Old Family Letters

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O.L. LaRue to Cora YuLee Melton Shultz ( February 9,1902)

February 9,1902

Greenville, Va.

       Dear Y, I received your little present & appreciate it very much indeed. but I did not know the name of the treasure so had to get your mother to tell me what it was used for. Now I think about it is time you were coming home; we can't spare you much longer & if you do not come soon I am afraid you won't get that Blue Silk.

Your friend,  O.L. LaRue

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (no date but abt. 1902)

(undated)

Sunday Evening

      My dear little girl, While the young folks are in the parlor I'll write to you. I think you have done real well to make my quilt & so many other little things. Am glad you made the handkerchief bag for Mr. LaRue. He often wishes you would come home. He said at dinner you had sent him something, but he did not know what it was, so I told him what it was for. He had very little to say at dinner. May Lizzie is here & you know he doesn't like her. Sarah has been real sick for the last week had an a cyst in the back of her throat. Dr. thought he would have to lance it at one time but I believe it will get well without it as she is a great deal better. She suffered severely for several days & had to keep hot poultices to it a great deal. She looks pale & badly. Dr. put her on Wampler's Cod Liver Oil, am real uneasy for fear she will have a spell like that one she had four years ago. She got her watch last week it is much prettier than it ever was. He wrote Sarah few days ago that he would be here about next Friday but she wrote him to postpone his visit that she had promised a friend in the country to visit her Tuesday & came back Friday. He found the C man not responsible they would advertise for new boys & get them, compell them to buy their uniforms of them & charge them double prices, keeps them a short while & turns them off. Hiter bought a blue suit of them paid $10 for it but did not have buttons put on. They wanted $1.50 extra for buttons & $1.50 for cap, said the men in the office drank & gambled nearly all night so it scared him out. I am glad he came back but am anxious for him to do something. The trip cost him $22. I guess Mr. M. will start in a few days, tho the roads are all most impassible, he wants to leave one horse here so as to hire out. Mr. L. wants to drive right much as soon as the roads are better, & you know he is good pay. Tell Aunt Pem we have cut every rag we can find will finish tacking in a few days. I went to church last Sunday & today too. Mr. Blair looked real sad today his father's home was burned down few nights ago all got out, but lost everything they had. John has driven out somewhere said he would be back presently. H. wants to go home with him if he comes in time. I get from 8 to 10 eggs a day they are still worth 20 cents a day. Ask Ella to send some butter first chance it is 18 cents now. Got ours yesterday & could not get a price. I have to buy a lot of milk from Mrs. Smith everyday or two to keep the baby in. Don't have any milk for coffee now. Will look for you all soon. With much love to all,  am your loving,     Mother

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Sallie Baker to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (no date)

(undated)

      Dear YuLee,

I was so certain your letter was from little Helen that I read your name Helen, & was surprised to see YuLee. You write nicely & was very glad to hear from you -- you are surely a quiltmaker must be from quitersville. I somehow can't get time to sew up my few rags. Mama will have to ship me you. What say you to that -- My old hens are not laying well, got 13 today generally 8 or ten have not any setting yet. Aunt Mat has two hens with chickens doing well. We have nine pigs, they are nearly two months old -- are real pretty. Tell Preston alright I will save a place for his name. I would like to see my nephews & nieces in Augusta, but I don't know when I can get over there. It tears Uncle Al all to pieces for me to go away & you know it don't suit for the wheel horse to be out of place. I have not had a letter from my girl for two weeks -- she wrote a postal last - I expect a letter tomorrow. I am going to send you a picture in this for you all to see, you can keep it long enough for your home people to see too, but you must send it back to me I think a lot of it, tell Aunt Pem I will write to her next time & she must not feel slighted, I was late getting to writing & have to patch Uncle Al's breeches now & it is after ten. You only had two words spelled wrong, you said "down stars" & had "comming", now hunt up both those words & remember them. Write again I enjoyed your letter, Love to all, Does Clarence go to school now? Tell him he must write to his Aunt Sallie. Very Hurriedly yours,   Aunt Sallie

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (February 3, 1909)

February 3, 1909

Greenville, Virginia

My Dear Lee,

  Your letter gladly rec'd yesterday, was real glad to hear from you all & that you think you will like your new surroundings. Sure do miss you. feel all the time that it is time for you to be coming in. Can't realize that you are married & have left your old mama, but hope you are very happy & will come to see us real often. Papa and Mr. Shorer left for West Va. Monday morning, had a letter today saying they were getting along nicely. did not suffer any with cold Monday & sold 1.50 picture. Said the roads were better there than they are here. We are getting along with the work all right so far. Sarah cleans up all up stairs and Sis fixes the lamps regularly. We like Miss Wilder very much, she makes her own bed. Young Mr. Robertson is quite a nice looking little fellow, he went to the school house yesterday but no children met him, he notified a lot of them & went out again this morning. Guess he must be teaching today. We gave your room a thorough cleaning Saturday & could not find your glasses. Do hope you will find them in your trunk. Yes, I know your diamond is a beauty, tell Fred he has a level head on his shoulders, he was wise not to give you the diamond til you were married. I had a letter from Verneena today, said she could not sit in Hiter's lap at all and that Hiter would get down on his knees & put his head on her shoulder, said that was the best he could do & told me to tell you if you have seen her that she bet you would not have gotten married. Hope your voil skirt is tolerably long. Don't you know mine has not come yet, neither is my white waist made, they have not sent for me to try it on yet. Guess we will go to West Va. as soon as possible as Mr. M. gets back, to do with M.B. jumper so sent to down to Mrs. Bowers, she put it on the belt & finished it off, charged a qr. I have ordered samples from Staunton of percal suitable to make a wrapper & some shams for Blair. Mrs. Bowers will make my wrapper, Mr. Probst left yesterday morning. Dr. Peyton is just alive, Mr. Robertson was there this morning, but could not see him, he has been unconscious since Saturday. Mrs. Peyton is taking it awfully hard, had to send for the Dr. for her last night, she will not stay there after he dies. Mr. Crumheller is still improving, & so is Mr. Miller, & our little baby Jeane has had a very bad cold for several days. Dr. Thomas was to see her Monday & said it would not do for her to take any more cold, so I told Sarah she had better keep her upstairs as the Dr. said she must not run out at all & tis so hard to keep her in when she is down in my room. So she has not been down since day before yesterday, she was real pert yesterday but has been more fretful today. Sarah told Dorsey at dinner to send the Dr. up again this evening. We are so much afraid she will have pneumonia. Richard too has a dreadful cold. I gave him calomel last night and saltz this morning he looked so bad I told him after dinner to go to see Dr. Thomas, that he might  need something else. I ordered a bbl. of sugar from Earl this morning. Well I guess I had better stop want to put a quilt in the frames so we can tack it tomorrow. Will be glad to see you & your friend anytime you come, hope I'll be at home. Write often, with lots of love to you both am as ever your loving,  Mama

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (February 10,1909)

February 10,1909

Greenville, Va.

  My Very Dear Lee,

  Your letter gladly received yesterday, but am sorry you have been home sick, think it is so funny for you to get home sick for old Greenville, hope you will not feel that way any more. We have all had terrible colds, Richard & M.B. especially, but believe they are better. Susie came home from Washington last Friday went out to Cousin Bill's & she & Nannie came in this morning, will leave Saturday. Susie & Miss Wilder the teacher are in the parlor entertaining Dr. Hart, Earl, & Hatcher. Hatcher took Miss Wilder driving this evening. Had a letter from Hiter this evening said he had the finest boy in the world. He was born at 2 o'clock Tuesday morning & at 4 o'clock he was writing to me & I got it this evening, now that was quick wasn't it. Susie has given up the girls she was traveling with & is going to teach Elocution in Charleston & take up her missions work again. She will go to Charleston with me Tuesday, We will stay in Charleston til Friday or Saturday. I had a letter from Mrs. K. today & Hugh had one from Gertrude & Sarah had one from her last week, all seem wild for us to come. Susie is going to recite at League Friday night. Do wish you could be here. Mr. Musick asked Papa the other day if he would play & Papa said I don't know bout it my partner is gone, & Mr. Musick said he & Mr. Shultz could play, but I do not much think they will. Papa fixed the sink in the kitchen today it is just fine. Yes, I got the announcement from Mr. Shultz but not the picture, will have to send for it as I am anxious to take Hiter one. Didn't you say you had one of Aunt Sallie too? My waist is still not done yet, she fitted it today & my voil & silk skirt just got here today, they fit fine, am very much pleased with them. Well tis nearly eleven & all have gone to bed, so will close & finish in the morning. May angels watch over you while you sleep in the prayer of your loving Mama.  --  Thursday A.M. all are well as usual but Richard he has not gotten up yet, his ear still hurts him, do hope he will soon be well, as I would hate to leave him complaining. You surely must come as soon as I get back & if you wish to, I know Sis & Sarah would be glad to have you before I get back. Really I hardly know how they will get along. Sarah & Jeane are so often complaining. Dorsey is very much complaining now but feels better this morning. I got a very pretty wrapper from Staunton but am afraid I can not get any one to make it. Mrs. Bowers was to make it but some of her kin in Lexington got sick & she had to go there. If she does not get back today will try Miss Pet Elliott. Mr. Drumheller has not been so well for the past few days. Write me next week in Charleston care of Mr. Kennedy. Susie says they surely do move with the first in Charleston & she knows they will show us a good time. Nannie says they miss you lots in the parlor. Earl & Wilburn took supper here Sunday. Love & Kisses to you both, your devoted,     Mama

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (February 19, 1909)

February 19, 1909

Charleston, W. Va.

My very dear Children,

            Lee your letter was gladly received yesterday we are real glad that you all are going to house keeping so soon. You will be so much better satisfied. will not get home sick then, I know. You will have so many nice new things it will keep you busy dusting & chasing the flies out. well. I know you want to hear about our trip. We left home on the noon train Monday, spent the night at the VA. Susie met us there, left on the four o'clock train, got here at noon. Helen & Mack met us at the train & when we first got in sight of the house Mrs.Kennedy & Gertrude were on the porch yelling I am so glad to see you all, never received such a welcome in all my life from every one of them. They surely are treating us fine. They have a nice house & you would be surprised to see how they keep it. They must have natural gas both for heating & lighting so clean and pretty. Have a nice bath room hot and cold water. Blair had to have a hot bath the night we got here, he & Richard had a big time bathing. Hiter was in town the night we got here came up about eight & stayed til nearly twelve. He is looking better than I ever saw him & is so proud of his boy, he said Verneena wanted us to come right on, but thought we had better stay here til tonight. He was out on a trip but said he would go home tonight & be there til Monday, so we told him we would meet him at the six o'clock train tonight & go with him. Mrs. Kennedy took us out yesterday morning, came home to dinner & she took us out again & stayed til supper. She would pay the St. Car fare all around & last night Mr. Kennedy the girls, & Richard Mr. Melton & the children & I took in four moving picture shows. Mr. K. & Mr. M. took  it turn about to pay. Mr. Kennedy has had fruit every night. He just orders a great big basket full of grapes, figs, nuts, pineapple & apples & puts them on a large center table & we just eat til bed time. I never saw anything like it. I forgot to mention the oranges & on the table they have cold ham, beef steak, beef roast, breakfast bacon, celery, olives, green peas, black eye peas kale, cabbage, chicken salad, eggs, tomatoes & a whole lot of other things.I don’t mean they have all of them at once, but they are feeding us high. Mrs. Kennedy & Gertrude do the cooking. Helen helps a little about the cleaning, but as you say she picks at her shirt waist polishing her finger nails several times a day. I have not been very well since getting here. Just before we got to Thirmond coming out I began to get chilly & soon after we got here I had a little chill & then burning fever. Laid down a while & felt better but before bed time my limbs ached so badly I could hardly stand it, and the next morning had a head ache all day. Did not get up til five in the evening. Felt tolerably well yesterday but after going all day til eleven last night  I was completely broken down, but feel right much rested this morning. Though my doesn't feel right, if I don't feel better in a few days will take some calomel. You can see from my writing that my hand id shaky. They all ask lots about you and say they would be delighted to have you come to see them. I had a card from Sis yesterday said she had not been very well but Sarah had been doing fine & said little Jeane was mighty well & good. Papa says he will order your dishes just as soon as he gets home & wants to know if you want the gold band like Sarah's & Helen's or had you rather have some other decoration. Now he left to you to decide. I think the gold band is decidedly the prettiest, but if you all want something else write him right away at Greenville & tell him, he will get them Tuesday morning next. I shall be delighted to visit you some time after you get to house keeping. I think the four quarter sheeting is the best that is just about wide enough to make a pair of sheets, you know the length of a sheet is 2 1/2 yds. Now get everything of that kind from Shultz Bros. & they will come much cheaper. I think you will find bolsters at any furniture store. Have not seen any of Mr. Kennedy's people yet except Isabel & Lottie & Effie. Isabel called on me the evening we got here & only met Lottie & Effie on the St. Yes, I met Gov. McCorkle on St. yesterday, he was very nice & said his wife would surely be round to see me. The Legislature is in session now & Gov. McCorkle gave them & a lot of big men a reception the day after we got here, there were three hundred people invited & two hundred & fifty were there. Gertrude was there but no ladies invited. G. just went over to be with Isabel. Said she never saw such a lot of men in her life. Mrs. McCorkle is not very well & had to go to bed before it was over. Well my dear the girls want to take me out so will go, maybe I'll feel better after getting out in the air. You can see that I am shaky from writing. Write real often, I love to hear from you & be sure & come home soon as I get there & if you will promise to teach M.B. guess she will have to go with you. Helen says be sure & come to see them & write to her real often. With lots & lots of love am as ever your devoted, Mama

