Scotty ~ Letter 1
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH 1942
Barlin H. R157162 RCAF
RCAF Station North Sydney, Nova Scotia
Monday Morning Nov. 30. 12:00 noon
Dearest Zelda,
Off the train at 10 o'clock after a rather rocky trip and didn't know where to go. Hopped into a taxi with some airmen who were going to the airport. On arriving there I found that it was the wrong place. They phoned this place and a car came to get me - It isn't even a station - just an office who handle shipments of men going to Newfoundland. However, my posting leads to this.
4:30 pm
Don't worry yet - Just as I was writing this, a phone call came thru from the airport saying they had received a letter of my posting here - to R.C.A.F. Station North Sydney, N.S.
I've spent the whole afternoon just checking in - and now that I'm finished - I still don't understand what it's all about. On reporting to the hospital, which incidentally is only a 6 bed affair, I find there is a Pharmacist here already - posted here 3 weeks ago. I had a short chat with the medical officer and like everyone he is at a loss to know why I was sent here.
It's very plain that there isn't enough work for 2 Pharmacists - not really enough for one. The posting states definitely to this station, so in the meantime I'm to sit tight, and I guess do something around the dispensary until something is made of the whole affair.
As you might expect I'm not terribly impressed by North Sydney - although it may be nicer on a sun-shining day. It's sort of dismal out - lots of snow, a mist over the bay (I guess it's called), and it can't decide whether it wants to rain or snow.
The station itself is reputed by all to be one of the best. My first impression is that its a bit dirty - but liveable. The boys all seem quite happy and have a decent time. I've seen a couple of chaps I know from Winnipeg - but just whether they'll bother to remember, I'll leave to them.
As you can imagine, I'm quite tired so I think that after supper I'll shower and get into bed.
I'm feeling fine myself - my voice is back altogether and I can taste the pipe tobacco - so I doubt gave a cold anymore.
I trust by this time you've received my other letters so you'll have some idea of how much I miss you - today its all the more. Everything is so strange and while I'm sure I can adjust myself - it leaves me with a sort of hungry, empty feeling - knowing I won't be able to come over tonite.
Just had supper - and I won't make any comment yet about the food situation. Well kiddo, if I'm to be kept here I guess I'll be able to stand it and in the meantime there's no use worrying about the future.
Certainly the other Pharmacist or myself must go eventually but as the medical officer says - sit tight until something happens and make the best of things which is of course all I can do.
I think I'd better drop a line home - looks like I'll be able to do a lot of letter-writing here. Give my regards to all and I guess its not necessary to ask you to write soon - I'm placing all my faith in you my dear - I do love you so.
Scotty
Call Hershies + Zelenys whenever you have a chance - they may be interested to know of my complications. I'll write to them in a few days.
Zelda ~ Letter 1
MONDAY NOVEMBER 30TH, 1942
Darling,
Mother called me at work this morning to tell me that there was a letter from you. You can hardly imagine how anxious I was to read it. I was going to stay in for lunch, but I didn’t have the patience to wait until 6 o’clock to read the letter. I just had to get home.
Scotty, I’m terribly sorry that you missed seeing your relatives, but I’m pleased to hear that you were able to speak to them over the phone. How did it happen that they weren’t able to find you at the station?
When this letter reaches you, I hope you will be a bit settled and rested from that long trip. Scotty, how does your throat feel? Be sure to take good care of yourself.
I’m not going to ask you a lot of questions, like if you saw Speedy or what North Sydney is like. I know you were right all in your next letter. I am terribly anxious to hear all about it, so don’t forget to give all the details.
After I left you, Saturday morning, I felt rather depressed. I thought that the best thing to do would be to go shopping right then and there, to get myself sort of lost in the crowd and all the commotion. I bought a gift for the wedding we were to attend on Sunday, and a new black hat with red, white and blue feathers (the latter was purchased to raise my spirits). Anyway, it’s a nice little hat. I must’ve bought some thing else, but I can’t remember what it was on the spur of the moment. Surely, I didn’t walk around for three hours only to purchase those two items.
When I came home, Mother greeted me at the door with “What happened - did you miss Scotty at the station?” Dear, when you called her Saturday morning, she was terribly worried that we had missed each other. She had all sorts of thoughts about what may have happened. You said that you would want to know what I’d be doing all day. So I’ll still continue with Saturday. Well, I was so terribly tired I went to sleep and woke up at about 5 o’clock in the afternoon. After supper I wrote several more pages to the folks and I mailed both our letters. I enclosed a snapshot of the enlarge the picture you have of me. I hope that they like it. After all, it will be their first glimpse of me. Tell me what they write you about the letter and picture. Scotty, I asked for one of your graduation pictures. Do you think it was all right for me to do that? I really don’t want to trouble them, and I had already asked for it, so I didn’t back out of it, because I really would love to have that picture of you.
I opened an account this afternoon at the Royal Bank of Canada, Bathurst and College Street. I deposited your check and the money. The account is under my name, it couldn’t be arranged otherwise.
About the ring, dear. I wish you were here to choose it for me. I feel strange picking it out myself, I still don’t like the idea. But, you said that you wanted it that way. So, I have already made arrangements. I should be able to see samples tomorrow afternoon. Scotty, I believe I may be able to buy it without the 25% tax and then get it at a wholesale price. I’ll let you know all about it. I wish you were here to choose it though.
I want to write several letters to Winnipeg tonight. I must write them. My uncle Lou, must’ve mentioned something to my other relatives about us, and they will be terribly sore at me for not hearing about my engagement from me personally. I believe I’ll call the Zeleneys and Hersheys tomorrow night. I really want to get a few things done tonight and it is 8:55 already, at this moment. I want to find out if Dave has done anything about enlarging our pictures. I doubt it, because I know he must be terribly busy working all day and in the evenings also.
