OLIVE COOLIDGE Correspondence 1942 Bob to Oggy MAY

Pine Mountain Settlement School
Series 09: BIOGRAPHY – Staff
OLIVE COOLIDGE, PMSS Asst Nurse, 1941-1942
Olive Dame Coolidge (1920-2008)
Correspondence 1942 May 2-31
Bob (Robert Butman) to Oggy (Olive Coolidge)

Olive Coolidge Collection. Rural scene with fields. [coolidge_post-car_1916029.jpg]

TAGS: Olive Coolidge correspondence, Olive Dame Coolidge, Robert Butman, Washington DC

OLIVE COOLIDGE Correspondence 1942 Bob to Oggy MAY 2-31

TRANSCRIPTIONS

022 POSTMARK: MAY 2, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 2, 1942

Oggy Darling,

It looks as though I’m getting worse and worse, Darling. I just tore up another letter in which I tried to be funny but complaining in a thundering (?) voice about your dating other men. For some unknown reason it didn’t seem funny when I read it over. You know I think the world would be a rather peaceful place if everyone loved each other and understood each others feelings as well as we do, Darling.

Seems as though I had a lot of things to tell you but this is evidently one of those nights when my powers of concentration refuse to function properly – my mind keeps drifting off. You probably couldn’t guess where it drifts, – much. The warm breeze blowing in the window affects me exactly the same as it does you – certainly does. It makes me feel like writing poetry – love, dove, moon, June (spoon?) – kiss, bliss – wed, —- er that’ll be all for today, Robert. Probably your efforts wouldn’t be appreciated anyway.

But to get back to more mundane things, such as toasters and flatirons – can I trust her with a flatiron? – Why don’t I send you a check so you can get one each of the same? I haven’t the vaguest idea about prices – if you have any left over you can probably find something useful to invest it in. Such as more socks – or ties – or anything we need.

Did a little shopping myself today – white shoes and unmentionables. Have to stock up because I wont’ be able to get them any more – there’s rubber in ‘em. Good gosh, what will women do?

About finances – they are just a little anemic at the present time. Quite anemic in fact, compared to what they were a few weeks ago. But it’s rather understandable. Rent, Wendell’s birthday, bonds, telephone, records, (and now toasters) have sort of drained our resources. But shucks, money is to spend, so why not? – we can’t take it with us.

Glad to hear June is O.K. It sounded as though you might have a little excitement for awhile. Which is it going to be, boy or girl – or aren’t they particular?

The feminine paper is very tricky, darling. Of course, it really should be scented with perfume!

It’s swell to hear that Dot and Mahlon are feeling so philosophical. And you’re right – very much so – about people helping more in the beginning. I expect I can’t say much though cause I’m inclined to do the same. I sent Wendell a check – which I hope Dot doesn’t say too much about –I don’t want to cause any hard feeling anywhere. Lord knows they need the money more than we do, though. Say, it just occurred to me – they can endorse a check for Wendell, can’t they? It’d be sort of discouraging if they couldn’t.

Somehow my mind always wanders back to the same subject – meaning you. The way I feel –telling you I love you sounds painfully inadequate. I miss you so much Darling – I wish I could see you and, among other things – take care of your neck. You’re wonderful Darling —

Yours ever –
Bob

023 POSTMARK: MAY 4, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 3, 1942

Oggy Darling,

Sometimes I wonder why I was so much time. Today, for instance, I accomplished practically nothing constructive, except perhaps for going to church. Went to hear our Unitarian pal again, Gee he certainly is good – I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone who has views quite as free form –well call it stuffiness.

The only trouble was – not really trouble – I didn’t pay as much attention to the service as I should have. I think about you most of the time Darling – believe it or not.

Say it occurred to me today that next Sunday is Mother’s Day. I wonder if perhaps it would be a good idea for you to take part of the money I sent you and get some flowers to take over to the cemetery. If you think so would you mind too much getting some and putting them over there? Please?

