October 3rd 1943

Dear Shirl,

     I told you all about that something inside that says, "that's it."  I guess it works in reverse too.  Every time I think of that last letter I sent you something pretty strong keeps calling me a heel.  It wasn't so hot, was it?  When I was small, if I couldn't have or do something I would become indignant and pretend I didn't want it anyway.  I guess I haven't grown up yet.  If I can't have you, the devil with you, you're no good anyway - that's how I felt when I wrote.  I guess evryone felt that way at sometime.  I never got the letter you sent to Florida, but I'll bet you didn't mean all the stuff that was in it.  Maybe you should have , though.  You were right about my testing you and putting you on the spot.  I could try and explain that too, but it's more evidence of my not having grown up.

     I guess I'm not the wolf type either.  I just haven't the nerve.  About 99.99% of the gals scare me.  I don't know what to do or say to them (as if you didn't know) .   I'll probably die a respectable old gentleman.

     Any of these things about you that were wrong, weren't so very wrong.  I suppose I forced you into them.  I always begin to understand things a little bit too late.

     I guess its best to call things quits, but not midst curses and oaths.  I bashed things up so I'll just have to take it.  

     You're O.K., damned O.K..  I'm sorry that I couldn't be the guy that gets you.

     That is my pen you found, and I would like to have it please.  

         Good luck, Sugar Plum

            Ray