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Mary Pemberton Hiter (Aunt Pemmie) to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (February 23, 1909)

February 23, 1909

Greenville

Dear Lee,

         I thought when your letter was received that I would write to you at once, but we keep real busy and after dinner I am generally so sleepy that I actually go to sleep sitting in my chair. Then I am bound to lay down & take a nap. We have seven regularborders, & three picture men will be here the most of this week, & last night and tonight we had an extra man making eleven. You know S. & I have to hustle, but S. has been doing remarkably well makes all the light bread & has been having fine luck. My hardest time is in the mornings some have to have their breakfast and get to work by seven I had to get two distinct breakfasts this morning and pack two dinner buckets. Mrs. Craig helps lots about washing dishes, but you know she can't set a table. Treated like Lords at Mr. K's. They took in the town generally & went to ever so many shows but Mr. K. would not allow him to pay a cent and when they left for Melton's Gertrude dodged, would not say good bye. I had a postal from Mrs. K. yesterday telling me how much she enjoyed having them all with her and I must look for your Mother when I see her.  Your mother has not been well said she felt better yesterday than she has done since she left home. The Hawps boys are actually at work in Mr. Hanger's old stand. I surely think it a bad move four stores here is more than Greenville can afford. They have been bringing in dry goods all day. The boys had a fine time serenading Wilber. The first night they would not come out so they went back the second night, while they would not show themselves, there was a rock thrown in at one window, & of course that made Wilber mad & he threatened to shoot, but he went to get his gun; found he had no ammunition. They banged away from 1/2 past 9 until after 12. Yes, we have the other young teacher, they occupy the room above the parlor, we like them both very much. We have only four teachers boarding with us. Mrs. C. says she was in the parlor tonight & she did not know she missed you so much that she has taken your place washing dishes. I am real glad you are going to housekeeping soon. It is what every new married couple ought to do. You never accumulate anything until you do and I'm sure you will be better satisfied, something to occupy your mind. Mary Cochran is very low, not expected to last but a day or two. Wish it was so I could go out and stay a while, but it is impossible now. Sarah would not get along by herself. The social club was to have met with Dr. Hart tonight; "he was going to entertain in Mr. R's study" but the rainy evening prevented. Mr. Robinson said at supper, he had been scrubbing all day. Mr. Lenard was here last night and after supper he had a message that his mother died at 4 o'clock yesterday morning, so he left on the early train, this morning. I have set 6 hens since your mother left, I want some early chickens. Well it is after ten, so I must stop, every one in the bed but me. I am waiting for a gentleman to come up from selling the Hawpe Brothers & I can't lock up until he comes. Your father seems right much faded from his trip said he had not a good nights sleep since he left home, had to sleep 3 in a bed & Buck kept his feet in his back. Both of your writers will try and keep you posted from home until your mother gets back. Write soon , Tell Fred to make you behave,Your Fond,    Aunt Pemmie

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John Wesley Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (February 24, 1909)

February 24, 1909

Greenville, Virginia

            Dear Lee,

Your letter of the 22 to hand today. I am glad you are well and better satisfied. You will be alright when you get in your own house in regard to the dishes, will say it generally takes 30 days to get our order from the pottery, and I got a letter from them the other day announcing the death of Mr. Wm. Brunt, the president, and it will be some little time before they get settled. So we have decided to ship you Sarah's set and give her another one when she gets ready for them. Just let us know about a week before you will want them and they will be shipped. Well I am home -- off my bridle trip, had a fine time but mama was complaining all the time I stayed, but she was feeling better when I left. Found V getting on nicely the baby is real pretty and just as fat as pig and just as good as he can be. Hiter is nicely fixed, uses natural gas for heating and cooking, and lighting, right good little town but the mud was hub deep, but they are fixing to pave the streets and put in water sistem. The Kennedies liked to went wild over us. Mr. Kennedy took us to five picture shows and would not let me pay a cent. They have right nice house but they are awful slip sloppy. They say they are coming over this summer, early. Old Mr. Zink died yesterday at 5 o'clock his funeral will be at the Baptist Church tomorrow at 11 o'clock. I am glad you have some nice people to be neighbors to you and I surely do begrudge them your alto and miss it so much at our church. We have 7 regular boarders and 3 p8icture men had 11 in all last night and the night before so it keeps Sarah and Aunt Pem busy. I Will start out next week, I wish I could stay and help them. Did you ever see such a winter before. My pear trees are all budded out and peach trees about to bloom. Well we'll have no fruit this year and no ice. Got a card from Mama this morning she is feeling better, hope she will be well the balance of her stay. Be sure and come when she gets back. It has been raining here for 2 days and nights and is still is. had a letter from your Aunt Lucy and Eliza they are all well. Well, I can't think of anything else to write so will ring off for this time. Don't fail to write when you want the dishes shipped, As ever your father,   J.W.M.

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (March 19,1909)

March 19,1909

Greenville, Virginia

       My very dear Lee & Fred,

Yours of the 15th received here last night. We left Charleston on the 15 & stayed in Clifton Forge til yesterday. Had a splendid time. All asked lots of questions about you and sent lots of love. I am real glad to get home & it is well that I came as Sarah is very much complaining & Ella gone home. Lee be sure & come tomorrow, but come to stay longer that Sunday & bring Fred with you. Wire me so that we will know when to meet you. I am so anxious to see you surely would enjoy being with you & helping to fix your house if you both think it real wise in Fred to buy the property. You know I never did believe in renting. Papa thinks its strange he never heard from you about the dishes. He is writing to you again he has been doing real well. Well I enjoyed your nice long letter so much & will not attempt to answer it now. If you can't come tomorrow, will write a long letter first of the week & will look for you next Sunday, but hope you can come tomorrow as Papa might not be here next Sunday. So hoping to see you tomorrow I am your loving and Devoted,   Mama

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John Wesley Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (March 19,1909)

March 19,1909

Greenville, Virginia

         Dear Lee,

Your letter you wrote to Mama has just been rec'd. Glad you are well and like your new home you say in your letter you had written to me twice and had heard nothing from me. I have never gotten but one letter from you since you left Greenville. I wrote you to let me know when you wanted the dishes shipped and have never heard a word. Mama got home yesterday all looking fat and fine. I got home yesterday had a very good trip. Made $110.00 clear in 12 days. I was gone a little longer than that but only worked 12 days. I expect to go to East Va. next week and will be gone several months. I like my new line fine. I am glad Fred is going to buy himself a house. Think it is the best thing he can do. Glad you both are getting to be such good bible readers. Keep it up and don't read it for mear passtime but for the good you can get out of it. Well I guess Mama will give you all the news so I will close. Don't fail to write us when to ship the dishes. Come Sunday if possible or I will not see you.  As ever your father    J.W. Melton

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (March 29,1909)

March 29,1909

          My dear YuLee,

Your letter was received Saturday morning but I was real sick could hardly creep around, am taking medicine from Dr. T. & am feeling better this evening with the exception of a very sore place on my back. Last night I was aching so badly all through that I told Sis to rub me hard with coal oil & turpentine, she wanted to put some lard with it but I told her no that I was hard to burn & put plenty of it on & she did, it eased me directly & I went to sleep & waked this morning with a tremendous blister on my back perfectly raw. Have a large greasy rag basted in my skirt did not get up today til nearly night, am feeling much better. Sis & Mrs. Craig got breakfast & Sarah got dinner & baked bread, the best we have had with the new flower. Sarah is not well, seems so nervous since Julia & Ned had that rachet, expect Earl or Mrs. Shultz have written you about it so I'll not write. They are living together again. Whiskey was the cause of it. I surely would love to see you all in your sweet little home. Know every thing is nice & I know too that my little Lee will make a nice housekeeper. Would give any thing in reason to peep in at you all tonight. Will look in the morning & see what seed I can find & start them to you, but it is too early to plant yet, as soon as Fred has the garden plowed the early cabbage ought to be put out & peas ought to be planted also potatoes & radishes. Papa stayed at home today to fix up the land for the parsonage but Mr. Calison could not come. Papa will leave home in the morning & will sign the deed when he comes back. You must both come to the meeting tell Fred I would love to see a good Baptist of him & I am going to join my prayers with yours in his behalf, & there is no telling what the good Lord will do for us if we will only have faith & pray earnestly. Surely do hope we will have a good meeting there are Richard & Dorsey. I would love so much to see them come out on the Lord's side. Well papa wants to write so I'll close. Both of you write often & let me know if any dishes were broken. With lots of love am your ever loving ,   Mama

Wednesday evening, well I have been in bed ever since I wrote this Monday morning, with a very sore back. It is dry today, got up just before dinner, but Can't twist about much am feeling lots better. Sarah is still on the bed & taking medicine from Dr. T. Papa started out yesterday but soon after starting found Nancy was sick. He drove her slowly to Staunton, & Dr. Neff said she had Influenza & that he must not use her, so he left her with to be treated & came home on the mail & hired a horse from Mr. Miller & left again this morning. I feel very uneasy about her, Dr. Neff told Mr. M. that he knew of 47 cases in & around Staunton - heard today that a right many had died in Staunton & the paper states that 800 horses have Influenza in Augusta Co. Papa & I were to see Josie last week. She is better, tho not able to walk the room. She enquired for you. Lee I am awful sorry but have hunted the store room over & can't find and seed at all except corn. The sweet corn is real nice but I think the little short grain is a little earlier. I'll have to buy all of my seed this year, ground is too wet to plow yet. Write often don't wait for me when I feel able will have lots to do. Love to you both your loving , Mama        Let me know about the dimensions of your pillows.

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Mama Shultz to Cora YuLee Melton Shultz (April 8, 1909)

April 8, 1909

Thursday Evening

     My dear Yulee,

Your letter gladly received this morning surely am glad to know you all are so nicely fixed & that you like house keeping so well. It surely is nice to house keep when every thing is so new & nice. I know from experience but we never had the pleasure of having just two of us. When we first started Mr. Melton's partner boarded with us & there was the cook which made four of us. I have just written you a receipt for light bread, hope you will be successful. I think it will be o.k. it is the first receipt for bread I ever wrote. After making bread a few times you will soon learn. Sarah is improving slowly. Is not able to sit up any yet. Ella has been coming over every day this week & most always stays til Dorsey comes up at night, so you can see that helps lots. My rheumatism is a little better, but I am far from being well. Darkie failed to come yesterday. Sis went to see her this evening & she said she was complaining & would come just as soon as she was well enough. Helen & Wick will come tomorrow. Sure would like to be able to clean up for them but just can't. M.B. cleaned up in here this morning & I managed to swep the dining room, kitchen, and porch. Sis tolerably well, it takes right much out of her time to see to the chickens. The whole school closed this evening at 2 o'clock & teachers & all went out towards Middlebrook to play ball. I thought I would have Mary Bell to help straighten up a little but Mattie Painter came home with her to wait til her sister & bro. came from the ball game, so of course M.B. will not get anything done this evening. Mrs. Palmer began giving her music Tuesday. Well you wanted to know about Julia & Ned. I guess it has been three weeks ago Ned got on a big drunk & soon after supper one night Dorsey stopped in found Julia sitting on the floor crying & Ned cussing her out. D. wanted to know what was the matter & Julia said that Ned said she was not a virtuous girl that Chick Harloe had been to intimate with her & Dorsey told him that he had said that one too many times & that he would bring Chick in & prove it so D. stepped out & got Chick & of course he denied it & Ned called him a liar & at that Chick made for him & thrashed him shamefully. Dorsey picked Julia up & carried her out in the street & sent her home, then he & Wilber Palmer went in took Chick off of Ned, but he knocked his face all to pieces. After it was over D. asked Ned if he wanted him to go for Julia & he said no he did not want her to ever set foot in his house again. So Julia & the baby stayed at home for about two or three days & he wrote her to meet him at his house a certain time, she did & they made up o.k. I was very much afraid that Dorsey would have to give up the shop but Ned says it was the whiskey that did it all & he thinks Dorsey did exactly right to take up for his sister. He seems to have had the sympathy of all Greenville.  Guess Earl has written you that Minor & Wilburn had a fuss & Wilburn is now working for Earl. It surely will help Shultz bro. for every body likes Wilburn. YuLee I would give anything within reason to come see you all & above all to hear Fred ask the blessing. That is the right way, am so glad you all are starting out so nicely. Am real sorry that I did not have any garden seed, don't know how I missed saving seed last year. Fred is awful early about planting beans after they come up if it turns cold you will have to cover them uyou that Minor & Wilburn had a fuss & Wilburn is now working for Earl. It surely will help Shultz bro. for every body likes Wilburn. YuLee I would give anything within reason to come see you all & above all to hear Fred ask the blessing. That is the right way, am so glad you all are starting out so nicely. Am real sorry that I did not have any garden seed, don't know how I missed saving seed last year. Fred is awful early about planting beans after they come up if it turns cold you will have to cover them uyou that Minor & Wilburn had a fuss & Wilburn is now working for Earl. It surely will help Shultz bro. for every body likes Wilburn. YuLee I would give anythill help Shultz bro. for every body likes Wilburn. YuLee I would give anythition performed, she stays in Staunton a great deal. We all like Mr. Wilburn very much they close the stores now at 7:30. Tell Fred I appreciate his invitation and would like to go to see you all and may when Frank takes his vacation. Warwick never writes any more to me. Well Frank's gray mare had a little colt which lived only 4 days she would not have one thing to do with it -- we did all we could for it but it died. She is as fat as a bear. Frank says he is going to sell her but I would not do it. I haven't gotten a new hat yet have you? The hats are so trying this spring. I only have 16 little chickens, hens would not set.  Our garden looks very well considering the cold weather we have fire now and a big frost last night I haven't cleaned the house yet but want to next week. Do you expect to come home next month or the last of this rather? Tell Fred a post office inspector was here last week hunting up that letter business asked Frank all he knew and got some papers from Earl he said that letter was never sent to the postmaster in Balto; he found that out. The records of Balto didn't show any such letter but some one could have mailed it there. Must close, write soon again -- Love for both of you 

Mama Shultz      I see I told you twice about the house cleaning but I commenced this several days ago and had forgotten what was in the first part. They are crushing rocks now for the new church.

