1945 1945 1945 1945 1945 1945 1945 1945 1945 1945
Free mail Jan 1, 1944
censored Mon. 1 P.M.
Paris
Dearest Jean,
Your letter of Dec 20 arrived to-day, it sure is great to hear from you.
Nice to know that you received the perfume and that you liked it. I was afraid that rough handling would damage it. You may expect the package with the baby's dresses shortly. If you haven't received that German helmet up to now, I doubt very much if it will get through. I'm not very much concerned over the helmet. I haven't forgotten the
Rosary beads, will try to get them some day this week.
Sorry to hear about Caroline, is she all-right now. Tell here she ought to leave fence-climbing for Sally(masc.)
Did Pete have to do his own house-painting again? That's the only time it will be painted.
That baby of ours is really coming along. Keep up the good work. I regret that I am not home to watch her grow up. I'll be around for the next one. I hope.
I am pleased to hear that the baby is receiving so many Christmas presents. Thank all those donors, for me, won't you.
Don't you worry about Frank, he will be all-right. And don't worry about those set-backs you have been reading about in the papers as it may be pure military strategy. How else could one get those Germans out from the Siegfried line.
You tell about the Christmas cards you received, didn't you or your folks get the ones I sent. I thought I had sent them out in time.
Is Tony Romano in California now? Greetings from California could mean just that.
Yes I remember the soldier, Nile. So, he's in Germany. I hear its pretty rough up that way.
Thanks for the cigarettes you are sending, don't worry about the brand, any brand will do. Keep sending them till I tell you to stop.
Hope you all had a happy New Year.
Love to all
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 6, 1944
Censored Sat-nite 7 P.M.
Paris
Dearest Jean,
This afternoon I received your 186th letter dated November 22nd it took exactly forty-five days to reach me. I notice from your letter that you are laving the same trouble.
It is going to be very difficult to get in touch with Frank now, as he is continuously on the move, and secondly I don't tale those trips any more, they are mostly local ones now. The only hope remaining is for him get a leave and come to Paris. The same goes for Jim Barra and Frank Tasso. Incidentally I wrote to both Franks and have not had a response as yet. Things are getting very hot up where they are at, therefore I don't expect a reply until everything cools off.
If I were you, I wouldn't worry about Jim Barra's mother or sister. You have your own troubles. I feel sorry for Nancy, that is; the attitude taken towards her by her mother-in-law.
Most of the boys here feel that if its their time to go there is nothing can be done to prevent it, fatalism it is called I believe, and a darn good way to feel, it makes everything a lot easier too.
No, please don't send me the macaroni, or paste instead make it cigarettes. Thanks for suggesting it though.
According to this letter, you had not received the perfume as yet, though in one of your other letters you stated you finally received it; What I would like to have cleared up is whether or not you received the money order and the German helmet. Its to soon to expect the gift with the babys dresses. Hope I got the right size
You ask, how far must the Allies advance, before the Germans quit. My opinion is that that they won't quit until the Siegfried line is completely taken by the Allies. That seems to be the only obstacle in the way of surrender. It may happen sometime this fall.
No, I haven't heard from Dan, just that one letter I wrote you about it in one of my previous letters.
I can't answer that question concerning Patton and the 3rd army. We will have to let it go at that.
How is my little baby coming along? You're my baby too, how are you?
How did you enjoy the holidays?
Give my best wishes to all, Mom, pop Joey Pete & Marion, Roy & Mary and all my other friends.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 9, 1945
Censored Tues-nite 8 P.M.
Paris
Dear Jean,
I received your package containing the Chesterfield cigarettes, the salami, mushrooms etc. The package arrived in excellent condition as usual. Thanks a million, honey.
The mail situation is the same. Plenty of room for improvement.
I am still in the best of health and doing fine.
Haven't heard from Frank as yet, nor have I heard from anyone. Wonder why!
There isn't much news here. Everything is nice and quiet. Oh yes, some of the boys claim they heard alone Jerry flying over-head a few nights ago. However he didn't leave any souvenirs behind. That's the only news from this end.
How is everyone back home? My little baby O.K.
Some of the boys are talking over their experiences, this always happens when we sit down to write letters, some are interesting some are not.
Has Danny shipped out yet, if so do you know which way he is heading.
Have you seen Roy and Mary lately? How are they getting along?
Give my best wishes to all and hope to be seeing all of you real soon.
Beginning to weary of this life!
Be seeing you.
Your loving husband
Sal.
(enclosure deux francs, cinq francs, dix francs, vingt francs)
Free mail January 12, 1945
Censored Paris
Dearest Jean,
A few lines to let you know that I am in the best of health and doing fine.
The weather has been pretty bad of late. It's been snowing for the past two days. All told its only six inches deep.
The mail situation is the same. No mail to-day. No mail for anybody.
I had some pictures taken two weeks ago which I am enclosing in this letter. Some are pretty good others are not.
There isn't much doing here, therefore very little news to relate.
How is everything back home? Have you heard from Frank?
How have you been lately? Are you feeling all-right? And are you gaining weight?
How is my little baby coming along?
Jean I'm going to say good-bye for now. Give my best wishes to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 14, 1945
Censored Paris
Dearest Jean,
Yesterday your Christmas package (#5) arrived. It was in excellent shape. Thanks a million, honey! Thank your mom and dad also as I am sure they had something to do with it also.
Last night at about ten o'clock the boys and I had a snack, we opened a can of chicken and pineapple, they were both delicious.
Did you ever receive the helmet or the baby clothes? I also enclosed some French money and German money in an envelop. Did you ever get that? I know that you like foreign money for souvenirs and I have tried to pick some up. If I can pick up some more I will send them on to you.
Well, its stopped snowing. But it don't seem as if it is going to melt. The weather here doesn't vary much, as a rule if its cold in the morning it remains that way all day long.
Last night "Marlene Dietriech" put a show on for the boys. I didn't attend, so I can't tell you anything about it. However some of the boys said they enjoyed it.
How is everything back home? How is baby Lucille? How is Joey?
Give my best wishes to all.
Thanks again for the package and keep sending me some cigarettes.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 16, 1945
Censored Paris
Dearest Jean,
I received two of your letters to-day dated Dec.27th and 29th also a package and letter from Roy and Mary.
Your letter was very interesting concerning the Christmas holidays. I sure wish I had been home to help fix the tree. I'll be home for the next one, or else!
I would have liked to have seen the expression on Lucille's face when she saw the tree all lit up and when she reached for the toys.
