February 27, 1941 Thursday "...- and you are the most wonderful part of it all "

 Hello, Light of My Life
     Do you know that my wedding dress is practically finished - Am going for a fitting tonight - Gosh - things are working out swell - Dr. Morris says he'd be delighted to do his job - Jean finally asked him for me cause it seemed I could never get there when he was  - she explained how it was - so I'll have to see him soon and talk to him - Isn't it wonderful -
     I don't quite understand myself about Ruth & Karl  - But I guess it's all right now - she got a very sweet letter from him yesterday - the whole trouble was that she wrote a lot of things she shouldn't have - and was sorry for afterwards -
     Do you know dear, do you realize that it is very important that we have a practise Sat evening - (or afternoon) So please - when you ask fellows to be ushers - mention the practise too - After all it is an honor to them - and we do want things to off O.K. -  We'll talk about it this weekend -
I ordered 150 invitations and 50 reception cards - so far I've listed about 136 people - but of course an awful lot of those are too far away to come - It's really going to be fun - So far everything is working out fine -
     Here's some "nooze" - Mr. Lindstrom has a new baby daughter - ain't that sumpin'! -
     Have started to work on my rug again and still wish I could find some more rose colored wool -
     The stamps sure helped - thanks alot sweet - Just think how much we'll save on postage in a month and a half-
     Paul washed my car the other day and it sure looks a lot better -It just shines and shines - should be able to get a good price out of it -
     It's Wed. already only Thursday, Friday & Sat. morning -
Oh Happy Fun games -
                                                              Love & kisses
                                                                  Dotty

                                                                                          Thursday

Hello, dear -
     This week has been going much too slow - can't wait to see you Saturday -  George Jackson called me up today and wanted me to take him and a couple other fellows down to the game tonite, and I certainly would have liked to go, not to see the game, but to see you - but there were too many things to do and I would have been pretty tired - so I refused - so I guess we'll all listen to the game tonite and cheer for Oregon -
     Have been trying to see Mr. Couch for a couple of hours ever since Monday, but he has been just too busy - want to go over the budget with him before he leaves for San Francisco so that I can work on it next week - I have been searching diligently for a possible source of funds for my salary increase, but won't be sure until I talk it over with Mr. Couch - it would really be swell if it went through.
     You seem to be a busy girl nowadays - but I suppose it's kind of fun too isn't it - and I'm glad everything seems to be working out OK - golly, I guess we will have a crowd present, won't we -  By the way, I have all the names and addresses except Larry Crane's and Dotty Lou's  - will try to get them shortly -
     Had my eyes checked by the doctor yesterday and he seems to think there has been a substantial improvement since the last time - and I hope he's right - the expense of the treatments really hurts - since last July I've had about $70 worth of treatments -
     Now that your car is all shined up, best you find yourself a purchaser with lots of ready cash - have an idea you could use the money, couldn't you - even if only to buy stamps -
     I'm glad Dr. Morris is available - the more I think about it, the more I think we are really going to have a wonderful wedding - and you are the most wonderful part of it all - so there -
                                                                                           Love,
                                                                                                 Bill

P.S. - I'll be there about 3:30 Saturday.

February 25, 1941 Tuesday "P.S. Just 46 days -"

                                                                                  Tuesday

Hello, my love -

     Have just read your beautiful letter of Sunday and Monday again and it is really swell - would that I could write letters like that - guess you must have had a lot of spare time over the weekend like I did - they certainly go slow when you're not around -
     It grieves me deeply to learn that you are - as you put it - penniless and stampless - well, Dotty dear, I know just how you feel - and just to make sure that you write me Wed and Thurs I am herewith enclosing the following 3 cent stamps:
for which I will take back 6 cents I have put in the penny bank - maybe - It has so little in it I hate to take any out - and I'll bring down the remainder Saturday -
Maybe you better sell your car as soon as you can, on account of I wouldn't be surprised if you would have quite a few expenses to meet during the month of March - including the income tax -
     Thanks for telling me about the golf game Sunday - I am dropping him (Tony) a note tonite telling him I'll be ready - I hope -
     Listen, sweet, I couldn't quite get clear on what you said about Ruth and Karl in your letter - Karl didn't give me any details, so I don't know what letter you are talking about, so please let me know what the deal is-
     Oh, yes, how many invitations did you have printed - I am kinda interested in knowing how many people you expect at the wedding - bet the church won't have too many vacant seats -
     You know, dear, As April 13 draws nearer and nearer, I find myself thinking about it more and more and honestly, it just can't come too soon for me - or for you too, I hope -
     I went up today to see about the apartment but nobody was home so I guess we'll have to wait awhile - In about a week if nothing happens we might have to start having cause for a little worry on the subject -
     The next few days better go fast as I am having a hard time waiting for Saturday to get here - for besides being the day when we meet again, it is also payday - isn't it wonderful -
                                                                                          Love,
                                                                                              Bill

P.S.  Just 46 days -

February 24, 1941 Monday "...the present two - weeks interval is the last we'll ever have - isn't it wonderful -"

