"My Sweetheart:
Snow, snow, beautiful snow! Oh my, yes. And I neglected having a dark suit pressed because I planned to wear my gray one today. Oh, well, I'm not going anywhere except to the office.
Just a week from today we'll be together, dearest. And then the world will be beautiful regardless of the weather.
And I had planned to explore the place today- but that can wait. I'll work awhile and then see if I can get the second volume of my book. I wish I hadn't started it- most of it is absolutely revolting- and I'm not of Puritan stock either. He draws such long, detailed pictures of indecency and immorality. His psychology is interesting, as I said before, but I prefer Woodworth or Woodward of whatever Bishop's favorite is. And this, mind you, is the book that supposedly literary people are acclaiming as the best of the age. Barnum was right. Forgive my raving, but I love books and hate to get stung this way.
There's nothing much doing in Dubuque during Lent. "The Student Prince" is to be here next week and I am hoping to see that. It's to be given at the Grand Opera House. Can you feature the name. I told you this was an old town.
Sweetheart, I'm so anxious to see you. I'm just aching to hold you close and heat you whisper "Do you?" It's seemed so long, dearest. And I've been so lonesome for you. Your letters are wonderful but they can't compare with being able to talk to you, to hold you close.
Why is it that fate pulls so many people apart just when they've found happiness? Perhaps it's her way of testing love- perhaps it's just cussed meanness on her part. Well, we've been separated almost twice as long as we ever went together- and my mind hasn't been altered a particle- except that I love you more.
I must go down to the office and then see if I can't find a good dinner. To be continued.
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"Honey dear:
Just as I was leaving Mr. Cooper invited me to have dinner with them. nI jumped at the chance and didn't go down to the office till nearly six. And such a mess I found! All our leading toll circuits were out on account of the sleet. I stayed till after eleven, not that there was anything I could do- but out of curiosity- to see just how the business was handled.
Had an interesting talk with Koolbeck this evening. He was wondering when the Chi Alpha formal was- thought he might go down. I told him it was last week- I happened to know because Herschel wrote that Celia had gone. He offered to introduce me to some Dubuque girls but I didn't warm to that idea- somehow! Everything I can spare for dates- both of time and money- can be so much better invested elsewhere. Guess where.
All together it has been a fairly interesting day, although I'm rather blue and lonesome tonight. You're so far away, dear, and since your near accident I'm imagining all sorts of things happening to you! You'll be careful, won't you darling?
You may be sure I thanked my lucky stars I didn't have to get out today and set poles. Gang here have been out since early morning for the service must go on.
I wish I could kiss you goodnight, sweetheart. More than once. Humans are born wanters, I guess, but I wouldn't be human if I didn't want you, dear. I'm glad you don't realize how sweet and wonderful you are, Jean. But I do want you to realize that I know- and that I tell it in all sincerity. You're the most wonderful thing that ever happened- and thank heaven- you happened to me.
Always and always,
Bob
P.S. I love you. Good night, sweetheart.