doubt everyone in W. Medford thinks I’m crazy because of that violent outburst in my last letter. If they do I wouldn’t be at all surprised because I’m beginning to wonder at my sanity myself. After getting the idea out of my system I have started to see how wild it was – not that I didn’t realize that it was wild when I suggested it. However, it would have been rather extravagant even though I think oops! it would have been worth it to see you. The “I think” is unnecessary. I just hope no one got violently upset about the whole business. Oh well – it’s too late now. It was fun though – realizing that I could get home so quickly – it made it seem much nearer.

Saw the Spears last night – Chip is all excited about going North – and I don’t blame her. They really are a swell pair and I like them a lot. Dick has been having a lot of fun talking about all these things he’s going to do while Chip is away – you know, wine women, and song. However, I suspect very little of it will materialize.

Say, I resent being pictured as a droopy-looking draftee – fine thing! On second thought – it may be some sort of prediction. I doubt it though because I’m pretty sure everyone at P.A. will be exempted – some have been already. I don’t think I have to register – in fact I’m sure of it – until they call for another registration – that will probably be in October sometime.

I’m terribly sorry to hear that Bill is so “helpless” – yuh, that makes me feel badly. Sure, I can fry bacon and when it comes to boiling water I’m a whiz. But when it comes to playing the piano or organ I flunk gloriously.

Pine Mtn. is keeping me up in the air – the suspense is terrible. No doubt you feel the same way only more so. Doggone it – why can’t they have a little sympathy for our feelings and write promptly ! Most inconsiderate.

Dad wrote the other day and remarked that he would probably be coming down on the train because of the gas shortage. Then he casually stated that he was rather disappointed because he had hoped to be able to drive and bring you! Darn Hitler anyway – the war comes home. Hoods is in all kinds of difficulties because of the oil shortage and Dad is in quite a stew so I guess he won’t be down until things straighten out somewhat.

I don’t know whether this letter will reach you in Medford or not – I hope so, but I’m not sure what time Tuesday you will be leaving. Have a good time Darling and don’t forget to remember all the details.

All my Love and Sympathy,
Bob

Date Stamp: 1941 AUG 30, Western Union Telegram – Jacksonville, Fla.

WA689 8 TOUR=JACKSONVILLE FLO 30 602P
MISS OLIVE D COOLIDGE=
MICHIGAN 1741 3132 P ST WASHDC=

ARRIVING SILVER METEOR 7 AM EST SUNDAY LOVE=
BOB.

5. Postmark: September 3, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

Sept. 3, 1941

Oggy Darling,
You remember that I remarked the other night that it might be hard for me to say exactly what I wanted to in writing – simply because writing is such a limited means of expression. I’m finding that my suspicions were true – it is hard for me to know what to write.

And even if I could write those things that I want you to know, it wouldn’t sound the way it should. I’d like to be able to just look at you again – you know that we spoke volumes, without saying a thing. However, about all I can say now is that I love you very much, and that I hope we will be together always. And that you know already – it was implied what [that ?] I asked you to marry me.

You can see that I’m, groping about in a rather futile fashion in an effort to tell you how wonderful I think it is that we are going to be married. We will have such a good time together.

Darling – we love each other so much that we can’t possibly fail.

Next September seems years away right now, but I’m sure we are doing the right thing. We’ll be much happier if we wait – it will save us no end of grief, and not only that – it will give you a chance to work. Show ‘em how good you are, Dearie – they’ll sit up and take notice. On second thought, perhaps you had better not do you best – they’ll want you to stay indefinitely. Gosh, I hope they don’t plan on your staying more than a year. They will be disappointed.

I wrote to Dad tonight and went into detail a bit more, although there wasn’t much to tell him that he didn’t already – or rather doesn’t already know. I’m sure he will like the idea, since he has mentioned it before. Probably I’ll get a letter from him in a couple of days bearing his stamp of approval. Why shucks, Dearie, anyone should be glad to have you for a daughter–in–law.

I miss you badly darling – I can’t seem to think about anything else – which I suppose is natural after all. I spent a rather large amount of time thinking about us all the way home. In fact, that is about all I did do – daydream. And a very pleasant pastime it is.

This letter is about to be cut short so that it will go in tonight’s mail – I have just about time to get it in and I want it to go so you will have something to look at.

I love you darling – with all my heart – and although writing it is painfully inadequate, you know, I’m sure, all that it implies.

