This is the first letter in a series of 17 between a Navy man and his wife during the second world war.  I "won" these on Ebay about fifteen years ago and I thought they would make some interesting reading. 

I have left out their last names since there may well be people still alive who are discussed in these letters

Mr. George C- to Mrs. Ivey C- (his wife)

14 March 1944

My Very Sweet.

It certainly would be nice if I did not have to write this to you tonight - but could say it to you instead that it was grand being with you those all too short hours – but we did make the most of them I feel and it felt wonderful too.

The weather was lovely on my arrival  altho’ I understand it rained cats and dogs Saturday and Sunday. They have the heat turned on in the hotel, but I don’t think it necessary, it is quite comfortable outside. Of course it is the same old place and outside of the warm and beautiful sun, it is quite dreary.

As it looks now, I might have to be in [unreadable] again this week and – of course the ship might not be finished by then but there also is the chance that it might be. If it is so, I’ll let you know in time enough to meet me there. We’ll see how it works out, anyway. Don’t get your hopes up too high though, just in case [unreadble] goes instead of me or the job is not ready.

It is hard to write and express how nice it was there, and one of these days we will make it for a long time and be together.

Well I went back to catching fish again, but I was told we might have [unreadble] tomorrow. That will help break up this run on fish a little. I did so enjoy the meals there – you are a wonderful cook and no mistake - and your mother is right, I'd sooner eat home than anywhere else.

I do hope your cold is nothing worse than the sniffles. Do take care of yourself and don't let it get you down.

As soon as the plumber finishes the sewer be sure and let me know how much it is and I'll send you the money to take care of it.

Emily wants to be careful about the gas business because if they catch her buying it she will loose all her tickets and perhaps won't get any for several months. She is just as guilty as the fellow selling it in the eyes of O.P.A.

Give my love to Gail with a big hug and kiss. Talk quietly to George just as though you were talking to me and tell him that I love him and expect him to do great things when he grows up and that I know he will - if only he discplines himself now for that part in life later on, that it takes self control now to get in shape for the future.

God bless you my sweet for I do love you every little inch

Always

George

P.S. Have a ship to go on tomorrow and it might be the last of the week before I get back. Will write to you there if not sooner - love G 

 These letters will be posted as an uninterrupted sequence on my other blog Dead Letter Box