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John Wesley Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (June 19,1909)

June 19,1909

Greenville, Va.

       Dear Lee,

Your card of the 17th rec'd this a.m. glad you both well. Haven't heard a word from R. since he went to your house but got a message just now he would be home tonight. Tell Fred to put off his vacation until latter part of July if he gets off now you will miss Verneena and me too. I will not get home before that time. I have been home since the 10th the roads got so bad I had to leave team and come home. It rained every day from June 1st until June 17th except 2 and the roads in Louisa was hub deep. I intended going back Monday but I am taking some medicine from Dr. T. and he said last night it was doubtful whether I could be well enough to go. Mr. Robinson has finished painting the house and it looks fine have put down a new walk and seeded all the necked spots. We have had new potatoes but no snaps have tomatoes in blume. our garden looks fine but it has been so wet could not work it. Mama says she will write you a long letter tomorrow. Remember me to Fred  As ever your father,   JWM

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Mama Shultz to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (June 22,1909)

June 22,1909

Tuesday

      Dear Lee,

I was glad to hear that you and Fred are coming home. I had a letter from Warwick this morning saying he and his wife will be here July 3 so I am going to give a little reception that night and you and Fred must be here so arrange to be here July 3rd Saturday. Tell Fred if he doesn't come I will know he is afraid Warwick's bride will look better than his ha! Jess wrote me it is to be. I want to go to Staunton on noon train so can't write much. Blanch has a fine boy came Saturday night named "William Hansford" both doing well.  Aff. Mama Shultz  Love for both,     Earl went to Alone last Sunday has not come back yet. They are busy all the time in the store, one young lady came yesterday to board with your mother.

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (August 27,1909)

August 27,1909

Greenville, Va.

     My dear YuLee,

Your letter gladly received yesterday. I would have written but was waiting for. We are all very well except Helen and Mary Bell. M.B. has had a dreadful cold and cough for several days, is taking medicine from Dr. Thomas right along, & Helen was gaining very fast til day before yesterday her head began to ache & yesterday she had so much fever that I sent for Dr. Thomas. Her temperature was 102 he put her right to bed said he thought it came from her stomach & that she would be o.k. in a few days. I (have) her in my room & am keeping her just as quiet as I can. She did not sleep at all last night just about day this morning she dozed a little. She is resting quietly now. I do hope she will soon be well. Aunt Emma is here boarding she will  be here not til they return to Texas. She is feeling asthma right much. Susie came in Sunday will leave for Charleston today on noon train. Nannie came in yesterday think she will go back this evening or tomorrow. Lee you surely must feel like you are a house keeper now since you have been canning so much. Will try & write you how to make pickle and preserves, but if your pickle is not good add some seasonings to taste. We have made right many preserves & jellies lately. Papa left Monday & Wick went to Buffalo more than a week ago. We surely have our hands full. Our cook left Wednesday morning for her vacation - is visiting at Middlebrook, will be back Monday morning. Sure do miss her. Will have to stop now & rush dinner. Wish you were here, missed you so much when you went away. Love to Fred & lots for you dear self. Both of you write often.  Lovingly, Mama

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (September 10,1909)

September 10,1909

Greenville, Va.

         My very dear Lee,

Your letter gladly received yesterday, & will write a little this morning but will have to be in a hurry. Leslie came yesterday if Sis Em is well enough they will all leave for Texas next week, but she is sick in bed with Astama now & we don't think she will be well enough. Hiter & Verneena will leave tomorrow. He thought at one time that he would quit the Toledo people but decided to stick to them & will set into work again Monday. Sure will miss them. Verneena is washing for the baby now, getting every thing in shape to travel. He sure is a sweet good baby, Hiter is so fond of him. H. has catarrh badly he has stopped smoking & I hope he will improve. I still have Lilian Allen & she is real good help if the teachers come expect I'll keep her all winter & if I do will not need George, hope he will get a good place if I can't use him. Sure would love to have helped you eat the turkey, know it was good. Well you wanted to know how to make Chow Chow. Well you put just half as many tomatoes as you have cabbage & half as many onions as you have tomatoes, squeeze the tomatoes hard to get out all the juice you can. Chop them all fine & cover with vinegar & season with celery seed, ground cinnamon, a little ginger a little salt & some green pepper, sugar to taste (brown sugar is the best) & boil for an hour or more & don't let it get too dry. Helen is busy packing, will leave for Vesuvius on 13th & will go to Rippon tomorrow, sure do hate to see her go. Dr. says she will have to be very careful this winter & avoid taking cold. I am afraid he thinks her lungs are effected he has her on Cod Liver Oil now & says she must use a lung builder for several months. Papa is in Halifax Co. not doing very much says he will not be home before the middle of Dec. Maud & Joe have improved very much & Jeane is real well, don't see her often. I have canned four cans of tomatoes, they are nice but it takes such a quantity to use. Frank Merritt's wife is still very ill. She is in the hospital at Staunton. Frank is with her. We have been very dry, but had a little rain last night & I think will have more. Mr. & Mrs. Shultz went to Staunton last Saturday & stayed til Tuesday morning. Earl & Wilburn took their meals here. All of Mr. Kennedy's people are at the old manse except Mack. Look for them on the noon train. Do hope you can come home before they go away, am getting real anxious to see you & do please come to stay longer than you generally do. Expect I'll get lonesome after all the summer boarders leave. School begins Monday, do not know where the principal will board, he has a wife & child three years old. Miss Robbie will board here. Love to Fred & a big share for yourself, both of you write often, Hastily but lovingly your,   Mama

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Helen Lee Hiter Melton to Cora YuLee (Lee) Melton Shultz (February 6, 1913)

The following letter was written when Grandmother Melton was in Kings Daughters Hospital:

February 6, 1913

      My dear Lee,

As I've not written directly to you for several days will write this morning tho when I write home I mean for all & often tell them to send it to Sarah & then send to you by George. Well in the first place guess you want to know how I am I think I have improved right much, do not stagger near as much as I did when I first began to walk, can feel that I am getting stronger but awfully thin, can't see that my limbs have gotten any more flesh. I am so glad Fred is so much better, so make him be particular, am afraid he will hurt himself over. Was real sorry to hear of him losing one of his horses but tell him those who have must lose. You all have made a bad beginning & I hope will end well. This is lovely weather on your little chicks. Do hope these last over will hatch well. Hope Helen & baby are with you today, for I am anxious for her to visit you & when I get home will want them with me. I'll be home Monday if nothing happens, I like here fine but feel like it is time I was getting home & attending to my kids and chicks. Want to set the first hens that want to set and want to set the incubator too think I'll be able to attend to them Dr. Bradford like the rest of the Drs. say light exercise will be good for me but I must never try to do heavy work, he thinks my general condition is very much improved, has not had head ache since Sunday & then it only lasted a few hours & was not a sick headache. The nurses all have been lovely to me I think this is the place for sick people. They had two operations here yesterday. Last week they were not very busy but had several patients came in yesterday & are expecting several more today, guess you have heard through the home people that I've moved upstairs like it much better than I did down stairs. I sit in the Sun parlor most all the time, stay up five hours at a time some days. Then take a rest & get up to supper & stay up til nearly ten. I am just feeling fine today, just like working with my chickens have written Mr. M. he engage some eggs so we can set the incubator just as soon as possible, it is the first time I've felt like work for so long. Mrs. Davis & Mrs. Fretwell were to see me yesterday. Mrs. F. said that Lois had grippe but would certainly come to see me if she got able before Monday said she would have been several times but did not know I was here til day before yesterday. My friends have been mighty good about coming to see me. It seems strange that I've not been home sick & lonesome, but the nurses are all so pleasant & the head nurse often comes in & sits and talks also Miss Woodward comes in two or three times a day, sometimes when I want to write I wish they were not so sociable. Am sorry it has been so you could not come see me, but will have to excuse you, had expected you to be my most frequent visitor. I am not eating any fruit at all now but want you to know I've learned to eat oyster soup & last night managed to eat some stewed oysters but could no go any more. Am not eating a big variety of things yet, but it seems right much compared to what I ate when I came down. Know I'll enjoy fried chicken when I come out to see you. When I got Hiter's letter telling me to order anything from Adams that I wanted & Dr. B. said that I could eat grapes & little sweet cakes, I just thought I was going to have a picnic & lo and behold the first little bite I ate made me sick so he put me right on toast butter & milk for a few meals. Am doing better now, I have corn cakes or batter bread every morning eggs, beef steak, jelly puffed wheat & milk & different things for dinner & supper. Thanks for the pretty cards am keeping them with lots of love & hoping to see you all Monday night, Am your loving, Mama

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Mary Laura Maupin Alexander to Martha Alice Bateman Maupin (undated --After June 1913)

undated --After June 1913

Sunday Evening

       Dear Mamma,

It's now nearly four o'clock -- didn't have dinner today until two as the children went to the Rally Day Service and it was late when they got home.   Gladys is here. She came yesterday morning. Said she had been over to Nannie's since Wed. Her mother told her she could stay until noon today and come up on the train. So she went to church with Polly and stayed too long and missed the train. Polly said the train whistle when they were along there by Mrs. Sarlfly's. Gordan rec'd the box Friday and was so proud of  his knife. Polly had such a crying spell. She thought the bracelet was for her until I read Cora's name on the paper. Cora said to tell you thank you. She thinks it's awfully pretty. Polly liked her beads too but the catch was broken on them and they wouldn't stay fastened. She asked me if I would tell you to send her a bracelet. Will put you 25 cents in this letter & you can get her one. Gordan said for you to tell Grandfather he chops all the wood & carries it in for him.  Said to tell you to read this to Grandfather. Mr. Alexander said to tell you all he pickled about 10 bushels of apples -- the new drill works fine. They finished weeding in the field and have sowed about 4 acres in the bottom. They want to go for the cattle Tuesday and Mr. Alexander is going to take the car along and see if he can buy some cabbage as he don't think he will have any. We got the dining room cleaned up and I put the curtains out of Cora's room in there and it looks real nice & clean. The flies are still so bad - don't expect it was much use to clean up yet. You never said a word about your curiele --  Did you all enjoy it?   And did you have any chickens for Wade & Annie? Will, Albert Palmer were over a few minutes the other night -- Albert said he would like to have seen you and Papa. Albert always seemed to think a lot of you & Papa.    Well the frost has about finished up the tomatoes. We are still having some to use. I didn't get any catsup made and don't guess I will now. Did  Wade & Annie enjoy the few you took them? Mr. Alexander is down in the floor playing dominoes with the children.     I must stop now & finish tonight & feed the chickens & little pig. Your pig certainly does grow. Well I have finished all the work for tonight and am ready to go to bed. I have killed our chickens since you went away. Mr. Alexander said to tell you, you had better come on home that I was making them eat all that soap grease up.    Tom didn't come to work the other day and went fishing. Tell Papa he caught 14 bass. Has Annie got short dresses on the baby?  I guess she had a time making new ones after the dog tore all of those up.  Who would even have thought that you would be way  out there in Indiana.  I know you are enjoying being with Wade & Annie. The baby is still a little cross. She slept good last night. Well I will stop for tonight as I want to write Mattie. Write to us some and tell me all the news. All send love to each one of you,  Fondly,  Mary

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Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander to Mrs. Wade Maupin ( Annie Gilmore Maupin)(Posted March 21,1917)

Postdated March 21,1917

   (Mrs. Wade Maupin from Pauline Alexander-- 9 years old)

  My dear Aunt Annie,

   How are you?