Scotty, don’t forget to write me about everything. What it’s like out there, what you are doing, whether you like it, and all the rest. Have you written home?
I went to the wedding ceremony with men on Sunday. It was called for 4:30, but as usual, we waited around for almost 2 hours before anything started to happen. Scotty, you didn’t miss out on any wedding supper, (doesn’t it make you feel better), they only had a sweet table, so my parents tell me. The ceremony was too rushed, they had Rabbi Zimmerman, and I don’t believe I ever heard anyone talk so fast. I wouldn’t want him to marry me.
I almost forgot to tell you, I dropped in at Dora’s place before I went to the wedding ceremony. Sam and Max were there. Sam says he almost fainted away when door I told him about us. Nevertheless, he seems very pleased about it and he asked me to send you his best wishes.
Dear, I would love to write more, but I really must write those other letters. I’ll probably ride tomorrow again, and I’ll have more news for you. Scotty, you forgot those extra pictures of your mother. I’ll enclose them, because I know that you’d like to have them.
Scotty, you needn’t worry about my folks liking you, they think you are 'tops.'
So long for now dear, and don’t forget that all my love goes with this letter.
Zelda
Scotty ~ Letter 2
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1ST 1942
Dearest Zelda,
Another day, and all in all it hasn't been too bad. I spent my time around the hospital getting acquainted with the dispensary and the run of things here in general. It would be very nice if I were the only Pharmacist here, goodness knows what both of us are going to do - after all he's been here for 3 weeks so I guess he's my senior. There must be some sort of a mix-up someplace and until things are straightened out I'll just sit tight and take it easy.
The little hospital itself is very nice and the chaps that work in it are all fine. The other Pharmacists, named Wisemen, (not Jewish) is from Saskatoon and is a nice boy. In the meantime I'm learning how to run the dispensary and incidentally the medical office in general, and by the time things do straighten out - and if I'm posted elsewhere - I should be able to run things without any difficulty.
North Sydney, when the sun shines, is much prettier than a dull, dismal day - but then, so is Toronto. It was very nice out today, and a great deal of the snow has gone. There is a rather pretty site from here but not one I'd care to come 1,400 miles from Toronto to see. The town itself offers very little and as yet I haven't spent any time there. Sydney itself is supposed to be a little livelier but it will probably be some time until I get to see it.
I showered and got into bed by 7 yesterday. At about 9:30 I was awakened by a lot of noise - the boys were celebrating - all of them drunk - it was pay day and some were leaving - I really can't describe here just what I saw - words on paper could never make you appreciate it - I'll tell you about it. But, "be it resolved, I, H. Barlin, do hereby promise not to have more than (ok.) 1 glass of beer per day - if that!"
I had sort of hoped there would be some mail from you today, but I guess its a little too early. Perhaps tomorrow?
I'm over at the hospital now where I find I can write in peace in nicer surroundings. In a while I'll be going over to barracks to see a moving-picture, and then probably back to the hospital where 'Johnny' says he'll have some tea ready and we'll finish the cake you gave me.
I guess about the only thing we can say is that we cannot count on my staying here too long, and just what then - we'll have to wait and see.
I miss you so very much, my dear, so please write. I do hope things work out so that I can see you again soon.
Love, Scotty
Zelda ~ Letter 2
TUESDAY DECEMBER 1ST, 1942
Dearest Scotty,
I left for work quite late this morning and therefore was still here when the postman brought the morning now. It was so very dark out this morning that I couldn’t believe it was time to get out of bed. Very miserable outside. Very wet snow and it’s all melted by the time it reaches the ground. I know you wouldn’t like it. I think at this moment I would much rather prefer some of the good old Winnipeg snowfalls. You certainly haven’t had any luck Scotty in the way of meeting your friends and relatives. I can just see how disappointed you looked when he received Speedy’s wire. Golly, I’m sorry you missed him. Of all the luck. When will he be passing through Toronto, dear?
Do you know that today is our anniversary? One month today, and you’re so far away. I haven’t called anyone yet. I said that I would call Betty, I will as soon as I finish this letter. I got home only about an hour ago. It just happened that I met a number of people I know and they heard of our engagement, and naturally I had to stop and speak to them. The girls were angry at me, they wanted to know why I didn’t phone them and tell them all about it. I also met Sid Rosove. I didn’t even know that he knew about us. He stops me and congratulate me, and says “looks like I won’t be able to come up and visit you anymore.” I told him that he needn't to take that attitude and that he was welcome at any time (I hope that you don’t mind, dear.) And, oh yes, I forgot to tell you when I was at Min’s place Sunday night, (remember I mentioned Max Bakalinsky), well he comes walking in right up to me and showers me with his best wishes. You can hardly imagine my surprise. There was a house full of people there who know him, and they know how he had been taking me out quite often. He was at my house, he apparently came over to call on me, and my mother and dad told him about us. He wanted to know where I was. They told him, and then he came marching into Min’s place.
Scotty, you have probably noticed that I forgot to enclose the picture of your mother. Now, you found out that I am absent minded. After I had mailed the letter to you, I came back into the house, and noticed the picture lying on the table. Must not forget it this time.
I wrote three letters yesterday. One to my dad’s brother, he’s my uncle Ben. Another to my cousin Anne and her new husband, and the other one to my cousin Anne’s sister Min. They are my dad’s nieces, and the closest to me, at least that’s the way I feel about them. I’ll write the Ghans, and Cohens on Thursday. You see tomorrow is Wednesday and I’m going to attend my meeting, and I won’t have a chance to write anyone.
It seems strange coming home every evening knowing that you won’t be there for supper. Like this I used to rush home from work to be on time, knowing that you will be there waiting, and he wants told me that you can’t stand anyone that’s late.