                                                                                      Monday

Hello, sweet -
     Guess what - today I was only 70 miles from Eugene - Wend down to Salem this noon with Dr. Holman of the Multnomah Hospital mostly just for the ride, except that we had to pick up the Senate and House calendars and also Dr. Holman had a couple of questions to ask of Senator Belton - We got down about 2:15 and had to wait until 5:00 before they adjourned.  It was kind of interesting listening to the senators argue and wrangle around-
     I received your sweet little letter today, also your request for addresses -  I'll try to get all those you listed and I'll send them to you later in the week or bring it down Saturday - and thanks for putting Larry Crane's name on the list;  wonder if he'll be surprised - oh, yes, and how do I get Dotty Lou's address -  By the way, when are you going to send out these invitations; we still have quite a bit of time, I hope -
     What with the invitations, Dr. Morris, the church, the flowers, etc. you're going to be pretty busy from now on taking care of the details - Gosh darn it, I wish they were all settled and April 13 was here - but it should be fun between now and then anyway, I guess -
     Got a letter from Von today - he seems to be having quite a time up in Seattle, although he says the night life is rather expensive - he is coming down to Portland about the middle of March and I'll find out then whether he will be able to get down to Eugene on the 13th -
     So you are fixing up some cookies or cake for me, I hope -  that is very sweet of you - also I am looking forward to wearing the Valentine socks - what color are they anyway ?
     Mr Couch is leaving for San Francisco Saturday morning and he will be gone all next week, but I am going to have plenty to do in his absence, and for that matter, all during March.  After Mr. Couch gets back I am going to ask him how much of a vacation I can have for the honeymoon - hope it's at least a week and I wouldn't be surprised if it were more.
     I have it all figured out that I am coming down to Eugene practically every weekend in March except one, and that weekend you will come up here - so the present two - weeks interval is the last we'll ever have - isn't it wonderful -
                                                                 Love and kisses,
                                                                              Bill

                                                                                   Sunday

Hello, Sweetie Pie -
     I'm sorry dear but I was going to make you some cookies today and then couldn't cause I remembered that I have no stamps and no money.  I'll make some next Sunday when you are here and you can take them with you.
     Tony called today and asked me to tell you that you had a big match on next Sunday with him, Elliott and Fennell - Soooo- guess you'll be playing golf -  Finished one of your socks and now am working on the other one and hope to finish it soon-
    Ordered the "invites" Sat - and got the material for my dress so now it's impossible to change my mind - altho I'm sure I won't want to -
     Sundays are sure dopey days when you're not around.  For lack of something to do I've been asleep all afternoon - Fine thing - I probably won't be able to sleep tonight -
     Oh yes got me a hat Saturday, too and it's really a hat - but it looks O.K. and I'm going to like it - Wait till you see it!!!! -
     Dear I' don't think I'll mail this till Tuesday - I mean Monday night - I hate to keep bumming stamps from Mom - But you'll get a nice fat letter on Tuesday -
                                                                 Goodbye for now -
                                                                               Dotty

Hello again, sweet -
     And now it's finally Monday - The news in your letter was wonderfull - about the $25.00 - It would help a lot if it does go through. - But I'll keep it quiet -
     Ruth and Karl seem to be having quite a time of it - I wish they could get straightened out O.K. - I know it's hard for him to come to Portland , so guess we'd better not count on that deal - When you write him? could you tell him that Ruthie really feels bad about that letter she wrote telling about the mixup she'd had with her mother - She hasn't said anything to me about it, but Margaret told me about it coming home tonight - And she said that if Karl understood he might not feel the way he does - Anyway Ruth never should have written that letter cause everything'll probably blow over - And Ruth feels plenty bad cause she hasn't heard from Karl - and if he really likes her a lot he shouldn't let a little letter spoil things - (Can you understand what I'm trying to get at and I hope I'm not mixing things up) anyway Ruth doesn't know I'm writing so she shouldn't know - I guess she's kind of all mixed up - and really would like to get settled down -
     Tonight's the night we get started on my sewing - it won't be long now - How many more days? -
     Enclosed is a cute little letter from Wava - Thot you might like to see it - Gosh wish I'd get some money some way or other it's sure terrible being penniless and I mean penniless -
     If you wade through all this you'll be doing good - What you think about little Patty being "Little Colonel"?- I'm glad she got it cause she's really a sweet little kid -
     Hope this Saturday comes quick like -
                                                                All my Love,
                                                                      Dotty


                                                                                 Feb. 22, 1941

Dear Dorothy and Bill,
     Mother and I are glad that I am going to be a flower girl and so glad that you are going to marry Bill.  We will have to cal you Mrs. Zimmerman and then you will always be at the tail end of every thing instead of at the front like now (B to Z) get it?
     I am at mama's house and thot that I wood write to you and Bill.  How is grandma?
 
     With love Wava and Mama.