How is your shorthand coming lately Dearie – or haven’t you had much time for that. Oh wait a minute, my memory is failing me, you mentioned it in your last letter – and also that you were getting pretty good at typing. That’s good Honey Chile.

Dearie – would it get monotonous if I mentioned that I love you again? You know – I’m beginning to think perhaps you’re right more and more – Washington may not be so hot during the summer.

All my love,
Bob

024 POSTMARK: MAY 5, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 4, 1942

Hello Darling,

Darned if this isn’t Barbara’s birthday, and I forgot all about sending her a present. But that’s not unusual, I forgot to send one to Dickie too. Perhaps it’s just as well that I forget – there might be more jealously created than the situation warrants.

Speaking of Barbara – sounds as though you had been doing very well at playing nursemaid lately – with both Barbara and Lorin. I know Dot appreciates it – and I expect June does too.

I’ve just been wondering how Wendell is coming along. Evidently they didn’t give you any details when they got home Saturday. I hope he responds to the treatment the way he is supposed to.

The evening has been spent so far in trying to figure out some system of tearing the radio I have apart and rebuilding it, along with the phonograph, in a suitcase, or something easily transportable. It may not be ornamental but it should be rugged. Can’t tell, it may have to be moved from time to time in the future.

Just happened to think that we have to register for our sugar ration books tonight. The war comes home!

Glad you like the pictures so well – flatters me no end. I wished after I ordered then that I had gotten one big one instead of the little ones. Late as usual. Course it may be that they won’t sell only one print – we can call it that anyway.

Gee Darling, I wonder if we could arrange anything for July. Lord knows it would certainly be more fun living together than apart. We can have such a wonderful time darling – and I love you so much. And I’m sure I always will – no matter what happens –

Yours always,
Bob

025 POSTMARK: MAY 5, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 5, 1942

Hello Darling,

I’ve just been reading a letter from Dot – sending her thanks and discussing the situation in general. It makes me realize how well Dot is bearing up – though she did sound somewhat discouraged – naturally. I feel as though my help were very insignificant. Incidentally Dot threw a great big bouquet in your direction – but you’ve earned it Darling – every bit of it. It won’t be long before the whole family will want to marry you!

Joe and I have been chewing the rag tonight – he’s been in bed all day as a result of several shots the army has given him – typhoid, tetanus etc. He’s really a grand guy – an Irishman and proud of it. But he’s broad minded and full of fun all the time – very likeable. A decent sort.

Tree day is sort of doubtful Darling. If you think we could afford it I might be able to work it – I’m not sure. I’d have to get Saturday off and come up on the night train (Fri) – provided I could get a berth. It’s getting so that reservations are difficult to get. One of the higher ranking officers in our division remarked only yesterday that by the end of the summer it would probably be necessary to have some sort of priority before you could have any assurance of getting anywhere on the train. But I’d still like to come up Darling – I’ll put out some feelers in the next couple of days, and see what happens.

Signed up to have regular deductions made from my pay today – so we’ll be getting a bond every month and a half regularly now. If I can ever remember to do it I want to send the two I have along to you, so they won’t be kicking around all over the room here.

Glad to hear we have a prospect of a few presents in sight – though they’ll undoubtedly make it an unmentionable shower so I’ll be out in the cold. Now my idea is that they should give you a kitchen shower. Something practical and down to earth. Seriously though it doesn’t matter much what we do collect – just as long as it’s something useful. Anything we get now we won’t have to buy later. Louisa Butman they used to call me. Say, did I comment on your new clothes – coat, blouse, etc? They seemed very tricky Dearie – and quite feminine!

Say Darling – something that has been bothering me slightly. I didn’t give you the impression that you should always be dressed in your most alluring dress did I? It certainly wasn’t intentional if such is the case.

Don’t be discouraged about the monotony, Oggy. I know it must be sort of dreary in a way – sometimes. But I also expect if I sympathize too seriously, you will write back and say it isn’t as bad as all that.