All my love,
Bob

6. Postmark: September 5, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

Sept 4, 1941

Oggy Dearest,
It was quite a relief to get your letter today – now I know the weekend wasn’t a dream – it really happened. And you did such a swell job of describing the spirit of the whole thing – I wouldn’t change one detail of the whole weekend if we were to do it again. Yes, I would too – I would have shaved Tuesday morning!

I was kidded considerably today about dashing around the country – and coming back from the weekend on Thursday morning. ‘Course I was working for a couple of hours yesterday afternoon but quite a few people didn’t see me then. When I went in to draw some money out of my company savings, Ken asked me if I had quite a weekend! News sure does get around. But they know very little – all they know is that I went to Washington to see you !

I’m still a bit weary – it looks as though I’m just a sissy. When I got home tonight I thought I’d lie down for just a couple of minutes – and woke up an hour later thinking it was time to get up and go to work – which shows you how soundly I slept. Can’t take it. But I don’t care; it was worth it – masterpiece of understatement.

Darling, I’m so glad we have finally – no that sounds queer. … What I mean to say is that I’m so glad you said “yes”– which is even more of an understatement. Darn it – why can’t I say what I mean! I want to tell you how much I love you, and how much happier I am, and how much more there is to work for now. We’ll be so happy darling – always.

Goodnight Dearest,
Bob

7. Postmark: September 6, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

Sept 5, 1941

Oggy Sweetheart,
Now that I have finished my sewing I have time to write a letter. Yessir – you should have seen me patching up a torn pant cuff – I think I’d make a good tailor. Perhaps.

It’s funny but all I seem to do is sit here and think of you in a dreamy sort of fashion when I should be writing. Perhaps – just perhaps – it is because I’m so lonesome for you – more than ever after seeing you for three days. I’m back in the old rut again – saying that September seems so far away! But then Christmas is coming.

I didn’t say much about the train ride back because it was somewhat more boring than the ride up. And I was rather blue about leaving you – although happy that we were leaving each other as we did. The woman sitting with me wasn’t particularly interesting. Her complaint that Northerners were “spoiling” the negroes by giving them $12 to $15 a week for domestic help instead of the usual 6 didn’t make much of [a] favorable impression either. She is one of the kind that treat negroes as though they were still slaves. The only excitement was a slight commotion resulting when a military policeman and a conductor threw a soldier out of the seat next to mine for indulging in a little promiscuous petting.

Say – how is your foot – blister, cut, and all? I suspect it’s OK – I hope. You would laugh to know how badly I felt when you cut yourself. I know that sounds silly – very silly – and although I may have made it sound a bit strong, nevertheless it’s true. Oh well.

I was talking with Mrs. (Kitty) Jones last night and, under cross-examination – which I weathered successfully – mentioned that you were going to Pine Mtn., and told her what you were going to do. She thought that was a good idea – remarked that there was plenty of opportunity for that kind of work and said that Harlan County was rugged country. There is, she says, no running down to the “corner” for something you want simply because there is no corner. It should be interesting work though, darling, and I do hope you like it. It would make me feel badly to have you unhappy there – which, I suppose, makes my motive a purely selfish one.

You know, I think everyone here at the house sort of suspects that we are engaged – but of course they can’t very well ask – and I haven’t told them. It’s fun to keep them guessing. Aren’t I an old meanie, though!

Well Darling, I think I’ll go to bed – I still haven’t completely recovered. And we have been working moderately hard since I came back which hasn’t helped.

By the way – say hello to Milme for me – and if she ever turns her back to you, thumb your nose at her for me and mutter – “Bill, – Fooey.” I’d appreciate it very much. I didn’t quite understand what you said about Milme’s studying nursing, but it sounded as though she had a bit of a problem there.

I miss you Darling – very much – and believe it or not – I still love you – more and more every day. Probably by next September, I’ll be so much in love I won’t even be able to say “I do.”

All my love and sympathy,
Bob

8. Postmark: September 7, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

September 6, 1941
2:00 P.M.

Oggy Dearest,
Getting your rather troubled note along with a regular thunderbolt from Dick this noon left me a little befuddled but I think perhaps my mind has quieted down enough so that I can think consecutively by now.

First I suspect I should put your mind at ease about me. Believe it or not, Dearie, I don’t spend my evenings staggering from beer parlor to brothel and back again. And when you think about my various “affairs,“ Jeanette for example, I’m sure you will feel completely reassured. Did you honestly have some doubts, or did Milme’s gossip get you into a mood?

