Today’s letter is a rather cryptic one from Dart. He hinted a little at things in the works, but maybe not going too well. Based on his history of potentially good news turning bad, he has decided not to say much of anything.

He was clear, however, on what his dad had to say on the subject of one Dorothy Chamberlain. It seems that Pop and the whole family are truly taken with her. That pleases Dart, no doubt. I remember hearing many times as a girl growing up how lucky Mom felt to have had such wonderful and accepting in-laws. I think the affection went both ways.

Dart has been assigned to a two-man work team, which he did solo today. It continues to amaze me that the Navy thinks he’s too sick to return to duty, but they have him scrubbing tubs, mopping floors and all manner of heavy chores. Perhaps they’re short on custodial help and are reluctant to return him to boot camp because he fills in so well.

With a slight variation on “All my love, forever,” Dart ends the letter with “I love you, all the time.” I like this because it is so all-encompassing; it means when I’m with you and when I’m not, when things are good and when they stink, when I’m scared and when I’m joyful. It foreshadows the sentiments they will exchange more than three years hence, in front of family, friends and God.