But there’s another sort of sympathy I hope you’ll never refuse Darling. Or should I go into detail about how much I wish that your request for babying could be answered. A little mutual babying would be such a help. But shucks Darling – we can spend our lifetimes doing that, – says he looking dreamy eyed. I like the idea.

Yours –
Bob

026 POSTMARK: MAY 7, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 6, 1942

Hello Dearie,

Hmmm. It seems that the situation at home requires some attention – it appears to be getting out of hand somewhat. Not that I’m narrow minded enough to mind your marrying one or two of your old flames – much. I think perhaps I should come home and tell you a thing or two – not that I’m worried but I’m just afraid you’re getting out of hand.

You might mention to Vincent – what a name! – that he’d better be careful or I’ll punch his nose inside out and beat his roof in. It’s the cave man in me. Incidentally how big is he?

Yup – the more I think about the 16th the more I like the idea of coming home. Yuh see – I’ll be working on the 24th (Sun.) so I could legally take Monday off. And if I could, by hook or by crook, get Saturday too then – aha – then I could leave here Friday night. If I could get a 5 o’clock coach out of here I’d be home around 2 in the morning. Then I could come back Monday afternoon or night. But don’t count on it too much until I find out for sure what can be done Darling. But keep your fingers crossed. ‘Course the only reason I’m anxious to come home is to make sure there aren’t any wolves knocking at your door.

Yes Dearie hang onto that Tree day ticket. Maybe I’ll drop around and say hello – I hope. Why Darling – I’d really like to see you.

Yours,
Bob

027 POSTMARK: MAY 8, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 7, 1942
Afterthought! [with an arrow pointing to “Darling”]

Oggy Darling,

Yes – I see what you mean about writing at Pop’s office. There are 5 people besides myself in this little 2 x 4 cubby hole, and all of them are practically looking over my shoulder. By the way, do you sit on your boss’s knee when you take dictation? Hmmm. You know – perhaps if you graduate into a full-fledged secretary I can quit work and live on your salary. Good idea?

I don’t know though, I’m getting so worried about your unseemly conduct in practically marrying other people and such that I am almost convinced that I should come home over the 16th. I mentioned the subject today and no one voiced any objections – so I’ll be home Dearie – either Saturday or Sunday. Saturday I hope.

This afternoon seemed like a good time to write – things are a bit dull today. It’s really amazing –we are usually so darned busy that we hardly have time to sleep more than 4 hours a day. Besides I may get reckless and see a movie tonight.

I’m glad to hear that Harry may be able to find something interesting to do. It’ll make a lot of difference if he gets the job – and probably make June happier.

**********

8:30 P.M.

Hello again –

Hmmm – pennies from Heaven. Say Dearie, I hope it wasn’t the wrong thing to do for me to send you some money – it wasn’t unethical was it? Or was it. The idea was I had visions of eating plain bread for breakfast – and of wearing pants without creases. A horrible prospect. But to be perfectly honest – getting it back isn’t such a terrifically unpleasant shock because it will just about get a railroad ticket home. So the trip home is free!

Called the station today and found that I can leave here at 3 or 11 on Friday. If it can be arranged I’m going to try and get the 3 o’clock – that’ll get me into Boston around 12 pm. And I won’t have to go back until Monday afternoon or evening – depending on whether I take a coach or sleeper. Darned if I don’t feel like dancing around the room and whistling at the idea!

Thanks for getting the flowers Darling – very much appreciated.

You’re right about an April marriage – I think. We probably would have taken a much longer time getting used to each other than we will later on. You know darling – I rather like to think about getting married – to you.

With Love,
Bob

028 POSTMARK: MAY 10, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 10, 1942

Good Morning Darling,

Ho Hum – excuse me while I wake up. This waking up at 9 o’clock on Sunday morning is very silly. But after all, it’s about time I wrote to you – for some unknown reason I’ve been doing very badly in the matter of letter writing lately. Am I in the doghouse?