Speaking of Milme reminds me that I would enjoy throwing a few epithets in her general direction. I dislike her more than ever. She reminds me of two old wags who sat in front of me on the train coming back. They were both between 50 and 60, had bright red fingernails, a rather sharp face, and that unmistakable glitter in their eyes. Incidentally, they were both married – their poor husbands! Anyway, they were talking about what “brutes” men were – and about one brute in particular. And you know how that sort of person nods her head with a knowing look – and emits long drawn-out – ohs and ahs in agreement. (Really funny!) Somehow Milme’s attitude reminds me very much of theirs – very much. Very discouraging too because it’s all wrong.

I rather suspect Milme’s rather warped attitude is simply a reflection of John’s equally warped ideas. I honestly think his reasons for getting married are purely biological – he certainly doesn’t seem to have much respect for Milme’s judgment, opinions, or ambitions. All he wants is someone to take care of him and bow when he walks by. And Milme thinks I’d subdue you!! What in blazes does she think John is doing to her? Perhaps she won’t mind though – she’ll go out and play bridge with the “girls” and have a wonderful time complaining about how badly she is treated. I bet she and John have some beautiful scraps!

“Something to be coped with,“ is also a lot of damned nonsense. Perhaps it is true in a partnership like Milme’s but when two people are happily married and sincerely in love it just isn’t true. There is no reason why any and all relations, mental as well as physical, shouldn’t be of the 50-50 type in a real partnership. I admit I’m rather woefully ignorant about some things but that doesn’t mean I can’t be intelligent – and the above reasoning is a product of my intelligence (not my experience!) – it’s the way I feel about the situation. And I think you will find that those people who are truly happily married agree with the way you and I feel.

If I have missed anything let me know because I think we should understand each other thoroughly. And do we agree?

As far as missing each other is concerned I hardly think one would expect to be missed passionately all the time – it just isn’t natural. I miss you now in a different sort of way. As though I had lost an arm or a leg – and although considerably handicapped you don’t always notice that it’s missing. A little less passionate than before perhaps, but much deeper – more as though we really were partners. Am I making myself extremely confusing?

Which all brings me to Dick’s thunderbolt. I opened his letter, glanced it over and idly looked at the signature. It began “Sincerely yours, Dick “ which as perfectly ordinary and quite in order. Underneath however was Lt. Kirke W. March Jr. , Electronics, U.S. Army – which was definitely quite startling. But my surprise at that was nothing compared to the shock I got when I read the address – c/o American Embassy, London, England111. It gave me the queerest darned feeling and I really fell off the chair. It seems that he is leaving for England within a week with about 36 other officers. After they get there they will go to school for 3 months, then go out in the field with the English army as observers – just to compare English radio equipment with American made stuff. Sperry [?] tried to keep him here but they just couldn’t do it. The wedding is all off, of course, but he says things are “better than ever” so he apparently isn’t worrying any. He wanted me to give you “his best,” so consider it done. It certainly makes me feel queer to hear from him and a little bit as though I wasn’t doing anything particularly important by comparison. Oh well. Perhaps I’m just a little jealous.

I’ll write some more a little later. The shop and lab – in fact, the whole of Pamsco (Pan Am Mfg and Supply) – is having their annual picnic at the Venetian pool this afternoon. So I’m going over and mill around with the rest of ‘em – it should be fun.

**********

11:30 P.M. Just got back from a movie, and I’m just a wee bit sleepy – sleepy enough so that I rather doubt that I’ll have ambition enough to write very much.

The picnic was quite a success – everyone had a good time swimming around, including me, and eating. Free swim, eats and drinks (soft). About 7:00 one of the fellows remarked “lets chase off to a movie,” so three of us went into Miami. Couldn’t see the only really good show in town because it was too crowded and ended up seeing a “rip-snortin” Western picture of rather mediocre quality. We had a good time, though – which was the main idea.

Darling, I hope all your doubts have faded away because I don’t like to have you worry – any more than necessary.

Gosh. I just realized that in all the excitement I didn’t say anything about the Wellesley offer. As does everyone else – I think you are right in going to Pine Mtn. The difference in pay isn’t worth changing your mind for – and besides if Wellesley doesn’t give you board and room the difference is non-existent. And Pine Mtn. will be better experience; there’s no doubt about that. Everything considered, I’m sure you’re doing the right thing.