Remember, I told you someone would bring me some diamond rings to look at. Well, I saw them this afternoon. They are worth $100, sales tax extra, actually. He is asking $65 for them. Well, there wasn’t one that I actually liked. I didn’t like the settings. He said that he would bring me a few others that I may like. Scotty there was one there that is regular $125, tax extra, that he also wants $65 for, but I thought was rather nice. In fact it’s beautiful, but there is one fault. The diamond has a flaw in it. Of course I can’t tell by looking at it, nor will anyone else tell with a glimpse. However, you can detect it if you look through a magnifying glass. Mother and dad say they don’t like the idea of a diamond with the flaw, that they would rather have the smaller diamond, but it should be perfect. What do you think about it? You see if the diamond is perfect, for example, you can always sell it at its market value, whereas if there is some defect in the diamond it isn’t worth a cent, if it was to be resold. You understand that, don’t you Scotty. I’m sure I will be able to pick something I like from the new samples he will bring me. You see he only brought me three rings to pick from today, so I’m really not that fussy. I still wish you were here to help me with the ring, I want to get some thing you will like, after all it is your ring.
Darling, it’s getting late already, I still want to iron a few of my things, maybe take a peek at today’s paper. I haven’t even seen the comics today.
Write me what you are doing, what it’s like out there. Have you any friends there yet? There are so many questions that I can think of asking you, but, I’m sure you will tell me everything in your letters.
The family sends their regards to you and they want you to keep well. I will write soon, dear.
All my love,
Zelda
Scotty ~ Letter 3
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 2ND, 1942
Dearest Zelda,
Before I go any further let me warn you that there are bound to be a whole lot of mistakes. Reason: There aren't any lights here tonight. There is a gale blowing that some say is at least 70 miles an hour. The rain is blowing down torrent upon torrent, never in my life have I seen anything like it. If they sent me all this way to see what the East Coast is like, well, I've seen it, and they can send me back any time at all.
There are absolutely no lights on in the barracks, so I've come over to the hospital where there is one kerosene lamp which I've got on another chair beside me. The patients will just have to rest in the dark.
I didn't want to miss a day writing to you but I can see that this will not leave here tonight so that if I write tomorrow you should have two letters when you receive this. There was no mail again today and while I realize that I must be patient, still it would make me feel a whole lot better if I could at least see your handwriting so I will know how you are getting along. I do miss you, kiddo.
I don't know just what to write to you about tonight. Nothing very much happens here. Slept in this morning until 8:15 and got to the hospital about 8:45, but there is no need for me to rush anyhow, there's not a great deal to do. However, today I did keep rather busy. We are getting emergency hospital kits together, for boats, etc. Today we went out to one of the small patrol boats to pick up a kit, and it was fun. The office is still without a Medical Clerk who should have showed up today didn't, so I'm sort of filling in and doing all the typing in my own inimitable two-fingered style. There is still nothing new in regard to my position here so I may as well relax and let things take their own course. I'll wait for at least a week before I make any mention of my furlough. It seems unlikely that I'll be able to combine it with New Years leave as the other Pharmacist has already made similar arrangements. About all I can say right now is that if I'm still here (not posted) by some strange chance I may get it sooner than I expect, but if I am to stay, it more likely I will not be able to manage it until middle of January. One way or another, I hope it will not be long until I can be with you again.
As I mentioned before there is not a great deal to do here, but enough to keep the boys happy. the show last night was quite enjoyable...even though it was half in the barrack's basement. "Honeymoon in Bali" with Fred MacMurray, Madelaine Carroll, et al. I got quite a kick out of it. Of course the reel had to be changed three times during the show, and once in a while the sound was cut off, but that didn't matter. The fellows all helped supply sound effects (the lights have just come on -- its 8:30 pm now). They all had remarks to make, particularly if a pretty girl appeared on the screen in an abbreviated costume - whistles, and wheeeuuuu - etc. but its all in fun and really they are a nice bunch of fellows, most of them a long way from home. A lot of the boys are not more than 19 or 20 and while they may have been just kids when they left home, have become real men. The only trouble of course is that they usually drink a little more than they can hold and become a little disgusting - have to be put to bed, and already I can see that I'm sort of elected to take care of them as I've told them that I can't drink, so that they won't offer me any. Really, my dear, I don't care. I can see where I'm going to enjoy coming over to the office at the hospital, where I can write my letters, and read all I care to. It is very nice in here...all new, a bed in the office for the chaps who have to stay overnight and watch the patients. There are all sorts of Doctors books here that I hope to have a chance to read. Also, I've found its impossible to write letters during the day so I'll have to do them in the evenings.
I've been told that the people in town are very nice to the boys on the station here, also that there are quite a number of nice Jewish families in Sydney itself, and perhaps I'll get to meet them. Sydney is 15 miles from here and there is a bus leaving every hour so it won't seem any further that going out to Hershies place...
One of the boys at the hospital here is being married tomorrow and he's asked the staff here to come to the wedding. Evidently his religion doesn't allow drinking, dancing etc., but it should be nice to see some of the customs of the people around here.
We are just a few minutes from the centre of the town, but as yet I haven't gotten around to seeing it. If the weather is nicer tomorrow perhaps I'll go to the Church for the ceremony and see the town at the same time.
I haven't written any of the gang yet and I'll probably start on the mob in the next day or two. I've sort of been expecting something to happen in regard to the posting, but as there doesn't even seem to be a stir I'll just relax, and make myself at home. In fact, now that I think of it, I may not even wait for a week until I inquire about my leave, because if I want to combine it with Christmas leave I figure by the calendar here that I could leave on the 7th and not have to get back until the 28th in the morning. This could give me more than a week with you even if I wanted to go home for a week. I might just as well as we are given a warrant for traveling at one-third of the cost of a single fare for the round trip.
