May 5, 1945
Dear Shirl,
Sometimes I fall back in amazement at the things that happen. Your letter really wowed me. You bawling me out for not writing is very funny. The trouble is that I don't get it! No matter how long I've waited for your letters I've always answered them within two days. I wrote to you the beginning of this week and I wrote to Bill last night. His letter came the day after yours. I don't savvy the drift of all of this but I'm not taking the blame.
This makes about the fifth time you've called me childish. I told you before that I didn't like it and I still don't. Cut it from now on.
Another thing let's get straight. If you decide to greet me with a frown and a curse you might well add a goodbye to it. That'll be about the time I check out.
I don't know how my mother got all mixed up but obviously she did. I don't have any idea what day I'll be home. I hope and it's possible that the orders will come through next week. I told you that I'd wire you when I got on the train. That still goes.
I was hoping that we wouldn't be having any more of these sessions. I guess we still have some thrashing out to do.
One more thing. If we do have troubles, I'll give it to you straight. I've tried to make you glad not hurt. I'll fight fair and what you suggested was below the belt stuff. I don't go in for it. You sure must have faith and belief in me.
I've got your ring and I want you to wear it for keeps, but only if you're positive you want it. If we're both not sure it' not going to work out. Are you sure?
I'll let you know when I leave and I'll call you within three minutes after I hit Chicago. O.K.?
Till Then
Yours
Ray