Well let’s see – beginning with Friday. Oh yes, Friday I thought I’d be very studious and go over to the Congressional Library and do some reading. It seems that the library is closed evenings now so that was rather unsuccessful. For some unknown reason I still think the conversation I had with the guard was funny. Says he “Library is closed – but the annex is open.” Says I, “what’s over there?” Says he “Books, same as here.” In a very matter of fact tone. Oh well.

Last night I went to see a rather screwy movie called “The Invaders” which lasted rather late because of the rather dumb stage show they insist on having. I can’t understand why (rather how), such stupid stage shows can be so popular.

Speaking of next weekend. Hmmm. My first impression was that the expense would be rather great – but darn it all Darling I want to see you! So unless you think you would rather have the money later I’m planning on getting home about midnight Friday – leaving Monday on the 3 o’clock train as I said before. You don’t mind too much if I come home do you?

How was the shower Dearie? Did you collect anything reasonable? – says the old miser rubbing his hands. Incidentally how were you able to invite people to the shower? I thought showers were always surprises – you know where someone invites you out to supper – then when you come home everyone screams at you from behind the door.

It’s funny how we are both worrying about offending each other by sending the check back and forth. I guess everyone is happy about the whole thing now.

That sounds like very sensible reasoning about July. July is not a good month on general principles. As far as my feelings are concerned I believe I feel somewhat better. And there’s no doubt about how much I want to marry you darling. But since I’ll be home next week end perhaps we could figure out what we want to do then – that is within limits. Of course June may have something to say about the whole thing, as you say.

One thing which you mentioned that is not correct on your part – and that is that I’ll be a wee bit lonesome for you this summer. Although it won’t be much of a change from the way I’m feeling now.

Sorry you aren’t feeling quite so chipper Darling – if you aren’t. It looks as though my sympathy, if needed, will have to be offered from a distance. Seems as though we always have to sympathize with each other from a distance. The system is not good. Of course there is one consolation – you have heard the story about the fellow who wore a tight collar because it felt so good when he took it off, haven’t you?

Looks as though I’ll have to move if I want to get to church Darling. In a way it’s sort of silly for me to go because I find it difficult sometimes to concentrate on what he is saying. Really darling, you shouldn’t interfere with my religion that way. But I hope you always do.

All my love,
Bob

029 POSTMARK: MAY 11, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 10, 1942
10:00 P.M.

Oggy Dearest,

This is just to say goodnight Darling – I’m in a mood that makes me wish I could say goodnight to you. Do you have a fire in the fireplace tonight?

Did a little sightseeing today, just to catch up. You’ll be interested to know that the front porch of the Capital, otherwise known as “pick up plaza,” has been closed. I don’t know where the girls are picking up their soldiers now!

I also browsed around the Smithsonian Institute for awhile. That place undoubtedly has one of the greatest collections of miscellaneous junk ever brought together under one roof. Lord what a mess, – I had forgotten how bad it was.

Went to church again this morning, and as usual Ulysses preached a good sermon. It’s too bad more ministers aren’t like him – there would be ten times more people going to church than there are now.

Oh yes, I wandered over to Martins for dinner – and felt very queer and lonesome eating over there without you. It just didn’t seem right – not having you there. In fact it never seems as though everything is quite right when you aren’t somewhere near. Must be because I love you so much Darling.

With x’s,
Bob

030 POSTMARK: MAY 11, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 11, 1942

Hello Darling,

It certainly is time I came home to check up on you. I think you’re getting altogether too flippant lately, and it seems to me something should be done about it. Already I can think of all sorts of horrible punishment. Yup – certainly can, – only trouble is I think you have thought of them yourself.

Sure – if you can get Pop’s tickets that’ll be fine. If you can’t get his we could get some of our own.

Sounds as though you made quite a haul at the shower – fine! It should happen oftener. You couldn’t collect a little furniture for us could you? That would really be practical Dearie.

I’ll try and remember to bring the bonds with me – but don’t count on it too much. The laundry has already been sent, so you don’t have to worry about that – thanks for the reminder though. It’ll be much more efficient when there is always someone around to bring up things like that. Perhaps I’ll bring some socks – but the chances are we won’t – or rather you won’t have time for such minor details.