February 23, 1941 Sunday "...also, my love, that would mean that you would never have to consider working again"

                                                                                     Saturday

Hello, sweet -
     Have some great news to report, I hope - Mr. Couch and I were discussing next year's budget today and he told me that if the funds are available, my salary is going to be raised $25 a month beginning July 1 - isn't it wonderful - I am doing most of the work on the budget so I'm certainly going to do my best to find that extra $300 somewhere - golly, I guess my work is better than I thought it was - and I know we could certainly use that extra money - also, my love, that would mean that you would never have to consider working again, which would be just swell -
     This has been just about the fastest week yet at the office -we have been having a heck of a time keeping track of our bills in the Legislature, and Mr. Couch has been making trips to Salem, calling up senators, etc - lots of fun -
     This afternoon went out and played 18 holes of golf at Eastmoreland - that's the most I've played for quite a while and I was really bad - even lost 4 balls, which is unheard of for me, but maybe I'll do better tomorrow - guess I'm still a little rusty -
     Started to write you a letter last nite and then remembered that no mail was to be delivered today on account of it's Washington's birthday - so Moser and I went down to the Paramount and really saw a couple of swell shows - both in technicolor - "Western Union" and "Virginia" - two of the best shows I've seen in a long time -  "Gone With the Wind" is back again at lower prices, and if time hangs heavily on my hands next week, I might go down and see it for the second time -
     Thought I'd spend a quiet Saturday nite for a change, listening to the basketball game, writing this letter, reading a book and then going to bed early, as we are golfing at 8:00 in the A.M.
     How are you coming along with the invitation list - and how many do you expect at the wedding - By the way, will you please add the names of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Strawn to my list of two days ago - and I might think of one or two more -
     Received a letter from Karl and there doesn't seem to be much chance of his coming down to Portland in March - I think he is having a tough time deciding what to do about Ruth; I know he likes her very much, but her mother is definitely opposed to Karl, and he is getting rather discouraged with that set up - Also, the only way he could arrange to spend any time in Portland would be by flying down from Pendleton and that costs $22.  So if Ruth doesn't come up, maybe you could anyway, but we can figure that out later -
     Haven't heard anything about an apartment yet, but within the next week I hope to do a little work on the matter, as it would sure help to have that taken care of -
     Oh yes, Karl tells me he can get off work on Monday April 14, so he can be at the wedding - although I doubt whether he will be able to get to Eugene until late Saturday nite -
     Hope I get a nice long letter form you Monday - and I hope you are thinking of me a lot -
                                                                         All my love,
                                                                                   Bill

P.S.  Keep the salary increase confidential - it won't be official for quite a while yet.

February 21, 1941 Friday "Are you getting thrilled? I sure am."

Hello, Sweetness;

Yep, I'm managing to keep busy and the time is not going by too slow.  The shower last night for Helen went off O.K. and she got quite a few things--considering that a lot of people couldn't come--.

Glad you got my letter finally and sorry that you had to pay the 3¢ extra.  I'll try to not let it happen again.  Don't know what I'll use for a stamp on this --am all out of stamps and have not even a penny to my name--fine state of affairs to be in.

Thanks for the list dear--and now I am going to ask one more thing of you--will you please correct the spelling or names, if need to, of the following and also check or fill in the addresses.

Mr. and Mrs. Ralf Couch
  (and what are their children's names?)

Mr. and Mrs. Kirt (or Kermit or what) Aumann
     3227 S.W. 10th, Portland

Mr. Robert Vaughn

Mr. Karl Wester                                                                         Also we should send one
                                                                                               to Miss Lango, so will she
                                                                                               be married by then, and if
                                                                                               so what her address will
                                                                                               be, if possible,      But we can
Mr. Robert Anet                                                                     wait to find that out
                                                                                               later.

Mr. Richard Hill

Mr. Edward Pobols  (or is it Edwin?)

Mr. & Mrs. Jack McGirr

Mr. Lawrence Crane

Mr. Henry Ash

Miss Dorothy Lou  Hanan

Also you should send invitations to any and all relatives, no matter how near or far away, whether living in Eugene or China.  So, dear, Can you send me their names and addresses.  Also street length dresses will be proper to wear, I think.  The only formals worn will be by those who are serving.  On second thought, though, best I check into it a little bit further and find out for sure.

Am really getting into the swing of things now.  Will get the material for my dress tomorrow and then Mary is going to start sewing next week--so there won't be any last minute rush in that direction.  Also think I will break down and order the invitations, too, cause it will take a week or so to get them and then it will take a while to address them properly.  Remember invitations should be sent to people whether it is at all possible for them to come or not--so if you think of anyone else, just add their name and address.  Are you getting thrilled?  I sure am.

I hope that this next week goes by as fast as this last did--then you will be here.  Am also going to try to see Dr. Morris tomorrow, so keep your fingers crossed.  Best I hurry up cause in the meantime he might plan to do something else.

Don't give up hope, puddin', I shall get in the mood one of these days and whip up some delicious cakes or cookies for you.  Probably this Sunday.  Also I am going to work hard and try to finish your socks that I am knitting for last Valentine's day gift.

As soon as I get these invitations off my mind, I will be happy, so don't forget to help me out.  The trouble is that it is very important to include everyone and not forget anyone.