The wind has died down now and it has stopped raining, I've been talking to the orderly here while writing this letter and its already almost 10 o'clock and just about time for bed.
I wish my letter could be a little more exciting, but I haven't felt like writing anything, say, "philosophical" for some time now, perhaps one of these days I'll get into a writing mood and tell you something of what my thoughts are and my feelings. What and whom I like, the things I like to do, the things I like about others.
I wish you would write to me some of these things about yourself. of what you hope for from life, what you hope for from me. I do so want to please you, kiddo...I'm counting on you, Zel, and I do want you to count on me.
I think I fell in love with you mostly because I saw one of the sweetest dispositions and felt that you couldn't help but be honest with yourself and others at all times. I know I fell in love with you, because you're you, and my idea of YOU is just the grandest of people. I do hope there's mail from you tomorrow.
Again, my love to the folks, Lawrence, Minnie, Sam and Dora. Oh yes, I'd better not forget Minnie's Max. Also any of my friends that you may be in contact with.
I hope the folks have written to you, but they are a lazy bunch in that respect...Mother doesn't write herself...and the others are none to prompt...but Anne should write particularly if you drop her a line. I wrote a few words home yesterday, and I'll probably write again tomorrow if the wedding doesn't take all evening.
Please keep writing as it is beginning to get kinda lonesome not having you near, and as yet no mail.
I love you,
Scotty
Zelda ~ Letter 3
FRIDAY DECEMBER 4TH, 1942
Dearest Scotty,
I received your second letter today from North Sydney. I didn’t have any mail from you yesterday and I missed hearing from you terribly. You say that you haven’t received any of my mail. Well, dear, this is my fourth letter to you and I wouldn’t miss writing to you for anything in the world. Perhaps my first letter will be a little late for, as I said before, I sent it to the other address. But, surely it must have been forwarded to you by this time.
Maybe it is for the better dear that there is another pharmacist there already. Surely, you cant be posted any further away from me, unless of course it is on the Pacific Coast (heaven forbid). But, we’ll have to hope its somewhere near here or Winnipeg. Keep your fingers crossed.
I attended my meeting on Wednesday night. I really shouldn’t call it a meeting, but a get together - after all, thats what it is. The girls get together, play cards and gossip. It was at my girl friend Marcia’s place. It was a very successful turnout. I believe there were eighteen girls there. Everyone was surprised to hear about our engagement (Min made an announcement). You should have seen all the girls then. Everyone was talking at once. They wanted to know how it happened, when, what you looked like, where you were, etc. Questions by the dozens came flying at me. Everyone was just too pleased, they showered their best wishes on me and really were so thrilled that it is really difficult to describe Scotty, how they made me feel. Well, I stole the show that evening. However, I wasn’t very successful at the rummy games that night. I suppose I didn’t have my mind on the game, or the cards didn’t come, or I’ll just say they were better players than myself. At any rate, I didn’t even win one game that night.
Min and Max were over here last night. We just sat around, and chatted about all sorts of things until almost midnight.
Let’s see now, what were we discussing last time… Oh yes, Max’s work, when the kids are getting married - something about our wedding - naturally Min and I had something to say about clothes. Oh, I do wish you were here too, to be with us.
I’m not going to do anything tonight. I just washed my hair and I’ll let it dry while I’m writing to you. I wish I had something of interest to write you. I’m afraid that you are going to be disappointed in my letters.
Scotty, have you heard from home yet? And have you written to your brother in Cleveland that you are in North Sydney? What time are you through working at the dispensary? When do you write your letters?
I was very glad to hear that your throat is all healed up now, and that you can taste your tobacco. I’ll bet the latter bothered you more than anything else.
I wrote my cousins, the Cohens, in Winnipeg about our engagement. I take it easy. I write one letter a day to Winnipeg. Very shortly, I will have made the rounds of all my relatives, and will begin awaiting answers to all my letters. I’m really anxious to hear what they have to say.
Do you think you would like to stay in North Sydney if you had your choice? That is if the other fellow was willing to leave? Or shouldn’t I ask such silly questions. But, I’m so impatient - I’m really anxious to know what will happen, Scotty.
Tomorrow is Saturday. One week since I’ve seen you. It’s a terribly long time. I’ll probably spend my afternoon downtown, and take in a show in the evening. I’ll write to you about it.
In the meantime, keep on writing. I love to hear from you.
Regards from Mother, Dad and Lawrence, and Min and Max said I shouldn’t forget to send theirs.
I’ll write soon, Darling.
Love,
Zelda
Scotty ~ Letter 4
THURSDAY DECEMBER 3RD, 1942
7:00 pm
My dearest Zel,
Don’t think it effeminate if I say I was ‘thrilled’ to get your letter today. It seemed to take such a long time to get here - but now its here and its a wonderful one - even more than I’d hoped for. You see, I’ve never received letters from one who really cared, like you do. It sort of makes a fellow want to live and do things - to know there is someone to live and do things for.
My darling, before I write any more, I think I have some good news - if everything goes well, I should be able to start my leave next Tuesday. Don’t be too optimistic for another day or so until I’m sure myself, but it does seem the best time for me to take my leave, as Bob (the other Pharmacist) has already arranged to leave on the 28th for 3 weeks. Thus, I should be able to arrange to have my leave from the 8th to the 29th AM - I’ve got my fingers crossed!
Your letter started the ball rolling. I got yours this morning and later on one of the boys brought in 3 more - one from an old boss, another from the chap (Pat) in the office at M.D. - he sent a money order for $6.60 and promised the remainder after the 15th. I was going to send you the whole amount, but now I may as well save it until next week in the hope that I’ll be there personally.