The phonograph, unfortunately, will have to stay here too, – because I want to work on it – it isn’t nearly finished as yet. Matter of fact I just bought some stuff for it today.

The only thing that counts is seeing you though Darling. I’m actually looking forward to coming home! Light up the fireplace Sweetheart —. Perhaps it will be warm enough without it though, now that you mention it.

Yours,
Bob

031 POSTMARK: MAY 13, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 12, 1942

Hello Darling,

If I stay awake long enough to write a letter I’ll surprise myself. For some reason I feel just a little sleepy.

Your letter suggesting that I scout around and look for apartments came just too soon for me to say I have already started. One of the fellows from the office spent about three hours tonight driving me around Arlington County. He offered to play chauffeur some time ago but we couldn’t seem to get together until tonight.

Seems as though we covered about 99% of the county before we got there. I put in a couple of applications and saw a couple of other places I want to check up on.

Virginia is, I think much nicer than the District – you can get out into the country quicker. It sure would be swell if we could get a place in Rosslyn but that’s probably not possible. I’ll tell you the whole story when I get home.

Anyway – it was a nice ride, and it was more than generous of Forrest to drive me around – he’s a decent sort. It was very warm tonight – lots of people strolling about in the park. Made me very jealous. I sure am glad I’ll see you next weekend Darling – so very glad. We’ve been away from each other much too long.

Yours,
Bob

032 POSTMARK: MAY 13, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 13, 1942
8:00 P.M.

Hello Darling,

Pardon me while I take time out to chuckle to myself for a minute. I’ve been grinning from ear to ear since 4:00 P.M. today. In a way I don’t think I should tell you why – it really isn’t much anyway.

But I think I will. It seems that our officer at M.I.T., who was here talking with us yesterday, called the commander in charge of our division today and suggested that we all come up to Tech for about three days just as soon as possible! So it was decided that we should Monday, Tuesday and possibly Wednesday at Tech! Whee!

How do you like that Dearie? Do you think you’ll be able to put up with me for such a long time? Of course I know it will be quiet a strain – particularly with all the excitement about June, Harry, and yourself (job). Perhaps I shouldn’t come up after all, – I could wait until sometime in June when things have quieted down.

It’s about time we came up to Tech though. We have a “huge” number of people there working for us – they’ve been there two months – and we haven’t seen them, we don’t know what they are doing – we haven’t even written them to find out! People are so damned apathetic and worried about their petty personal affairs that it makes me come very close to losing my temper. Which for me is quite a statement. No fooling Dearie, sometimes I have all I can do to keep from giving ‘em both a piece of my mind. I’m beginning to realize that Finch wasn’t such a bad egg after all.

But enough griping for one letter, I’ll be more descriptive when I get home – and I’d like to use more adjectives of a stronger type when I do it.

I think that’s swell about the job Dearie – I’m gad you did accept it. You may not have opportunities of that sort everyday, and since I’ll be working Monday it won’t make much difference anyway.

Ah me – I cant help thinking about it – Friday, Sat, Sun, Mon., Tue, Wed — my my what a time. By all means, let’s play golf Sat. morning and take over Agora in the evening. Bob oh boy – what a day! What a week! What a girl (meaning you)!

Fly in the ointment: no car. Or am I mistaken? I suspect there just won’t be any gas for us to run around with. But shucks we can go by train , bus, street car or what have you.

Darling – life is worth living again. And you’re wonderful – and I love you.

Always,
Bob

033 POSTMARK: MAY 22, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

April (sic, May) 22, 1942

Hello Darling,

Just as I suspected – life here is very dull – compared to the first part of the week it would probably be more properly classified as existence rather than life.In other words Darling – I miss you – is an understatement par excellence. Just as you say – every time we see each other it’s just that much better – guess there just isn’t any limit.

