May 19, 1947

May 19

Dear Doc,

You may shout hurray, if you wish.  It is raining and no tennis.  So I will be very very good and answer your letter immediately, or perhaps, you may "try" that perfect crime on the post man.  Please, Doc, don't.  I really wouldn't advise it.  Or was that settled in the last letter?

Considering the difficult time you had writing the last letter you did fairly well.  It was good hearing form you - after a week of writing.

Tell me more about Robert Young.  The only Robert Young I can recall is Robert Young, the war hero. Anyway, who ever he is he has some good ideas.  The two you mentioned appealed to me.  I think he is perfectly right, about getting married when one is young, or particularly not purchasing a house.  There is a lot of time for that.  A couple is inclined to get "too settled down" and not have any real fun if they do.  Women become too interested in their domestic duties and are unaware of the fact that their husbands want more than a good dinner and clean house to come home to each evening.  Of course, that all helps and is necessary but there is more - so very much more.  Wow!  I got involved - forgive me.  Anyway, who the heck is Robert Young?  You run into the strangest people.

I find myself counting the days until Jun 1st.  For your information, Doc Rounds, the "salt water rest cure" may not be what I need at all.  Good gosh, that could be anything!! Pardon me, while I get out my medical journal.  Tell me more.  You know a cozy spot, hmm?  I'll have to know more about that "salt water rest cure" before my doctor will consent.  Please send all information to my address!  Sounds interesting.

Frankly, Doc, I believe I am losing my mind (never reach that point) Fear not.  There is no censor en route.  I suffered a mild seize of hysteria when I found I had not enclosed the darn thing.  I could just as soon tell the thing to go to H. but it can be done and I'll prove it to myself.  It really isn't worth waiting for Doc, so toss it out the "windy".

Before I continue - I shall explain.  I'm not responsible for the "SWAK" on my last letter but it really isn't a bad idea.  Mre. Gendrich, one of the nurses, confessed today.  I wondered why she always asked if I had heard from you.  See, I had her mail my last letter to you.  We are continually playing dirty tricks on one another.  It is a lot of fun and they all are fine girls.  Sometimes the treatment should be reversed from all observation but we are happy or try to be happy.  There is a difference, isn't there?

You are quite right.  A lot of my time is spent with heavy backs, so you called them but I don't mind.  Of course, I'd rather be having a steak with you.  If that is what you suggest But!!!  One would think that you had no freedom.  Good heavens, man, that is our one privilege to do as we please at the time we please.  Why do people restrict themselves?  So many of us are prisoners of our own minds and ideas - and ideals perhaps, if you wish to include the letter.  Forgive me - I am getting all to serious!  I think it is good for me nevertheless.

Take care, Doc, did you read about the fellow in Rhode Island who was arrested for "laughing" in public?  Of all things.  He received a prompt invitation from Texas to come there and laugh all he wished.

Say, I think you may need a little attention - Really, Doc, my letters really are not "laughable" not even the first time.  Go ahead and have your fun!  But never will I tell a joke - "Duz - duz everything!"  We nurses passed better ones than that around - Reminds me of one!  Now Anne - remember what Mother always told you - ok - no joke.

Were you to a Pops concert?  Thank you for the program, or programs.  Lets see - I'd like to have been there Friday, May 7 and heard Grieg's Panio Concerto.  Don't miss De Rosenkavolier.

I'm going to be real good to you, Doc, and walk down and mail this - now isn't that sweet?

It is still raining so this should be pleasant (the walk, I mean)  Why did you ask if I were bored?  Are you?

Be good and write soon!

As ever, 

Anne

Excuse the mistakes, I'm not rereading this.

  

(enclosed poem)

Beloved San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Oh! San Antonio, you moth eaten town,

Your unpainted houses should all be torn down,

Your winters are cold, your summers are hot, 

The air is humid with mildew and rot.

It's the land of bad colds, sore throats and flu,

Of stiff aching muscles and pneumonia too.

