November 20, 1943
Dear Mom, Pop, Pete, Lin, and Crellie,
How is California? This Texas climate is really something. The afternoon and evening
are nice and warm, but in the early morning it gets very cold. As a result everyone has a
continual cold.
We got passes this weekend, and most of the fellow went into town. I haven't gone in
yet, but I will just as soon as I get some money. The latest latrine rumor is that we get travel pay
tomorrow.
I have discovered some things that I need. First a silver or gold dog tag chain,
nice and thin, but masculine, and about twenty-six inches (very approximate) in length.
It is arranged like this, presumably so that the tags swill not act as a bell in enemy
territory: The tags are about two inches long.
Second, don't we have a little iron around somewhere? I could certainly use
one, and it would be a source of profit. Suntans, especially, have to be ironed
extremely often. We won't wear Suntans until summer unless we go to some place
like California or Florida.
Other things, such as a fancy hat, shoes, and pants that match my blouse, I had better
buy myself when I become solvent. The first payday comes between the 1st and 15th of December.
Tell me how the garden is getting along. How does our new front walk look? Linda
should keep me informed on her Scout activities.
I'll get no pass on Thanksgiving. There's a good chance of a three day pass on
Christmas, though.
I wish the powers-that-be would hurry up and give us the rest of the tests. I'd like to
know what is coming off. By the way, I'm sending a clipping I mentioned in the last-setter
instead of the whole paper, because I couldn't get a two cent stamp. Also this is the last airmail
letter until I get paid.
Give my regards to Sadie and Jerry.
It's probably about time Pete washed the car. That should be a job of the oldest of the
offspring available.
Be good.
My love to you all,
Linus
November
20, 1943
