1920s Letters

Dearest, I had an oral exam in Operative surgery Monday morning and was busy writing up autopsies last night until I got writers cramp + had to quit, so my weekly letter will be a couple of days late this week – I believe I'm paid up in advance, though, now, am I not . Less than 4 weeks and school will be over and a few days more, + I'll be seeing you. I don't know when to tell you to leave – better find out at the ticket office. I understood you to say the exams were held the 29th + if thats the case, you will have to leave before the 28th – or 26th or maybe 27th. I guess we had better decide about the boat trip home after you get up here. As I remember Paul Klipps (I'm uncertain about the spelling too ) “Ichabod type” fits him, + it seems to me he has a nose somewhat resembling Eva Belle's, wears glasses with rather thick lenses + has a pretty big vocabulary . and was a Staunch friend of Frank Stansel's , and his mother was a Spanish teacher up at the high s...

Dear Helen : It is a changeable New England night. It has rained and now it snows. I am nearly alone. Every thing is quiet. Everyone has gone to a Beta dance. But for some reason , despite a special invitation , I am here. When I first came in I began smoking and reading 'Crusade' by Donn Byrne . Having finished it I could not help admitting that so many things called you to my mind and they brought the realization that you have for a long time controlled all the good there is in me, and still do. It also made me feel how unchivalrous I had been in the last letter. So won't you please write me, Ted.

Dearest, I had a pretty good ride over in the bus yesterday , and arrived without mishap , and without seeing anything of particular interest. Last night, one of my aunts + I went over to the Congressional library, + after looking over the place we went back to the Newspaper files + read the El Paso Times, from March 20 – Apr. 3. I couldn't find any scandal about you anywhere, though as you said, Dad's name was smeared all over. It's as bright and sunny today as it was yesterday , and that doesn't help my homesickness any. I'm afraid that's about all the news to date – so I'll have to hand you some old stuff – viz.– I love you. Henry.

Dearest, Your “special” was a very pleasant surprise, Sunday, and was so unexpected that it lay around all day before I saw it. The Baltimore educational system seems to enjoy putting up obstacles for us. Your trip up here in May would be a little bit expensive, but its foolish for you doubt your ability to pass them; although I know very well how any examination can cause worry. I have one in Neurology tomorrow, by the way, + I haven't any conception of the course. You said something our being married cause some sort of prejudice in the school. I don't believe that's involved at all. There are several of the boys in my class now who are married. Of course this step we're thinking of taking needs careful consideration. From my point of view , I can see no disadvantages. From yours, its up to you. If you think you love me enough , I think everything will work out O.K. You, of course, are taking a big chance on my ability as a provider. There is no way of letting whethe...

Dearest, Things progress as usual, except that among other things, I've been combatting a cold for the past 3 or four days. I had a quiz in Gynecological and Obstetrical pathology yesterday – Guess I hit it all right, but not any too well – and furthermore there's a possibility of a quiz in obstetrics tomorrow. I had an interesting case in the dispensary today; and my diagnosis was as good as any ones else, so that tickled me a little bit. Only a couple of months till the next siege of exams – and then a few weeks more, and I'll be seeing you. Somehow – I've got the blues a little bit tonight, + I sure wish you were with me, to shove them off or chase them away as the case might be. Tomorrow I take a half-hour ride out to Bay view. The nut factory is located out there + and we look them over about once a month. Bively + his girl have just come in – I asked her what to tell you and she said, “I love you.” So consider it said, dear. I only wish that I could think of ...

Dearest, Spring is beginning to look like it was on the way – and that means that summer is not so faroff. I got a letter from Mother today, saying that she had the pleasure of your company for dinner the other day – and that she loved you more every time she saw you. She also said that Dad had traded in the old Chrysler on a Willys-Knight. …................................................................................................................................................................. In the mean time, I've just been over to supper, and had a good piece of lemon pie for dessert. Can you make them – are you really getting some experience now, or are you + your dad keying the Modern going? I wish I had you up here now – just to cuddle up for a few minutes, before I start to grind, even, would help a lot I miss you an awful lot. I'm afraid I'm not much good at love-making by mail, dear. But I think you know my feeling, anyway, don't you? We had a le...

Dear Helen : I am glad for you Tony that your mind is decided, it is such a relief (for you) However like the villain in the story I hope it doesn't occur. A New England cold has gripped me for the past few days and I have been all but tubercular in symptom, so be content in El Paso. Yes! You may be my sister since it is only nominal. However I hope you continue broad-minded. (This is all because I resent having been totally incapacitated emotionally to show you that side of my nature which is the clincher.) N'est ce pas. I am not morally decrepit, but I am confirmed to this. Do let me know when when it comes off and in the meantime write when you feel like it. College is mellowing me fast (I don't mean drink). I really will be bald soon, but not for a moment do I succumb to your presentation of your self. Finances may stiffle my deeds, paper my words but I still continue in my belief, so often expressed, that my inner nature cannot go unanswered by yours (egotish?) s...

Illustration of sailor looking out at ship entering harbor. Caption: WILL YOU BE MY VALENTINE WHEN MY SHIP COMES IN ?