I felt very much alone coming down on the train last night – jolting along and not sleeping very well in spite of the fact that I had a nice long lower – long enough to stretch out in. Somehow I think I would have slept better had you been there (?). Ah well, guess we’ll just have to daydream about Nantucket for the time being.You would have laughed to see me dashing around the station last night. I went over to the conductor; found out that I had to have my ticket stamped at the ticket window – then I hadn’t signed it when I got back – had no pencil and had to borrow one (the one I had was broken). When I finally got onto the train I had about 3 minutes to spare. But I’m glad there wasn’t a greater margin – that would have been poor timing.

News of the day: Finch is back. Right now he is in New York on leave, seeing his wife and child. He is very enthusiastic about his trip, so I hear, and so practically bubbling over with excitement.

Shucks Darling, I don’t know what to do with myself tonight. I sort of think I could get used to seeing you every night with no trouble at all. We certainly had a wonderful time Darling – already I wish I could come home again.

I guess we are us too well suited to be living apart. how would you like to get married sometime Dearie? Sounds like a good idea to me.

I love you Darling,
Bob

034 POSTMARK: MAY 24, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 24, 1942

Oggy Darling,

When I first got up this morning (at 6:40) I complained bitterly at the system of working on Sunday. Then I thought of Last Thursday and decided that perhaps it is a pretty good idea. I’ll work any Sunday if I can have a day at home for it. “At home” meaning at home with you, obviously.

Stopped in at the record store last night and bought another record. For some unknown reason I can’t remember who wrote it now. It is one of the ones you asked for – Brahms, perhaps – oh well whoever it belongs to, it is his 6th; “Pathetique.” As I suspected they will have no more records while the war lasts so I am very glad we have been collecting them right along. We have practically everything available in that collection – that is everything that is much good. They do not have the Nutcracker Suite left in stock. Do they have a Music Appreciation plan in Boston where they might have that? Just a suggestion of course.

Say Dearie, it’s a beautiful day today. How about going for a sail? You know perhaps it would be just as well if we didn’t go to Nantucket after we are married. Probably if we get down there we won’t want to come back – I’m sure I wont be able to think of any good reason for leaving after we get there. By the way have you had any more ideas on how to get there the same day that we’re married?

Later – after lunch

And a dull sort of lunch it was, – both the food and surroundings. There’s no doubt about it Darling, life is far more cheerful with you than without you. Did I ever tell you that you’re very sweet? No? Forgetful as usual, ‘cause it certainly is true.

I’ve been looking thru the paper today – in fact I’ve spent most of the morning reading it – and looking rather closely at apartment ads. Unfurnished apartments are practically non-existent. Furnished rooms, furnished apartments and houses seem to be about the only thing there is. Sort of a discouraging prospect – we may have to pitch a tent on the mall yet Darling! We’ll find something though even if it is in Baltimore.

But Shucks Darling – who cares – as long as we’re both in Baltimore. Right?

Yours,
Bob

035 POSTMARK: MAY 25, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 25, 1942

Hello Darling,

That just about hits the nail on the head – there isn’t much that can be said. The same thing occurred to me when I got back but as usual – you knew how to express it and I didn’t. Very nice letter Dearie.

If possible life here seems duller than ever. Finch has been dashing around like a chicken with his head off, screaming about how we have to do this that and the other thing. He apparently had quite a trip, flew both ways, liked the people very much, collected a lot of junk, and lost 20 pounds. One of the first things he did when he got back was drink a pitcher of orange juice and eat a huge steak. The food over there is very monotonous, – fish, potatoes, bread and such stuff.

However, I’m afraid that his coming back will not make us suddenly so busy that we won’t have time to think. In fact this story about “we’ll be busy soon” begins to look like a fairy tale – a myth of some sort. If anything it gets worse instead of better. Something is bound to happen soon –just what I don’t know.

I’ve been spending the evening working on the phonograph. Last night I sat and stared at the darned thing trying to figure out how to build it so that everything would fit in the box. Now that I’ve dreamed up a solution – I hope – it is under way. Perhaps we’ll have a phonograph yet Dearie!