                                                                            All my love,

                                                                                  Dotty

February 20, 1941 Thursday "I'm afraid I have been somewhat at fault in not telling you about my folks and relatives before now"

                                                                                 Thursday

Hello, sweet -
     Your letters sound as though things are far from dull in Eugene - that was certainly too bad about Paul bashing up the car and I bet you didn't appreciate the front-page publicity about it - best you sell the car as soon as possible-
     I went down to the library and saw the Register - Guard for Sunday - [scroll to page 7] couldn't wait until you sent me your pictures and they are nice - that was a cute picture of Helengray in Sunday's paper also - how does she like married life or has she told you -
     By the way, got your letter of Monday a day late, on account of you didn't put enough stamps on it, so I also had to pay 3¢  - So thanks for the income tax forms too -
     Have really been busy this week - can hardly believe today is Thursday already - Yesterday worked till about 5:45 came back here to clean up and then went to a banquet at 6:45 which lasted until after 10:00 - so I didn't have a chance to write you - so please forgive me -
     Guess you will be a busy little girl from now on - it is now only 53 days - and they should start going faster now, I hope -
     I'm afraid I have been somewhat at fault in not telling you about my folks and relatives before now - but I don't think there is any harm done, and you will have plenty of opportunity to meet them before the wedding, and it shouldn't take too long as there aren't many of them - So first don't worry about it and I'll tell you all about them when I come down March 1 -  Speaking of relatives, could you let me know whether it is in order for them to wear formal or informal dress at the wedding - also, do they get invitations or do you just ask them -
     I am still undecided as to who ought to be my best man - Vada has been telling me this is very important on account of there will be about a thousand things to do at the last minute and it takes a good man - I'll find out from Karl, Tony, Ed, Von etc. if they can be in Eugene on Saturday which would help a lot.
     Well, dear, in accordance with your request of Wed. nite, I have prepared a list of who I should like to receive invitations and it really isn't very long, so maybe you ought to have a few extra made in case I get any more ideas - the following should give you something to work on:
                                                                                                                            No of
                                                                                                                            People
1  Mr. and Mrs. Couch                                                                                             2
2   "      "      "     Gurmann [can't read this for sure]                                                    2
3   "      "      "     McGirr                                                                                            -
4   "      "      "     Collins                                                                                             2
5   "      "      "     Byrne                                                                                               2
6   "      "      "     Lindstrom                                                                                        2
7   "      "      "     Battleson                                                                                         2
8   "      "      "     Ed Larson                                                                                       2
9   "      "      "     W. Teter                                                                                         2
10 "      "      "     Ethan Newman                                                                                2
11  Mrs. Kneeland                                                                                                     1
12  Von                                                                                                                    1
13  Wester                                                                                                                1
14  Ed Probols                                                                                                          1
15  Tony                                                                                                                    1
16  Mary-Elizabeth Randolph                                                                                     1
17  Irene Davis                                                                                                          1
18  Jessie Smith                                                                                                         1
19  Bob Moser                                                                                                          1
20  Dick Hill                                                                                                              1
21  Henry Ash                                                                                                           1
22  Bob Anet                                                                                                            1
     The last column is the number who will be there, I think.  Are you going to send an invitation to the Alpha Chi house - If so, I will also send one to the DU's - think a few of the boys might like to go, unless of course they are having a picnic or something - I am also wondering if I should send an invitation to the Chancellor -
     Have another DU at the boarding-house - Warren Grimberg just moved in for a couple of months - the place is really full now -
     That sounds like a great idea if Karl can come to Portland the 8th - so you better tell Ruth to write him a few more sweet letters and we'll be having some fun in Portland that weekend - The nite of the 8th is when they are having the professional tennis matches in Portland and I have been planning on seeing them - Bill Tilden, Don Budge, Alice Mable are playing, so it should be fun -
     They tell me down at the optician's that my eyes are improving a little again, although I really wouldn't know myself - Anyway I hope I don't have to be taking treatments the rest of my life -
     Have a couple of passengers to Eugene the 1st already - can hardly wait - in fact, if I would get a couple this weekend I would come down - that would make 5 weekends in a row for us which sounds all right too -
                                                                     Love and kisses,
                                                                                  Bill

P.S.   Where are my
          brownies, or cookies,
          or cake; I am
          hungry -
          Remember?

missed another letter for Feb 17

Another letter out of order - I thought I had them all sorted properly.  Anyway, this one was postage due, so not sure when Bill received it.

February 19, 1941 Wednesday "...our very first present"

Have you got my letter yet? - I hope - I wrote a great big long one Monday -
     You know - the time is going to just whip by - At least it hasn't gone very slow yet - Say, Mr. Zimmerman, you have got to send me a list of whom you want to invite to the wedding - And pronto - I want to order the invites but can't cause I don't know for sure how many - So please send the list right away - Don't forget - it's very important - include everyone you can think of - then I'll compare with my list - and cross off any duplicates -
     Tomorrow night will be busy with the shower for H.G. - I got here a dishpan, a potato masher, cookie cutters, etc, today -  It should be fun - Thought for entertainment we'd play we'd play that running game we played at Ken's & Francis' - Lloyd & Helen gave us the mostest prettiest blue plate they they brought back from Canada - It's awful awful pretty - and our very first present - I told Aunt Janet we had blankets but needed most everything else - Sooo - - -
     I'm enclosing the pictures that were in the paper - They're all right I guess - but I'm still not very fond of the way I look -
     Ruth tells me that Karl thinks he can come to Portland in March - so how about the 8th?-  They'll be busy with registration the 15th -
     Mary called, and she's going to start working on my dress and suit next week - So - They'll be ready in plenty of time - I'm really getting quite thrilled about the whole works -
     My car's all fixed up and almost works better than it did before - now it has a new windshield added to the list of news - Oh me oh my - best I sell it -
      Remember the list of guests
                                                                             All my love,
                                                                                   Dotty
    

February 18, 1941 Tuesday

[First of all, I found the missing letter from last Monday February 10, 1941.  The postmark on the envelope was hard to read.  When I blew it up on the scanner it looked like Feb. 18, but as I started typing it today it clearly was the missing letter.  You can go back here and read it.]