   I am well.

   gordan is in the 1st grade.

   We have a little white face calf.

   old pet is its mother.

   We have seven songs of the closing of school.

   We have 2 little pigs.

   I thank you so much for the papers.

   How is mother?

   gordan is so glad he is in the 1st grade.

   now will close,

    form Pauline.

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Martha Alice Bateman Maupin to Albert Wade & Annie Gilmore Maupin (Posted May 22, 1917)

Postdated -- May 22, 1917

Tuesday Morning

       My Dear Wade & Annie,

We rec'd your letter sometime ago and was glad to hear from you -- Hope Annie is feeling better but don't suppose she will feel better until the "big day"  is over. I guess  she weighs about 150 now. I have not weighed just lately but only weighed 110 a few weeks ago. Don't think I have gained any yet, I haven't been so well for a few days. My heart has been giving me some trouble again. Expect I have been doing a little too much. Mamma has not been so well for a few days. She was in bed most all day Sunday with the headache -- Think she is feeling a little better today. Oh yes, Annie, Pauline came down stairs the other morning and said she dreamed that Aunt Annie had a little baby -- She tells most every body that -- comes in that Aunt Annie has gotten so big & fat.  The little baby is growing some now. She weighs 10 pounds -- we named her Madge Maupin -- Mr. Stevens was here for supper Sunday evening. Mr. Alexander went to Three Springs for him Sunday afternoon. Mr. Early is holding a meeting at Weyers Cave now. Do not know what success he is having. Mr. Alexander preached at Grottoes last Sunday night a week and I went along with him -- I dreamed that Aunt Annie had a little baby -- She tells most every body that -- comes in that Aunt Annie has gotten so big & fat.   The doctors took Lottie Harper to Staunton to the Asylum one day last week -- they say she was not right at all except at times -- She was as rational as any body. They had an awful time with her the other morning. She got her mother & liked to have bit a piece out of her arm and she threw a coffee pot at Elizabeth full of coffee -- her children are still at Mrs. Harper's. Mr. Alexander says to tell you he is going to fix you up the applebutter and send it by express maybe today if he can. Well. I must stop now  Well I hope you are all well and I will hear from you soon, With, love and kisses for each one ,  Mama

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Helen Weaver to Mr. & Mrs. James Allen Maupin (Aunt Alice & Uncle Jim) (December 27, 1919)

December 27, 1919

Greenville --

   My dear Aunt Alice & Uncle Jim,

I truly intended to be with you this afternoon and had phoned Mama to tell some one to meet the afternoon train and upon coming back to the house the family vetoed my leaving today because I am not well --  Dear Aunt Alice and Uncle Jim. I am so sorry for your loss and Mr. Alexander and those two dear little children, -- for poor Mary, now so is at last resting and were in Heaven -- it is not that we should feel sorry for her -- she is just waiting for you now - and it is only those she leaves behind who need sympathy in such dreadful loss -- Pray you all find strength with the good Father in your long hours of suffering -- Now please know that I loved Mary and am feeling much personal loss with her leaving us -- But I'm sure that Mary is in Heaven and is well and strong again. And relieved of her many  badly ills -- May God bless you all and I am sorry not to be with you -- Your devoted niece,   Helen

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Helen Weaver to Rev. Homer Byerly Alexander (December 27,1919)

December 27,1919

Dear Mr. Alexander:    

My heart is very sad for you and yours today. I wish I might be with you in this dark hour. I know  how alone and reproached you must feel, for you did so much all you to do to keep Mary with you -- But she was ready for this last call and God took her because of it.  I had phoned for someone to meet me this p.m. at Port but am not well and the family wouldn't let me come. But I'll come later -- to see you and the children. Aunt Alice and Uncle Jim -- I loved Mary and am feeling deeply hurt over her loss -- will write again, May God bless and strengthen you -- Devotedly -- Helen

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Eleanor C. Wheat to Martha Alice Bateman Maupin (January 4, 1920)

January 4, 1920

Lynwood, Va.

My Dear Mrs. Maupin -

  I only heard of Mary's death a night or so ago, and I am writing to say how very sorry for you I am. I saw her in Harrisonburg on the tenth of December and thought her looking dreadfully, but she said that she had been very sick, but was then improving, so I supposed that she was getting all right again. Assuring you of any deepest sympathy for all of you in this loss, I remain, Sincerely your friend,    Eleanor C. Wheat

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Hattie W. to Martha Alice Bateman Maupin (January 6, 1920)

January 6, 1920

Elkton, Va.

Dear Mrs. Maupin,

  There comes a time after a death in a home when friends are less attentive than the first days of the sorrow. Not that they mean to neglect or to be less thoughtful but it seems to just happen so. That time I presume you are now experiencing. I recall very vividly that period in our own sorrow and can in a measure know your feeling. It seems to dawn upon us as never before -- the reality that one who was is no longer with us, that there is a vacancy which none can fill. Then it is that we with bleeding hearts are driven to our only refuge, to Him who alone can comfort. When I read of Mrs. Alexander's death instantly the faces of Pauline and Gordan
flashed into my mind as they caught hold of me on the street on Wednesday. On inquiring about their mother Pauline replied "She doesn't feel so well today". I knew nothing of her serious condition. How much I wanted to come to you during those days! How hard it is to understand why one's life should go out right in the midst of her usefulness -- at a time when her children needed her most. Yet, we will not question the wisdom of Him who does all things well. Surely your fine Christian faith will enable you to stand in your hours of bereavement. Cast your all upon Him believing that His purpose was bigger and grander than we can comprehend.  Let us not sorrow as for those without hope. This is the comforting part. Let us think of our loss as being her eternal gain. Give my sympathy to Mr. Alexander and the children who feel perhaps the loss more keenly than other members of the family.  Sincerely,   Hattie W.

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Albert Palmer to The James Allen Maupin Family (January 10,1920)

January 10,1920

Saturday"Office"

Albert Palmer

Elks Home, No. 856

Concord, N.C.

Mr. James Maupin and Family,

This day comes to hand a letter from Mrs. Laura Lamb, communicating the sorrowful intelligence of the death of Mrs. Alexander. My heart bleeds for all, in the sad hour. I feel how weak and fruitless must be any word of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. I offer you my sincere sympathies, and believe I can sympathize with you in the loss of a loved one. I think of her cheerful, sweet disposition, and her wonderful love and devotion to her family and loved ones, more than all felling their hearts, she was a true faithful daughter, wife and mother, and I know a joy to all. But I cannot refrain from telling you that her beautiful, sweet and noble character and friendship must be a solace of great satisfaction and consolation as hallowed as the grief you feel. I want you to know that my deepest sympathy is with you in the hour of affiction. Yours very sincerely,  Albert Palmer.

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Hugh Pemberton Melton to Edward (Buck) Blair Melton, Sr.(March 26, 1924)

March 26, 1924

My Dear Buck,

   Your letter of yesterday was received by me this morning before I got out of bed, and you can bet that I was glad to hear from you and to know that you will soon be here in Washington with me.  Before coming to work this morning I did not have I chance to speak to Mrs. Smith about your coming, but I am sure that it will be satisfactory for her to board you and both of us to room together. I  am sure you would like it at Mrs. Smith's, as it is just like home, - a good room, good board, lots of life and excitement around the house, and all in all, a general good time is had. I have for some time been intending to write you to run down (or up, rather) and pay me a little visit, so that you could see something of the town of Washington, but now that you expect to be permanently, we  can do plenty of going around after you come. If you can, let me know in advance the time you will reach Washington, and the train you will arrive on, and if I possibly can I will meet you at the station. If it should happen that I cannot arrange to be at the station, it will be easy for you to find 227 B St., NW. At the station take any car of the Capital Traction Co. that runs down Pennsylvania Avenue, get off at Third Street and Pennsylvania Avenue and walk straight up Third Street, just one-half block and you will see "227" right on the corner of Third and B. You can't miss it. I will do my best to meet you at the station, but if I cannot, I will see you at the above address after I get off from work. I usually get down to the house from work around five o'clock, so if I am not at the station when you come in, wait at the house for me and I will see you there.  I received your other letter, and you do not know how glad I was to get it. It was surely a nicely written letter. I was actually just about to answer it, but since you are coming down, I will be able to tell everything to you in person that I was going to write to you.  Do you enjoy radio concerts? Mr. Smith has a big five-tube Atwater-Kent set, and everybody gets a lot of enjoyment out of it.  Am glad to know that all at home are well. Have be intending to write a letter, but you know how hard it is for me to write. Perhaps after you get here, you can make me do better as to this letter- writing proposition. Give my best love to all, and hoping to hear from you soon that you will shortly be coming this way, I am,  Devotedly, Your Brother,    Hugh

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Martha Alice Bateman Maupin (Grandmother) to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (Posted October 24, 1924)

Postdated October 24, 1924

Monday Night

    My dear Pauline,

I will write you a line to let you know we got home safe a little after dark. I was mighty tired and had the house to clean today. I enjoyed the trip wished I could have stayed a few days. There was a letter here from Uncle Wade when we got home. They are all better now. They have been busy in the Cannery to day. Minnie was down this evening she has a sore throat. I hope you are all well over there. I haven't any news to tell you so will close for this time, with love and kiss for each one, write to me soon,   Grandmother

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Martha Alice Bateman Maupin (GMother) to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (Posted November 12,1924)

Postdated November 12,1924

Tuesday Night

     My dear Polly,

I received your letter last Tuesday and was glad to get it as it had been a long time since I had a letter from you or any one over there. I have tried to get Gordan to write you but it seems I cannot get him at it. I thought I would write you Sunday but I was taken such a cold and did not do anything only what I had to. Your Grandfather is sick with a cold too he has not been out the house for two days. I did not sleep any last night and have felt so bad to day . Howard has been real sick I think he had pneumonia he seems better today. he told his daddy to tell Mrs. Maupin to come down and bring him a piece of cake. I made him a bowl of gelatine this morning and sent it to him. So many people have colds over here . Well they have put Harry back as Superintendent  they had quite a time at quarterly Conference Saturday most everybody from Port went to the meeting was at Timber Ridge. I wanted to go but had no way. Laura and Nell and Dora went. Nell said the residing Elder tore Pullen to pieces. Elsie has been real sick I think she is better now. Frances Miller invited Gladdys and Maud and Bettye Kemper and Frances and Margaret Dinsmore to spend the night with her one night last week but Gladdys could not stay as her mother was sick. I will be glad for Miss Hattie to come home with you as she is one of my favorites. I have lost two more of my turkeys. Tell Mattie I have been looking for a letter from her. I think Minnie got a letter from you today. Hope you are all well with Love for each one. G. Mother  ------    Wednesday morning Grandfather seems right sick this morning.

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Cass (???) to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (August 28, 1928)

August 28, 1928

Tuesday, 2 p.m.

