Letter #34

Note: I snapped this picture as my father dictated the letter.

I know he enjoys reading his father’s words.

Boulder, Colorado
June 16, 1918

My Dear Sweetheart,

Are you surprised at me writing you today, after such a long one last night? There are two reasons, dear, (1) because I did not receive a letter, and (2) to express my feelings and to send something I neglected to send last night.I received the candy and the apples all O.K. They surely were fine, and I want to thank you for them, for George and I did not know what we would eat tonight. We did not have any sweets for tonight. Oh dear, how I wish I could pay you back for what you are doing for me. You may say, “Why should you feel alive today?” Well, there are several reasons. I was on duty till 4:00. After finishing my work, I went to get my letter, but no letter. I just had to go back and reread the one I had received before. The one I received on the 12^th was surely a great letter to me. I read it over and over again to see if I had left out any part of it. Today has been long lonesome for me. But George has been waiting at the barracks all day for me to get through work so we could go out together. I got off long enough to go to church this morning. Pres. Herrick was present and rendered a very energetic talk on the war.

He used the proverb of the ancient times and modern warfare. There were two of the lieutenants present. They seem to enjoy every minute of the talk. They did not partake of the sacrament. I’m sure if I told you, but we can wear a black tie when not in formation. You asked me about sending some strawberries. I think it would be impossible for them to stand the trip, for Clyde received some cherries, and they were all bruised and some were decayed. I am surely appreciative of your kindness.

Violet, are you thinking more of me than of yourself? If so, do not take the pleasure of your own life and put it into mine. Now dear, don’t think I don’t care or appreciate the things you do and send me, for I do. It makes me think a great deal more of you.

Well sweetheart, I hate to tell you, but I am almost under the weather. It’s not my arm, but my throat. One of my tonsils is swollen quite badly. I went to the doctor this morning. He swabbed my throat, then gave me some pills to dissolve in my mouth. But it does not seem any better tonight. I am hoarse a little. This was caused by sleeping in a draft. But now I have moved and will soon be alright. Now dear, don’t think this is serious, for it is not. The only thing is, I get feeling miserable at times when I think about it.

Tonight is Sunday, what are you going to do? I will do anything you wish. What is it? Let us go downtown for a walk and for some ice cream, then wander back to the campus and sit in the shade and have one good chat all by ourselves. I surely would like to be there on Sunday night just to put my arm around you once more. Well my girl, George is here but he’s not like you. He’s way too masculine. But his is better than those Boulder girls. Well dear, my mind seems to be blank tonight. We’ll say goodnight.Just one big kiss. Thanks. I wish God’s blessing of health and contentment.

Your soldier, Henry