To Bertha from CC Ballou –
Headquarters
Camp Dodge, Iowa
Commanding General’s Office
February 14, 1919
My dear “Specks,”
This is the anniversary of the advent of my test beloved valentine, and I am sorry not to have contributed something _____ a celebration of the event as well as for Sally’s birthday. But I did not have much thought while home for anything except hanging about the place and visiting with you all. Also when _____ so much in Paris as I did it as a sort of general contribution to the family that would have to, in a way, represent me in the way of gifts for the winter’s “occasions.” I have written to Mamma regarding another matter, but it may be some time before it materializes. I want you, however, to _____ a frame for the photo you are to have and tell Mamma it is to be at my expense, so you will have to regard the photo, framed, as sort of birthday remembrance. I am well up to date. It has turned colder and there is a strong north wind and dull clouds. Better weather as predicted for tomorrow.
I am getting lots of dinner invitations, much to my regret, my evenings are, ______, very lonely, as I am entirely alone every night and afternoon when not in my office.
I have just written Madame Briger that we would _____ this the “_____,” sometime, I guess that is French for “crest,” or “_____.” Have appointed “_____” Newman Executive Office, and will be glad to have him at my elbow. It will assure me of good judgment and thoroughness in carrying out my wishes.
Give me love to Mamma, Lenn, and Sally, and let me hear how things are going, when you have to write. I completed the _____ out of the 19th _____ today. _____ I _____ as it’s commander, and announced in orders that it has ceased to exist.
Your loving dad.