     Dear Polly:

Your letter and the one enclosed took me by surprise this morning. They surprised me no less than they saddened me. They made me think a great deal. You said you didn't know whether I would read them or not, well I read each one several times and I hastened to answer on these familiar cards again. I deplore the fact that I am uncapable of being understerstood and my actions do not reveal myself. We have a law professor at the University who holds the reputation of being insidiously hard, tricky. Many fail his subjects, but not because of his trickiness as much as the fact that boys misconstrue his actions, refuse to understand him. They look at a question, so simple and so clear and decide that a lawyer would not ask such easy questions, there must be a trick somewhere. They create the trick, miss the question, and then they are abashed at finding out the error of their suspicion. Often I liken myself unto him. I feel that people refuse to understand me. I always act as I feel and as I believe and talk as such, in other words I am just as sincere and I suppose simple as I look, but I have never been accused of being as, and have always, by implication at least, been denied the credit for it. It must be that human invisible personality, that selfless expression of the soul sought for understanding but deceitful to its observers, that I must be the victim in the possession of; but who can fight fate and ridicule nature, when we all are in their claws, tight and inseparable with regard to your visit last July I thought that you would understand from the little I wrote in my "halted" letter that very conduct was not at all "funny". Before I knew you were coming I had made a date with Virginia for Friday,Saturday, and Sunday as they had a dance on Friday at the Fraternity house where she lived, something else on Saturday, and she wanted me to go to church with her on Sunday. After making the said dates, I received a letter from a girl friend of mine, an old timer, that she was coming over for the week end and that she wanted to see me. And after that Aunt Mattie told me you were coming over. Of course I had to see the girl from Richmond one night, I came to see you another & kept my date with Virginia the third. I certainly thought I was being fair, and although I don't suppose either one of the three girls would have missed anything if they hadn't seen me, I at least for my own self satisfaction played the game like I ought to. Now a word about Virginia. I know you wouldn't mind hearing something about Virginia because the Taylors and Margaret and Mary Nelson don't like her. I met Virginia three weeks before she left here. I found her very sad, broken-hearted and almost isolated. Her life seemed so much similar to mine of some time ago that I felt for her very strongly a friendship of understanding. She would give up dates to anybody because she didn't care to fool around although she had a many admirers. After seeing her several times accidentally she seemed to like me enough to give me a date and then I went with her regularly with the main objective of attempting to make her happy. I think I succeeded. She wrote me only a short time ago that she had not been so happy for years and she wouldn't take anything for having known me. Making her happy, I was happy, too. I am not writing you this to boast of it. What I got out of her friendship was a greater reward than I could expect and wouldn't look for any more by bragging about it, but I am writing this because I believe frankly, that she was one of the reasons of this little break between our friendship. I am no more in love with Virginia than she is with me, but we think our friendship is priceless. I hope that I have written enough to have your understanding with regard to my conduct during your July visit. I have no more avoided you then than tried to approach the lady in the moon. I had no reason to avoid you, because I always counted you as one of my dearest friends and I believe, at least I always tried to be frank and fair with you. Of course we all have our shortcomings and misunderstandings, but so long as one is frank, fairness prevails and though I often take pride in my frankness, I still must be concealing myself at times. I hope I shall never fail to be frank and honest and sincere in the future. Of all virtue those qualities are the jewels of virtues (and that's one reason why I am voting for Al Smith) Might as well do some political campaign while writing this letter.  So to your recent visit, on Wednesday I believe, Aunt Mattie told me you were at the show. My engagement that night kept me out until midnight. While I wanted to see you I made no special effort to that end for the simple reason that I knew you didn't want to see me and here is the reason for that; while I was about to write you a letter, a letter just as full of friendly affection as I have ever written, this is what I read: "Dear Cass, please send at once Frances' and my rings. Frances' ring belongs to her sister and she asked for it. Both of us will appreciate if you will send the rings immediately. Polly"  Out of the clear blue sky the knock was so unexpected and so unusual that I let things move your own way. And although that didn't affect my friendship towards you, I couldn't expect your friendship. Your letter savored dislike and disgust. Now with all these I hope I made things clear to you. And the fact that I have written you so much ought to be sufficient proof of my genuine friendship, As ever,     Cass      

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William (???) to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (December 18, 1928)

December 18, 1928

Tuesday Evening

     My Dearest Polly,

I shall now try to answer the precious letter you wrote me a few days ago. I received your letter on Friday afternoon and honestly "Dear", I think it was just wonderful of you to think of me and to write me when you were sick and feeling as you were.  I have been thinking of you and worring about you continuously since I received your letter saying you had an attack of the flu. But I know God has answered my prayers and you are now well and ready to go home for the Christmas holidays. I really meant to write you sooner Polly, but it just seems that I haven't had a minute to myself since I wrote you last. I know you have been expecting a letter from me long before this but I know you will understand and forgive me. I am so sorry that we could not be together it makes me so sad and dishearted that the Christmas spirit has entirely left me.  But my work at the present time would not allow me to be away and it was not advisable to give my work up at the present time.    Our next time to be together will be Easter. And when you stop and think , it isn't so very far off at that. But "Dear", we will talk about that later. It is needless for me to say now, Polly. I just can't and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for wanting me to come down. And even though I cannot be with you all every minute of the time. I just don't feel like talking about anything else tonight. Material things just seem far away. I am sad and not in the best of spirits. And it would be foolish for me to appear cheerful so I am not even going to make a vain attempt. So the best thing for me to do is to cut this letter short and write you later on. Now Polly just you go home and have a real good time over the holidays. And just say  "well we couldn't be together Christmas but that's life. My heart is both joyful and sad. Sad when I think of you so many miles away and of what you have gone through, Dear. But oh so joyful and thankful to know that you are well and that God has answered my prayers, our prayers for we were all praying for you, dear. If only I was with you tonight you would better understand the anxiety and fear that has been in my heart these last few days. But perhaps if I go back I can tell you in a small way just how I have felt. I must go back Dear, to Sunday night when I received your telegram. It was just as we were sitting down to supper that your telegram arrived. Honestly Dear, it just took every bit of life out of me. I could not eat or anything. I called up John and we drove to Newmark as the telegraph office here had closed. I knew your father would be at the hospital but I knew your father would give you my message. Oh, Polly, how I prayed for you that night. As I knelt there I could not suppress the tears that came to my eyes. I knew how much you really meant to me. As I went to sleep all the fear left me for I knew God would answer my prayers. But I could not sleep Polly. I awoke a thousand times during the night. In the morning I went to school but I knew it was useless for me to try and accomplish anything. I tried to keep my mind on my work but it was all in vain. I stayed for two classes and then hurried home. Hurried home for the telegram which I knew your father would send me as soon as the operation was over. And oh Polly, I asked God to watch over you a thousand times during that long period. And how thankful I was when your father's wire arrived. And once again tears suddenly came to my eyes as I thanked God for bringing you through safely. As soon as I had received the telegram from your father I sent a special off to Frances asking in more detail as to your condition and to when you were confined -- for you know at that time I had not rreceived your letter. And good, old Frances; knowing that I would be anxious and worried wrote me a letter Monday night saying that you were just fine. I received Frances' letter today and she promised to write me every day or so to tell me just how you are getting along. Gee! Frances is a peach. And now Polly as I sit here tonight thinking and longing for you my thoughts go back to last Sunday night. And to that Dear precious letter you wrote me. Polly I just can't find words that could in any way express my feelings and sincere appreciation for that loving letter you wrote me. You don't know how it touched my heart Polly and I shouldn't try to explain. When I think of you sitting there in all your trouble; thinking of me and writing to me, it just fills me, Polly. And all I can say is that those loving thoughts are deep in my heart Polly. I am sure you understand. And I will always keep that with me Polly. Just think how the years go by. I guess Alda brought you the candy I sent you. It wasn't much Polly but my thoughts were with it. I'll bet you couldn't read the card. When I wrote it my hand was cold and I could barely hold the pen. But I know you will excuse it.  Polly I wanted to write to you so bad last night but I just couldn't do it. I came home late from the city and wasn't feeling very well and so I just had to wait until tonight. But you will forgive me Dear, won't you?    I will say bye-bye now Polly and I will write to you again in a few days. Now just you take it nice and easy and don't worry about anything. I know you will not be able to write for a while but Frances will write and tell me everything. Night, Night, Dear with love from all for a speedy recovery , Lovingly,  William

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Mary Nelson Pence to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (Undated-early March 1929)

Undated -- but sometime early March 1929

Thursday Morning

         Dearest "Polly" --

I have been intending to write to you for a long time - but honestly it seems a though I do nothing but work. Our exams started yesterday -- I had the last part of an English exam yesterday -- we took the first two parts last week and I passed them both --gee -- but I feel like yelling "whoopie" when she told me I passed both of them. I have no exam today but have Biology tomorrow (Friday) at 11:15, cooking (Saturday) at 8:15 and History (Monday) at 8:15. I think I am going to pull about a B on History. I've made 87 on all the tests and A on all the parallel. You should meet Dr. Simkins. He's real young and if you go to see him in his office why he will give you good grades -- Boy I mean he's plenty smart. He's gotten a fellowship with pay and therefore he isn't going to teach next year. I wanted him to give me my History exam on Saturday so I could go home Saturday but I don't think he is so I have invited Margaret to come down and spend the weekend. I sho' hope she will -- by the way, why don't you and Frances come down and spend a weekend with me, please do. "Polly" I wrote you a letter about a month ago -- Didn't you ever get it -- I sent it in c/o of Mrs. Prince -- I addressed it 1040 west Beverly Street -- that's right isn't it? (well anyway I know you are in Port now, so I know you will get this -- I called "Daddy" up ever over long distance the night after I got out of the infirmary and he told me you had been operated on for appendietts -- I'm so sorry but I know you glad they are out -- How are you feeling by now -- "KKitty" Brown was operated on just about the same time you were. I haven't heard from her yet so I don't know how she is -- but "Daddy" said he thought she was getting along all right -- gee-- you ole' lucky thing -- I wish I were in Port -- but just think two weeks from today -- I go home for the Easter Holidays -- I don't know whether or not Frances, my roommate, is coming home with me -- I hope she does then maybe you will have a chance to meet her. Is William coming down Easter? I haven't heard from him in a coons age. I hear from "Russ" ever now and then -- but I just don't have time to write to him often. Oh, gosh, I just spilt a bottle of ink -- but it didn't hit anything -- Our chaperone just had 3 nice new window panes put in our window about two weeks ago and dern if the window didn't fall down last night and break  3 of them -- we are scared to death she is going to notice them.  We celebrated Founders Day here last Saturday -- I never had such a good time -- we diidn't have to go to school all day & everybody wore white and the freshman had to wear their nat caps -- we were not supposed to go down town Saturday afternoon but Evelyn and I went down anyway -- we went in every clothing store and tried to jew the people down on their dresses -- then we went in Dartins & played every record we could think of and just thanked the man -- Evelyn and I had five cents between us so we went to Shannons, bought one drink and she drank out of one straw and I the other. That night everyone had to wear evening dresses to dinner and the men of the faculty had to wear tuxedo -- On every table there were tulips. We have about six of them in our room now -- after dinner everyone went down in the "wreck" and danced then I went to the show.  "Polly" I reckon you are nearly dead from reading this letter and being as I don't want to over work you since you've just had your appendixs out. I'll stop -- please write to me real soon -- give my love to Rebecca, H.B. jr., Minnie, Uncle Homer, Gordan, Grandfather, Will, Frances, Nell -- Aunt Laura, Mamie & keep all the rest for yourself -- Lovingly, Mary Nelson      P.S.  tell Frances I like the way she answered my letter.

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William (???) to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (May 22,1929)

May 22,1929

Wednesday Evening

     Dearest Polly

Now I know this is a surprise my answering your letter so soon. But I just had to Polly. I guess it is because I love you so. For weeks I have been waiting patiently for a letter from you and then Monday your letter finally arrived. It more than filled that cold vacant space in my heart Polly, but I must say that I am far from happy. And Polly I can't help but wonder whether you are happy or not also. Are you Polly?  I have had an awfully queer feeling lately and it has bothered me considerably. I guess it is because I  haven't heard from you for so long and I can't help but feel worried. It certainly is bad enough to be way up here when I care for you as I do Polly. But when you write me so seldom I can't help but wonder whether I want to take the first train down to you or the first boat to Africa. Guess I'm just lonesome. But I guess I haven't written you for quite a while either Polly, Have I?  I wrote you a short letter while I was in Conn. but that was the last. And Gosh! It does seem great to sit down and to write to you once again. I look over at your picture and it just seems as though you are right here with me. Monday I wrote Frances and Mary Nelson both a letter. Bet they will drop dead when they receive them. It seems that for the past two weeks I haven't been out at all. Every night it is just study, study. And believe me I have to. Ever since I've been in school I've crammed for every examination. And I am still doing it. Exams begin next week Monday and end June 4th, so I'm doomed to study now until they are all over. Your school certainly does get out late. But just look how much you all will know. Now don't get peeved. I wouldn't mind going to summer school this summer only it is too hot in the city. I'm not even going to work in N.Y. this summer if I can help it. I would like to work in Newark and I have several positions in view. Polly, I am awfully sorry to hear that your father is not so well. Please remember me to your father and Mrs. Alexander and Gordan. And I do hope that when you write to me you will be able to tell me that your father is well and again. Polly, for the past few weeks I have been worried, but ever since I received your last letter I have been worried even more so. I think so much of you Polly that I just can't help worry about you. You are always foremost in my thoughts even though you write me so seldom. The finish part of your letter certainly made me feel queer and it is only natural that I should feel worried. And Polly, I want you to write to me and tell me everything. I love you with all of my heart, Polly and if there is anything in the world that I can do for you I want you to tell me. Now you will, won't you, Polly? I must close now Polly and perhaps I shall dream of you tonight. I hope so. And I shall be expecting a letter from you real soon telling me everything. Until then I shall say bye-bye. Lovingly,      William

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Annie Gilmore Maupin (Aunt Annie) to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (December 3, 1929)

December 3, 1929

My Dear Polly,

  Surely intended to write you long before this, but have been to sick to be bothered with anything, have been sick since I moved into this house. My nerves are just all to pieces. When the ringing of the door-bell would nearly send me crazy. Mother has been staying with me for two months. I was so sorry to hear about your operation but do hope you will be much stronger from now on, am glad you got along so nicely. Will wrote us such a splendid letter, gave Wade so much good news, I couldn't help from crying when I read it. It was so much like the letters we used to get from grandmother. I intended to write Will a few lines, but have felt too bad, if you see Will you might tell  her, she will never know just what her letter meant to Wade, he was so glad to get it. I am so sorry you had to loose so much school Polly but guess it can't be helped. Do wish you could come and stay with us for a while. When did you see Aunt Mattie? We never hear from them any more. Will told us about Rebecah cutting up a shine when you were going to the hospital, I can just see her when she was saying what she was going to do to them if she was out in H'burg how she loves you. Well Polly I must stop for this time, the boss has just came in and that means get supper ready.  Now write us as soon as you are able, and tell all about your operation take good care of yourself .    Love to Everybody,      Aunt Annie

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (January 6,1930)

January 6,1930

Greenville, Va.