You would be most welcome here tonight Darling. Sitting here listening to some good music, looking out the window, – it’s cool and a little breezy – yes you’re definitely missed. Surprise? Could be because I love you so much – .

Yours,
Bob

036 POSTMARK: MAY 26, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 26, 1942
8:30 P.M.

Oggy Dearest,

For some unknown reason there seems to be more things to do than there is time for. It doesn’t seem plausible, – but it’s true. I want to work on the radio, hunt apartments, see Kathy and Charles Corliss, and – oh yes – make up a list. Then there are various other sundry things which pop up now and then to keep me out of mischief – writing letters for example.

Or going to the movies. Stopped in to see “Reap the Wild Wind” tonight on the way home from work. I thought it was pretty good but it bothered me no end to see them use diving suits which I’m quite sure were not in existence at the time of the picture. It’s very discouraging – whenever I see a picture that has something definitely impracticable in it – particularly when the whole picture hinges on that particular something – the rest of the picture seems rather senseless. Like a house with a sand foundation. Oh well – I suppose I’m being critical again.

Dearie that idea about what to wear at the wedding is the best one I’ve heard for a long time. I definitely do not like cutaways – I think it’s a swell idea to wear a palm beach suit. Either my brown one, or if you want, a white one.

How is the job coming along now? I’ll bet your efficiency jumped considerable as of last Friday! Probably they were walking around last week saying “There must be something wrong with that Coolidge girl, she’s always falling asleep.” I can suggest a better place to sleep than the Boston P.[D?] though.

Darn it all, I see I got the wrong record the other day. I’ll have to take it back and exchange it for one of the ones you suggested. I can’t understand what prompted me to get one without the list handy anyway. Just one more set of records and then we’ll start saving some money! Yuh, we will. Our total assets total over $550 now. We have almost enough to make it a good idea to incorporate.

Think I’ll knock off and work on the radio – after all, we have to have music. Or do we? Shucks Darling perhaps we don’t after all – you’ll be music enough. A pretty girl is like a melody – you are like a symphony. Spring is in the air, but it’s easy to see that I’m definitely not the poetic type. But I love you just the same Dearie.

Yours,
Bob
P.S. Don’t forget to keep me posted about Wendell.

037 POSTMARK: MAY 27, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 27, 1942

Oggy Darling,

Well well – a baseball game is in sight! Joe just said he might go see Washington play Boston tonight. Says I – if you’re going alone & want company I’ll come along. Says he if you’ll come I’ll definitely go. So we have amusement for the evening – which will be enjoyable.

Gee Dearie, we were really busy today – I can’t understand it either. Lord it certainly does make a difference! I feel ten times better tonight after actually having accomplished something. If it will only keep up everything will be fine.

That is everything here will be. However it sounds as though the reports on Wendell are definitely most discouraging. Lord they certainly have my sympathy – it’s a rotten situation and a dirty shame. I don’t feel particularly optimistic – but there’s nothing that says we should stop hoping.

Say Darling, will you call my no. 2 girl friend and get Harry’s address so I can write to him. After all I should at least write him after he went to all the trouble of sending a telegram. If you can find it I’d like Eunice’s address too. You might find it in the telephone book – they are somewhere in Somerville I think.

I can’t understand all of this sour grapes attitude about marriage Dearie – it must be jealousy or frustration or something because it certainly looks like a wonderful institution to me. And don’t worry about it not being exciting – it’ll be just what we make it – and just as interesting as we want it to be. How could it be anything else? Gotta go Darling but I’ll be thinking of you. Look for me on the bus in the morning.

Yours always,
Bob

038 POSTMARK: MAY 28, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 28, 1942

Hello Darling,

Unless I’m sadly mistaken we are very lucky people Darling. Reason? Had supper with Lt. Hurwitz tonight and listened to him gripe considerably about his wife. The first time he mentioned it – some time ago – it sounded like her fault but I’m beginning to think now that it’s about a 50-50 proposition. I don’t see how they can live together feeling as they do – quibbling about every little thing. Not for us Dearie – I hope we have more sense – and I think we do.