How are you Tony? It's mighty cold out here and winter blasts away, despite all expectations to the contrary. Darn sun spots etc. What makes me shiver is reading about El Paso Golf “Opens! Cheerio ! Its not as bad as all that however. Really, I have only one mid year exam and that is a History course so you can spiel, parley rage or what you will zobene ver you want. Fraternity Basketball has reopened and were heading straight for another Cup so there is one avocation, something to really awaken interest. Otherwise the hand to mouth ordeal seems to burn steadily with only an occasional flicker. (This is bad metaphor, but you get it, huh?) Shool! Ted .

Dearest, The quiz in Physical Diagnosis didnt come off after all but is still hanging fire. Sweetheart, I'm quite sure your cooking is far superior to Bively's right now. And you know how much I want you. Whether it's wise or not – Quien sabe? But my brain refuses to function on the matter, + gives sway to my emotions. So the decision is up to you. As far as the begetting of progeny is concerned, I think with proper care + precautions there is very little danger. The little “doorjiggers” that you are slightly acquainted with (i.e. those made of the same material that inner tubes are made of) are entirely safe, unless they break. One of the boys here, who uses them rather frequently, says that he has never had one of good quality break, so I guess its pretty safe. As I wrote you in my last letter, I haven't gotten much of a line on the schools up here, but will do so as soon as I can. There is a “Girls Latin School” here that might be suitable. Most of the private gi...

Dear Helen : Thanks for remembering me. I appreciate it. I didn't send a blame card. Im sorry to admit it but my “imagination” is still as clearly defined as ever and for the life of me I can't seem to overcome it. St. Nick, no doubt, was merry in El Paso but didn't you have the best time ever? Orange was much better this Xmas than any previous. However that doesn't cut ice. Please be frank and tell me what would be your idea of Heaven on earth – not that it is possible. I couldn't help setting up a picture of it at Xmas when I felt so old with cards from so many fellows of my original class who are already married. Really, it is quite alarming. I haven't heard from Seth except to as to announcement and greetings but I guess he is happy. As to the rest it seems more or less uncertain. You seem so definite in your mind about everything that I marvel and I would appreciate it very much if you would or could give me any aid in that direction. I seem to be holdin...

MY BEST WISHES FOR YOU TONY DURING THE HOLIDAY AS ALWAYS. TED.

Helen : I caught your creative child this evening on my way from the Gym. It was a delightful infant: so tricky, naïve and still perverse – and only 4 days old. As for the marriage wall the hand writing on it will tell. I am sure long and tried friendship proves precedence but it isn't always the best. At least if it is, the world is all wrong. We change as do all inanimate mechanisms, systems; but we are governed by the same laws – plus our reason. However, if I should bore you, I would rather be glum or a claw and that is perhaps the reason for my drifting nature. I certainly can't be termed aggressive in so far as you have known me and I marvel that I wrote again or am writing now, except that Time is already making me mellow and friendship continued means so very much. Be that as it must, I think my mind is becoming more determined and set, and the religion of my father says “He that seeketh, shall find. ” Yet fate give me the chance to stir you once as, I nearly have,...

Dearest, Things are going as usual, except that we had a quiz in obstetrics this afternoon. Guess I got by. We had a beautiful sleet storm Sunday, with a lot of slush everywhere, but today it was sunny + not so cold. So much for the weather report. I love you. Now what can I say? Xmas is only 3 weeks away. But somehow it doesn't mean so much this year, since I won't be seeing you. I don't know how to advise you to invest your money. I hope I'll be coming home next summer, + I will unless something pretty good turns up, so I'm afraid I can't advise you to go to Europe next summer. But suit yourself. Football season is all over now, so I guess EPHS will be turning its attention to basketball – which means, I suppose, that you will have to do some extra work with the dullard basket-ball players. How I envy them! Well, dearest, I guess thats about all. Love, as usual, Henry P.S. I think its about time for another tress of hair – if you haven't had it...

Nov 28 Dear Helen : Nearly a month has passed since I heard from you and I really must write. Your last letter tended merely to lift another misty veil which somehow encircled my brow – only to plunge me into denser obscurities. It is a pity that I could not have struck a more vibrant chord within you but I fear I did not have the mettle required – the differences which won't consiliate are to my mind unimportant; and to yours, omnipotent. However, I am ceasing to be a philosopher in general and I don't see why I should continue to be one with regards to you. Clue more pang more or less for the heart won't waeter in eternity if you don't love me and I am making a pretty sorry pretense of enjoying myself. In fact college has meant very little to me the last 5 weeks outside of getting bye. There is a certain satisfaction, but contemplation of life and timorous wonderings sort of make it all look wan. But even the pallid may make life more livable. But in the blob...

Dearest, The brownies + pecans were delicious, + were enjoyed by all. Thank you, very, very much. We get the whole sum of four days holiday next week – if it happened every week, we might keep caught up with our work. I haven't been over to Washington since we were there together last fall – so I guess I should go over there, but I've got so much work to do, that I probably will stay here. Can't you run up + spend the week end with me? School has been going on about as usual, but the weather has turned suddenly cold. Mc Lawas (one of the boys upstairs) and I went to “The Doctors Dilemma ” - (Shaw.) - last night. It was very good, but rather a queer sort of play. I'm getting mighty sleepy right now so you'll have to excuse me. I'll drop another line tomorrow night if I can think of anything to write about. Love, Henry .