You're a blot on the landscape, the Nation's eyesore,

Your people are out-witted and gad, what a bore,

Your streets are filthy from all approaches,

There comes swarms and swarms of your vile cock-roaches.

The home of side poraches and crowded thoroughfares,

And lovely girls with their very blank stares.

You live among spicks and don't mind the rats,

And seem to thrive on mosquitoes and gnats.

You can't even speak English, you speak Texaneese,

Inhaling sewer gas which you think is the breeze,

You make us pay double f or all you sell,

But after the war, you can all go to Hell.

And when you reach Hades, and Satan greets you,

You'll feel right at home, for he's a Texan too.

Yes, San Antonio, Oh! San Antonio, it ain't very charmy,

To be flanked on your door step by Uncle Sam's Army.

Have you ever wondered why all of us grieve?

Why all of us welcome the first chance to leave??

The worst of it is, you all think you're swell,

You think yourselves perfect and that gripes us like Hell.

You're dead and rotten and you think you're alive,

You think you have a palace instead of a dive, 

You're not worth this paper, You're not worth this ink,

YOU CAN TAKE IT FROM US........ SAN ANTONIO... YOU STINK.

March 24, 1947

Wednesday

Dear Doc,

Now that we are among the "minus tonsils club" I hope you are feeling alright and have gotten over the serious operation.  Oh, what I wouldn't do to use my technique on you.  You'd have no ill effects whatsoever. I guarantee recovery.  But of course, any good nurse does, and I'm sure "Honey" will take good care of you.  I hope you are wearing your snuggles because you must caution against relapse.  They are really just what you needed.  Tell me, did they fit?  Oh, I hope they did - you didn't say both Jo and I are worried they may be too large.  Enlighten us please.

Lets see, I shall try answering some of your questions: Doctor Pyterek is still in San Antonio.  You know he is out of the Army.  (Thank God)  He is doing wonderfully well.  That is not hard to understand.  Has begun construction on the clinic he is going to open out in the Woodlawn section.  You know, the section near Thomas Jefferson High.  He is one fine person, my ideal in men.  It has been quite some time since I have sen him.  I really miss his fine wonderful talks we use to have along with the many good times.  An unfortunate thing happened to Pam recently.  She was burned someway or another but is doing fine now.  I really don't know the details as Eric was too upset to elaborate.  Skeeter is still the wild little boy he always was.  Remember the time we fed him beer?  My, were we brilliant.

As for John, I can't ever remember telling you about the incident of reading the paper in church.  I'd prefer forgetting it.  He is no longer in the family and everyone is better cause of it.  God bless him wherever he is, guess he must be married to some German lass.  His was a case of being too intelligent, can you understand that?  If you don't mind I won't go into it.  Best it be forgot.

Right now I could give a very vague report on human activity cycles.  I shall look into the subject and report to you Dr. Rounds.

You asked me what I do - Well my social life is nil except for a few dinner engagements - Attending lectures, church, reading that is about all.  Oh yes, Do you remember Dic Durham?  He was up a Bandera - the mad pilot, who strafed the ranch - well through much effort he finally got in contact with us and was down last week-end.  He is attending the U. of Minnesota.  Sends you his best as he remembered you.  The three of us went out for a fine time - Time passes so quickly one really has to ration one's time which I see is not done by you.  As long as you are kept busy that is the important thing.  One never has enough time to do everything. My what a dull life it would be.

I've been doing a great deal of reading - just finished "Wasteland" Jo Sinclair.  It is a fine book.  Think you would enjoy it.  Also "Peace of Mind" which seems will take forever to comprehend - It is one book everyone should read.  Stimulation.  One learns how important religion is for happy living. Bet you've read "The Last Puritan" by Santayan (the spelling may be incorrect excuse please)  So you see, I've been quite busy.