The other letter was from sister Betty - I’ll enclose it. Once again I get a calling down for not writing to Mother first. I suppose I shall have to write a letter of explanation and try to clear myself.
I did write a letter home this afternoon mentioning the graduation pictures - if they can’t find one, they’ll send a negative, and Dave or someone can make a large one. I’d like your folks to have a larger one - framed.
The work here is dandy. I like it more each day. Of course, it isn’t hard, but at present - the end of the month - there are a million forms to fill out, stock keeping, bookkeeping, and a hundred little things to do to put the dispensary in tip-top shape.
The fellows here are just grand and I can see if I’m here for any length of time I’d be happy with the set up. The little hospital, as I’ve mentioned before, is a dandy little place. I’m over here now - privacy, clean, my own desk and everything for comfort. If only it wasn’t so far from you.
I got a better glimpse of the surroundings today. We’re beside a stretch of water and the land on the other side is very picturesque. Rolling hills, plentifully dotted with clumps of trees, fences sprawl over the hills pleasingly patterned - the whole giving a very peaceful picture. The sunrises and sundowns are gorgeous. The sky lights up rainbow - like, bold black-grey and white clouds tinted red and yellow from the sun gives a depth of unsurprising beauty to a true work of art. But, I’d better stop now before I become rapturous.
I did attend the wedding last night and it was quite an experience. 7th Day Adventists. It was nothing like weddings as we know them. Everyone sat around to a turkey dinner and afterwards sang a few songs. No drinks, no dancing, everyone looked quite solemn about the whole things. The minister acted as master of ceremonies throughout the evening. They were all very sociable of course, and it was a different way to spend an evening. We were home by 11:00.
Tonight, there is another show at the barracks that I want to see, ‘I Wake Up Screaming.’ After that a shower and to bed. I’m certainly getting lots of rest - I don’t have to show up here until 8:30 am which of course gives me plenty of time without rushing. I’ve not written half the letters I want to but I should have most of them away by the weekend.
About the ring - if theres something you like, be sure and get it and - again, I hope - that next week I’ll be there to put it on myself. I dearest, I wish I knew a refined, slightly different method of showing my love to you - but darling, I’m so happy about it all that I guess the words don’t really count.
I feel just swell - my cold is completely gone (I give the vitamins credit) and thinking of you all the time keeps me happy. My dear, I hope you are keeping well and you should be getting lots of rest (I guess you need it). I do want you to keep well.
I hope the folks are fine and getting used to the idea that there is another son in the house. And Lawrence - I hope he realized he’s got an elder brother, and certainly I dont want to tell him how to run his life, but I’d like to help him with any advice or any other way possible. I’d get a big kick of receiving a letter from him, so tell him to think about it. As far as Sam and Dora - I feel they are as close to me and us as anyone could be, and I shall always love them for it. Give my regards to them. Tell them I’ll write if I don’t get my leave. Also, regards to Minnie and Max, and to Minnie’s folks. If you see Hershies or Zelenys, of course my regards - I’ll let them know if I’m coming next week.
Well my own, I guess thats all today. I’ll write tomorrow again, and perhaps I’ll know more about the leave. Keep well and think of me. I love you.
Scotty
Zelda ~ Letter 4
SUNDAY DECEMBER 6TH, 1942
Dearest Scotty,
Sunday morning. All week I've been looking forward to it. However, there won't be any mail today. I don't like that. Because that's another thing I look forward to.
Scotty, I don't understand what you have't received any of my letters yet. Are the postal facilities so poor that you don't have a daily service? You'll probably receive all my letters at once.
I'm glad that you have found some secluded little place where you can write your letters and do your reading; I know you'll enjoy that.
You just can't seem to get away from that typewriter. In Toronto or in North Sydney. are you still taking the place of Medical Clerk, dear? But, what's the difference what you are doing, as long as you will be doing your work when you are actually posted.
I know my letters are going to sound funny to you dear until we get our mail straightened out. You will receive my letters with questions in them that you had probably answered (it will seem) ages ago. It is rather difficult to write when actually I haven't had any of my letters.
You were saying Scotty that you were going to inquire about your leave and ask if you would be allowed to leave on the seventh this month. If permission is granted, this letter won't even reach you in time. Do you now see what I mean about getting our letters straightened out? But, of course, you weren't sure about getting that furlough.
I most certainly would want you to go home to Winnipeg for at least a week, no matter how much I would like you here. I know your parents and friends are just as anxious to see you as I am, and I know they must have hundreds of things to say to you, and I can just imagine all the questions they will want answers to. I wish I was able to go to Winnipeg for that week, but we will make it some other time in the near future together. I'd just love to meet all your friends dear, although I will admit that I'll be a little scared. But maybe I won't be when I actually arrive in Winnipeg. I'll probably get used to the idea on the train. I'll have plenty of time to calm down then.
When your leave is granted, I believe it would be better to go home first (only my opinion), and then spent the last part of your furlough in Toronto. My reason for saying that is that when you're here, you won't have anything on your mind about still having to be in Winnipeg. And then you will be able to tell me how you spent your time in Winnipeg, personally - not by writing to me. But of course dear, it is up to you. You may do as you like, and how you feel it is best. You may have another opinion on the matter and your reason may be the better one.
Did you attend that wedding you wrote me about? If you did, don't forget to tell me about it.
I was downtown yesterday, but I didn't have a thing to buy. Min, however wanted me to go along with her. She had a few things to buy, so I went along.
Saw "To Be or Not to Be" with Jack Benny last night. Min saw it before and thought that is was very good, but I really didn't get such a great kick out of it.
I'm going over to Min's place tonight. She is having two couples over. But I'll drop in to see Sam and Dora for an half hour or so.