So she is now the proud possessor of eleven teeth, pretty good for her age, isn't it. Don't forget to take her to the dentist regularly, as I want her to have good teeth. If possible try to get her a toy piano, so she can play with it. You know, as soon and as young as possible, she is going to get some instructions on the piano. I really want her to be good at it.
Its all-right with me if you want to do a little work to earn extra money, go right ahead and lots of luck.
I believe I told you in one of my previous letters that the air-raid we had here caused very little damage. That's all I can tell you.
That article you sent me explains why we are not getting any cigarettes, only they minimized it quite a bit.
Have you received the Stars & Stripes I sent you? Have also sent you a few Yank magazines. You should find something in them concerning Frank's outfit.
Will you tell Mary Acito that I sent her a bottle of perfume. I wrote her a Vmail and wrote a post script that I was sending it to her, however I wrote it very small and it may not photograph well. I hope she likes it.
Glad to hear that you finally received the helmet, money order and perfume. All that you have coming to date is the baby dresses. Hope you get them soon.
Maybe Larry is coming home on a furlough you can never tell one day from another whats going to happen in this man's army. Frank is due to go home on a furlough too. Maybe they will both be home at the same time
I am sorry to hear that Tommy Guarracci has gotten himself into trouble again. Its going to be awfully hard on his wife and kiddies. The worse part of it is that the kids are all at an age now when you can't keep the truth from them. What in hell is wrong with Tommy anyway.
Jean, give my best wishes to all and hope to be seeing you all real soon. Love from - Your loving husband
Sal.
Vmail January 20, 1944
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
Your #1, Xmas package arrived yesterday and your typewritten letter of the 4th of January can to-day.
The package was in good shape. I believe that accounts for all nine of them, or am I mistaken. Thanks a million, honey!
I certainly am anxious to see those moving pictures of the baby. Bet they come out swell.
No don't send me any subscriptions to papers. If you did, due to the bad mail situation I would probably receive ten copies one day and none for two weeks. Thanks anyway.
Yes, we have had a few reverses, so what! That is to be expected, now that our armies are on German soil. Those Jerries aren't as weak as some people believe. They have plenty of fighting power left.
Don't ever try to compare England with France. If it were to rain here twenty four hours a day I would still prefer France to England. Incidentally it has stopped raining, and we now have eight inches of snow.
If I were home I would have given the baby a good spanking for locking herself in the bathroom, the way she did. Don't you dare!
I'll send you the newsletter from my plant whenever I receive it, and in the same breath I would like to say remember me to the Friscia family.
Its funny but I have never received an answer to the letters I sent Larry, yet he claims to have answered them. They may get through some day.
I received a letter from my cousin Angie, she writes a pretty good letter too. I will try to answer her letter to-morrow.
I am enclosing a snap-shot taken by the boy who always talks of Pearl Epstein. He had a very good camera. I had some more pictures taken while it was snowing, so if the come out, I will send then on to you. Did you receive the photos I sent in one of my previous letters?
Mary Acito's bottle of perfume is on its way. Hope she likes it! Oh, yes, I also sent a bottle to Fred's, (that's the fellow who has been sending me packages) girl friend. I wish I could send a bottle to all my friends but its so darn expensive that it makes it quite impossible. I hope they understand and don't feel slighted.
Glad to hear that everything is O.K. back home. Don't you or your mom worry, we will all be home before you know it. It just can't last much longer.
Good-night Jean
Your loving husband
Sal.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp January 27, 1945
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
Received your letter of the fourteenth and very glad to hear from you.
How are your making out at the dentist? Are your teeth O.K. now
Before I go any further I would like to let you know that I have sent you another bottle of perfume, also a gold holy medal for the baby. The medal is a gift to the baby from a woman in Versailles, one whom I had befriended a long time ago. Don't get any ideas, she's happily married and has seen forty-five winters. She also purchased the perfume, for which I paid her. Will tell you the whole story when I get home.
We had a very bad holiday week. For one thing we lost our master seargent, he was riddled by machine gun bullets from one of our own men when he failed to halt at the command of the sentinel. That's all I can tell you, the rest will have to wait until---.
I've a feeling this war is drawing to a close. The newspapers say the Russians are ninety one miles from Berlin, if true it should be all over very shortly.
It great to have Larry coming home, hope he makes it real soon too. To date I have never received any replies to my letters to him.
No, I don't need a wallet as I still have the one you gave me and its in good condition. I could use the bracelet. Have my name engraved on it, Sal Acito, on the reverse side your loving wife Jean. Thanks a lot honey.
Tell Joey, I wish him lots of luck in his new venture.
Darn right I want a radio that plays records, and we will also get everything the baby needs.
You were a pretty good cook even before I left, but I never had the sense to let you know.
I received a letter from your brother Frank. He is in the best of health and hopes he can come home soon. He enclosed Pat Barrella's address. I will look him up the first chance I get.
I guess the baby will be surprised to see her daddy when he comes marching home. Don't worry though, I'll be gentle with her.
If we teach her to play pinochle she never will make much of a player so we will have to let pop teach her.
Tell mom I don't need any clothes, you probably have gathered as much from the pictures I sent you in one of my previous letters. We are comfortably dressed at all times.
I guess Dan expects to ship out soon, which way is he heading. Got any idea.
So long for awhile give my best wishes to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Will let you know as soon as your package arrives. Thanks again.
Free mail January 29
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
The mail is finally coming thru. To-day I received seven letters dated Dec 2nd to Jan 2nd . Four of them from you. They are beautiful cards, very thoughtful of you. A letter from Mary, a card from Helen and one from Mry. Ray. I will try to answer them all as soon as possible.
Its very strange that my sister Tessie has suddenly stopped writing. Wonder why?
Right now I am trying to answer your letter dated the first of January. Some of your questions have already been answered in my previous letters.
I'll see what I can pick up for Emeline and Bettina. Will let you know how I make out. Don't send me any money as I believe I can manage it.
Artie has already grown up, six feet tall, I can hardly believe it. Give him and his folks my best wishes, also Sis.
Did you receive the baby dresses, and the snapshots I had enclosed in an letter. I have also sent you another bottle of perfume, I told you about that in my last letter.
Oh, yes, I'd almost forgotten, I received a card from the Friscia family. Tell them I said "Thanks." Well that's all for now.
Best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Keep the cigarettes a coming. Thank you.
Vmail February 4, 1945
Censored Paris
FRANCE
A
VALENTINE
TO
MY
WIFE
Your loving husband
Sal.
(one franc is worth 2 cents)
Vmail Feb 5, 1945
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
A few lines to let you know that I am in the best of health.
