Wallace's Tent on Salisbury Plain

Wallace's Tent on Salisbury Plain
Writing a letter with candle on clipboard, see Oct. 16 letter

Thursday, March 13, 2008

March 13, 1944 Monday

Dearest Honey,

Nothing like O.C.S. for quick changes. After a week at solid gunnery, we turn into desk workers as we start our map reading course. We will be with the tactics dept. from now on. And just so as not to let the pressure off as we start what is actually a new school, this first course in it is the key subject here. One flunk in it, and no questions are asked. That’s all there is to it. But I’m not seriously concerned about it yet. Most of our gunnery marks are in—all mine are 85 or better. Got the 85 in the big “County Fair.” I am more than happy with it. Map reading lasts only a couple of weeks, but takes every minute of those days, except for D&D.

Of all things, I got a letter from Bob today! Full of wit and very enjoyable. Seems reasonably contented where he is—altho his situation is one I would personally not prefer to my own. But that is all a matter of taste. Gosh, it’s really been a long time since I have had a good session with old Russ. Will be good to see him again.

Yes, Cedar Creek was a dandy hideaway—we will have to enjoy the natural scenery of Kentucky together someday. It has hills and valleys of a very different kind than New England, but very neatly formed. And the woods are clear with no underbrush—cedar trees. And there is a slight mist in the morning that makes me think of the way I’ve always pictured the place where Rip Van Winkle met the dwarfs bowling. In general, it’s almost as nice as a WPA picnic ground!

Strictly speaking, this is a 17 week course. We get our commissions then. But the month at the Replacement center is sort of half part of the course, too, and that comes after the 17.

Have you ever thought that there might be some reason for your hair being at its best when I’m away? ‘Course, I don’t know what it’s like then, but I have always been thoroughly satisfied with it. I wish it was here now—with you under it. Gee, we’re going to be happy. I can’t wait to see you again. Just thinking of it makes me feel good.

I love you always,
Wallace

P.S. Saw the movie “Lady in the Dark” yesterday and it made me homesick for some psychology. Very beautiful picture, too.

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