Dearest "Polly"

  Your letter was here when I arrive last night and I was so glad to hear from you again. Guess by this time you are in Charlottesville just painting the town red so to speak. I'm glad for you that you seem to be having a grand time and glorious time -- after all there isn't any thing else like it. I received your other letter on one of my westbound trips (My sister forwarded it to me) as we picked up the Staunton mail - I was very much surprised when I realized I had a letter from you, happily so - to if you please. Ha! Your letters are always enjoyed so very much and it's always a pleasure when they arrive. About four or five days ago I contracted a right bad cold, have felt not so good at times but I am so glad to say that now I am much improved and I hope to be entirely well within a few more days. I'm wondering whether you would mind postponing our date from Wed nite to Friday nite - that will give my cold a better chance see. I'm so sorry but honest I think it best that I stay in Wed. night. I'd so much rather see you but we can't always have everything as we so desire. Surely hope Friday nite may suit your plans, providing it does I have a suggestion to make, and that is - I'd come over about thirty or six p.m. we could have dinner out some place and then there would be plenty of time for a nice long drive or whatever you might care to do. I'm so anxious to see you that I don't know whether or not I can wait that long or not --- anyway it is going to seem most awfully long. I'm quite sure I can find you with the instructions you gave me -- I don't know a single thing about Charlottsville but I guess it won't take me very long to find out something. Am quite sure I would have enjoyed the sleigh had you been along. Now you weren't expecting that were you? Well I mean every word of it and truly I would have liked being along so very much. Maybe I may have that pleasure some time in the future -- I hope so any way honest I do. I suppose if you had a night job you would soon learn to sleep in the day time -- I'll admit it does take some time to get use to it though -- I feel as though I'm living up side down all the time -- I guess the first one hundred years are the hardest -- anyway after that it won't make much difference I guess. So glad you enjoyed Xmas this year. I surely did, but I would have enjoyed it much more had I been granted the privilege of seeing you. But such is life it seems. I'm "head over heels" in my examination now -- am glad to say that I almost have it under control -- it won't be long now. Ha! and am I glad? They are always a big relief when they are disposed of. You'll have to pull for me. Will you do that much? Guess I had better bring this to a close and get on the "exam" a while. Any way it isn't very long before mail time. May I look for a letter soon telling me whether or not it may suit you for me to come over Friday. If not then I don't know when it can be as I'm supposed to return to Wash. either Sat. night or Sunday afternoon. I'm just hoping with all my heart that I am to see you Friday. Here's wishing you much happiness in the mean time. I appreciate so much your lovely and dear wishes for my New Year and the same and hearty wish for you is always in season.  Just lots of love to you until I see you ---------  and then ------- Always,   "Buck&qquot;

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (October 11, 1930)

October 11, 1930

1217 Quincy St. N.E.

Washington D.C.

1:30 p.m.

      Dearest Polly,

Here I find myself writing to you even before you have reached home -- how's that for fast work? Ha! Perhaps it may be too fast -- if so I'm so sorry but I have missed you so very much this one day already, so much that I feel oh so blue, like one feels when ones best friend has gone, so I thought it might help at least a little bit for me to be writing, instead of only thinking of you. Was indeed sorry that you had only a few moments in which to talk this a.m. really I could have talked on for hours -- and it was only my consideration for the other folks whom I realized might have been waiting for you that prompted me not to keep you to long. Oh yes the lady who answered the phone when you called -- gave you such a nice compliment -- she told me later that she sure did like the young lady's voice who called me this a.m. and she very rarely says any thing like that, and she is considered a fine judge of such things ahem! Oh yes and got several other compliments for you -- you remember when you were in the station with me Thursday afternoon -- well several people that I know noticed you and gee they had a lot of nice things to say when I saw them again Thursday night. and did I feel proud "and how." I just tell them that was "only my wife." Ha! Do you mind very much that I told them that? I sure have pleasant memories of the past few days -- I don't believe I have ever enjoyed being with you as much as I did the few days with you. They simply couldn't have been more delightful -- unless of course -- I might have been off from work, that would have been oh so much nicer.  Perhaps next time every thing may be different. I'm sure if I only know before you arrive I'll be off every day you are here or else -- and I'll either see you often or have you saying no quite often, one or the other. Do hope you got home safely, and I hope Phil is going to get so much better, I'm sure he will, and I certainly hope he may be well enough to take his job back before very long. They were so nice to let us have their car, and I certainly did appreciate it, more than words could express. And Ruth, she is a dear sweet girl and I know she is worried awfully, but I hope and pray that every thing will come out all o.k. She was so kind to ask me to stay to lunch on that memorable day -- Oct. 8th, and I enjoyed having lunch with the family oh so very much -- and now back to Oct. 8th -- I'll always count that as one of the happiest days to remember -- you see that was the first time I had the pleasure of seeing and knowing you, and it was all such a pleasant surprise, really I had not even the slightest idea that things were to turn out the way they did or as I hope they may. Where there is a will there is a way (to break it) I suppose you have noticed the change in pens, ink, etc., but you see I didn't get to finish your letter yesterday, so now I am over in the boy friend's apt., finishing your letter. This is the boy the car belonged to and of course I had to tell him just lots and lots about the little girl I have met recently -- had the pleasure of meeting-- and after I had given him some of a remote description, he said "now when you write to her tell her I love her too." So you may imagine just about what I was telling him. He and I were out to Sunday School this a.m., had four hundred and two present, which really isn't to so bad for one class. Quinn (the boy friend) takes a right active part in the work, being Editor of our official class paper or "Hand Clasp" as it is known, which is issued weekly, and it really has a lot of little interesting things from week to week. I'll send you one some time just to give you a better conception as to what it really and truly is. It is nearly time for me to go to work, wish I had my attractive partner to drive me down to the station, once again. Honest, I enjoyed so much the little chat with you while I was suppose to have been working -- Well wasn't I -- and the work was so much more pleasant. Polly please pardon me for repeating, but again I want to tell you that I consider our friendship (even though it is only in it's infancy) to be oh so strong, and I know I am going to just love knowing you and sometimes we know so little so perhaps we may just omit the knowing in the later part of this sentence -- and what have you got them ??? I am so very anxious for Tues. morning to come cause that means I'll have a letter from you, thrills and heart throbs galore. And I don't mean maeby.   Do hope you are not going to disappoint me by not writing on time -- something seems to tell me that you really wouldn't do me like that.  Once again I am changing pens -- this time I am truly going to finish your letter -- I'm on duty now, so please pardon me should any interuptions arise. This letter has been written in about three different stages so I doubt very much if the connection between each is truly what it ought to be. Don't forget what our understanding was should you not be able to read the whole of any letter particularly this one. And really I hope you won't be able to read it at all, Honest.  I suppose as my paper is about to become exhausted. I had better be making planto bring this to a close -- and then I really don't want to bore you too severely with my first letter -- as the first impression is always lasting.   With lots of Love, Always,              P.S.  a great big hello for Ruth and Phil.  -B-      &   Buck

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (October 16,1930)

October 16,1930   1217 Quincy Street NE   Washington D.C.

   My Dearest --:    Your letter came TTuesday a.m. right on time and I was so thrilled to be hearing from you, of course I had much rather have been talking to you but as that seems to be impossible right at this particular time why quite naturally I'd want to do the next best thing (and that is beyond doubt) getting a nice long letter from you, if you can possibly realize it when I tell you that since you left you have been constantly on my mind, you may appreciate it when I say that I was really and truly thrilled beyond description when I received your letter. And  honest I am hoping you are going to give me an usual treat again so very soon by writing to me, I can not think of any possible thing that would give me more pleasure, and it is a pleasure that I am looking forward to with a great deal of interest. So glad that since you had to go home that you arrived safely, my thoughts were of you all the way home -- and that isn't all either.  I am so glad that you enjoyed your last trip to Wash. If I really and truly had anything to do with that, why honest Polly I'm so glad. My only regret is that I didn't meet you sooner, but as that can't be helped now I guess it will have to stand as is, any way that can't keep me from being sorry, just think of the wonderful times I missed by not knowing you on your other trip up here. I can't realize that I have known you such a short time, seems like I must have known you for ages. And the thoughts of knowing you add so much to my life. It seems or may I say you seem to have added something to my life that for so long has been enitrely missing, I'm so happy now so Polly don't be surprised at any thing I might say. Ha! at least I'll try and be conservative cause I realize that what ever I may say may be used against me. Ha! I have thought so many times of the wonderful times I had in your presence, sure is pleasing to think of it all again, and my only hope is that it may all happen again so soon, yes so very soon.  Know you are going to have the grandest time when Ruth and Phil come over, sure hope you catch the largesy fish and don't forget the picture, and won't you promise me to send some snap shots even though you may not catch any fish at all? I'd love so much to have a larger picture of you but I won't insist on that right now, I may later on -- but for the time being won't you send me any kind of a snap. I do so want one or some of you so badly. I've just got to have it that's all. Many thanks for the invitation to "get in" on the fishing trip also the chestnut hunt, I'd dearly love going with you but I suppose at this time it is more or less of an impossiblity, so to speak. But, my thoughts will be with you even though fate has ruled that you must be oh so far away. You know fate is rather queer in some instances. but where there is a will -- there is ___ ___ ___ as you know. Surre! Polly don't ever hesitate to write me even though your stationary is not just what you desire, I'm not concerned in regard to stationary when you are involved, you may even write me on plain "old tablet paper" and I'm sure I'd appreciate it just the same, or in other words I really don't care what you write on but what I do care about is this -- I want only to hear from you often. "Tis the possibility that I won't, that is worrying me now -- Can't you relieve my present state off mind right away?  What have you been doing since you returned home, having a big time I guess? I haven't been to a show or anything since you left, but most of all have missed you oh so much. I have been doing quite a bit of studying trying in a small way to prepare for my new job which I'll take about the first of Nov. Honest I had hardly realized that a "Mail Clerk" would have to know so much -- I doubt if I'll ever learn all I'm supposed to know -- it may take me years and years and y-e-a-r-s, and then some. Ha!  On duty   10:45 p.m. So you see I am really not working so gish awful hard tonight, didn't quite have time to finish your letter before I had to leave home to come down here to earn my daily dollar, and I just figured that I wanted to get my letter off to you tonight so you may get it tomorrow. (my day off) So we'll have some what of a date any way believe it or not. Ha!   Is that ok by you?  I'm wondering what you are doing tonight -- your ears really must be burning oh so very badly -- "cause you see I have been thinking of you oh so often, and wishing so sincerely that I could be living last week all over again. But 'tis a hard life in respect to some things.   Wonder when I'll hear from you. Gee!! I hope it is going to be oh so soon, in fact, I'm living only to receive your letter, so honest don't you think you should make it real soon? -- I'm hoping you will -- sure did enjoy your last letter, and I feel as though I am going to enjoy each one just a little more -- I don't know what the outcome may be by the time I have received several hundred -- do you?  well I suggest we not worry about that now.  Have you seen any folks up in your part of the country that I am aquainted with?  Don't forget to give them my best regards.    Really must sign off for this time -- and Polly dear don't forget I am going to look for an early answer.  Best regards and love as the case may be to Phil and Ruth. I hope you may be able  to tell me that Phil is already showing some improvement    Lots of Love and ---------  Devotedly always,    "Buck"

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (October 26,1930)

October 26,1930   Washington D.C.