Dearest, I got your two delightful letters in the same mail ; and I heartily approve of your suggestion that you write to me more often than once a week. I would like to write to you more frequently but I have such a hard time trying to think of something to write about, that, I don't know what I'd say, unless I kept trying to tell you how much I love you – and I don't think you would even understand, so whats the use. By the way, you forgot to write one week – so I did too. We initiated sophs + Junior into the Fraternity last week. It's much more comical to see an initiation than to undergo it. Id like to describe it to you, but I was pledged to secrecy when I went thru with it. I went out to Sydenham Hospital for infectious diseases Wednesday, and saw a lot of cases of Diptheria in various stages. It's a beautiful place – large trees all around, and a little lake. I'm afraid that's all I can think of now , and its bedtime. Love, Henry

Dearest, I'm afraid you've skipped a week in your letter writing – how come? You're still behind anyway. School continues as usual with fair weather at the present. We caught some oral quizzing in pediatrics today, but fortunately, I wasn't called on. We have surgery in the morning , – It's the course that keeps you stepping most in the Junior year, so I guess I'd better study up some. I sent you a couple of Oscar Wildes the other day for a many happy returns. I don't [torn page] our collection contains one of them or not. If not, we have a pretty good library of Oscar, verdad. I racked my brain trying to think of something you would like, but that's my best effort. Love, Henry .

Dearest, You seem to have swung into the weekly schedule of letter writing at last --- I would appreciate an extra one now and then. By the way, many happy returns of the day. I expect you'll get this around about the happy day. Today was public health day in Baltimore, and the 3d + 4th year classes were honored by 2 clinics, held by a couple of men from abroad. One was from England and the other from Amsterdam. Both were very interesting. This afternoon I had my first written quiz of the year – on Pathology of the Central Nervous System. I've got a little more reading to do to night before I go to bed, so I guess I'd better get started. You know I love you dear. I hope you can arrange to be a little big nearer to me next year than you are now. Love, Henry

Dearest, Tempus fidgets – and I haven't heard from you for quite a while. I did get one letter from you the other day, but you still owe me several. And seeing how I rate with you , I've about decided not to come home at Xmas as I threatened to do in my last letter. Your allowance was very gratefully received , and I expect to find great need for it before the month is gone. Scarcely a day passes that we don't hear of something we're supposed to have – and haven't. The fraternity thru the annual big smoker Friday night – and I'm still smoking. Several of the Faculty Alumni were there, and they lost some of their austerity for a few hours. We have a one-hour lecture a week in Psychiatry, conducted by an extremely witty red-headed Irishman. He never calls the roll, but he's so comical that no one cuts. I love you, my dear, Henry.

Sept. 28 Dearest : Yes, I feel that way. Your letter came – true – but a little too early to be the herald of October. I feel humble when I write this letter and I want you to remember this when you read it. I have already answered your letter once, in a harmony with yours ___ but I have burned it after a day of thinking it over. I can't go on this way indefinitely. News, news and all the rest that is superficial but not much of you. It is true also that in a way I should be content – I am not. There is something that torments and irritates. I am afraid I fail to quality in the Griselde class. Perhaps they no longer exist as in 1600. Any how, I love you. I think you do or did or will love me and so I am not content without at least some of you. If you by any chance think this impudence, be frank with yourself and me. Memory is a cherished posession, but it doesn't suffice for me in harboring you as I would. I would like to say all the pretty little turns poets gi...

Dearest, Baltimore seems the same. I got here the day of the big fight + listened to it that night over the Scotts' radio. We've got a pretty good apartment here with a stove + oven -thing. (This is being written on the installment plan – this is the fourth time I've started to write on it.) Bively came down yesterday + went back home in the afternoon, and I have a couple of Irishmen with me in his place. Last night we bought some steak, potatoes, corn, etc,. + cooked ourselves a royal blowout , + we expect to do the same thing today School starts tomorrow. If you'll come up + live with me I'll kick Bively out – how about it. This would make a swell little love nest. I'm waiting to hear how school is getting along – guess I'll get a letter pretty soon. Love , Henry 873 Park Avenue

Tony: Yes, those were some excellent excuses. Was sort o' wondering if something wasn't happening out that way. I hope you didn't break the lining sneezing so much. I just got back from Boston the last of the week and I did miss not having a letter home for me. I think it may be “greaser' did get you truly and I was just putting on hiking shoes to fetch you when letter came. I do picture you at your invocation to a school-teacher's blessed throne. May you survive – if you were a drinking lady I would suggest two little high balls one for each leg, but as par not – steady yourself on the nearest wall. Don't let your tongue get mixed up with your tonsils or become otherwise overly acrobatic. Don't say this sounds like Will Rogers corn if it does look wet. Because you know, little one, I'm always looking out for your best. The 'weather bureau' would like to report better prevailing conditions of the atmosphere of late. Labor Day was the first decen...