My pen is running dry. Darling. and I have just enough ink and ambition to say I love you.

‘Nite, darling

**********

9:00 A.M. Sunday

Good Morning Dear –
Just thought I’d say hello before mailing this. I haven’t even got out of bed yet but I think I’ll have ambition to do so as soon as I finish this. Today’s activities are as yet unplanned – probably they will be nothing spectacular. It sure would be wonderful to have you here, Darling – we could find something to keep us busy without any trouble, I’m sure.

I hope all of your doubts have vanished, Oggy – says he, repeating himself. Really though – I think Milme is all wrong – and that she should be taken lightly.

Incidentally, how was the wedding – a big social success with loads of glitter as was planned?

I hope Pine Mtn. is what you expected, Dear. If it is, I’m glad – If it isn’t, don’t let it bother you, you’ll like it better after being there awhile. Show ‘em how good you are and remember that I love you and that I’ll be with you always.

Love,
Bob

9. Postmark: September 9, 1941 – Coral Gables, Fla.

Sept 8, 1941
10:30 P. M.

Oggy Darling,
I refuse to sit here, not writing any longer. There are times when it seems impossible to come down to earth and actually put something – something being one’s thoughts – on paper. Naturally, the thoughts are all about you – did you know that you take an awful lot of my time?

At long last I got a letter from Dad today, saying that the news fairly “took his breath away” even though he had expected it. He also said that he thought you were “swell” and that he was “very much pleased.” I’m anxious to hear what your folks have to say – anxious but not worried! Perhaps I should have said, interested, or curious.

I don’t know though, Dearie, you may hang [change?] your mind when you find that I have been chasing about with a married woman. You may remember my mentioning Mrs. (Kitty) Jones who is staying here at the house. Anyway, we ate together tonight – and went to a movie afterward – Dutch treat throughout, to be sure. She is going back to Wash. by train for a few days (leaving Sun.) and she offered me the use of her car while she was away! Ain’t that sumthin’? I rather think I’ll take her up on the offer – it is a wonderful chance to explore a bit.

Guess I’ll roll over & go to sleep, Darling – sleepy as usual. I’m anxious to hear from you and find out how you like Harlan County. I love you, Dear – very much – my sympathy….

Bob

10. Postmark: September 10, 1941 – Coral Gables, Fla.

Sept 9, 1941

Oggy Darling,
I suppose that now I am legally my own manager I should feel differently. But I don’t. Of course, there is the little matter of becoming your equal – something which I think I’ll ignore. Hmmmm! Why, Dearie, how cold I ever become your equal – how could I rise to such heights? It really was a cute telegram though and I enjoyed it – very much – thanks. I had a feeling you would send one – but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable.

Dad sent me a check ($5) as did Mrs. Sparrow ($3) – both of which were received with open arms. Dot and Mac both sent me a card – so I had 4 cards, a letter, and a telegram today. In spite of the fact that the money is very welcome – it isn’t as nice as my Washington present(s). I really like that ring – and have had two or three comments about it already. Did I ever tell you that you were wonderful?

I’m sorry you were so apprehensive about your job – although I expect it is too late to comment about that. I hope so much that everything will turn out all right. It is probably the kind of job that you like better and better as time goes on. Show ‘em how good you are Darling – you can, without any difficulty.

The letter from your Mother flatters me no end. Evidently, she has no objections, and feels, as we do, that we are being very intelligent about the whole thing. Even so, it seems to have taken her breath away, just as it did Dad’s. I suspect that’s natural though – it probably means more to them then we can realize.

It seems as though I have missed you more than usual today, Darling – I don’t know just why but I have. I felt just in the mood to go somewhere with you tonight – not that that isn’t always true – it’s just that it was stronger than usual. We have such good times together, Oggy – it will be such fun to be together always. Why Dearie, I’d rather wipe dishes with you than – oh Hell, I can’t think of a comparison that doesn’t sound silly. Just let it slide. You know I love you, like you, and respect you – and even though the last two may not sound so particularly dramatic (or romantic) I think they are very important and one of the reasons why we get along so well. We sure do. You’re wonderful, Dearie!

All my love – now – always,
Bob

11. Postmark: September 11, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

September 10, 1941
11:30 P.M.