I received two of your letters, yesterday, and one from Danny.
I have sent you another package with the rosary beads, two lipstick tubes, some coins and a handkerchief, also included are a bottle of perfume for Emeline and one for Bettina with my compliments.
How does the baby look in those dresses?
The rate on those coins: one franc is worth two cents.
Will write you a letter soon.
Your loving
Sal.
Vmail February 5, 1945
Paris
Censored
Dear Jean,
This is the letter following the Vee mail as I promised.
Besides the two letters I received yesterday I have another one which came to0-day dated Nov 22nd, it was sent air-mail too. I am going to try to answer all three of them. This is in answer to yours of Nov.
I can't imagine what the reason is that Frank doesn't get a furlough home, unless its because he is essential to his outfit. Anyway I think Frank wants a permanent furlough home, none of this temporary stuff. I thought you knew right along what army he is in. You are correct he is in the ---army.
That German helmet, the former wearer is beyond all hell and sympathy, furthermore he will never ever be able to harm another American soldier, nor will he be able to disturb the peace again. He is dead. No, I did not kill him. Someone else did. Sure he had a family, probably a wife and baby too. But this is war, there are no such things as sympathy and principles, its just a case of kill or be killed. Its just man gone mad, the whole world has gone beserk. Ant not a sane man around who can stop it. For the present anyway.
I too, have noticed the beautiful art on those francs, as a matter of fact everything these French do is beautiful. Their monuments are gorgeous, a real tribute to the French sense of originality. The English by contrast are mediocre.
By the way, I am getting along pretty good in my French now, my pronunciation has improved, but I'll be darned if I know the spelling and my grammar is very poor. Picture my uncle Angelo speaking English, change the mane to Sal and you have a fairly good idea what I sound like when jabbering in French. They understand me, I they, so everythings O.K.
Now in answer to the seventh of January.
So pop is playing cards with Joey and his friend. Don't tell me who won, let me guess, heck. I don't have to guess, I know who won, pop.
Glad to hear that you are gaining a pound a week, but for God's sake I hope you know when to stop. Enough is enough.
Yes I heard from Frank but I told you about that in one of my previous letters. Since then no news. When sending me cigarettes include whatever you please you have been doing all-right so far.
And now for Jan 21. Don't let those war casualities get you, you may rest assured that the Germans are displaying more gold stars than the Americans.
Tell the D'anolfo's I said thanks. And that I wish to be remembered to them also. That is good news about the Russians, latest reports put them thirty-five miles from Berlin. Now at last we can visualize this war coming to an end.
Did I really pick out the right sizes for the baby. I was fearful lest they be to small.
Aw, let her sleep with them if she wants to. Whats a couple of dresses.
Go ahead and buy the shades for those lamps, if you wish. I think they need them.
Once again,-the franc is valued by the U.S government at two cents. Theoretically they are right, practically they are wrong. The franc to the Frenchman is worth one-half a cent. I will try to make it a little simpler, with our two cent franc, which the army pay us, when converted into purchasing power is worth only one-half a cent. It retains its value of two cents only if we don't spend it. I know, its clear as mud. Mud; oh yes, that's the stuff we walk around in all day.
Now for my letter; I am feeling fine and getting along swell.
I mentioned in my Vee-mail, that I was sending you another package. I'll repeat what is in it. The rosary beads, two lipsticks, a handkerchief and some more coins. These are for you. Then there are two bottles of perfume one for Emiline and Bettina per your request.
The beads which I had sent your mother a long time ago were purchased in Le Mans for ninety franc ($1.80) at a time when we were chasing Germans across France. The beads I am sending you cost 340 franc ($6.80). They are hard to get here hence the high cost. I hope you like them. Anything else your desires my love. And don't request me, because Uncle Sam, politely, but firmly refuses to grant your request, that is for the present anyway. In a few months he is going to disposess the whole lot of us, and send us back to the drudgery of having breakfast in bed, steak for dinner and chicken for supper and ice-cream for dissert, and having to pay fifteen cents for a pack of cigarettes again. I could go on and on with these 'ands' even though I know its bad grammar.
Yes, its really going to be rough on us when we come back home. Just think, you won't have me writing you any more letter.
Well Jean, its getting late as it always does at this hour, so I will have to close with love to all.
Continue taking good care of the baby in the present as you have done in the past. Lots of luck, and keep your chin up.
Be seeing you soon.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Don't forget the cigarettes, this is just in case the post office clerk wants a written request,
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6cents airmail stamp Paris
Censored France
US Army Stationary Feb. 7, 1945
My dear Jean,
Received yours of the 31st of Jan. yesterday. Pretty good service, don't you think.
What's the matter with that baby of mine don't she know enough to go to sleep at night. Just wait till I get home, I'll fix her. The idea of her keeping my wife up all night. Maybe, if you let her sleep with those new dresses she may decide not to be so cantankerous.
Say, is that baby getting my mattress all wet and stained? Well I'll be darned! You tell pop, that the only way he will ever beat the three of us at pinochle will be when he gets six of his Ave. X, pisanos to help him, and if he don't pick the right ones he may not ever win any more. You know when I was back in Granville in my little fox-hole and the Jerries were overhead dropping coconuts, I had plenty of time to think. What was I thinking of? Thinking; how in hell did pop always beat me at pinochle. Then it came to me out of a clear blue shy, hell it was dark and cloudy that night, well anyway if finally dawned on me, hell it wasn't even dawn it was about eleven-thirty at night. Well anyway I said to myself, how come, yes how come pop always dealt my cards from the top and his came from the bottom. Do you think maybe it couldn't be, well maybe. Say, pop, is that the European way of dealing cards.
Keep your eyes open for the new package I sent. And let me remind your again that if there is anything at all that you want from Paris let me know, and by the next mail. You know we're not citizens of this country therefore we are bound to be dispossessed.
If you need any advice on what color of dress to buy for the baby, why just ask me, I'm an expert at that. The last time I suggested red, and you said it was very becoming.
Well so far the war news is very good and perhaps by the time you receive this letter the Germans will have surrendered. I hope! I hope!
I noticed by the papers that Frank's outfit is advancing steadily into Germany, they are up in the Vosges mountains. Everything will be all-right, so don't you worry.
I haven't had a chance to look up Pat Barrella as yet, nor have I heard from Charlie Fontana. I will drop Charlie a line to find out just where he is located at.
Give my best wishes to mom, pop and Joey, and a big hug to baby Lucille, and my love to you.