Sat. Tony : Let me try to make amends for last letter. Time was scarce and I shouldn't have written. Your last letter was so pleasant. I have remorse when I think of it. This place is really quite as depressing as the last. I got Goethe's Faust and Holloway on Walt Whitman and they have toned me up a bit. Truly I do get the greatest pleasure from your letters. But you know how 'tis. You think maybe I am “overly enthusiastic about marriage.” Don't believe it. I don't crave marriage, exactly, at the moment but I do want you. Not now but every hour of every day. I would even go purblind if needed. Let's hope that God will use discretion and that every little bit you give may be the incentive to greater giving. It is foggy out but that mist is but half as dense as the one you are before my eyes. The sun may be on the other side but most of the time I can no see him. I am still alone but have great time. Breakfast, lunch + supper either cereal, eggs or...

Sunday, Aug. 14 Dear Helen : Your picture arrived and thats why I am writing. I haven't been worth a whoop since and knew I wouldn't until I did write. It really is lonely. I can't help writing to speak to it and it is so easy to slip into the deepest reverie, I think it must on the borderland of insanity. I appreciate it and the fact that you are not to have revenge this time. It is a pity that you should be deprived of anything so sweet. That last letter I sent may all have been in the right spirit but somehow it has been irritating. I apologize for it. Accept belated congratulations on your position for next year. It will make all the difference in the world and I know you can hold the job. It should be a lot more fun, too. At least I believe the pupils' whims should be a little more brainy. Anyway should you think you're failing, give them all A's and I don't imagine you will have one complaint. (Then send them to Smith). There's been no...

(A cloud break got this before I could get inside.) You won't have to buy a cross word puzzle this week - just try to figure this out. 2 Cobane Terrace West Orange, N.J. [3 x's are written across this address] Dear Helen : “Everything is easy now ” if you look at it in the right light. I've been swinging an anchor half a day and shoveling what I get loose the other half. If thats ' rosy ' let me know. I'm doing it until something I like better turns up and then I'll show my faith in this company. Why for you save that woman if she's your neighbor? Why for you give me so many careers? Huh? Now its awfully sweet of you etc., etc. but carrot's (or whatever it is) don't turn into watches nowa days. I don't believe you're in your dotage atall. Because such people (you know yourself) quiver, tremble and reel at every step and you have only a creak in your back. So cheer up, old girl, you'll probably live to catch many a piece of chalk ...

I have received your communications, and it is with great concern that I enquire concerning the outcome of the war. Clue bloomin' blighter with his head off was a pretty picture for the first day. As far as that goes, I can see one of those confounded air – contraptions biffing you in the butt while standing peacefully in your own house. Ain't it terrible what these times are coming to. Speaking of dead towns, you should see this one most of the time. Occassionally there's something unique that goes on. I've been out with friends, riding mostly but they just resemble so many Punches and Judies and ita'y a pas rieu que vraiment imporst apres tout est dit et fait. C'est a croire que mon couer demeure impermiable a tout. Depues grand? Main an foud c'est au faits que je ue reponde plus aux peuples modernes. But here I go starting to express Ted again when I shouldn't and anyway can't since there ain't no French references. However, this town is as ...

Saturday 23 Dear Helen : That darn likeness is on its way, and do treat him right. When you asked for it in the last letter, I made up my mind that you were determined to suffer so who am I to change a womans mind. I saw Saturday's Children this afternoon and I enjoyed it very much. There was plenty of philosophy which appealed to me but I think a lot of it was pretty much concealed. As to the various trying situations et al., they proved quite interesting. Any further comment will be reserved until you tell me just what is in the back of your mind (or was) when you wanted me to see it. If worse, I merely enjoyed it immensely. I wonder did you listen in on the fight the other night. I couldn't help but wonder at the time I heard whether you too might not be hearing the same voice. If you want to know perfectly how I feel at dusk, just about now, listen to “At the End of the Day.” You can call that my song if you like because I surely would feel proud of having wri...

Dear Helen : I wrote you a letter last evening after I had received your first and to nite as I was about to mail it I received your second so I guess I will add a line before I send it, just to sort of catch up. You surely told me the why and wherefore and although it looked awfully cold on paper and not much for encouragement I will grin and bear it only because I think better times are coming “blue-eyed Sally.” I heartily hope that you have for me an intellectual companion ship, for I could not get along without it. But it means nothing to me in your case at the same time that it means very much. And that's that. I hope you recover from your terrible illnesses. I had one today myself. I got my feet all wet. So now I, too, have a cold. (About as sympathetic as at Northampton.) I hear they hang on like mosquitoes when you catch them in the summer time. Which makes me think I would like to be with you in El Paso this summer. We could I am sure have lots of fun. But in the last ana...

July 7 Dearest : It is more than a week since I wrote you last and I can't refrain now despite the fact that I have as yet no word from you. I am now a well digger and in the middle of the first week of the hardening process. The work is hard, the sleeping accomodations terrible but I think it will be healthy. We are located outside of Rockville Center and all you do is work and sleep. But as it is I get very little time to do any thing since every one turns in at night with the chickens and I have been content to do so thus far. This is 5:30 A.M. Thursday and I will wake up thinking of you so I know I wouldn't get to sleep again and I wanted to write you. The 4th of July was certainly a safe and same week-end. I have met some very nice people during my stay on the island and I am working with two Southern gentlemen on this well digging proposition. They both hail from Arkansas and they play a mean game of bridge. They really are damn good gents. I will mail that pict...