Oggy Dearest,
Pardon me while I lie here and dream for a couple of minutes. No more than that though because if I dream any longer than that it won’t be a day dream. 11:30 is way past my bedtime but I’ve been over to the Venetian pool tonight to their “community supper” and water show, and I’ve written to Dad and Ted. All of which takes time. Lord, it’s about time I wrote to Ted, though – I’m disgusted with myself.

Well, Dearie, I’m all ears – or rather eyes, waiting for a letter tomorrow to find out how you like Pine Mountain. I think I’m almost as apprehensive as you were! You’ll like it though, I’m sure – everyone there will be your friend inside of a week. But remember I’m always within thinking distance, too.

Got a letter from Eunice today – thanks for the present – and happy birthday. Ray swapped jobs, this when the owner of the bottling company he was working for, one Ward Creamer you may remember, “tired” of the business (so Ray says) and Dixie’s Drinks folded (I suspect it probably died a natural death). At present he’s working for an insurance company. He is welcome to the insurance company – that is not a job that strikes me as particularly intriguing.

I’m afraid I’ll have to quit, darling – my eyes keep drifting shut while I wonder whether we should buy a boat or a house first! All of which reminds me of a story I heard the other day about two people who couldn’t decide to have an airplane or a baby! Yup – I think married life will be fun – Think, says he – I know it will. Remember the remark Maxine once made about how cute you looked in an apron. Not that you should wear one any more than necessary, but it’s true. Oh well, my mind is definitely wandering – time to stop.

Yours always darling,
Bob

12. Postmark: September 12, 1941 – Miami, Fla.

Sept 11, 1941
Don’t mind the paper – it is positively the last piece I have.

Oggy Darling,
Now that the president has finished declaring war I can write a note. Lord, he certainly didn’t pull any punches tonight – it makes me wonder just what will be going on next year at this time. We sure will have to keep our fingers crossed, because I want to fix up that apartment, too!

However, the President’s bombshell isn’t the only one that exploded today. At long last, Dad wrote and.…well, need I say more. To get to the point, he and Mrs. S plan to be married about the 15th of Oct., and come down here on a wedding trip directly after. My heart sure did sink down into my shoes when I read that. As far as I can see there’s nothing to do except hope that he will be happy. I don’t know – perhaps he will – and if he is, I don’t mind – too much – but I’m very much afraid he won’t be. I’m afraid she will run the place in that darned “don’t mind me – I’ll get along“ manner of hers. Of course, he has been lonely – and it’s just possible that everything will turn out all right – I don’t blame him for wanting someone to share things with him – that’s natural. I do hope he will be happy and contented. Probably the best course is just to be optimistic and hope for the best – right?

I hope your apprehension, and some of your loneliness, has melted away now that you have seen the school the people and the country. It has I’m sure. It would be much nicer to have you here, though – I feel in a rather depressed mood – one which will without doubt disappear by morning so don’t worry about it. I can’t help thinking about how much fun it will be when we are together all the time – If I’ve said that once I’ve said it dozen times – you must be getting bored with it by now. Well, it will be.

Yours forever,
Bob

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2b. Postmark: September 19, 1941.
[Bob forwarded the following letter to Oggy, written to Bob from Ruth D. Coolidge and dated September 6, 1941. Notation of top of this letter: “thought you might like to read this – Bob.”

On board the Naushon, En route to Nantucket
Sept. 6 –1941

Dear Bob,
You’ve been a part of our family life so much this past year that it’s not going to be hard at all to welcome you in as a permanent addition – I suppose the addition will have to be more or less in theory than in practice if you take Oggie [sic] to Florida or elsewhere. … To have you as an incorporated part of our widely scattering business.

I can safely say also that I can trust her to you for understanding, love and companionship. You have a flair I think for enjoying life and refusing to be downed by the reverses and you’ll steady Olive’s nervousness and her occasional fears. – I know that she will give to you what she does to all of us, – a breezy enthusiasm, – a conscientious thoroughness, and never-failing interest in human life.

I admit I’d like to hang on to her a little longer, but I want her to have what makes her happiest and early marriages may develop a great companionship and understanding. –

Meanwhile will try to keep the secret – that is pretty well guessed by most of your friends. We had a nice call on your father last night. He admitted he missed you, but said he was delighted with the news. – I hope [you] will see some more of him in time.

Meantime, I know you are making good on your own line [?] and I believe you will rise fast in a coming form[?] of world importance.

Best wishes to my future son–in–law.
Ruth D. Coolidge