As for the summer, Don't think I'll be here longer than June 5th - Really have no plans after that except to roam around the country on bikes and feet - Leading a rugged life - 

Tell me, Doc, oh, never mind.  I was going to start an argument but I guess I won't disrupt this peaceful mood I am in.

The family is going to San Antonio for the "Fiesta" in April.  I am tempted to go along but I guess I won't.  I've had my fill of the town- Seeing the Doctor would be the only inducement.

I really don't know how you tolerate these letters but we all must suffer - 

Oh, good news, tomorrow Jo and I have decided to quiet a screaming family by having our portraits taken - Should be most amusing.  You have a surprise in store Mr. Rounds - We shall add you to our list - OK?

Best of luck with the operation!  Must close - time for church - Jo sends her love - 

My Best,

Anne

Write soon - your letters are not as much a bore as you think!

December 1945

December

Dear Doc,

Hello, Lt. Rounds, or should I say Mr. Rounds?  Just a short note to let you know, Doc, I haven't forgotten you, such a thing is not possible.

These mad San Antonio shoppers are going to drive me crazy before the Christmas holiday.  I'll be so glad when Christmas comes and Jo and I can go home.  I wish today was January 16th.  Boy, what a glorious day that will be.

It has been very cold in San Antonio, but, of course, no snow.

Well, Tex, now that all the citizens of Stoneham have recovered from the shock of seeing your boots, you can settle down to a quiet life with one of your father's most admirable secretaries.  For you, Doc, that may be a very good thing.

Doc, there are so many things I want to tell you.  Please be patient, I'll write you a nice long letter soon.

Tell me, Lt. Rounds, where are all those Third Airforce men?

It's getting late - will write tomorrow - 

Good night, Doc - 

Anne - 

October 2, 1945

Brooks Field

Oct. 2, 1945

Dear Mother:

I have been waiting to hear from you before writing because I didn't know just what the opinion was at home.  Well I got your letter today and so will apply for leave to become affective about the middle of the month.

 I have been wanting to come home for some time but I have been having so much fun that I guess I just needed a little persuasion.  It also looked like a long way and rather expensive.  However I will come on the Air lines and that will make the distance seem shorter but the expense will be a little greater but in time saved I believe it will be worth it.  It will cost 1 1/2 times as much but I can save 5 days and the money will be well spent.  Anyway money ceases to be an object anymore.  

I was a little afraid to send Mary such a birthday present because I had no idea what her taste along that line was.  Also it is awful hard to send perfume to anyone knowing before hand that she doesn't use it a great deal.  I know she would like it but I had a lot of doubts in my mind as to the advisability of such a thing.  In fact I doubted at first if you would approve.  She also has written so I am very happy that it turned out O.K.

It is too bad you can't meet the latest lady fair.  She is such a lot of fun and so full of mischief and fun everyone would like her.  And she enjoys doing everything we do.  She likes to dance but loves to go to record stores and listen to classical records.  We went to the "Opera" last Friday to see Sigmund Romberg's "The New Moon" put on by the S.A. Civic Opera Company.  It was strictly an amateur production with three of the leads taken by  Mt. Opera Stars so it wasn't too hot.  But we all got a big kick out of it.

Gordon MacRae singing "Stout-hearted Men"

Wanting You by Jeannette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy

There are so many things we like to do together that I hardly have time to write.  Really there is only one catch to the whole thing and that is she is Catholic.  I have no wish to get mixed up in any such deal so don't worry.  That is also very strange because she is also so bitter about her religion and makes no bones about it.  It is the first time I have seen anything like it.  Usually they are so indoctrinated that it is almost impossible to talk to them but Anne is just the opposite, even though her parents are such firm followers.  Anyway we have a lot of fun together and you have to have something to do in your spare time and we have a lot of it.  I just feel fortunate to have met such a swell person.