Friday 19th Dear Helen : As I say before, I ketchere picture, and get epistle yesterday. A few days later than usual because I am now in Orange. I arrived to find funny welcome for son. Not a soul around and I had to play second-story Jimmy to get bed to sleep in. All right now since key was put in different place. Mother is in Pennsylvania , frere still in Boston, soeur, somewhere and Dad in Couse. but due home Sunday. I got back Tuesday and have been trying to find out what I'm supposed to do; but outside of mowing the lawn, I've been about as unoccupied and lonely as any where. At least tho ', I get in a few sets of tennis when it isn't raining. Say for a profitable job, this place is as popular as No-man's land must have been on the night of a big drive. I'm glad to hear of your Presbyterian efforts. You'll have to publish a book “Out little missionary causes “ or something like that. Talking about Rouse, I just got a card from Latin Prof. who...

Dear Mother, I have just finished picking and cleaning the lettuce. I am getting to be a regular hired girl. I wash the dishes, carry the water in, make the beds, + get in the way in general. I'm all for the city life. Living with the cows and chickens isn't all it's cracked up to be. I'm getting fat on the milk and rich food, however. Monday Sheldon and I went to the city to get my ticket. He persuaded me to stay over until Tuesday night July 5th. Quelle is going to have everyone assemble on July 4th so they all though I should stay. I had already wired Frances Chambers that I would be there July 4th. But of course the relatives don't understand that she would have planned parties for me and they said if she had planned them she could change them.So I was forced to wire her again and tell her that I could not arrive until July 6th. The next morning I got a letter from Frances telling me to bring an evening dress because she was giving a dance for me at the Blue Hi...

Dearest Helen, This is the second epistle to you for today – I don't know whether I will send the first one or not, but any way it's written, indicating that something unusual has happened in my young life – I guess I'm just beginning to realize how much I really do love you. I've never been so lonesome for you in my life, and I'm going to have to see you at Xmas some way or other, though at present I don't know how. I've been taking things easy today – took my grandmother for a ride this afternoon, + that's about all. Well, I guess when I do get started working, I'll have to work like the dickens to try to forget about you. Love, Henry

Dearest Helen, I'm off the train at last, but I've still got the clickety-click in my ears – and all the songs you sang to me keep running through my head, keeping time. I've got the blues – for you I guess I could have stayed a few days longer as well as not. And I don't see why I didn't now. You can't realize how much I miss you. I don't feel normal without you. Well, I guess I'll get out of this crazy spell some time. Love, Henry

Weather report – warm – too warm, + sunny. Description of Scenery – flat fields generally, like those in Kas., with a few hills + trees which are very comforting to the eyes. En Route to – Columbus, between St. L. + Indianapolis. I guess Freddie is all right, but she's sure a nuisance, and shes still with me. I'll see the last of her in Indianapolis, though. I tried to dodge her in St.L., but they wouldn't let me on the next train.

En Route to K.C. Dearest, It was as hot as blazes, and pretty dusty the first part of the trip – especially when we stopped out at tobin on the switch for half an hour. It was nice + cool last night, and today its hot again, but not dusty. Marjorie, Freddie + a bird named Paster played bridge some yesterday afternoon for a while – except for that, there hasn't been anything doing, except think about you, which I've done quite copiously. Well, if we have a wreck or anything I'll write tell you about it, but there's nothing to write now. Love, Henry

Dear Helen:  Are you in love? (And with a bang, the show started.)  I would that you might clear this now. I've been wanting to write this long time and hereafter I shall write each Saturday morning expecting you to do the same.  I am very glad that the trip was successful and I know and hope the old town of El Paso livins up, for your sake. My Gawd! little lady, but you do love your dancing, don't you? Wish that I might say the same. I hadn't thought of it but there is a girl here from Conn. Aggie, who is not half bad, with whom I could trust myself.  I've been wondering, Helen, (how much more I like this than Tex at school) just what sort of reactions would and have come to me since June 15th. There is an old saying, now popular, “I can't get the one I want” that makes me think of you but I suppose I had better get those I can and let it go. Oh! I am a spineless critter ! But it's ver' fine ting. Really, tho, I am thinking of you and unless something happe...

July 1924, Postcards from Arizona to El Paso July 9, Postcard of Grand Canyon:  Dear Helen, I guess you're home by this time. I'll be very glad to find a letter from you at San Diego. Love, Henry  July 9, Postcard of Grand Canyon:  Dear Helen, We aren't going to the coast, so don't write to SanD.  Love, Henry  July 12, Postcard of Petrified Forest:  Dear Helen, This is where we're parked for the present with the generator armature almost burned out. In Holbrook, I don't know where we'll be next.  Love, Henry

July 13, 1924, Springerville, Arizona, to El Paso Dear Helen, Sunday 13, 1924 Is that an unlucky day? It seems to be. We're parked here in Springerville without a thing to do. We got up as far as Grand Canyon, with the doggoned ole Hupp showing signs of rapidly approaching disintegration, so we decided to turn around and head towards home. Springerville claims to have 300 miles of good trout fishing, and we're going out and try them out. I expect I could possibly get a letter here if you could possibly find time to write to me. It seems like I've been gone a year already, but I guess I'll get home and get to see you again eventually. Love, Henry P.S. Don't forget to write! Do I make myself clear?