I'll be seeing you
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail Paris
Censored France
Dear Jean, Feb. 11, 1945
I received two of your letters yesterday one dated Jan. 26, the other Feb. 3, looks like the mail situation is improving. Thanks for the pictures of the baby. I like the one with the baby pouting the best, however all of them came out well. Danny looks pretty good himself. How come you didn't enclose one of yourself?
Gee, the baby looks real swell, she appears to be healthy and full of pep. How come you let her sit on the snow that away. You be careful and don't have her catching cold.
I have filled out the withdrawal slip and an sending it on to you. If you need any more don't fail to let me know. I also have a surprise for you, it's a medium sized bottle of Chanel #5 and two boxes of face powder Chanel #5 also. I will send them to you in a few days as I am trying to pick up something else.
Incidentally the perfume cost $10.00 and the powder 96 cents per box. I know its bad manners to tell one the prices of gifts but I thought you would like to know, so you can compare them with prices in the States.
That's all I have to say for now, except of course to send me some more cigarettes. Thanks.
Give my best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal
P.S. Did you receive the package with the perfume and lipstick in it?
Free mail Paris
Censored France
US army stationary Feb. 15, 1945
Dearest Jean,
Received your Vee-mail of Jan.30, to-day. Glad to hear that you found the music-box. I have tried to get one here, but to no avail.
I have been writing to you quite often. Haven't you been getting my mail? Don't worry about me because I I never felt better in my life.
I have a little surprise for you in the package which I sent to-day. Well here's what it contains. Perfume -D'Orsay, Chanel #5, Caron and two boxes of face powder also Chanel #5. These are all world famous. I also have a bottle of Schiaparelli which I was unable to get into the box. Will mail it to you later on. These world famous perfumes are very scarce here in Paris, they are also very expensive. The perfumes and powder cost me 2200 francs or $44.00 in American money.
Remember I had quit gambling. Well occasionally we get restricted, which means no passes, therefore, having nothing else to do we sit down and play some poker or shoot craps. I have made it a practice that when I win, no matter how much, I go out and spend it all on you for gifts. Hope you don't mind. I'd like to be there to see your eyes pop when you open the package.
These gifts ought to convince you that I think you are the bestest wife in the world and that I love you.
I also realize now that I have the best mother- and father-in law that anyone could ask for. I could have been oh, so much more considerate of them, than I was. Frank, Larry had Joe, have also been good brothers-in-law to me.
We are having trouble with the river again, it is overflowing its banks in numerous places. I never realized the destruction that a flood causes. Worse yet, man is powerless to prevent it. The only thing we can do is to make repairs after it has subsided. Incidentally, this is much more serious than the last one. However, we carry on regardless of the obstacles the Germans or nature may put before us. And we shall conquer both.
There isn't much more to say, except to give my love to all and take good care of the baby.
Be seeing you soon
Your
Sal.
Free mail Feb. 15, 1945
Censored Paris
France
Dear Jean,
Within the past two days I have received two to your Vee mails, your greeting card, two of your letters dated Jan 20 and 18, also one letter from Angie and one from Jimmy.
I'm afraid, Pete Coccaro is misinformed ,when he says that Vee mail is the quickest method. It is not. Even if it was, we over here are not desirous of receiving them. One of the boys calls then de-hydrated letters. As you know we hate anything that remotely resembles de-hydration. Please don't send me any Vee mail, its O.K. if you do so occasionally.
What is Pete's new job? Its news to me. Didn't know he had changed.
Glad to hear that Larry is coming home, hope he enjoys himself. According to your letter Dan is still home, I haven't written to him because I had assumed that he had shipped out. Tell him that for me won't you.
I gather that he is going out with a real nice girl, I wish him all the luck in the world.
Yes, Joe Donovan is back from Belgium. Can't say what his mission was, nor can I tell you mine. I'll tell you all about it after this war is over.
How are Marie, Emeline Bettina and your Aunt? Remember me to the. Where is Bob stationed?
You mention your new girlfriend Josie quite a bit in your letters. Is she a new comer to the neighborhood. Have I ever met her? Give her my wishes.
Glad to hear that all is well at my Uncle's house. Jimmy however complains that he hasn't received a letter from home for three weeks. How in hell do they expect him to carry on out there in the jungles of the Dutch East Indies, if they don't keep his morale high. I wish there was some way to convince them how important these letters are to the boys in a foreign land.
New York is really getting the snow this year. All the snow here has melted and now we have the Seine river to worry us. Its as high now as it was the last time and it has overflowed its banks in numerous places. We are singing the "Ole man river" song again. After this experience, I think I'll build my home on the top of a mountain.
I haven't mailed the Chanel #5 as yet, will do so shortly.
Have you received the other packages as yet?
Give my best wishes to mom, dad, Joey and the baby, and to see you in September as you predict.
Be seeing you.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Blue envelope Paris, France
Free mail February 18, 1945
Censored
Dearest Jean,
Yours of the twenty sixth of January arrived yesterday. Glad to hear that all is well at home.
So Larry is finally coming home. I can just imagine how anxious all of you are to see him, and he likewise.
Joe Saetta is due home also, where was he stationed at; overseas? Give them all my best wishes.
I think Lucille's photo's were swell. I can hardly believe that my little girl has grown so much. You had better start teaching her the piano right away. Or is she too young.
Those lamps you talk about are souvenirs, just souvenirs. If you can get the globes they will indeed make a nice set.
In my last letter I told you of the perfume I had sent you. I now have one bottle of Schiaparelli and two boxes of face powder - Chanel #5 and D'Orsay(secret). Will send them on to you shortly. I have a suggestion to make, don't open any of those bottles until I get home; or at least without consulting me first.
I have just decided to use a blue envelope, which means I can tell you the reason.
When I come home we will be in dire need for money to put up our home, now these perfumes, some of them are worth ten times as much as I paid for them. You of course will have first choice on them. I am leaving it all up to you. I will try to send as much of this good perfume as I possibly can. If there is any particular type you would like for yourself personally, let me know.
I hope you agree with my way of thinking.
Give my best wishes to mom, dad Joey and baby Lucille. Also Larry when he gets home. Don't forget to send me some cigarettes.
Your loving husband
Sal.
(enclosure)
Que l'amour soit votre grand maitre,
De lui seul le Bonheur peut naitre,
Laissons donc nos coeurs s'embraser
Dans l'exctase d'un baiser.
For love is our grand master-
In this hour was love born.
Let our hearts embrace-
In ecstasy of a kiss.
From your love for ever Jean xxxx
Free mail Jan 1, 1944
censored Mon. 1 P.M.