My auntie is over now with the two children, and it is pretty difficult for me to write more than a half a page without being interrupted. You should see the little baby, it's really a sight to see her walking across the room. She's a honey.
I miss you terribly, dear. I wish you were only posted to a place around here. At least you would be here on weekends.
I'll probably have a few letters from Winnipeg tomorrow. That is, from my relatives. I'll see what they have to say.
I believe I'll call up Lillian tomorrow, see how she is getting along. I imagine she would like to know how you are getting along also.
I'm not even dressed yet. I'm just sitting around in my housecoat. This is my lounging day, and the only day I'm a Lady of Leisure. It sure is a nice feeling, but one can be terribly lazy that way, and I don't think I like that very much.
Scotty, I wish I could express myself better than I do in my letters. I know you won't think much of them, after the letters you've received from some of your other friends. Maybe you will have some pointers for me after I see you again. If there is anything you would like to know that I haven't written you about, don't hesitate to ask me.
Nothing else to write now. I'll be waiting for your letter tomorrow. As usual, the family reminds me to send their regards to you.
Will write more tomorrow.
Love,
Zelda
Scotty ~ Letter 5
SUNDAY DECEMBER 6TH, 1942
My dearest Zelda,
The thought of having to work seven days a week here isn’t exactly pleasing – but then I’m not really working today, I just have to be around. And again, I think I’d rather be here than over at the Barracks. The boys here at the hospital (3 of them) are making a general cleanup and seem so hard at work that I almost feel guilty - they breaking their backs and me taking it easy. Oh well, this is far more important anyhow.
You may possibly wonder why I didn’t write yesterday. Here’s an account of yesterday. Got down to the hospital about 8:45, scrounge up some breakfast, and begin finishing up stock order forms. About 11 am, Bob and I went down to the orderly room to inquire about our leaves and as things stand today kiddo there is no reason why I shouldn’t get my leave starting this coming Thursday morning.
I repeat – unless something unexpected (such as a new posting for Bob or I ) turns up, I hope to leave here on the Wednesday evening train which should bring me to Toronto either Friday night or sometime Saturday. Of course you’ll know more definitely in a day or so – and I’ll wire, say, from Montreal to let you know the exact train.
Darling, I’m taking a ticket to Winnipeg and I do want to get home for at least a couple of days - there’s no telling when my next chance will be. I haven’t made up my mind just when I’ll go to Winnipeg, but we can decide when I get to Toronto. Honestly love, I can hardly wait until I see you again, and now that I’m so certain I’m going this week, each day seems years. I’m so happy that it hasn’t had to be a long stay away from you because feeling as I do I can imagine it would be more than I can stand.
Yes – to go ahead with yesterday. After lunch we were kept busy with more order forms and before we knew it, quitting time. One of the firemen who had stopped in for a chat Friday night told me to bring my washing over to the furnace room where he had a dandy washing machine - last night after supper Bob and I piled a bunch of washing and took it over. I turned my bags inside out and found stuff I’ve neglected – you should’ve seen the pile! We carted it over and were all through with the washing by 7:30. I was told it was dry enough to iron – and not wanting to leave it, decided to get it over with then write to you later.
I started pressing (me - the expert! I should stick to pounding pills, or go back to nitrating glycerine) at about 8 o’clock. Finish the shirts etc. by 10 and as I had a steam iron beside me decided to press my suits as well. By 11 o’clock I decided I better quit - take a shower and jump into bed. I read a little and woke this morning about 8 o’clock.
I’m feeling much more rested than in Toronto – even lazier – but really there’s no use taking it too hard if I’m going on leave in a day or two. I’ll wait until I get back and then get busy.
I sat down at the typewriter and started this letter to you but it seemed so impersonal that way that I scrapped it. It’s probably a little more difficult to read my handwriting, but I hope you’ll like it better. I always want you to write your letters rather than type write.
I haven’t seen anything more of the country hereabouts so I’m afraid I’ll let descriptive phrases rest this letter. I wouldn’t want you to think this is a heaven, because it’s not. But don’t let a Cape Breton-er hear you say it. They love their country. Later today Bob and I are going to make a cleanup of the dispensary so that should keep us busy all afternoon. I understand there is a singsong for the boys at the K.C. Hut tonight so that if I feel in the mood I’ll go to it and if I feel foolish enough I’ll probably do a recitation or two - got to keep up the morale you know.
I had a letter from brother and sister in the states (keep this confidential always - perhaps I’ve told you why, if not I will) But they are grand. I’m enclosing the note. We will both write to them when we get together. A letter also from the Goldbergs in Brandon ( I’ve told you of them). I’ll show you this letter when I see you. I’m going to write them in a day or two - Golly! ( your expression. I like it) will they be surprised and happy - they're grand.
May I warn you to get lots of rest in the next few days – not that I want to keep you from getting enough sleep, but I know I shouldn’t see enough of you in a little time will have. I sure hope Speedy will have his holiday at the same time I do – it would be nice to get together for some good times. He’s a dope, but a swell guy.
I sure wish you could come to Winnipeg with me – but I guess that will have to wait. Do you want to arrange something for Saturday night, as I intend on spending the weekend in Toronto? Perhaps leave Monday for the Peg and try and get back the following Monday – I won’t have to leave until the morning of the 27th to get back here in time, so we can figure out some such tentative arrangements.
G-d darling it’s almost too good to be true – I can hardly wait! Give my love to the folks, Lawrence and everyone. Keep well and may the powers that be see fit to allow us together so very soon. I love you so.
Scotty
P.S. Received two letters from you written December 1 and 1 - that’s only three altogether
Zelda ~ Letter 5
Dearest Scotty,
I was so very happy to hear from you today, to hear that you had at least received one letter from me. Scotty, if your leave does come through, this letter will probably not reach you.