  Dear Helen, General Delivery at Winslow, Ariz., I'll be expecting a letter Henry .

  Dear Helen, This is my idea of a real “snaky” card. Love, Henry

  Dear Helen, I went home and started waking up the folks when I got home last night, and found out that Dad had got so tired packing up that he didn't feel like leaving till this morning. We started about 6 o'clock, got out to the Smelter, discovered that Dad's overcoat had been left behind, and so we started back again. Dad got started gazing over the landscape or something, and over onto the car track, and we succeeded in picking up a 6 “ tie spike. I did my duty by changing the tire; and we came back, got the overcoat, got the tube vulcanized, and got off again by 8. 00 . The roll of blankets came off the back, and we had to put them inside – leaving plenty of room for the feet of the passengers in the rear seat – if they cared to park them against the roof. The roads were bumpy in spots, but there are no casualties to report. We started to go on to Soccoro, but it started raining, so we decided to stay here in San Marcial. “Doc” Holmes and his bride are here too; t...

  Dear Helen, I've just finished my French ex. – X is about where my grade will be. According to your schedule you've just finished Spanish – was it hard? I don't know why I'm writing to you again, unless its because I'm so lonesome. Well anyhow, this is the last one, but I'll be expecting a letter or two from you when I get to E.P. I haven't got anything but Chem hanging over me now, and then for home, Tell friend Ruth that her explanation was O.K., but I can't understand why the Eng. Dep't, of Smith allows its students to use such vague words. She might have used Tsoused (like tse-tse). Tell her also that I did pass up my glass when they asked me if I wanted some corn at Dinner yesterday; likewise that I hail from the wild and woolly township of Safford, Arizona, and unfortunately I am not an ink manufacturer. Tell her I will be delighted to have her visit me (at Safford, Arizona) and that the above mentioned town contains more centipedes, tara...

Dear Helen, I just got your last sweet letter with the violet. I hope you get a square meal pretty soon. I guess I'll get my next letter from you – if I get one – in El Paso. I guess we're both enjoying the pleasures of exams by this time. I took my Physics final yesterday afternoon and the got the papers graded last night – I got 52, and I guess that lets me out-- the back door. I guess I'll start packing up today. I've got Chem the afternoon of the 4 th , and the train leaves at 7, so I don't know whether I'll make it or not. The same exam took me from 2 – 7 : 30 last term. Well, dear, cram up good for the exams and make some good grades for me. There's no news but the old news – I love you. Henry. P.S. You don't seem to be expecting a very great disappointment when you see me, but you had better prepare for the worst.

  Ma chère compagne, My excuses for writing so soon are: 1. As usual, I don't feel like studying a durn bit, though I ought to; 2. I'm hoping I'll get energetic and be too busy to write you during exams. 3. To tell you that my El Paso address is 1110 E. Rio Grande, and that I won't be here after the 4 th , and that I'll be expecting some letters after I get there. Except for the above, I haven't anything to say. Exams are just two days away, and I've got so much work stacked up, that I haven't the nerve to begin on it. Mother said the other day that Jim Turner had finally gone to Europe. Have you heard anything from him or the rest of the gang? Well, old Girl, in 2 wks + 2 days I'll be seeing you. Try not to be disappointed when we do get together again. Love, Henry

  Mr. Henry Tonight Stafford 2502 Nueces St. Austin, Texas Dear Helen, Anything in particular that you want? All the boys say my wife sure is some little golddigger. Your second letter sure was a pleasant surprise. That letter I wrote you (one before the last) wasn't meant to kid you a bit – all cold facts. I heard anything about Eva Belle – sounds kind of fishy to me. I thought you were going to ask me a really important question when you started off about Leap Year, but I got fooled. I'm worse at tennis than I am at dancing, but if you want to try to teach me that too, and know someplace where we can play, the proposition suits me O.K. I'm glad you get in a day earlier than you thought you would; and the day won't be unlucky for me unless you give me the gate the first night. What time do you get in. I believe the train you will probably come on gets in about 9 o'clock, P.M. so, I guess I'll get my date the 14 th , won't I? There's a crip...

  Dear Helen, Well, old sweetheart, I've been out chasing bugs all morning and hence feel a little buggier than usual. I got specimens in about 8 different orders. I did finally get a letter from you, and since you said you had written so many that I didn't get, I've followed your advice, and brought suit against the P.O. There are a bunch of J.A. Law students over at the boarding house, and I've hired the whole bunch of them to recover my lost mail. If you can't skate without getting all banged up, you had better quit trying, because I want you to be looking your best when I get to see you. I can't cut any more classes now, and I've got to do some studying if I want to stay in the University----I got put on probation last week. Didn't I tell you that you ought to have accepted my proposed bet, if you wanted to save me from perdition. Love per usual, Henry

  Dear Helen, Well old Sweetheart, you say I owe you a letter. I don't think I do, but here one is if you want to call it that. Just one more month, and you'll be – in my arms – maybe. I don't remember what that picture you have of me, or used to have, looks like; but from what I I remember of it it was a gross flattery. Of course I hope good looks isn't essential in a man, but then they might make some difference. So I just want to remind you, dear, of my exceptional gracefulness, my wonderful dancing ability and conversational powers. And then I want to remind you that my dishwater blond head of hair is always just as neatly combed as ever, or a little worse, and that for every pimple I used to have on my face a year ago, I now have ten. And then mentally, morally, and physically, as a whole, I'm not what I ought to. Better be thinking all this over when you come home on the train, so you won't be disappointed. I still want that date. Love, Henry, __...