Tuesday

Hello sweet -

     How have you been since last we met - or parted - was hoping to get a letter from you today, but guess you were still too sleepy or something Monday nite - anyway it was a wonderful weekend and I hope you had a lot of fun -

     We worked late again last nite and I'm tired and sleepy today, but have the consolation of knowing that this is the last examination until next May or thereabouts, providing the army doesn't change its mind -

     You little pet seal that Wava gave you is now adorning the top of my dresser, but I will bring it down March 1 - I didn't remember it till yesterday, but it was not damaged -

     Was talking to Dr. Nooley yesterday and he thinks you are a very sweet girl - honestly, Dotty, you'll have to begin believing all those sweet little things I tell you, because from all the compliments I've received it's not just my opinion - and we can't all be wrong - so there -

     Al Zimmerman, the famous golf professional, had his physical exam at the Medical School last nite - and guess what - he and I bear a certain resemblance, I think - anyway, he wears glasses, has medium blonde hair, big nose and ears, etc - wish I could play golf half as well as he could - Tony Amato was also up there -

     I sure don't have much time evenings and stuff anymore - Am still catching up on the reading and for the next month or so will be working a couple of nights a week getting the budget fixed up -

     Tomorrow afternoon and evening I am going to attend the meeting of the Oregon Association of Hospitals - also am going to a banquet that will set me back $1.25 - but Mr. Couch thinks it would be a good idea, so I am going -

     I am going up tomorrow or the next day and see about this apartment again - so far haven't received any phone calls and in a couple of weeks it'll be time to worry if nothing happens by then -

     If you see Tony, you might ask him if he will still be here on March 1 - on account of I want to see him then about his being here on Easter -

                                                                 Love and kisses,

                                                                           Bill

P.S. - The income tax forms - remember?

  

February 17, 1941 Monday

Hello Puddin'
Have I got loads to write to you about  - Hope I don't forget it all - First I actually remembered to get your income tax thing - So here 'tis -
     And what do you think of the enclosed clipping?  Seems like I was quite a sensation this morning when I walked into the office and it took me quite by surprize cause I knew nothing about it - But it seems Paul had an accident Fri - nite (he shouldn't have taken the car cause I didn't want him to and now he's paying for it ) - Anyway the car's all fixed up and I'm going to sell it as fast as I can - No more of this notority (?) for me -
     Anyway it's funny now and I laugh everytime I read the headlines - So far haven't heard a word from "Officer Snell" -
     And now guess what - I suppose I'm a bad girl - but one of those army boys asked me if he could sit by me - I couldn't be rude and say "no" - so he did - he told me all about Minnesota and then we played Black Jack - which I very much won - Anyway the time went by real fast and I didn't see anyone I knew  - He is going to the Phillipines for 3 years - and really was a nice fellow -
     Helen and Lloyd are back from Vancouver, B.C. and she already has a wedding present for us - it'll be our first - I'm going over tonight - Also both our pictures were in both Sunday papers - "more fun" - I'll get them and show you when you come down -
     Bill I've been meaning to ask you this for a long time, but didn't think of it at the right times - What about your folks? - Do they know about us? - And your Dad is he in Portland or Utah or Colorado - or where most of your relatives are?-  You know, I really don't know them at all - I guess I'm always raving on about my relatives and didn't give you half a chance - Maybe they'd like to meet their future -in-law-
     The weather is still very beautiful today - And now doggone it I can't remember some of the other things I had to say - I knew I'd forget -
     Guess I'm going to give Helen a very small shower this coming Thursday - It'll be kind of fun -
     I still keep thinking of how much fun this last weekend was - and hope we have many more - And so dear - guess I'll go now -
     Hope the time goes by real fast between now & March! -
                                                                                 All my love,
                                                                                            Dotty -

February 13, 1941 Thursday "...it is now only 59 days until April 13"

                                                                                            Thursday

Happy Valentine's Day, sweetheart -
     Now that you have decided to come to Portland - I am happy - and as far as I'm concerned that's my Valentines Day gift from you to me -  So start looking forward to having a lot of fun this weekend, 'cause I know we will - Also, will you be sure and let me know how and when you are coming up, otherwise I will assume you'll take the noon train - Anyway, if you write me Friday nite, address it to me at the Medical School, on account of the mail gets delivered there Sat. morn and I never get any here then - so I'll be waiting to hear from you -
     Please excuse my not writing you last nite, on account of Mr. Couch and I ate at the hospital and then worked straight through till about 10:15 on a special study - so I really didn't have a chance to write -
     Guess you are really starting to fix up the plans for the wedding - I'm glad you're doing most of it as I'm afraid I wouldn't be much help - we should have a few details to talk about this weekend anyway - By the way, I wouldn't be surprised if I had a little difficulty getting all my ushers and best man rounded up for a wedding - anyway, Von is being transferred to Seattle this weekend, Karl is in Baker, Battleson will be back East in April, Tony will be at Fort Lewis, Ed is in Sacramento, and even Bob Anet is in California - so it will be a miracle if I get enough of them together at one time - maybe I ought to get a few new friends by then, but I really would like to have a few of the boys mentioned above around - oh, well, we'll see how it looks in April, and I'm really not worrying about it -
     I am going to write Karl tonite also and I'll try to use any influence I may have to get him to come down to Portland about the second week in March, so you and Ruth can come up then too - I think it's a swell idea -
     Dropped in yesterday afternoon to see about the apartment, but as yet there is nothing definite, so all we can do is wait until the phone rings - which I hope will be soon -
     The calendar says it is now only 59 days until April 13 - pretty soon we can start holding our breath -
     Remember to bring the state income tax blanks - I am going to fix up my Federal return tonite and I'd kinda like to get the other fixed up as soon as possible too.
     See you Saturday, sweet, and remember to tell me when you are arriving -
                                                                            Love,
                                                                                       Bill