Paris
Dearest Jean,
Your letter of Dec 20 arrived to-day, it sure is great to hear from you.
Nice to know that you received the perfume and that you liked it. I was afraid that rough handling would damage it. You may expect the package with the baby's dresses shortly. If you haven't received that German helmet up to now, I doubt very much if it will get through. I'm not very much concerned over the helmet. I haven't forgotten the
Rosary beads, will try to get them some day this week.
Sorry to hear about Caroline, is she all-right now. Tell here she ought to leave fence-climbing for Sally(masc.)
Did Pete have to do his own house-painting again? That's the only time it will be painted.
That baby of ours is really coming along. Keep up the good work. I regret that I am not home to watch her grow up. I'll be around for the next one. I hope.
I am pleased to hear that the baby is receiving so many Christmas presents. Thank all those donors, for me, won't you.
Don't you worry about Frank, he will be all-right. And don't worry about those set-backs you have been reading about in the papers as it may be pure military strategy. How else could one get those Germans out from the Siegfried line.
You tell about the Christmas cards you received, didn't you or your folks get the ones I sent. I thought I had sent them out in time.
Is Tony Romano in California now? Greetings from California could mean just that.
Yes I remember the soldier, Nile. So, he's in Germany. I hear its pretty rough up that way.
Thanks for the cigarettes you are sending, don't worry about the brand, any brand will do. Keep sending them till I tell you to stop.
Hope you all had a happy New Year.
Love to all
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 6, 1944
Censored Sat-nite 7 P.M.
Paris
Dearest Jean,
This afternoon I received your 186th letter dated November 22nd it took exactly forty-five days to reach me. I notice from your letter that you are laving the same trouble.
It is going to be very difficult to get in touch with Frank now, as he is continuously on the move, and secondly I don't tale those trips any more, they are mostly local ones now. The only hope remaining is for him get a leave and come to Paris. The same goes for Jim Barra and Frank Tasso. Incidentally I wrote to both Franks and have not had a response as yet. Things are getting very hot up where they are at, therefore I don't expect a reply until everything cools off.
If I were you, I wouldn't worry about Jim Barra's mother or sister. You have your own troubles. I feel sorry for Nancy, that is; the attitude taken towards her by her mother-in-law.
Most of the boys here feel that if its their time to go there is nothing can be done to prevent it, fatalism it is called I believe, and a darn good way to feel, it makes everything a lot easier too.
No, please don't send me the macaroni, or paste instead make it cigarettes. Thanks for suggesting it though.
According to this letter, you had not received the perfume as yet, though in one of your other letters you stated you finally received it; What I would like to have cleared up is whether or not you received the money order and the German helmet. Its to soon to expect the gift with the babys dresses. Hope I got the right size
You ask, how far must the Allies advance, before the Germans quit. My opinion is that that they won't quit until the Siegfried line is completely taken by the Allies. That seems to be the only obstacle in the way of surrender. It may happen sometime this fall.
No, I haven't heard from Dan, just that one letter I wrote you about it in one of my previous letters.
I can't answer that question concerning Patton and the 3rd army. We will have to let it go at that.
How is my little baby coming along? You're my baby too, how are you?
How did you enjoy the holidays?
Give my best wishes to all, Mom, pop Joey Pete & Marion, Roy & Mary and all my other friends.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 9, 1945
Censored Tues-nite 8 P.M.
Paris
Dear Jean,
I received your package containing the Chesterfield cigarettes, the salami, mushrooms etc. The package arrived in excellent condition as usual. Thanks a million, honey.
The mail situation is the same. Plenty of room for improvement.
I am still in the best of health and doing fine.
Haven't heard from Frank as yet, nor have I heard from anyone. Wonder why!
There isn't much news here. Everything is nice and quiet. Oh yes, some of the boys claim they heard alone Jerry flying over-head a few nights ago. However he didn't leave any souvenirs behind. That's the only news from this end.
How is everyone back home? My little baby O.K.
Some of the boys are talking over their experiences, this always happens when we sit down to write letters, some are interesting some are not.
Has Danny shipped out yet, if so do you know which way he is heading.
Have you seen Roy and Mary lately? How are they getting along?
Give my best wishes to all and hope to be seeing all of you real soon.
Beginning to weary of this life!
Be seeing you.
Your loving husband
Sal.
(enclosure deux francs, cinq francs, dix francs, vingt francs)
Free mail January 12, 1945
Censored Paris
Dearest Jean,
A few lines to let you know that I am in the best of health and doing fine.
The weather has been pretty bad of late. It's been snowing for the past two days. All told its only six inches deep.
The mail situation is the same. No mail to-day. No mail for anybody.
I had some pictures taken two weeks ago which I am enclosing in this letter. Some are pretty good others are not.
There isn't much doing here, therefore very little news to relate.
How is everything back home? Have you heard from Frank?
How have you been lately? Are you feeling all-right? And are you gaining weight?
How is my little baby coming along?
Jean I'm going to say good-bye for now. Give my best wishes to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 14, 1945
Censored Paris
Dearest Jean,
Yesterday your Christmas package (#5) arrived. It was in excellent shape. Thanks a million, honey! Thank your mom and dad also as I am sure they had something to do with it also.
Last night at about ten o'clock the boys and I had a snack, we opened a can of chicken and pineapple, they were both delicious.
Did you ever receive the helmet or the baby clothes? I also enclosed some French money and German money in an envelop. Did you ever get that? I know that you like foreign money for souvenirs and I have tried to pick some up. If I can pick up some more I will send them on to you.
Well, its stopped snowing. But it don't seem as if it is going to melt. The weather here doesn't vary much, as a rule if its cold in the morning it remains that way all day long.
Last night "Marlene Dietriech" put a show on for the boys. I didn't attend, so I can't tell you anything about it. However some of the boys said they enjoyed it.
How is everything back home? How is baby Lucille? How is Joey?
Give my best wishes to all.
Thanks again for the package and keep sending me some cigarettes.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail January 16, 1945
Censored Paris
Dearest Jean,
I received two of your letters to-day dated Dec.27th and 29th also a package and letter from Roy and Mary.
Your letter was very interesting concerning the Christmas holidays. I sure wish I had been home to help fix the tree. I'll be home for the next one, or else!
I would have liked to have seen the expression on Lucille's face when she saw the tree all lit up and when she reached for the toys.
So she is now the proud possessor of eleven teeth, pretty good for her age, isn't it. Don't forget to take her to the dentist regularly, as I want her to have good teeth. If possible try to get her a toy piano, so she can play with it. You know, as soon and as young as possible, she is going to get some instructions on the piano. I really want her to be good at it.