Dear Helen, What's the matter?!!! I haven't heard from you for over two weeks. Are you too busy to write – have you fallen for somebody – are you sick – haven't you any paper – are you so broke you can't buy stamps (that's the situation I was in a week or two ago) ? If you don't feel like taking the trouble to write, please make just one more effort and tell me so. The interscholastic league representatives from EPHS were down here a week ago, and they sure didn't help my studying any – I got the whole sum of 25 on a chem quiz – on the basis of 100, too – and I haven't been able to get down to work yet. Now if you had taken me up on that bet when I first asked you to I wouldn't be in such straits now. I did some wild dispipating when that bunch from El Paso was down here. Went to a dance and everythin' – and more than that I came out alive, but almost dead. Then, Sunday, Henry Moore and Ralph and I rented a Ford and went over to San Antonio, ...

Dear Helen, I'm very sorry to have to disappoint you so, Helen, but you still have to keep that date with me – 15 th of June, isn't it? Dad still has the trip planned, but we don't leave until July. Laugh that off. Dad came down to San Antonio, and I spent Saturday + Sun. over there. Went to 3 movies, and walked all over the darn place – a gay time, a gay time. Is Izzie supposed to be sung or read? Of course it doesn't make any difference, but I was just a little bit curious. If being a brides-maid gives you so much kick Im just trying to imagine what a kick you would get out of being the chief actress. I hope you don't get in too big a hurry, because you know I don't get out of school for 5 or 6 more years. Well I guess you will get this charming epistle after you get back from your holiday, and won't need much recreation. This letter shows how badly cigarettes have got me down – I'm muchly deteriorated demoralized, etc With the requisite am...

Well Keel, Watcha tink o' Texas. Went up to Kansas and beat the world's record for the 2 mile medley relay by six (6) seconds – Likewise, we haven't been defeated in anything this year except wrestling, and we would have won that if one of our men hadn't been ineligible. Doggonit, dear, I wish you were getting home when I am. Dad's got some kind of a trip planned (take about a month I expect) and if its scheduled for the first part of the summer, it means I won't see my Helen for about 2 ½ months. Oh, well, I think you've been letting your imagination go about me, and you will be as disappointed as you can be when you do see me again So, que le hace? Dad's coming down to the state Med. Convention in San Antonio next week, and I'm going over and see him. I'm sending back a couple of letters that you tried to dodge, but your fate is inevitable. Love, Henry  

  Dearest Helen, Well, honey, I'm just back from my English exam, and Im afraid it will follow along in the same course of the others. Wish I could see you now. I believe I'd even enjoying having you push me in Paradise Pond, if I could get to see you. You might at least think of me once in a while during that long vacation of yours, and I'll be expecting a string of long letters to be coming in pretty soon. You'll have time now to tell me ever single thing that you do, from the time you get up. (I expect it will be about (2.M.) until you go too bed at night. You haven't been telling me much about yourself lately, and if you don't start telling me soon, we'll be absolute strangers next summer. Dearest, I'm going to keep writing to you every day, so please make plenty of allowances for the sterility of my beezer; and if you get bored too much, throw them in the waste basket,--- I won't mind, but just write to me. I'm so homesick for you no...

My Dear Young Lady, Weather ForeCast:- Fair + Warmer – slightly moist. . I've gone to the dogs for a certainty now... I withdraw my wager. Now I guess you see what you Cheated yourself out of. You ought to be here with me so I could take you to all these games – but I guess its a good thing you aren't, because I haven't got but $2.00 to last me the rest of the month (today's the 13 th ), and I can't find a blessed thing that I can hock or sell. In just about a couple of months, we'll both be back in old El Paso town, and then I guess we'll be wishing we were back here. I'm in a helen of a predicament. Ive got 3 (three) themes to write – 2 of them due several days ago-- and the last one has to be a description of a portrait in the library, and the library is locked up. Oh, well, what difference does it make whether I pass or buss out? Helen won't – reward me if I pass, and that's the only reason I want to pass. I trust that...

  Dearest Helen, I just got your two-in-one letter a while ago. It took that old letter quiet a while to get to me, didn't it? You said that your last note makes us square. Does it? I had an idea that you still owed me some. I'll let you decide, but treat me squar e!. It's as hot as blazes down here now, regular summer weather. I've got to go to a base ball game pretty soon, and I've got a lot of other stuff to do, too and I guess you're pretty busy. So goodbye, Mi [with tilde] love, Henry

We'll leave them both out Dearest Snaky [line with arrow on each side points between above words and old and fresh crossed out] Egg, Well, old girl, I got pretty fair letter from you yesterday, and then I got another long, sweet one from you today. I guess you've had a pretty gay and giddy time lately, but now you're going to have to get down to work again. Misery loves company, and I'll know you won't be in any mischief, so I'm glad you are going to have go back to school – but then of course you know I hate to have you study too hard. I've had me a delightful quiz in English already this term, and I'm booked for one in ZO, Thursday, and one in Physics, Sat. But in spite of 'em and in spite of my not having done any work this time, I'm going down to watch a baseball game and get a little recreation – how about the bet . I don't mind the collects , that you said something about, the ...

