Dot Darling, Even though I “can’t” spare the time, I must write to you. I got a very nice little letter from Chuckie Pecsok today. I was all ready to begin feeling sorry for myself when I got a letter from you. It was awfully sweet of you to write that little verse to tell me you couldn’t write any more. You’re sweet, Dot. I love you.

Now I have a confession. Today I mailed you a Christmas present. It is something we can use after June, so maybe your wrath at my disregarding your special instructions will be modified by the use to which it can be put. I couldn’t let Christmas go by without giving you something, Dot. You knew that. Anyway, what I sent you worked here. If it doesn’t work there, send it back and I’ll see what gives. I hope my sloppily-put-together packaging device manages to hold up till it arrives.

I also sent two enlargements to your parents: one of El & Fish, the other of Bonnie Neuk’s back porch. I wish now that I’d sent one of you. I’m afraid they’ll feel I’ve slighted you or something. I also wish I’d been able to do something for El. It was so swell of her to take us on that vacation that I feel very badly about not having given her a Christmas present.

It’s 0300 (I was in the Navy-remember?) and I have to get up in 6 hours. I miss you like mad, Darling. I’ll go mad if I miss you much more.

Yours always, Dart

No letter tomorrow