Its all-right with me if you want to do a little work to earn extra money, go right ahead and lots of luck.
I believe I told you in one of my previous letters that the air-raid we had here caused very little damage. That's all I can tell you.
That article you sent me explains why we are not getting any cigarettes, only they minimized it quite a bit.
Have you received the Stars & Stripes I sent you? Have also sent you a few Yank magazines. You should find something in them concerning Frank's outfit.
Will you tell Mary Acito that I sent her a bottle of perfume. I wrote her a Vmail and wrote a post script that I was sending it to her, however I wrote it very small and it may not photograph well. I hope she likes it.
Glad to hear that you finally received the helmet, money order and perfume. All that you have coming to date is the baby dresses. Hope you get them soon.
Maybe Larry is coming home on a furlough you can never tell one day from another whats going to happen in this man's army. Frank is due to go home on a furlough too. Maybe they will both be home at the same time
I am sorry to hear that Tommy Guarracci has gotten himself into trouble again. Its going to be awfully hard on his wife and kiddies. The worse part of it is that the kids are all at an age now when you can't keep the truth from them. What in hell is wrong with Tommy anyway.
Jean, give my best wishes to all and hope to be seeing you all real soon. Love from - Your loving husband
Sal.
Vmail January 20, 1944
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
Your #1, Xmas package arrived yesterday and your typewritten letter of the 4th of January can to-day.
The package was in good shape. I believe that accounts for all nine of them, or am I mistaken. Thanks a million, honey!
I certainly am anxious to see those moving pictures of the baby. Bet they come out swell.
No don't send me any subscriptions to papers. If you did, due to the bad mail situation I would probably receive ten copies one day and none for two weeks. Thanks anyway.
Yes, we have had a few reverses, so what! That is to be expected, now that our armies are on German soil. Those Jerries aren't as weak as some people believe. They have plenty of fighting power left.
Don't ever try to compare England with France. If it were to rain here twenty four hours a day I would still prefer France to England. Incidentally it has stopped raining, and we now have eight inches of snow.
If I were home I would have given the baby a good spanking for locking herself in the bathroom, the way she did. Don't you dare!
I'll send you the newsletter from my plant whenever I receive it, and in the same breath I would like to say remember me to the Friscia family.
Its funny but I have never received an answer to the letters I sent Larry, yet he claims to have answered them. They may get through some day.
I received a letter from my cousin Angie, she writes a pretty good letter too. I will try to answer her letter to-morrow.
I am enclosing a snap-shot taken by the boy who always talks of Pearl Epstein. He had a very good camera. I had some more pictures taken while it was snowing, so if the come out, I will send then on to you. Did you receive the photos I sent in one of my previous letters?
Mary Acito's bottle of perfume is on its way. Hope she likes it! Oh, yes, I also sent a bottle to Fred's, (that's the fellow who has been sending me packages) girl friend. I wish I could send a bottle to all my friends but its so darn expensive that it makes it quite impossible. I hope they understand and don't feel slighted.
Glad to hear that everything is O.K. back home. Don't you or your mom worry, we will all be home before you know it. It just can't last much longer.
Good-night Jean
Your loving husband
Sal.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6 cents air mail stamp January 27, 1945
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
Received your letter of the fourteenth and very glad to hear from you.
How are your making out at the dentist? Are your teeth O.K. now
Before I go any further I would like to let you know that I have sent you another bottle of perfume, also a gold holy medal for the baby. The medal is a gift to the baby from a woman in Versailles, one whom I had befriended a long time ago. Don't get any ideas, she's happily married and has seen forty-five winters. She also purchased the perfume, for which I paid her. Will tell you the whole story when I get home.
We had a very bad holiday week. For one thing we lost our master seargent, he was riddled by machine gun bullets from one of our own men when he failed to halt at the command of the sentinel. That's all I can tell you, the rest will have to wait until---.
I've a feeling this war is drawing to a close. The newspapers say the Russians are ninety one miles from Berlin, if true it should be all over very shortly.
It great to have Larry coming home, hope he makes it real soon too. To date I have never received any replies to my letters to him.
No, I don't need a wallet as I still have the one you gave me and its in good condition. I could use the bracelet. Have my name engraved on it, Sal Acito, on the reverse side your loving wife Jean. Thanks a lot honey.
Tell Joey, I wish him lots of luck in his new venture.
Darn right I want a radio that plays records, and we will also get everything the baby needs.
You were a pretty good cook even before I left, but I never had the sense to let you know.
I received a letter from your brother Frank. He is in the best of health and hopes he can come home soon. He enclosed Pat Barrella's address. I will look him up the first chance I get.
I guess the baby will be surprised to see her daddy when he comes marching home. Don't worry though, I'll be gentle with her.
If we teach her to play pinochle she never will make much of a player so we will have to let pop teach her.
Tell mom I don't need any clothes, you probably have gathered as much from the pictures I sent you in one of my previous letters. We are comfortably dressed at all times.
I guess Dan expects to ship out soon, which way is he heading. Got any idea.
So long for awhile give my best wishes to all.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Will let you know as soon as your package arrives. Thanks again.
Free mail January 29
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
The mail is finally coming thru. To-day I received seven letters dated Dec 2nd to Jan 2nd . Four of them from you. They are beautiful cards, very thoughtful of you. A letter from Mary, a card from Helen and one from Mry. Ray. I will try to answer them all as soon as possible.
Its very strange that my sister Tessie has suddenly stopped writing. Wonder why?
Right now I am trying to answer your letter dated the first of January. Some of your questions have already been answered in my previous letters.
I'll see what I can pick up for Emeline and Bettina. Will let you know how I make out. Don't send me any money as I believe I can manage it.
Artie has already grown up, six feet tall, I can hardly believe it. Give him and his folks my best wishes, also Sis.
Did you receive the baby dresses, and the snapshots I had enclosed in an letter. I have also sent you another bottle of perfume, I told you about that in my last letter.
Oh, yes, I'd almost forgotten, I received a card from the Friscia family. Tell them I said "Thanks." Well that's all for now.
Best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Keep the cigarettes a coming. Thank you.
Vmail February 4, 1945
Censored Paris
FRANCE
A
VALENTINE
TO
MY
WIFE
Your loving husband
Sal.
(one franc is worth 2 cents)
Vmail Feb 5, 1945
Censored Paris
Dear Jean,
A few lines to let you know that I am in the best of health.
I received two of your letters, yesterday, and one from Danny.