     Dearest "Polly" :   Again I have the great pleasure of writing you -- of course as I have said before I'd so much rather be talking to you but as I am some what of a victim of circumstances -- namely -- being separated from you by a few very lengthy miles, I am forced to use the only means left at my command. Sincerely hope you arrived home safelt and with out any trouble what so ever. And forgive me for mentioning this, but I truly hope your trip home was not marred by any unpleasantnesses at all. I surely did hate to think that you were leaving our city Friday afternoon, and really I have missed you oh so much since then and I shall continue to miss you so long as I am way, way up here. But I trust it won't be long now before I'll at least be in the same state with you and that will help some to say the least, provided of course the distance doesn't become too great.   I doubt if I'll be able to write you such a long letter this time, if you were here I could talk on and on and on-n-n, but some how I just don't feel in the proper mood for writing a real nice letter, I don't know what the trouble is unless it is because I'm missing you oh so much, and honest I am on the verge of having a bad case of blues, So help me over the rough spots won't you dear by writing to me real soon. I'm looking for your letter already. You wouldn't disappoint me would you, Polly?  The pictures turned out so much better than I thought they would, on account of the very dark day and it was some gloomy for me also (I tried not to let you know it) 'cause I realized all along that it was to be my last date with you for at least a few weeks -- so why shouldn't I have felt a little blue and sad at heart? But it has been said that absence makes the heart grow fonder ___ ___ __ __ __??  I wonder for whom? Polly I was so glad when I received your last letter telling me you were coming up for a day or so, it was to me the greatest and dearest news that I had received for oh so long, and I was so happy while you were here, and I think it is just too bad that the happiness had to come to an end so soon. But I have often heard this is really and truly a cruel world in which we live and some times I am almost converted as to the truthfulness of that phrase. I have wondered so many times what you have been doing since your return home. I sure did not want you to return so soon, perhaps it was only selfishness that prompted that, but call it what you may, regardless I wanted you to stay up here just as long as possible. You are really very necessary for my happiness. "believe it or not"    Mr. Grimes had so many nice things to say about you and as I told you, he is more or less of a "woman hater" that makes me appreciate all the things he has said so much more and several people I have shown the pictures to, have remarked that they couldn't see how a fellow of my type could find such an adorable little girl and "believe it or not" I also appreciated that.Ha!   I attended the Georgetown -- W. Va. foot ball game here Friday nite, the air was real chilly but aside from that every thing was all ok. The game also turned out the way I wanted it to be, the score was W.Va. 14 -- Geo'town 7.  So aside from the fact that you weren't with me every thing else was as desired. Could I have had the pleasure of your company that evening - everything would have been heavenly. But one can not always have everything work out just perfect. I suppose if that could be possible things would become more or less monotonous at times. 'Tis the uncertainty of life that makes things more interesting. As time did not permit me to finish your letter at home I am now doing so while on duty. You don't mind so much do you -- since you have also been guilty of the same (I'll not call it an offence - 'cause honest I don't think it is.) Now wht bring that up. Ha! Think I'll go down town tomorrow a.m. to see " Check and Double Check" Sure wish you were here and would join me -- I'm quite sure I'd enjoy the picture more in your presence. (Can't you come on up again?)   Polly just a word about your last visit -- I want you to know that I enjoyed seeing and being with you, the little while as it were, more than any thing else in the world -- I would loved to have seen you more but under the circumstances why of course that was indeed out of the question entirely. However it really didn't keep me from having a few little wishes in the bottom of my heart.  Guess I'll have to bring this to a close 'cause my already limited space is nearly exausted, and of course I wouldn't have any like this here in the office. I sure am loving the pictures I have of you -- but that doesn't mean that you are not to send me any more -- you remember your promise. Just lots of love for you, and write soon,  Yours Always,    "Buck"   P.S. A big hell-o to Ruth and Phil.

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (November 8,1930)

November 8,1930

Dearest Polly:

  Well at last you did come to life -- I really was uneasy about you -- was afraid you were a victim of a hit and run driver or something worse. So you may imagine how happy I was when I received your letter telling me you had been so busy having a good time, in fact such a good time that you really couldn't find the time to write, I missed your letter oh so much, but if it is your desire that our letters come so very far apart - well I'll do the best I can to comply with your wishes in the future. I really wouldn't be writing near this soon if it were not for the possibility of your contracting Typhoid Fever -- I wanted to write you so you would know that I am thinking of you oh so often and hoping you are going to be oh so very fortunate or lucky and not contract the disease in the slightest form. I'm pulling for you.  I had had visions all along of seeing you in the first "lay off". I spent down in the county but since you seem to busy to even write me a short note I dare to say you would not have much time for other things. Therefore I'm not asking you for the privilege this time but I do hope that my next trip down here may also bring me an opportunity of seeing you! Honest I'm disappointed this time but life seems to be just one disappointment after another. I looked for your letter about a week or more and Gee! I thought you were never going to write. You know it is easy to forgive-- so I forgive you gladly.( But it isn't quite so easy to forget) And Polly you can't expect me to answer soon every time, this is when you don't do the same, don't think that because I'm doing this time I'll do so again, 'cause quite to the contrary I intend to take just about as much time to answer a certain amount of same makes every thing a bit more interesting. Well my first six days on the New run wasn't so bad - we had oh so very much mail to work or distribute on two of our trips, the middle trip being a Sunday nite trip out of Wash. was oh mighty light and naturally I enjoyed that. I would. I think I am going to like it much better than the job in Wash. being able to come home every week or so will of course break the monotony and I'm looking forward to my many trips home with a great deal of pleasure. Your delayed letter was enjoyed to the fullest extent, and now I'm wondering how long I may have to wait for your next one. Time will surely tell.  Am enclosing the lost snap shot, it wasn't exactly lost but you see it was this way-- the Sunday night I mailed you those pictures before I did so I was showing them to a very dear friend (boy friend) of mine and he politely put one in his pocket so I had to have some more made of this one so you might have a complete set. I am sorry for the delay but you realize how such a things happen. I expect to go back to Wash' about Tues. night, will take my run out Wed. night at eleven fifteen and after making three round trips I'll be due to finish up in Wash. Tues. a.m., expect to come back home either Tues. or Wed. and don't forget I certainly do want to see you oh so badly and I hope we can make everything suit. I'm still staying at the same address in Wash. so I really would love to hear from you some time mighty soon.  Once again let me express my wish that you are going to keep free of the sickness of which you spoke -- I feel like you are going to miss it entirely. Guess I had better be retiring as it is now one a.m. and I must get up and attend church today.  Will be looking for some word from you oh so soon.   Love Always, "Buck"           PS. I suppose you know Mr. or Rev. Lynch -- his wife's home is here in G' Should you know her you may remember me to her please      PS. No. 2 - Hope the baby brother well as his mother are doing nicely,  Love  B.

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (November 16,1930)

November 16,1930  Washington, D.C.

      Dearest "Polly",

When I arrived in Wash' Sun, or this a.m. I found your letter and honest it sure is good to be hearing from you again. Seems like your letters have been far apart for the past two or three, and really I don't like that feature at all -- don't think I am fussing at you, it really isn't that but you see I love your letters so much so quite naturally I think that I should love to receive them more oftener.  Was indeed sorry to know you have had such a bad cold and feeling so badly. Sure hope you have entirely recovered by this time.  Sorry that you think I took the wrong attitude in regard to your delay in writing,  well maeby I did, as we are all subhect to mistakes, but it just seemed to me that you didn't care whether you wrote to me or not. I was a bit provoked (not angry) when I wrote you and now being in some what of a different mood I might feel differently. But I still think it takes a mighty few moments to write a short note, and in spite of what I have said I'll try and understand that the reason you failed to write me was that you just didn't want to write, you know when people seem indifferent it makes me mad to the tips of my fingers, honest.   I sure am anxious to see you again and I'm counting big on seeing you my next "lay off", How would Friday night suit you? I am wondering whether or not you could meet me in Staunton late Fri afternoon, we might have dinner and then take in a show afterwards, or what ever you might care to do. I guess I could find the way down to your home, but I guess I'd have to ask just about every body in the neighborhood and I wouldn't want to do that, if this suggestion meets with your approval, please tell me where to meet you and at what time -- any time, any place will suit me and as I don't know what time you might be able to get to town. I'll let you fix the time. Gee, I'm getting all 'cited 'neverything over the prospects of seeing you oh so very soon. And I am trusting it is going to be alright for you to meet meet Friday. I just can't hardly wait that long. Sorry indeed to know that Phil has not been so well, sure hope he may soon begin to improve. This has sure been a hard blow to the two of them. Give them my love when you see them.  Still like my work very much and I find that each trip comes a bit easier, and naturally after I learn all the mail it will all come much easier then, and  too when I learn the road better it will seem easier also. Guess I had better be getting ready to snatch a little sleep, it is now one fifteen p.m. and I must be up by seven p.m. this next round trip is the last of the present set, I'll wind up in Wash' Tues a.m. and I suppose I'll get home Tues. night. Hope I may find a letter at home when I get there from you telling me that the plans are all ok and that I may see you Friday night. So until then I'm going to say so long --  Just lots of love,  Always, "Buck"

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (December 7,1930)

December 7,1930  Washington, D.C.

       Dearest "Polly" --

Your letter was here bright and early Sat. a.m. certainly was glad to hear from you again. I left home Friday afternoon about ten minutes to one and arrived in Wash. at exactly six p.m. -- had a rather lonely drive through the country, not a thing of interest the whole way except the "fog" crossing the mountain east of Lurray and that was rather unpleasant, it was very difficult to see the road at all and I was oh so very long making the several miles down the mountain. However I got through all o.k.  Polly I sure was disappointed upon not seeing you last Thursday, but most of all I was so sorry you had to have such a miserable head-ache, they are so unpleasant and so terribly trying on ones nerves. You did exactly the right thing by sending me the telegram, and under the circumstances I hardly see where an apology should be necessary. I only hope you don't have any more such days in the future. When your telegram came I felt rather blue 'cause for some reason or other it did not occur to me that you were sick. I was allowing myself to think other things see!!??  Perhaps I may have been jumping at my conclusions. But I am glad to know that such was my error. You know I had visions of getting home Christmas Eve night but I learned this a.m. that I will have to work here in Wash. (on my old job) Dec. 16th, 17th,  and 24th. You see between the 17th & 24th I'll be on my regular set of runs. I finish the present set of runs Friday a.m. the 12th and as I will have to go to work the 16th I think I'll just stay over and do a little Xmas shopping, visiting a few friends and what not. Sure hate to think that I won't be home until Christmas day but I am glad it won't be any later. Don't see how I'm going to endure all these long days with out seeing you, I'm quite sure they are going to drag by something awful. But it is just one of those tough breaks that I seem to get oh so often, oh well every knock is a boost so the story goes. So I'm hoping you may at least see your way clear during these next fifteen days or so to write me real often, that would help out just heaps and heaps and I'm going to expect as much hear.  Are you expecting a large Xmas? and what do you want Santa to bring you -- or haven't you been a good little girl? Christmas this year will mean a whole lot of extra hard work for me, you know Polly every one looks upon Christmas as a time of merriment & good times and of course we should never forget the serious side of it also, but the Postal employee gets an entirely different view of the picture, in most cases the work is so much harder, that by the time the "Holidays" arrive we are so tired out that one can hardly enjoy any thing for several days. Can't begin to get in the Christmas Spirit. Take my case for instance I'll wind up or finish my tour on Dec. 24 and after working all night and then I'll have to report for duty at three thirty that afternoon -- perhaps I'll get several hours rest but the most I may get will not be enough by any means. But at the same time we are supposed to do all of this gladly, you have heard I suppose that the "Post Office Dept. never sleeps" well it is nearly true I guess, but it is rather hard to carry on sometimes. But the people must have their mail. Regardless May I look for your letter real soon -- I think you will be quite safe to send it here 'cause I'm most certain I'll just stay over until the rush is over. So unless you hear otherwise I'll be here until after Christmas Eve.  Hope you have not had any more trouble and that you have entirely recovered.  Am so anxious to see you so I'm waiting impatiently for the time to get going. With oceans of Love, Always,     Buck

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Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander to Edward Blair (Buck) Melton (Sweetheart) (Prior to January 29,1931)

Prior to  January 29,1931 Tuesday ---6:30p.m.

         Darling Sweetheart,

Here I am just as good  as my word. I said I would write you so here goes. I truly hope you arrived in D.C. alright this afternoon. I know you were tired when you arrived there. I only wish it had been possible for me to have gone with you. But dear, I enjoyed more than anything in the world being with you this morning for a few precious moments. They were really heavenly.  Father and Gordan came by here for a few minutes this afternoon. They only stayed a short while as they had lots of business to attend to. This afternoon Will and her sister came up. They left only a few minutes ago. Uncle E. went to Ch.ville as his brother's body will come through there about eight o'clock. So "Peggy" and I are here alone. Sure wish you were here with us, darling. I have been going around locking all of the doors so that we will be safe.  Dr. H. was here at noon time today and said "Peggy" was over the flu and could be up in a couple of days. He painted my throat for me and I have been taking some medicine this p.m. I have taken an awful cold this afternoon and my temperature is 99. So you can imagine how I feel. I suppose being out in the rain this morning didn't do me any good. I am sure I shall be alright in the next few days. But I know of nothing that makes one feel worse than a bad cold. I just hope and pray you will continue to stay well. I am sure I am going to enjoy the car. I promise you to take the best of care of the car. I think it was precious of you to let me have the car, and I appreciate your kindness very very much. I shall drive down to mail your letter in a little while. I wrote Aunt Mattie this afternoon. I wanted to tell her about Herman Miller's death. So now you won't have to tell me to write her when you come home.   I must close now as this is all the stationary I have at present. Please pardon the change in paper. I am looking forward to receiving your letter in the morning. I'll write you again soon. real soon.  My very best love to my darlin'  Lovingly,   "Polly"

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (January 27,1931)

January 27,1931 Washington, D.C.