February 12, 1941 Wednesday

                                                   BARCLAY, INC.
[Oregon Delta Upsilon Association stationary heading is crossed out and the above handwritten in]

Hello again -
     After your persuasive (?) letter how can I say no - Will you thank Mr. Couch (for me) for his kind invitation and tell him that I shall be very happy to be there --  I feel a lot happier today - Got Helen & Lloyd a real nice iron for a wedding present - Now I hope they haven't got one - altho it isn't a romantic gift it's a good practical one -
     I have asked Betty & Ruth also to be bridesmaid's - so if they both can be - we'll have four - that means four ushers - only maybe one of them won't be abe to and then I have a very small feeling that Helengray might drop out at the last minute -  altho she says now that she will - So - - - - - - -
Tomorrow I'm going to start looking at invitations and get those settled - Say - don't you suppose it would be fun if Ruthi & I came to Portland about the second Sat. in March - after I get paid for Feb - cause I'll have a lot of things to get, then Karl could come too - and we'd have a lot of fun -
Why don't you write him and suggest something of that sort?- I think it's a darn good idea -
     I'll try to remember to bring the income tax blank to you -
     Darlin' - I'm sorry but I haven't finished your Valentine - I made one pair but they were too small so I gave them to Paul - then I started another but they're too big and badly shaped -
I've started on the third pair - and if & when I get them finished they should be O.K. - (Three guesses what they are?) -  Anyway I do love you and hope you are my Valentine -
     It's sure wonderful having lots of time in the evening - altho I still haven't gotten over the habit of just rushing to beat the devil -  It's only 6:07 and I've eaten dinner and everything -
     You're sure we don't have to bring a gift or something for Miss Lango? -
     Goodbye for now -
See you Sat. -

February 11, 1941 Tuesday

                                                                                         Tuesday

Hello, dear -
     This little epistle tonite will be devoted mostly to a discourse on why you should come up to Portland this weekend, on account of that seems to be the most important and pressing matter right now.  Anyway, first of all, Mr. Couch, Miss Langoe, Vada and Kurt, etc. have asked me if you were coming up and rather than disappoint them, to say nothing of me, I have given them the impression that you will be here - do you mind - and I do know you will have lots of fun, and this will really be a swell chance to get acquainted with them -
     As for the transportation cost to and from Portland, that no doubt is a little problem, but I assure you that it's all you'll spend this weekend, and anyway it isn't too much - why in a couple of months you will have forgotten all about the $3.75, we hope - besides I will also take you to dinner next Sunday at Lobbe's, which should be good fun.
     I know this is asking quite a bit for you to come up again after only 2 weeks, but if you come up this weekend, I won't ask you to come up again until after April 13, unless of course you want to come up sooner, which would be very nice -  Also, I wasn't planning on coming down to Eugene again until March 1, and therefore if you come up this weekend, the schedule will be fixed up swell so there won't be more than a two-weeks interim or something - and then I will come down to Eugene again at least every 2 weeks in March - so there -
     And last of all, I am missing you very much already and would like to see you very much - and that, my love, should count for something -
     So, here's hoping you find ways and means of arranging to be here about Saturday afternoon - and would it be OK if I start assuming you will be here, I hope - let me know definitely practically at once, will you -  I am going to take Betty's book up tomorrow, so I will also intimate to your Aunt Vesta that you will probably be up Saturday -
     Well, dear, I am tired and sleepy about now, but a good nite's sleep should fix me up - The trip back Sunday nite wasn't too much fun, on account of the weather was bad and there was an enormous amount of traffic - so I had a headache practically all day yesterday - and then I worked until after 11:00 last nite, so I didn't feel too sharp after that - it will certainly be swell to have you here all the time and start cheering me up when I start feeling blue - and do you know, April 13 is just 8 weeks from Sunday -
     By the way, what is this you were trying to tell me in your letter about there being no wedding - you can't be too serious - after all, I have the ring - so let me know what's up - Say, maybe you better come up this weekend and we'll talk it over - don't you think that's a good idea -
     I am getting a little worried about the apartment - have received practically no phone calls yet - so tomorrow I am going up and see the gal and find out what the situation is -
     Oh, yes, dear - remember to send me one of the state income tax forms - want to get that little matter settled - and if you come up this weekend I'll tell you how much your tax is - now will you come?
                                                                            Love,
                                                                                      Bill