Dearest Egg, 'splain yo'self. How come you didn't write to me and tell me where you would be as soon as you knew. Here I've been flunking all my exams just so I could write to you – uselessly . Don't you think you owe me something for that. I'm perfectly satisfied with your grades whether Dr. Roberts is or not. I think 79 th in a class of over 600 in a place like Smith is good enough for anybody. Tell him I said so, and then of course he'll think so too. I've been leading a gay life over the weekend. In spite of my bankrupt condition I cashed a hot check, and Ralph and H. Moore and I took in “When A Man's A Man.” This afternoon I've spent all my time burning matches to see whether or not you loved me. They all broke off; does it mean that you don't love me any more or did I just get a bum box of matches. Have you been having a good time? Write and tell me all about it, Honey. Well its about time for me to hear my bedtime story (4:30 P...

 Dearest Darling, etc., I was hoping for another letter today like the one I got yesterday – I got fooled, but I guess you've been busy having a good time, so I'll forgive you. Don't forget that you owe me just as many letters as I've written you, though I don't care when you pay up. Ralph went up to see the dean today to get the final decision, as to whether or not he could stay in school, but the dean told him to come back tomorrow. One of the other boys up here, Leachman of Amarillo, had to sign a withdrawal card this morning. You had better think about that bet if you want me to come back here in Sept. Now that I've told you all the news, how about a little sweet talk, darling. I guess it gets tiresome so I'll hold back. I would like to know, though, if you really to think of me sometime. Remember how you suggested that we both look at the moon at the same time every night, and think of each other. I've been sorry that we didn't do it ever s...

Dearest Old Sweetheart, I guess you're all packed up and ready to go now. I just heard from some of my exams, and some of my term grades. I got a B in Zo (my only one) [parabola drawn between B and my] and a D in Chem. and from the exam grades of my other subjects, I haven't a chance of getting more than D in any of them. Now, will you accept my bet and save me, or will you let me go onward down the path? I'm afraid Ralph Johnson is going to have to go home. He's going to try to bluff the dean into letting him stay, but I don't know whether it will work or not. Well, I think it's been about a week since I got your last letter, and it seems like a year. I expect I'll begin getting about one a day now,-- am I right? I've been in class all day today. I had two labs-- Chem and Zo and that took up quite a bit of my time, and I haven't done anything else. I learned all about a starfish in ZO. – Phylum Echinodermata, Class Asteroidea, name Asterias, his out...

Dearest Helen (alias Texas) When you've been in class all morning long, listening to boresome lectures, and you come home all tired out, and then – you get a longer letter from your girl than you've had for a long time, a letter full of darlings, and honeys and with an “I love you” at the end, “Ain't it a grand and glorious feeling? I says it is. I've just finished tinkering with my pipe. The bowl was so big that it took me an hour to smoke a pipeful, so I put a kind of a plug in it like this: tobacco bowl plug [drawing of pipe with actual tobacco in its the bowl] how do you like that. You never have told me about the bet. You say that you love me, darling; but how am I to believe you, when you accept such a wonderful bet. If you really do love me, you can't lose. Now, Can you? Well, in just about 2 ½ more months I'll be seeing my old sweetheart again, and then I'll know whether she loves me or not. You sure are lucky sleeping till 10:30, 11:30, 12:30.etc, ...

 Dearest Old Dear, Just for a change I got a letter form you this morning. I had just about given up all hope, and that's the reason I didn't write you yesterday, although I've written every day except that. I guess you won't get but about half of the letter I've written, but I'll send the other on, when they come back, just to show you how faithful I've been. Pardon me for referring to the weather, my dearest, but today was a sure enough bright spring day. And the grass + everything smelled so sweet, you know and there were boys and girls paired off, and sitting and lounging all over the sweet grass, you know, and it sure did make me lonesome for a little 125 lb. girl I know. I'm still waiting for my bet to be accepted. I think 125 is just about the right weight for you to, dear (to tell the truth, your weight will suit me whatever it is.) You seemed very much excited about your holiday. I'm glad you're having it, sweetheart, and having suc...

 (fill in with whatever sweet words please your sweet self!) Dearest _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I just reread your last letter a minute ago and I see you go to Boston about day after tomorrow. I hope you have the bestest time in the world, dear, but you'll think of me (grinding away for all I'm worth) once in a while; and I hope you don't meet any charming young man down there who'll cut me out. I've been reading a book (Far from the Madding Crowd) all day yesterday and today, except when I was in class. You see, you'd better take me up on that bet or I'll go to the dogs sure. Mrs. Brownlee's daughter's husband went out of town, & Mrs. Brownlee went to stay with her, and now Sam Miller & May Belle are living down stairs. I've been down playing cards with them (you'd better accept the bet, if you want to save me), and being as I was dummy, as usual I snook off upstairs to finish my letter to my sweet woman. ...