We went out to eat one evening last week and she suggested the "John Quattle" because as she says "it has atmosphere".  Well it really was a nice little place outside of town not too far from her house.  You eat outside in a kind of garden but the best part of it was they have a violinist and a cellist who play requests.  They just wander around and park themselves where they can.

We ordered a couple of steaks done Mexican style which are really delicious, you probably have never eaten much Mexican food.  When we were about done the two gentlemen came over to serenade us and were we thrilled.  I guess we acted a little spell bound and I could just imagine how Mary would have liked that.  They played Jealousy and something else by Fritz Kreisler.  Anyway when we left I knew just what she meant by atmosphere.  So that is the way it goes her in S.A, I really do enjoy it because everyday is different and entertaining.  Do you think you can compete?

Jealousy Tango

I haven't written much about S.A. to you because there really isn't much to it.  It is one of the most crowded but still deadest towns I have ever been in.  They have so few things interesting to do that entertainment is scarce.  The movies change once a week and I have seen all of them, we went up to the Alamo but there isn't much to see, if you are not a native of Texas you can't see an awful lot to do.  Since I am interested in everything I do get more enjoyment than a lot of people.  I have found out that a town is no better than the people in it and the Mexicans around here are not my idea of good neighbors.  They have an average of 3 killings a night and all kinds of hold ups and knifings.  Frankly I am a little afraid of the place and may buy myself a gun to carry.  Perhaps I would get a false security from it and then really get into trouble.  Anyway when you have good company you can have fun in any town.

I am sending a picture taken in town a couple of weeks ago.  As you can see we were very happy, just whistling along.  It is not much of a picture, but that is what we look like in our afternoons off.  One of those sidewalk photographers caught us and gave us a little card and this is what we got.  Even though it isn't much I can always get a larger one out of it later on, maybe 40 years from now.

Taken September 20, 1945

I also have one take of Anne on the street which is really terrible and I shan't send it because I am sure you would get an awful impression.  She is an awful good looking girl but the picture has her scowling and looking rather unhappy which is just the opposite of what she is with me.  She may be different than I think but I doubt it.

I am going to send Mary the program from "The New Moon" so if you want it you may have to show her the picture.  Maybe that is a good way to be sure everyone hears what happens down here.

Well I have just rambled on and on and haven't really gotten anywhere.  I don't really have to get anywhere because we are staying in tonite.  I am getting tired of going out and coming in late every night anyway and I think they need a rest.

Well I will keep you informed of the latest developments but don't make any plans until you get definite word and that may not be  until I come up the back walk.  Maybe that would be a good trick to play.  Just because I am coming home don't forget to write.

With love

Austin

September 6, 1945

Sept. 6, 1945

Dear Mother:

I don't suppose you actually did leave home last Tuesday as you said you might in your letter.  If you had left I am sure I would have heard from you by now and I could plan but I am just assuming that you are at home.

I have no idea how far you could of gotten with your plans but from your letter I got the idea you were coming and to get ready.  So I did the best I could in the short notice I had.

Maybe you all are thinking I am making excuses but you have not seen San Antonio.  It is the closest thing to a mad house I have ever seen.  It is so crowded it surprises me where the people all sleep.  The streets are crowded all of the time and everything looks like Saturday night.

Hotel reservations have to be made 2 weeks in advance unless they have a cancellation.  All of the motor courts and motels are full and I believe that the park benches are pretty well taken care of.  It is next to impossible to eat unless you go in at odd hours.

I had no idea you would decide in a hurry to come or even had an idea that you would take me up on it.  That is why last Friday I took off without checking the mail or anything.  I did not return until Tuesday late and found all the telegrams (one) and the letters.  I should have wired you right away but decided to call on the plane.  I placed the call at 1730 and it finally was through at 2330 and they rang for several minutes with no result.  It would have been 12:30 at home and I don't suspect anyone was up.  But I wish someone could have got up and answered because I felt it was very important, so much so that I sat on marble stairs for 6 hours.