Before I go any further, I must tell you that I received two wonderful letters this morning. One was from your Mother and the other from Anne. Two very nice letters. I would enclose them Scotty because I would like you to read them, but as I said before they may not reach you in time. So, I’ll just wait ’til you get here and then have you read them. It certainly was good of Anne to write to me first. Remember dear, you said that you thought I had better drop her a line first. They also sent me your picture. It was grand of them to go to the trouble of sending it and I must write them as soon as possible and tell them how much I appreciate their doing so. Scotty, my folks could hardly believe that it was your picture. They didn’t recognize you, all dressed up (I probably wouldn’t either if I saw you in civilian clothes). One of these days, you will have to surprise me - grow a moustache, and then come walking up to our place.
I certainly hope that your Mother has another picture like that of you, because it would have been alright if she had sent me the negative. I’m going to buy a frame for the picture tomorrow, that is if I can get an extra hour off for lunch. I’ll get a frame for the Hershies picture also.
Scotty, for the past ten minutes I’ve been sitting here, sort of staring into space. I don’t know why, but for a minute I couldn’t think of anything to write, yet my head is full of things and different thoughts that I would write about. I imagine I’ve just been dreaming, and I’d better snap out of it and continue with this letter. All sorts of thoughts had been running through my mind - what we’ll do when you get here; switched back to Winnipeg and thought about your parents and was trying to imagine what they would say when they saw me; again I was back to Toronto planning where we would go, and how to make the most of every minute that you are to be here. My brain is just a jumble mumble now.
Dear, I enjoyed reading Betty’s letter, I like the way she scolds you. After reading Anne’s letter and now Betty’s, I believe I’d be right in saying that they are both entirely different in character. There is such a great difference in both letters. But of course, I may be wrong, because after all one was written to me and the other to you, and people do write differently to a person they know well and to someone who is to become their future relative.
Dear, I don’t understand Betty. Did you tell Anne you were engaged to me before you wrote your Mother? I don’t remember that. I believe you told Anne about your girl friend only. And then she wrote you back, remember the letter you showed me. I believe your Mother understands dear, and I don’t believe she was hurt, it did happen so fast that we ourselves didn’t tell my parents who were right here any sooner. I believe Scotty that you wrote home first, and that they knew about it in Winnipeg before they did here. Of course they did. I remember now. When we wrote Dorothy and Danny Guskin (?) the little note, you told them that we were engaged, and that was Sunday. We didn’t even tell my folks until about Wednesday. But, what’s the difference now. They all know about it.
I was at Dora’s place last night for a few minutes (she was leaving for a concert). I told her that you may have your furlough and she was very pleased to hear it. She told me that she didn’t think that you would be going home to Winnipeg for a week. I told her that you were, but she said that she still didn’t think so. I do want you to see your Mother and Dad and all the others, and I know you’ll be looking forward to seeing Winnipeg again.
By reading your letters, I can tell that you are really enjoying your work out there. I’m so terribly happy. I hope when you get a definite posting you will enjoy your work as well, but lets pray its somewhere around here.
The description of your surroundings are certainly picturesque. They sound like something out of a poetry book.
There are quite a few things I must get done today. I have ironing to do again, I must call some of my friends on the phone, I have a few letters to write - I actually believe I’m busy. Honestly, they are such little things, but they must be done, and it is surprising the time they do take up. And truly I haven’t so very much time when I get home from work. You saw that yourself. Time does fly! I wish I had more time. I haven’t been had a chance to read a book for such a long time.
The radio is on now, “The Firestone Hour.” They are playing “The Dance of the Hours” now. Its beautiful, I wish you could hear it. Or perhaps you were listening?
I’m glad that Pat sent you at least half the money. You’ll probably be able to get the rest when you are here yourself.
It will be wonderful to see you again. I can hardly wait. Dont forget exactly what time you are coming. Write me. I must meet you at the station, and I shall be on time dear. I have your picture sitting up on the bookcase now, and I’m always taking a peek at it. I’m writing this letter on the bridge table in the living room.
I really must say goodbye for now darling, but I’ll write again tomorrow. Take good care of yourself and be the good boy your Mother and sister tell me you are (as if I didn’t know).
I miss you. All my love,
Zelda
Scotty ~ Letter 6
MONDAY DECEMBER 9TH, 1942 SIX O'CLOCK
My dearest Zelda,
I’ve been waiting for mail from you all day and was rather disappointed when none came. I hope everything is all right with you – and probably there will be a letter tomorrow. As I understand it, the air mail service to here is not too dependable.
You’ve no doubt received my letter talking about my leave and I’m happy to be able to tell you that just a few minutes ago the sergeant in charge of the orderly room told me that the leave had been approved. Tomorrow I’ll get busy getting cleared and should be able to leave sometime Wednesday and I hope to be in Toronto Friday night or Saturday.
You can understand that I’m rather excited about the whole thing and I’m very anxious to be on my way. There’s not a great deal to write about as you can imagine very little happens out this way.
Bob and I went to the “sing song”yesterday. It started at 8:30 and until 9:30 they saying nothing but sacred songs in which I naturally took delight. Then tea and sandwiches were served and things loosened up a bit and it was more like a singsong. Back to the barracks, a shower, and to bed by 11:30. This morning Bob shook me at 7:45 and I struggled off my bunk (top) to get dressed.
We are finally getting the books straightened out and they should be OK when I leave. Bob won’t be here to help me with them when I get back so we’re trying to get things in order now. In a while Bob and I are going to take a walk to town I’ll mail the letter and inquire about the fares and train schedules.
Dearest, I don’t feel like writing to everyone to tell them I’m coming in. Will you please let Hershey know - I’ll call the others when I get in.