                                                                              Tuesday-

Hello, dear -
     I feel better tonight - Really had quite a time last night - And then Helen came in - with my nose all shiny and red and me weeping crocodile tears - She and Lloyd had a wonderful time and they are leaving this Thursday for Vancouver, B.C. -
     I got the sweetest letter from Aunt Janet - (which helped to cheer me up no end) - and she thinks the whole thing is a wonderful idea - I'll let you read her letter next time I see you -
     Worked today the same as usual - Ruthie says that in a couple of weeks her mother will be well enough so she can leave her for a weekend - so then I think we'll come to Portland some time - What do you think?-!!!-
     Called Marilyn and she thinks we ought to be able to find a ride up - so - but I'm not expecting too much - then I won't be disappointed -
     Am going to a shower tomorrow night for Helen - and Thursday after next I'm going to give a little one for her - It'll be fun -
     And so dear - remember me -
                                                                                  Dotty

February 10, 1941 Monday

                                                                                         Monday -

Hi - puddin-

     Miss me? - Did you get home all right last night?  - and I hope you don't have to work too late tonight -

     Nothing exciting happened today - except it's darn hard for me to get up in the morning - and I have to snap out of it -

     Finished the dishrags and have almost finished the third one -
     Sorry, dear, but fraid I won't be able to write anything more - And, think I'll give up the whole idea of a wedding - seems like no one wants to do anything, or they're afraid they might have to do something - Right at present I'm very unhappy as well as very mad - So best I quit before I say something I shouldn't - but I do love you and wish you were here -
                                                                                   Dotty

Who was Helengray?

Ed. note:  Some of us have been wondering who Helengray was, as we don't recall Dotty ever talking about her when we were growing up.

In the box of keepsakes that was in the trunk with the letters, I found this news clipping:

And in a search of the Eugene Register Guard archives, this article.

So she was Helengray Boykin, raised in Eugene, in the same sorority as Dotty, and she married Lloyd Cummings.  The announcement was made over this weekend and we can assume that Dotty and Bill were at whatever gathering was held for the occasion.

Betrothed Dotty & Bill

This is one of the little scrolls she handed out at the announcement party. 

February 6, 1941 Thursday "so now I am "officially" engaged - "

                                                                                
Hello Sweetness -
     The party went off in fine shape and everyone was pleasantly surprized - so now I am "officially" engaged -  It's really kind of nice - We had cute little white cakes with red roses on them and Lily of the Valley - We used the glass dishes from the house - and trays from Virginia Kerns - And I guess it's going to be in the paper - All the kids are after me to have my picture in the paper - Sooo-
     Best I let you figure out my income tax for me - I started to tonight but for some reason I don't think I did it correctly -
     I sure miss you all the time - and wish you were here all the time -
     Have been whipping around in the Green Goddess quite a bit collecting and returning dishes, etc - and now I think it's got a flat tire - I'll know for sure in the morning -
     Haven't been able to see Tony yet - maybe he's already gone but he's never in the store -
     Tomorrow night GAC is having a dinner for Founders Day at the Alpha Phi house - Guess I'll go cause it doesn't cost anything -
     Sure can hardly wait till I see you this weekend -  So please hurry down And bring some good news about the apartment -
                                                                             All my love,
                                                                                     Dotty -

                                                                                    Thurs

Hi, dear,
     Well, this is a fine thing, even if I do say so myself - Here it is Thursday and the second day in a row with no letter from you - so I am getting rather unhappy about now - and I am still waiting to hear about our engagement party - Hope I don't have to wait until I see you Saturday -
     By the way, will probably get down to Eugene a little earlier than usual this time, I hope - Have talked the girls into quitting at noon so should be in Eugene before 3:00 PM if everything goes okay -
     Little of anything has been happening this week - have been doing lots of work, but the weather has been too good to enjoy it much - finally had some rain today but it probably won't last - and I do hope the weather is as nice this weekend in Eugene as it was two weeks ago -
     Hope you are arranging for the basketball tickets - I am kind of anxious to see Oregon play again - they must be improving all the time - was quite a surprise to have them beat Washington two games in a row -
     Haven't heard about the apartment yet - seems to me she was going to call me in a week or so, and I hope she does -
     Well, dear, see you Saturday -
                                                                        Love and kisses,
                                                                                     Bill

February 4, 1941 Tuesday

                                                                                 Tuesday

Hello, dear -
     Your letter was very sweet - I have been doing lots of thinking also since Sunday - and all I can say is I can hardly wait for April 13 - just 68 days - every time I think of the little apartment I just want to move right in - hope she calls me up pretty soon and lets me know definitely whether we can have it -
     Am anxious to get your letter and find out how the party tonight was - and as you say, now everybody knows, which is very fine too - Can't wait to go down there this weekend and get a few congratulations myself - have certainly been getting them up here - And Kurt and Vada think you are swell - also he says he really enjoyed that dance we traded -
     Oh, yes, the basketball tickets - I would really like to go Saturday nite, especially since Oregon won last nite, so if you can get a couple I will pay you Saturday - so please see what you can do about it - maybe you can get them from the Athletic Dept if Tony doesn't have some -
     Feel a little tired today - worked until about 11:30 last nite, and it was a successful examination - I'm glad they only come once a week though - it's really quite a grind -
     So please write right away will you, sweet, and let me know what people think about our engagement - also if there's anything in the Guard about it send me a couple of copies -
                                                                           Love and kisses,
                                                                                       Bill

February 3, 1941 Monday "and I'm walking around on top of the clouds all the time"

