July 11, 1944 Tuesday

[From Marjorie]
1941 Grape

Dear Folks,

I started to write you last nite but the sandman got the better of me. Right now it’s 5:45 p.m. and we’re witnessing a typical sand, hail, rain, and electric storm. Real close, too! Freakiest things—gets very black, wind starts to blow, whirlpools of sand rush down the street, hail stones as big as marbles fall—all accompanied by thunder and lightning—then finally the “rain pours down on me”! Definitely not a New England one! One sees it coming for hours and miles and when it does come, it is very close—no mts. to divert its course.

Received a letter addressed by Mrs. R and written by Mrs. N today—wonderful collaboration up there, I’d say. Mom has asked a lot of questions so for hers and your benefit here are the answers:

No. 1—Re: air mail vs. regular mail? A. the former maybe a day or two shorter.

No. 2—Re: eating in diner on train? A. Only had 2 meals—breakfast Friday and Saturday mornings. Other times stops were so I could eat in stations—Friday and Saturday noons (St. Louis and Fort Worth respectively).

No. 3—Re: meaning of Wooten? A. man’s name. When I was at 1516 ½ No. 3rd, their home was right across the street. Very beautiful brick estate—lawns with sprinkler system underground, colored caretakers, wonderful cars, Venetian blinds, and lovely shade trees. But don’t ask me what kinds yet!

No. 4—Re: change of time on way west. A. Not sure. When I woke up Friday morning, it was an hour earlier than when I went to sleep. Probably somewhere between Buffalo and St. Louis. Definite, aren’t I?

No. 5—Condition of baggage upon arrival? A. Fine. It arrived the following Wed. or Thurs., I would say. $6.64.

No. 6—Nearness to Mrs. Patterson and others? Distances? A. Living in same house that Mrs. P did! She returned home last Fri. and we wanted their apt. but one couple too late, per usual. But thanks to my very wonderful psychological husband we got this room. (More about that later.) Probably about a mile outside center of city—maybe like upper Court St. Very systematic, but different to me, way in which town is laid out.
[Sketch map of Abilene with street grid and comments]

Distances mean very little, tho; there is such good bus service. Run to about everywhere every half hour.

Now, about our room.
[sketch with furniture layout]
It is the coolest room in house; very light; nice furniture; good lighting; and away from rest of the house. We may do light lunches and breakfasts—have an ice box of our own so I can keep peanut butter on hand! Also, milk, cokes, bread, fruit, etc. Stuff for cold drinks and snacks mostly. It’s a little steep but maybe my husband can talk ‘em down when he gets back. Also, excellent bus service, as I’ve said before.

Today I went out to register at ACC (Abilene Christian College) for a music appreciation course. Guess I’ve told you this before, so don’t read it if I have. My course if from 9:30 to 11 with a blind professor about 35—Alea Templeton Burford. Also I rented the use of a piano out there to be used when and as long as I want for only $3 for 6 weeks in private, individual practice rooms. There are probably a half dozen or so.

After class I shall probably practice or go to the libe which is a very good one. I think it will be wonderful. I’m looking forward to starting tomorrow very much.

Also today I got a permanent at a very nice shop run by a man—“Blondie’s.” Appointment was at 1:30 and I was out at 4:30. Very short time and fast! It’s a feather cut type. Short and cool—just what one wants and needs for this weather—101 degrees Sunday at 4:30 p.m. and that or over yesterday. Now that we’ve hd this shower, it’ll be cooler for an hour or so!

Maybe you’d like to know about your son now. Perhaps you’d think I was down here alone. I’m beginning to wonder, however. Guess I told you or Mom or someone he’s out on this division test near Camp Bowie. He left last Thursday and expects to return next Monday or Tuesday. I had letters from him written Friday and Saturday but didn’t know as he’d be able to write again. Even tho we haven’t been together too awfully much, we don’t regret my coming a bit. I’m glad to be this near and see him whenever possible and I do believe he’s a different fellow for having me here. It makes all the difference in the world. The only possible regret we have is leaving Mommy. Hope she’s getting along O.K. She’s so brave about it all—dear soul.

Well, Mrs. Terry just called in saying they were going out to a party and that I could use their kitchen for my supper and play their radio. Typical friendly Texans.

So long now—how’m I doin’ for length of letters? Be good—Love to all,
Marjorie

My questionnaire:
How’s Carlton, “Dad” Russell, Bob, Aunt Flossie and Uncle Carl? What is happening to them?
What’s the story on Nancy and Jerry?
How’s Laura et al? Must write sometime—ashamed I haven’t, but I’ve had to house hunt—no picnic, either!
Thought I was all thru, didn’t you? Ha, Ha!
Awful about the circus—read every account with interest.
Haven’t got any “Sentinels” yet but it’s because my husband hasn’t been able to get them in. And he isn’t forgetful either—much!
Going to get a Sunday N.Y. Times tomorrow (I hope). Quick service!
Guess I’m thru now.
‘Bye again.
Here I am again.
What’s the story on pictures? Couldn’t understand Mom’s list.
Also I’d like these things, please. We’ll send the postage money.
Grill toaster
Hot water heater
No, guess I’ll wait to see what Wallace has to say. Could send along the radio, tho, please.
It’s 7:05 and it’s still lightning and thunder like nobody’s business—right on my door step!
Note envelope: don’t you think I write like Wallace? Don’t answer that!