Golly – I don’t know what to write about. I’m not thinking of much more than getting away on the sleeve and seeing you again. I should like to spend a couple of hours in Montreal on my way through either going or coming to see the relatives for at least a few minutes – but that will depend on the train connections. I don’t suppose I’ll meet speedy going home – I don’t know when his holidays start but I should see him somewhere on the way. I do hope there’s mail tomorrow as I must admit that I have a bit of a jealous streak in me that I try to keep hidden – it bothers me to think of a day being missed. Yes kiddo, tomorrow’s another anniversary and while we won’t be together the thought that we soon will be will keep me happy. This time we must have some sort of an official celebration. One for the folks in Winnipeg the news has spread like wild fire and everyone is calling home for a congratulations. I sure wish Toronto wasn’t so blessed far away from Winnipeg – or from here for that matter – oh well, I hope it won’t be too long until we can both make the trip again together. For tonight my darling, I send all my love.
Scotty
Zelda ~ Letter 6
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 15TH, 1942
I’m terribly sorry that I didn’t write you yesterday. You must have been looking forward to receiving a letter from me. Well, I had the best intentions of writing to you, but this is what happened Scotty. I got home about 7:30. I was at Percys, the dressmaker (that sounds better doesn’t it?) I had my supper, and then sat down on the couch to read the paper. Well, all I know is that when I walked into the parlour it was about 8 o clock and the next time I looked at my clock it was 10. I was so terribly tired dear, that I presume I dozed off for a couple of hours. When I woke up I was terribly dizzy and thought the best thing for me to do was go right to bed, properly. Scotty, imagine the idea of that train going in the opposite direction when I was standing in the doorway all along waiting for it to go by. We had better make sure in which direction it leaves the next time.
Did you have a good trip, dear? Was it comfortable on the train for you? Who was at the station to meet you. Did you write them that you were arriving. What did your mother say? I have so many questions to ask, and I am very anxious to hear all about everything. Did you give my love to your parents and tell them I’d love to see them?
Scotty, please tell your mother and Ann that I will write them as soon as I’m able to.
In the meantime, thank them both for their very lovely letters and tell them I greatly appreciated their writing to me.
Have you seen many of your friends yet? What did they have to say. Scotty, I received a letter from my cousin Anne Nezon today. She was very happy to hear about our engagement. I’ll let you see the letter when you get back here. She says that her brother in law knows you, that he worked out in the plant with you. I cant think what his name is, but he is married to Jenny Nezon. Do you know who I mean? Dear, you remember Marcia? I was at our party on Sunday. Her boyfriend is the accountant. Remember they were to be married in February? Everything has been changed. Cecil has to report to the Air Force this month, and their wedding is going to take place on Sunday the 27th. Yes, the day sounds rather familiar, the day you are leaving. Marcia called me at lunch hour today and told me to get my gown ready and everything in order for the big day. I was terribly surprised to hear that the date was set up about two months ahead of time. At any rate, I’ll tell you all about that also when you get back here, but the one important thing is dear, do you possibly believe that there is any sort of a chance of your arriving in North Sydney one day later. You know that I have to be bridesmaid and I certainly don’t want to go if you can’t be there. The wedding is in the afternoon, and the train to North Sydney is in the morning only. Or Scotty, when you left the last time did you have to live in the morning? Please let me know about that. I think I’ll call about that now. I’ll ask how many trains are going to Montreal. Perhaps there is one in the evening. I hope so.
Have you had the pictures developed? I don’t know why I keep on asking you so many questions, but I can hardly wait to hear about everything.
Its almost Thursday so it won’t be very long before I see you again. I really miss having you around all the time.
Scotty, I’ll have to work until after 7:00 on Tuesday. Remember, Al was talking to me about that. We have to get the upstairs and downstairs pays out by Wednesday morning instead of Friday. You see, Thursday we are having a Christmas party at work and naturally Friday we dont go to work at all. You’ll have to meet me Tuesday at work, we’ll have our supper out together and then perhaps you will keep me company until I am thru at work. I’ll work like a demon all day in order to be able to get through early enough.
I wrote my cousin Min Winocour who lives 427 Orchard Ave, to try to get in touch with you. Have you spoken to my uncle Lou yet? Did you give him our regards?
Scotty, if you feel you havent the time to see my relatives, don’t bother to, because I know you would rather see all your friends, and I dont blame you. See you everyone you want to see first, and then if you have any time at all to spare, call on some of my folks. If you still remember the addresses, the Nezons at 542 Flora Ave, The Germans at 524 Flora Ave, the Winocours at 427 Prichard, the Cohens at 952 Sherbrooke St, phone 25728. Many others but they are the most important. Did you have the cake for the folks? Tell them how sorry I was that they weren’t at the party to have it with us there. And I’ll bet your dad certainly had a swell cup of tea ready for you all. I certainly wish that I could have been there with you when you arrived home, Scotty. I can just imagine the scene. I can hardly wait to hear all about it from you.
Mother is sitting here now knitting another pair of socks for you. Are the other ones alright? I’m going to wash three of my sweaters now. I also want to wash my hair. I want to get everything done so that when you are here ill be able to give you all my time. I also must call Min. She phoned me a few minutes ago, but Mrs. Meslin told her that I was busy writing to you. Dear, do you believe that you will have a chance to write me even one letter? I would like to hear from you.
Scotty, page twelve. Let’s see you beat that. I probably could write another dozen pages, but I must not. I havent that much time. I’m sorry dear, but you probably haven’t the time to read that much either. You have far more important things to do.
Darling, give all my love to Mother and Dad, and to your brothers and sisters, and to all the others, and tell them that I am looking forward to meeting them. Ma, Pa and Lawrence send their regards to you and the rest of your family. Scotty, I really must go now. Don't forget, I love you.
Zelda.