                                                                                   Monday

Hello, my love,
     Am taking a few minutes off this noon to dash out a short note, on account of I'm going to be working till about midnite or thereabouts and won't be going down the hill till then.
     Honest, dear, you'll have to believe me now when I tell you you're beautiful and sweet and all that, because I'm not alone in my opinion, as you would have me think.  Anyway, I'm just trying to tell you that I have been receiving congratulations and compliments all morning about how sweet you are and how did I ever do it and so I feel pretty happy about it all.  And then whenever I think of the cute little apartment, I feel even better.
     So, remember to let me know right away how the announcement party (the second) came out - Also, if there is anything in the Register - Guard about it, please send me a couple of copies.  Also, please check up on the church situation - and also remember I love you -
                                                                             Bill

Hello, hello, hello -
     Got home in fine shape last night - Really had a nice ride up with Ash - and Francis Bailey - But I sure missed you - already-
     Darn, I sure keep thinking a lot about things - After tomorrow everyone will know - The more I think about it the more thrilled I get - Don't forget to exchange the spoon - And I think that apartment will be just darling - Have already figured out how we can fix it up - The one on that end won't be too hot will it?  - Anyway it's nice to have lots of sunshine -
     (I got me a new coat - and it's awful pretty - and very practical) -
     Do you still want me to get the basketball tickets? - I'll ask Tony tonight anyway - just in case -
     Really, I can hardly wait till we start housekeeping together - I think Vada and Kirt are swell!!! - and we ought to be able to have fun together -
     Am going up to Isabel's tonight and fix up the Schrolls - Billings is going to print them - Helengray & Lloyd will be home Wed. & I am anxious to hear about all the fun they had - Made $29 working in the B.O. - it'll help somewhat - And the car is still working swell - and I'm walking around on top of the clouds all the time -
     Hope this week goes by pretty fast -
                                                                        All my love,
                                                                                      Dotty

January 30, 1941 Thursday "I'll be waiting for you at the station.. "

                                                                        Thursday

Hello, dear -
     Hope you get this before you take the 4 o'clock train to Portland, but I suppose you come home for lunch don't you - anyway, am expecting a letter tomorrow telling me for sure you'll be up Friday - so please don't disappoint me -  I would be very unhappy if you couldn't come till Saturday -
     Think I will sleep hard and long tonight, if I can, on account of I should get caught up for this weekend, and then on Monday I'll be working till midnite - we are going to examine about 300 then and that's a lot - had to stay till 11 and after - before when we only examined 200 - Oh, well -  I quit about 3:30 today and went down and bought a milk shake and a hair cut - and my hair is really short now -
     Went out and drank a couple of bears last nite with Von and Dotty Lou - she is going to Lakeview tomorrow so I guess the four of us don't get together this weekend, but it doesn't matter much - just so you are here -
     Well, dear, I'll be waiting for you at the station - and prepare to have fun -
                                                                                Love and kisses,
                                                                                          Bill

Hello, Sweet--

I don't have to work Saturday and I can leave Friday whenever I want to.  Isn't that perfect?  I may drive up with Marilyn and her mother, leaving here at 2:00, so I'll be in Portland a lot sooner.  But if I don't call you before 8:00-- meet me at that time at the train depot.  I won't know for sure if I go with Marilyn till Friday noon--you see we haven't a way to get bak here except on the train.
                                                                                       Dotty
Will you tell Aunt V. I'm coming - Haven't had a chance to write her -

January 29, 1941 Wednesday

                                                                               Wednesday

Hi, sweet -
     Have been having lots of fun reading your letter - also my income tax reports, which weren't so much fun - guess I made too much money last year, but don't know what happened to a lot of it - oh, well -
     Only day after tomorrow till you are up here - can hardly wait - and we are going to have just lots and lots of fun, what with the dinner and the dance, etc - and that's only Saturday - we still have Friday and Sunday - I think maybe Von has a date with Dotty Lou one of those nites and maybe we can get together for a while and talk about our happy carefree college days -
     Was working busily in my office when Mr. Couch came in from the Board meeting in Monmouth and suggested we go out and get away from it all, so we were out on the golf course in less than half and hour, and it was good fun - and I was really hitting my wood shots for the first time - didn't hit a ball less than 200 yds - but my score wasn't too sharp on account of my irons were lousy, but I didn't mind -
     Last nite I went skating again and had the most fun yet - The ice was nice and hard and I really felt like skating - maybe next Sunday morning I'll take you out there if you care to go -
     Hope you had a chance to see Lindstrom about taking Saturday off - don't see why he could refuse, though, so I'm really not worried -
     By the way, sweet, you better be careful about using Business Office envelopes for personal mail - on account of I don't think they approve - although you did have my income tax forms in it, didn't you, -  Anyway it might be embarrassing if you got the wrong address or something and the letter was returned -
     Have found out the details about the dinner Saturday and it's going to be quite an affair - so far about 175 are signed up - it'll probably get started about 7:00 and last until 9:00 or 9:30 - some of it may be rather dull as they are going to do some reminiscing about the good old days when the Outpatient Clinic was the Free Dispensary down town -  However, I think Mr. Couch is going to be toastmaster, which should help - and Dean Dillehunt will give a talk, and those are always a treat -
     Already have 4 passengers to come down the 8th, so that's all taken care of already - oh happy day -
                                                                 Love and kisses,
                                                                                Bill