Now I don't know if your plans went so bad that you don't want to try again or not but here is the deal.  Tell me in time to make reservations in Austin which will be a lot more comfortable.  I can really get things fixed up then.  Also I can get a V.O.C.D. and get off for 6 days or more.  It all has got to be arranged but please don't try to get in touch with me on a weekend especially a holiday weekend.

Now if you have left Stoneham and are already home again just disregard this and tear it up.

I went to my first and I hope it is my last military funeral today.  A very good friend and a swell fellow was killed in a crash last Friday.  He was my roommate here and I had known him all the way from B17 transition at Roswell.  He was from Alaska and because of that he was buried at Ft. Sam Houston not far from here.  The Army really did a swell job and made it a very impressive ceremony. His name was Varnell, you may have remembered the name from some of my letters.  He, Bill Ayers, and I had been triple dating together for some time.  His girl in Austin was very broken up; I guess they had planned to get married but maybe it is a good thing they didn't.  Well so ends the tale of another who gave his all but will be remembered only by his friends and relatives.  This sure is a rough life if you don't take it easy and take too many chances.  I am going to have a lot of grand children.

Well Addie Mae and I had a little misunderstanding last Monday.  So I don't know what is going to happen.  I wrote her a letter that was a little on the nasty side so I guess my future in Austin is all taken care of for me.  She is such a good kid I hate to hurt her but sometimes I get so mad I could lick wild cats and I happened to write a letter while in such a mood.

Theodore Roosevelt saying to William Howard Taft, "I can lick my weight in wildcats, C.Q.D!", and Taft replying, "Oh, that’s nothing; I can eat my weight in ’possums, P.D.Q!" 1906.

Well I guess I have written enough.  I wish you had come because I am sure we could have managed.  

With love

Austin

August 16, 1945

Aug 16, 1945

Dear Mother:

I don't have much on my mind so don't be surprised if this is a short letter.  I will just write until I run out of words and that will be the end.

Tuesday night about 1930 we got that news that Japan had accepted our terms.  Just what those terms are or how they will affect me is beyond my knowledge but everyone seems to think that it calls for a celebration so that is what 90% of the people did.  As for me I didn't see any discharge papers in view right away and seeing how the schedule starts again tomorrow I see no reason to go out and spend all my money making a lot of noise and making someone else rich.  Maybe I should of at least gone into San Antonio to see the rest of the people lose their heads but instead I just stayed on the base, went swimming and got a swell sun burn and saved my money.

Times Square

San Diego

Times Square

Navy Yard Hospital

Oak Ridge, Tennessee

Times Square

Paris, France

So for the last 48 hours I have been sleeping, eating and swimming and going to movies.  Boy it sure is a rough life to have nothing in the world you have to do but instead you really have to rack your brain trying to find something.  This army is making a lazy man out of me.

Tomorrow ends the big 2 day holiday.  The engines of the 29s have come to life again in preparation for flying tomorrow and the ground crews are again on the ramps repairing engines under huge lamps which lights things up like day.  I suppose the only reason we are starting again is because orders from higher up haven't yet been received to halt the program.  The thing is moving so fast that it will be hard to stop all at once.  We will probably have school for some time to come after official VJ day.  I don't care one way or the other so let them do as they please.  I only wish I could get home again before Summer is over and gone.

I am beginning to wonder just what is to be our fate.  It goes without saying that the army doesn't want all the men it has trained to fly in fact it doesn't need all the men who would like to stay in.  I for one would like to stay in a little longer and see how things are going to work out.  I also would like to go back to school but can hardly imagine myself doing accounting.  Maybe I can bring myself to it but I am sure the social side of college will be to me a lot more alluring.  What a change in the last 2 years.

I got Pop's card Tuesday.  That sure is a big potato on the front.  I really don't believe they grow them that big but you still have to believe 1/2 of what you see.

Well I guess that kind of winds things up.  I hope you aren't bored with the preceding 2 pages.

With love

Austin

what a life