    Dearest Polly:

Your darling letters came just a little while ago, and I was so glad to hear from you again, I was afraid that perhaps I wouldn't hear from you before tomorrow, so you may imagine how elated I was when I realized I had a letter from you. I think it was lovely of you to keep "Peggy" so nicely and I just know she appreciated it all so very much. Guess you have just about gotten your account with "Peggy" settled by now, Ha! I think "Peggy" will be owing you after awhile. So your fortune with the cards really came out in my favor. My how I wish that cards could always be relied upon. Did you consider the outcome to be a "real fortune" or only a "misfortune"? Won't you please tell me dear when you write me the next time. Thanks.  Polly sure hope you have entirely recovered from your little sick spell, hope it really wasn't very serious, and I hope you have already forgotten that you weren't feeling so well yesterday. Do you feel any worse from your extra hard labor, toiling with the curtains or what not. Did my last letter really help you see things more clearly? If it did why am I so very glad -- but after all it was all straight froom the heart and every word would bear repeating on my behalf at least. Why or how did it make things seem brighter for you? I'd love to know. "Strange as it seems" I also noticed the moon last night about ten forty-five -- we were waiting for our train and I couldn't help thinking of you and I was hoping that you had also noticed how pretty it all was. Sure hope it may be even prettier Friday. I feel sure it will seem prettier any way. Am delighted to know that I am to have a letter in Greenville when I get there Thursday night, sure won't be able to get there fast enough, honest.  Polly darling I have missed you oh so very much this trip, I'm glad it is nearly over now 'cause that means I'm, to see you very, very soon. My how happy I'll be to be with you once again, I treasure your company most highly and I always consider it a rare privilege when I have the pleasure of seeing you -- a quarter please or better still it's equivalent. What you say? Ha!  Guess I had better be retiring 'cause I have to be up about five thirty and that won't be long now.Just remember Polly that I am thinking of you always and impatiently longing for with you again. With all my love for you Polly, Always,  "Buck"   P.S. Don't forget the letter that is supposed to be in G. Thurs. nite am looking forward with so much pleasure to seeing you Friday nite -- I wish that time were here right now. Always &  Always,  B.

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (January 29, 1931)

January 29, 1931 Greenville, Va.

My Dearest

  Well you certainly were as good as your word, well you have always been like that though. Sure was delighted beyond words when I found your letter here tonight. Was so good to be hearing from you again, and I appreciate it all so much. Your letters mean so much to me and could you realize how happy they make me I'm sure you might even write more often. They really are beyond a doubt the greatest things that happen in my life -- except when I have the pleasure and honor of seeing you in person that of course far surpasses any thing else for me. Well old dear how does it feel to be home again? You are almost a stranger down there aren't you? I know the folks are happy to have you back again. ( I know I'd be. Ha) Now maybe I shouldn't have said that -- Do you mind very much though? Polly I feel real honored that the (Grand & Glorious Fortune) came out the way it did and I am so glad -- and it would be the happiest moment of my life if some day I could only realize that the fortune merely predicted something that could come true, something that will come true -- or something that did come true. You know Polly I like that last phrase much the better. Therefore I have never taken much interest in fortunes and the like, but if this should be the four - runner of my or our happiness well I'm "sold on card fortunes" the rest of my natural life. Honest.  I did notice the moon last night, just about ten fifty, it was mighty pretty, made me think of you more than ever and don't misunderstand me when I say that -- I miss you oh so much always but seeiing the moon and at the same time realizing how you love it, naturally it made me want to admire the natural beauty of it all in your presence. But this is a cruel old world some times so often we can never have the pleasure of having just exactly what we want. But any thing worth having is worth working hard to attain or obtain. If you please. Ha!  Know you had a most delightful trip or over night visit with Peggy's mother -- Know she enjoyed having you -- and why shouldn't she- (I almost made another bright remark) Ha! Ha! Am so anxious for tomorrow night to come -- I can hardly wait to see you -- my it has been ages since Sat. night -- I never realized before that time could go by so slowly. Do you think about seven thirty will be all o.k.? If I don't hear any thing to the contrary you may expect me to come roaring up to your home at that hour, simply filled with enthusiasm and joy over the prospects of seeing "My Little Polly" again. I'll be so glad when that time comes. Polly "Believe it or not" but I haven't closed an eye (for sleep) since six p.m. last night and now as it is about ten fifty five I am beginning to realize that I need some sleep very badly -- So if you'll pardon me I'm going to ring off until tomorrow night -- about seven thirty.  So until then I'm going to say Bye-Bye and most pleasant dreams for you  with all my love for "Polly" Always and Always,    "Buck"

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Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander to Edward Blair (Buck) Melton (Prior to February 4,1931)

Prior to February 4,1931  Wednesday Nite ---

       Dearest "Buck",

   I received your special delivery letter this morning about ten o'clock. My boy friend "Dummy" brought the letter out but he couldn't come in as I was still in my pajamas. He seemed to want to come in until I showed him that it was impossible for him to do so. I enjoyed each and every word of your letter and I think it was sweet of you to write me such a nice letter.  I enjoyed this letter more than any I have received lately. I am truly sorry I won't have time to write a longer letter, but I think we are going to the show down here and I will have to make this snappy. Sincerely hope you will pardon the note.  "Peggy" and I drove to Ch'ville, today. "Peggy" bought some dresses and other things. We had a lovely day and saw all the folks. Everyone was well and happy. The car ran fine and Peggy said I drove wonderfully well. I took good care of the car and enjoyed it very much. We are all going to Lynchburg in the morning to the funeral. I hate to go but Peggy says she won't go unless I go along. It sure will be a long tiresome drive and I know we will be dead tired when we get back. Sorry, dear, I can't write more this time but I'll write you more tomorrow nite. Hope you are well. I still have a cold but otherwise I am o.k. .  Will I hear from you tomorrow? I hope so,   "I Love You, Darlin' "    "Polly"

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (February 4,1931)

February 4,1931  Washington,D.C.

       My Dearest,

Well here I am on the verge of another weeks Labor, I suppose I'll be rather tired when I arrive in Hinton tomorrow and perhaps a little sleepy also, I thought surely I'd get a little nap on the train today but for some reason I couldn't do it. I don't care if I do get sleepy tonight -- there will be some way to get throughh it all. And if I had it to do over again I'd stay just as late to see you -- perhaps I might have stayed longer had you permitted, realizing as I do always that I shouldn't keep you up so late but at the same time I suppose I allow my selfishness over rule my (supposedly) good judgment. Any way I hope you may be able to pardon me and I promise in the future I may even keep you up later. Ha! Polly dear, I sure have missed you since last night and I shall miss you more and more each day and right now I am impatiently waiting for the time when I may have the
supreme pleasure of seeing and being with you again. I long to hold you close once again and hear you whisper those "four little words" softly in my ear. That to me is the sweetest thing I have ever heard. I shall always do my part to keep you thinking the same of me as you do now. And it will be such a pleasure doing things for "My Little Polly", you know Polly I have thought several times before in my life that I was in love, but now each day I realize more and more that not until now or since I met you have I really & truly been in love. And it is the grandest feeling ever, I never thought one could be so happy over any thing as I am right this moment, and Polly I shall be so happy when the time comes when I can call you mine & mine alone. It was such a grand and glorious feeling several nights ago when you told me, or in fact said " I am yours Buck" I was so happy that I couldn't find words at that time to make hardly an answer but I want to say now Polly you shall never know (because it is impossible for me to describe it properly) the wonderful feeling that struck me very deeply -- you know those feelings we experience when we are extremely happy over something of great importance well that partly expresses my feeling at that time. I hope and pray Polly that I shall never say or do any thing to cause you to loose faith in me for me to hurt you in any way would be something most hard for me to ever overcome and I trust there shall never be any thing like that to come between our happiness. I feel sure there will never be any thing like that. Sure was great to see you as often as I did the past week - you certainly make my days at home so very pleasant and I feel very grateful to you too-ooo.  Polly I'm wondering how you are making out with your letter to Fred -- I know it can't be a very pleasant task, I wish I could be of some material aid to you -- but then you don't really need any other assistance -- than the truthful assurance that I am backing you up in any thing you say. And if it helps you any Polly when you are writing to him just remember - I love you dearly. Polly and I shall continue to do so always and always and always. I have never had the pleasure of knowing friend Fred but I do know his love for you can not be greater than mine. I hope he can understand and will censure you to strongly, but what is to be will be, and I know you are the "Godsend" for me. I have been waiting these many years for you Polly and I am so proud and happy that at last I have found my ideal. "The Girl Of My Dreams" partly expresses it don't you think? I tried to call you from the station in Staunton this a.m. about ten -- couldn't get an answer -- I wonder why????     Well I suspect I would have slept later than I did were it possible -- really I almost envied you people about eight this a.m. But it's a great life and I love it Polly -- more than ever since I have you to love -- and can feel and know that I am being loved at the same time by you and you and you.  Well I didn't quite finish your letter before dinner -- and we have been oh so busy tonight -- I haven't had a chance to finish this all night and we are very near Charlottesville  now, so if I don't finish this before then I'll not be able to get it off at Basic and I do want you to get it on 14. Sorry I can't write more -- am looking forward to hearing from you Friday a.m.   with all my love always and always,    "Buck"   P.S. please pardon the pencil --B.

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Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander to Edward Blair (Buck) Melton (Undated - around February 4, 1931)

Undated -- around  February 4, 1931

  Friday Morn.

Darling,

       I promised I would write you today and I am being just as good as my word. Dear I had a wonderful time last nite so long as it lasted. I am truly sorry you had to leave so early but then we were doing something for some one else so that was reason enough for leaving early. But you know,dear, how I hated to let you leave me. Hope it won't be long until you won't have to leave me.   I got up this morning at eight o'clock. Early for me don't you think? What time did you get home last nite?  Sincerely hope you didn't drive fast. How did you feel when you reached home? I didn't sleep at all well. I seemed to be more or less nervous. But I feel fine this a.m.  I didn't get to go to Staunton this morning as father had the care filled with canned goods. I am truly sorry as I wanted to talk to you over the phone. Sure wish I were going to have the pleasure of seeing you again tonite. If you don't go to Staunton please come down here.  I want to see you as badly as if you had been gone a whole week. Can't you get out of going some way and come on down here. I'd promise to let you leave early so you can sleep before leaving for D.C. in the a.m.   I guess I won't be disappointed if you don't come as you told me your plans last nite. Ha!  But I want to see you . Guess this shall be a big surprise for you.   All my love, dear   "Polly"       P.S. Aunt Laura seems brighter this a.m. "Peggy", Elsie and I are on our way to Harrisonburg. Sure wish you were going with us. I wrote to Fred this morning. Wish you were coming down Tonite!!

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Edward Blair (Buck) Melton to Pauline (Polly) Byerly Alexander (February 6, 1931)

February 6, 1931

Washington, D.C.

    Dearest "Polly" --

Now aren't you surprised upon hearing from your "to be" so very soon? Well I think it is very nice to give pleasant surprises and I know it is nice to receive them -- well you see if I had not written so you would get it Sat you would have had to wait until Monday before you could have gotten it. And that I think would have been entirely too long -- it is now eleven thirty and as I have to get up about five forty-five you can readily see I won't get any too much sleep today, so you will please pardon the extremely short note, next time I hope to have more time --     Your dear sweet letter came just a few moments ago and I was so glad to hear from you again. Every bit of your letter thoroughly enjoyed, except the part when you mentioned being so blue and down hearted -- when I know you feel that way why I have the same feeling Polly. That's the main reason I'm writing you today -- I thought Maeby I might be able to cheer you along a bit and perhaps help you forget you are blue, at least for the present, "I love you, Polly" and I don't like to think of you being sad & blue, I know it is lonely for you there at home but you must cheerfully carry on for the present, it can't always be so lonely for you, not if I have any thing to do about it. Brighter days are bound to come and I hope so very soon. For you to be most happy is my one wish & I'm going to do everything I can to see that it all comes true for you and ---Sorry indeed to hear that Hazel's husband has gotten in wrong -- sure hope everything will be all o.k. with them.       I'm quite sure our fate has already been sealed, and I only hope that you may always think the "fate" was kind to you, Something seems to tell me that we both are going to be very happy when we have carried out our little plans for the future, I too, hope we may always be so very happy -- I know I shall always be with you to help me meet the problems that come into ones life from time to time. And I shall always love and adore and be so proud of my help mate. Would love to hear from you again while I'm up here if possible -- but if you don't have time to write here may I expect a letter to be in G. when I arrive there Tuesday nite? Thanks awfully. I sure would love to write more but I declare my eyes are getting terribly heavy, so I guess I had better be saying so long --  Sure hope your headache has left you entirely and that you are feeling much improved.    I'm still missing you every moment Polly and I wish so much that the time was here now for me to see you. The sooner it comes the better I'll like it honest. Cheer up now Polly -- and by all the stars above -- don't forget I love you so much and I want to be near so that I might help to cheer you up a bit, and as I can't be so very near in body, any way I am in spirit & soul. Must close now -- am going to expect to hear from you rather soon. Am looking forward with so much pleasure to seeing you Wed. nite. I suppose between seven & seven thirty if that isn't ok -- you mention the hour and everything will be all ok,   with all my love always,    "Buck"

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