I have sent you another package with the rosary beads, two lipstick tubes, some coins and a handkerchief, also included are a bottle of perfume for Emeline and one for Bettina with my compliments.
How does the baby look in those dresses?
The rate on those coins: one franc is worth two cents.
Will write you a letter soon.
Your loving
Sal.
Vmail February 5, 1945
Paris
Censored
Dear Jean,
This is the letter following the Vee mail as I promised.
Besides the two letters I received yesterday I have another one which came to0-day dated Nov 22nd, it was sent air-mail too. I am going to try to answer all three of them. This is in answer to yours of Nov.
I can't imagine what the reason is that Frank doesn't get a furlough home, unless its because he is essential to his outfit. Anyway I think Frank wants a permanent furlough home, none of this temporary stuff. I thought you knew right along what army he is in. You are correct he is in the ---army.
That German helmet, the former wearer is beyond all hell and sympathy, furthermore he will never ever be able to harm another American soldier, nor will he be able to disturb the peace again. He is dead. No, I did not kill him. Someone else did. Sure he had a family, probably a wife and baby too. But this is war, there are no such things as sympathy and principles, its just a case of kill or be killed. Its just man gone mad, the whole world has gone beserk. Ant not a sane man around who can stop it. For the present anyway.
I too, have noticed the beautiful art on those francs, as a matter of fact everything these French do is beautiful. Their monuments are gorgeous, a real tribute to the French sense of originality. The English by contrast are mediocre.
By the way, I am getting along pretty good in my French now, my pronunciation has improved, but I'll be darned if I know the spelling and my grammar is very poor. Picture my uncle Angelo speaking English, change the mane to Sal and you have a fairly good idea what I sound like when jabbering in French. They understand me, I they, so everythings O.K.
Now in answer to the seventh of January.
So pop is playing cards with Joey and his friend. Don't tell me who won, let me guess, heck. I don't have to guess, I know who won, pop.
Glad to hear that you are gaining a pound a week, but for God's sake I hope you know when to stop. Enough is enough.
Yes I heard from Frank but I told you about that in one of my previous letters. Since then no news. When sending me cigarettes include whatever you please you have been doing all-right so far.
And now for Jan 21. Don't let those war casualities get you, you may rest assured that the Germans are displaying more gold stars than the Americans.
Tell the D'anolfo's I said thanks. And that I wish to be remembered to them also. That is good news about the Russians, latest reports put them thirty-five miles from Berlin. Now at last we can visualize this war coming to an end.
Did I really pick out the right sizes for the baby. I was fearful lest they be to small.
Aw, let her sleep with them if she wants to. Whats a couple of dresses.
Go ahead and buy the shades for those lamps, if you wish. I think they need them.
Once again,-the franc is valued by the U.S government at two cents. Theoretically they are right, practically they are wrong. The franc to the Frenchman is worth one-half a cent. I will try to make it a little simpler, with our two cent franc, which the army pay us, when converted into purchasing power is worth only one-half a cent. It retains its value of two cents only if we don't spend it. I know, its clear as mud. Mud; oh yes, that's the stuff we walk around in all day.
Now for my letter; I am feeling fine and getting along swell.
I mentioned in my Vee-mail, that I was sending you another package. I'll repeat what is in it. The rosary beads, two lipsticks, a handkerchief and some more coins. These are for you. Then there are two bottles of perfume one for Emiline and Bettina per your request.
The beads which I had sent your mother a long time ago were purchased in Le Mans for ninety franc ($1.80) at a time when we were chasing Germans across France. The beads I am sending you cost 340 franc ($6.80). They are hard to get here hence the high cost. I hope you like them. Anything else your desires my love. And don't request me, because Uncle Sam, politely, but firmly refuses to grant your request, that is for the present anyway. In a few months he is going to disposess the whole lot of us, and send us back to the drudgery of having breakfast in bed, steak for dinner and chicken for supper and ice-cream for dissert, and having to pay fifteen cents for a pack of cigarettes again. I could go on and on with these 'ands' even though I know its bad grammar.
Yes, its really going to be rough on us when we come back home. Just think, you won't have me writing you any more letter.
Well Jean, its getting late as it always does at this hour, so I will have to close with love to all.
Continue taking good care of the baby in the present as you have done in the past. Lots of luck, and keep your chin up.
Be seeing you soon.
Your loving husband
Sal.
P.S. Don't forget the cigarettes, this is just in case the post office clerk wants a written request,
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 6cents airmail stamp Paris
Censored France
US Army Stationary Feb. 7, 1945
My dear Jean,
Received yours of the 31st of Jan. yesterday. Pretty good service, don't you think.
What's the matter with that baby of mine don't she know enough to go to sleep at night. Just wait till I get home, I'll fix her. The idea of her keeping my wife up all night. Maybe, if you let her sleep with those new dresses she may decide not to be so cantankerous.
Say, is that baby getting my mattress all wet and stained? Well I'll be darned! You tell pop, that the only way he will ever beat the three of us at pinochle will be when he gets six of his Ave. X, pisanos to help him, and if he don't pick the right ones he may not ever win any more. You know when I was back in Granville in my little fox-hole and the Jerries were overhead dropping coconuts, I had plenty of time to think. What was I thinking of? Thinking; how in hell did pop always beat me at pinochle. Then it came to me out of a clear blue shy, hell it was dark and cloudy that night, well anyway if finally dawned on me, hell it wasn't even dawn it was about eleven-thirty at night. Well anyway I said to myself, how come, yes how come pop always dealt my cards from the top and his came from the bottom. Do you think maybe it couldn't be, well maybe. Say, pop, is that the European way of dealing cards.
Keep your eyes open for the new package I sent. And let me remind your again that if there is anything at all that you want from Paris let me know, and by the next mail. You know we're not citizens of this country therefore we are bound to be dispossessed.
If you need any advice on what color of dress to buy for the baby, why just ask me, I'm an expert at that. The last time I suggested red, and you said it was very becoming.
Well so far the war news is very good and perhaps by the time you receive this letter the Germans will have surrendered. I hope! I hope!
I noticed by the papers that Frank's outfit is advancing steadily into Germany, they are up in the Vosges mountains. Everything will be all-right, so don't you worry.
I haven't had a chance to look up Pat Barrella as yet, nor have I heard from Charlie Fontana. I will drop Charlie a line to find out just where he is located at.
Give my best wishes to mom, pop and Joey, and a big hug to baby Lucille, and my love to you.
I'll be seeing you
Your loving husband
Sal.
