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Rev. Dr. William M. Nesbit
15 Frederick Street
Naugatuck, ConnecticutDear little Girl: So glad when your letter arrived this A.M. Papa and I are sort of in a "whirl" with the War News. We would so like to have you here - to talk it over. Before I forget, I would take a Bromide Tablet - just before you go to bed - when you have these "blue-books". It gives you a more restful sleep.
We have listened to the news - most of the day. Papa was down at Mr. Rayt[...]ich - and his married son and family are in Honolulu and he hasn't heard anything. I suppose it will be some time -before he hears. To-night we were all "a twitter" when the news came over - that there was to be a black-out on the Western Coast. We didn't know just what to think - but now they say it was only a test - and some say that the 2nd alarm was real - so we are not quite sure about it. Heard Roosevelt, Churchill and MacKenzie King to-day over the radio. It certainly is a wonderful thing - In the other war, we would have to wait for days for a single news item.
Wouldn't I like to hear - the news at Mt. Holyoke - You always get more news which is "personal" than we do. I do hope those parents that you spoke of are safe.
Papa and I are very proud of your mark in American History - we have been proud of you - for so many things ever since you entered. As I understand it - you take your Blue Book in versification on Wednesday. To-morrow, I may go and have those other two teeth in the upper jaw extracted - and then I can have the plate made. But it depends upon the weather - and whether we get paid some etc. etc.
It looks as if Earl and those men who have been at the Camps will all be drafted. We are very short of men - and they say the lack of men is "critical". I hope you have a good time at the Westover dance. It will be quite an experience.
The Fair was a wonderful success. Mr. Barker has already given Mr. Perley Brown a check for $250.00 and has one for $100.00 - besides - with more to come and the Thanksgiving Offering is up to $58.00 - and it will equal last year's. So we are very happy over it. Mrs. Roosevelt made one of the finest speeches on the war that I have ever heard. If you have time - will you inquire about the Dinosaur's footsteps. Some people tire you out - she keeps asking me what you have found out and what the price is etc. etc. I feel so sorry for the mothers and fathers.
ThePeoples anxiety about their folks in the war is so terrible - you seem to live a year in a few days. I did, when Uncle Harold went over.Mr. Brown resigned to-night as Fin. Secretary and Mr. Long - will take it over until they get - a new secretary. Work for the Church is alright when you haven't any dishes to-do - or office work - or anything else - Mrs. B. almost made Mildred late -
backat lunch time driving back to the office because Mrs. Brown said that she just couldn't leave the lunch knives and forks - unwashed - until she drove back - about 5 minutes - maybe ten. Queer folks! I wonder if St. Peter will say, "Come right in, you did your dishes after every meal - never mind about the little acts of kindness - you didn't have time to-do - as long as the dishes and silver were done."Did you hear this joke about the bride - who had cooked dinner.
"Husband - "This roast beef tasts queer" Wife - I don't know what is the matter with it - I burned it a little - but I rubbed it with Unguentine right away." Also, a child's version of the 23rd Psalm. "The Lord is my chauffeur, I shall not walk."It is going to rain - the water is boiling out of the kettle. I guess my teeth will rest to-morrow.
I will close now.
Lots and lots of love.
Mamma.Dec. 8 - 1941.
[Handwriting change]
The letter of instruction which I enclose should go to Filene's along with the check. They should be fastened together. [They are no longer with the letter]
Ever-doting
Pop.Dec. 8/41