Finch has been running around today – not keeping his mind on the same thing for more than 5 minutes at a time. Just to give you an idea – we were an hour late leaving tonight because he wanted to see a movie that didn’t amount to a row of pins. There would be no complaints, had we been busy all day – but we weren’t – it’s just that he can’t think of things like that. Yup – he’s queer.

Sorry to hear you ain’t feeling ambitious Dearie – or haven’t been rather. But someday we won’t have to wear ourselves out dashing around seeing people and such. Perhaps we’ll be able to get to bed earlier. …

The typed stuff are some things I picked up a while ago. They may not be so interesting to you but they sort of amused me.

It’s funny Darling – but we seem to feel the same way about getting married, – and about being together. You’re excused for dreaming – I spend a large slice of time doing the same, – and the only reason I don’t spend more time that way is that I can’t. But it’s a poor substitute Darling: Meaning if I wish we were always together.

Your[s],
Bob

001 POSTMARK: MAY 30, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 30, 1942

Hello Darling,

Whee – the Washington summer has begun – with a capital S. Really it is just a wee bit warm. We worked all day today – even though it is a holiday. Or rather almost all day because they let us out at 3:30, just to show how generous they are.

Stopped on the way home to see the parade. It wasn’t a particularly gay type – more quiet and business-like. And the poor fellows that were marching sure were hot!

Dearie, I took Tchaikovsky’s 6th back, swapped it for Brahms’ 1st, and also got Beethoven’s 7th. That I think is about all I’ll get unless something comes up that we want especially.

Lord, Darling, I don’t know what to say about the job. Such a problem. About the only thing I can say is to do whatever you want. As far as apartments are concerned I doubt that it would make much difference. Of course, I don’t know exactly how much you want the job – or how valuable it would be to you. I’m inclined to think you aren’t too enthusiastic. If not, don’t take it just because you think it would be good for you, ’cause you’d be rather unhappy. And a summer at Nantucket would be fun. It sure is a dilemma, Dearie. I think the answer depends on June, your folks, and how much you want the job – none of which I can help much with. You get my approval either way. I agree – it is swell they asked you; shows you must be doing well! Naturally.

Darling – did I ever tell you that I think you’re wonderful? I sure wish you were here so I could – you are missed no end. That’s because I love you so much —–

Yours always
Bob

002 POSTMARK: JUNE 1, 1942, WASHINGTON, D.C.

May 31, 1942

Darn – you’re right Dearie – as usual. Just out of curiosity what are we going to do with two of Brahm’s 1st? Sometimes I wonder how I can be so absent-minded. I feel sorry for you in a way Dearie – probably I’ll never be able to remember to stop at the store for you on the way home from work.

Which brings us back to the job I presume. Pardon me while I sit & cogitate for a while. It would be so much easier if you would decide Dearie. You probably will anyhow so it really doesn’t matter what I say. Whatever you want to do is O.K. with me. However I’m afraid that if you take it you may be so rushed all summer that you will sit around cursing the world in general and wishing you were at Nantucket. But then again – perhaps it is interesting enough so that that wouldn’t happen.

Trouble is I don’t know – as I said last time I wrote – how badly you want the job or how badly your family needs you. As far as being married is concerned, I doubt that having the job would change the date more than a month and perhaps less, so don’t refuse it solely on that basis.

Then there is the little matter of apartments. Seems that I have been putting it off as usual. Believe it or not though, I think about it quite often, almost as much as I think about you. So you see I do have it in mind occasionally. One of the people asked me to call about June 1st – which I’m going to do, I had a fair chance to get one the other day but it was on the wrong side of town and in Maryland – too far away I think.

Boston is something else that is too far away. The telephone is a wonderful invention but it isn’t quite like the real thing. Certainly isn’t.

Yours,
Bob