Free mail Paris
Censored France
Dear Jean, Feb. 11, 1945
I received two of your letters yesterday one dated Jan. 26, the other Feb. 3, looks like the mail situation is improving. Thanks for the pictures of the baby. I like the one with the baby pouting the best, however all of them came out well. Danny looks pretty good himself. How come you didn't enclose one of yourself?
Gee, the baby looks real swell, she appears to be healthy and full of pep. How come you let her sit on the snow that away. You be careful and don't have her catching cold.
I have filled out the withdrawal slip and an sending it on to you. If you need any more don't fail to let me know. I also have a surprise for you, it's a medium sized bottle of Chanel #5 and two boxes of face powder Chanel #5 also. I will send them to you in a few days as I am trying to pick up something else.
Incidentally the perfume cost $10.00 and the powder 96 cents per box. I know its bad manners to tell one the prices of gifts but I thought you would like to know, so you can compare them with prices in the States.
That's all I have to say for now, except of course to send me some more cigarettes. Thanks.
Give my best wishes to all
Your loving husband
Sal
P.S. Did you receive the package with the perfume and lipstick in it?
Free mail Paris
Censored France
US army stationary Feb. 15, 1945
Dearest Jean,
Received your Vee-mail of Jan.30, to-day. Glad to hear that you found the music-box. I have tried to get one here, but to no avail.
I have been writing to you quite often. Haven't you been getting my mail? Don't worry about me because I I never felt better in my life.
I have a little surprise for you in the package which I sent to-day. Well here's what it contains. Perfume -D'Orsay, Chanel #5, Caron and two boxes of face powder also Chanel #5. These are all world famous. I also have a bottle of Schiaparelli which I was unable to get into the box. Will mail it to you later on. These world famous perfumes are very scarce here in Paris, they are also very expensive. The perfumes and powder cost me 2200 francs or $44.00 in American money.
Remember I had quit gambling. Well occasionally we get restricted, which means no passes, therefore, having nothing else to do we sit down and play some poker or shoot craps. I have made it a practice that when I win, no matter how much, I go out and spend it all on you for gifts. Hope you don't mind. I'd like to be there to see your eyes pop when you open the package.
These gifts ought to convince you that I think you are the bestest wife in the world and that I love you.
I also realize now that I have the best mother- and father-in law that anyone could ask for. I could have been oh, so much more considerate of them, than I was. Frank, Larry had Joe, have also been good brothers-in-law to me.
We are having trouble with the river again, it is overflowing its banks in numerous places. I never realized the destruction that a flood causes. Worse yet, man is powerless to prevent it. The only thing we can do is to make repairs after it has subsided. Incidentally, this is much more serious than the last one. However, we carry on regardless of the obstacles the Germans or nature may put before us. And we shall conquer both.
There isn't much more to say, except to give my love to all and take good care of the baby.
Be seeing you soon
Your
Sal.
Free mail Feb. 15, 1945
Censored Paris
France
Dear Jean,
Within the past two days I have received two to your Vee mails, your greeting card, two of your letters dated Jan 20 and 18, also one letter from Angie and one from Jimmy.
I'm afraid, Pete Coccaro is misinformed ,when he says that Vee mail is the quickest method. It is not. Even if it was, we over here are not desirous of receiving them. One of the boys calls then de-hydrated letters. As you know we hate anything that remotely resembles de-hydration. Please don't send me any Vee mail, its O.K. if you do so occasionally.
What is Pete's new job? Its news to me. Didn't know he had changed.
Glad to hear that Larry is coming home, hope he enjoys himself. According to your letter Dan is still home, I haven't written to him because I had assumed that he had shipped out. Tell him that for me won't you.
I gather that he is going out with a real nice girl, I wish him all the luck in the world.
Yes, Joe Donovan is back from Belgium. Can't say what his mission was, nor can I tell you mine. I'll tell you all about it after this war is over.
How are Marie, Emeline Bettina and your Aunt? Remember me to the. Where is Bob stationed?
You mention your new girlfriend Josie quite a bit in your letters. Is she a new comer to the neighborhood. Have I ever met her? Give her my wishes.
Glad to hear that all is well at my Uncle's house. Jimmy however complains that he hasn't received a letter from home for three weeks. How in hell do they expect him to carry on out there in the jungles of the Dutch East Indies, if they don't keep his morale high. I wish there was some way to convince them how important these letters are to the boys in a foreign land.
New York is really getting the snow this year. All the snow here has melted and now we have the Seine river to worry us. Its as high now as it was the last time and it has overflowed its banks in numerous places. We are singing the "Ole man river" song again. After this experience, I think I'll build my home on the top of a mountain.
I haven't mailed the Chanel #5 as yet, will do so shortly.
Have you received the other packages as yet?
Give my best wishes to mom, dad, Joey and the baby, and to see you in September as you predict.
Be seeing you.
Your loving husband
Sal.
Blue envelope Paris, France
Free mail February 18, 1945
Censored
Dearest Jean,
Yours of the twenty sixth of January arrived yesterday. Glad to hear that all is well at home.
So Larry is finally coming home. I can just imagine how anxious all of you are to see him, and he likewise.
Joe Saetta is due home also, where was he stationed at; overseas? Give them all my best wishes.
I think Lucille's photo's were swell. I can hardly believe that my little girl has grown so much. You had better start teaching her the piano right away. Or is she too young.
Those lamps you talk about are souvenirs, just souvenirs. If you can get the globes they will indeed make a nice set.
In my last letter I told you of the perfume I had sent you. I now have one bottle of Schiaparelli and two boxes of face powder - Chanel #5 and D'Orsay(secret). Will send them on to you shortly. I have a suggestion to make, don't open any of those bottles until I get home; or at least without consulting me first.
I have just decided to use a blue envelope, which means I can tell you the reason.
When I come home we will be in dire need for money to put up our home, now these perfumes, some of them are worth ten times as much as I paid for them. You of course will have first choice on them. I am leaving it all up to you. I will try to send as much of this good perfume as I possibly can. If there is any particular type you would like for yourself personally, let me know.
I hope you agree with my way of thinking.
Give my best wishes to mom, dad Joey and baby Lucille. Also Larry when he gets home. Don't forget to send me some cigarettes.
Your loving husband
Sal.
(enclosure)
Que l'amour soit votre grand maitre,
De lui seul le Bonheur peut naitre,
Laissons donc nos coeurs s'embraser
Dans l'exctase d'un baiser.
For love is our grand master-
In this hour was love born.
Let our hearts embrace-
In ecstasy of a kiss.
From your love for ever Jean xxxx
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