Airplane Stationery — Somewhere At Sea
Letter #6

Dear Sweetheart—

Another day — & I believe that uncomfortable feeling is gone. Found that the horizontal position is a steadying influence, but now resort to it merely to catch up on lost sleep due to duty. You may be sure this is no pleasure cruise, but there is no real work.

I wasn't able to get home — just no time, but spoke to my Mother, Howie + Ralph + Sylvia.

Am writing this in the Officers Mess. Quite comfortable especially because of the radio, but not nearly so nice as the Navy Officers' Mess. They sure know how to treat themselves.

About Lennie, I'm afraid we did the only right thing at the time, though I will say it serves as an example how the irrational is sometimes best. But we shan't feel too badly about it — this war can't last much longer & then —— happiness.

Wasn't able to get the wristlets.

I like the idea of our first month out of Service —— in bed with you. Oh boy. We do enjoy ourselves don't we.

This business of smiling — well I imagine I've gotten out of practice, but with you at my side I shan't need any prodding. You are so wonderful + I love you so much.

You know I forgot to tell you, I think, that this A.P.O. number I have, is probably a temporary one. Doesn't mean anything one way or the other, except there shall probably be a delay in mail reaching me if, as is most likely, the A.P.O. is changed.

I can well imagine how hard it is for you, & I'm glad your crying is over. Gee I'm sorry I caused you tears. I pray God it's the last time it shall happen. You are everything to me. You shall never lose me, that I promise. Please dear, don't let your imagination get the best of you. I can handle whatever comes my way. You are one unusual lady in the first place & the fact that you are in Service + an officer too just adds to it & I'm sure that our future is bright — we have had so much happiness together. You understand me & I, you. And this business of my retreating into a shell I promise you that if anything happens which should bring about that feeling of hurt, I shall either take you into it with me, but I think I can break that shell if anything should happen. Why? You & only you are the reason. I have never given myself — all of me — to anyone before. I always held back & never showed or explained all my emotions — how could anyone understand or appreciate them who wasn't in complete rapport with me? But I feel that our marriage is increasingly, if not already, brought about a complete breakdown of that fear nurtured for so long of being misunderstood & ridiculed. I give myself completely to you & know that your love for me will not allow you to misunderstand. In that I revel. I truly have found my wife of eternity. God is pervading throughout you.

I love you & could never love another ever.

Your devoted husband
Dolph

2nd Lt. Adolph J. Bennett 01058458
Inf. Co. A — 3rd Platoon
APO 15777 c/o P.M.
New York, N.Y.