Belgium- Thursday, Feb. 1st

Dear Cattie,

            There’s very little to right tonight, but I decided to eke out a few lines anyhow. I was expecting one of the officers to come up today with our mail, money, and Px rations, but unfortunately, none arrived. I can do without the money or the rations; but I certainly miss the mail. I suppose it will all come up tomorrow. But if it doesn’t, it wont matter much, as I’m hoping to leave here Saturday. Thank goodness! Even though it’s one of the Belgium’s largest towns, there isn’t a thing to do. I’m usually busy during the day, so I don’t leave an opportunity to see the movie at 10 o’clock. But I wouldn’t have gone today, anyhow, because I’ve seen the “Pin-up Girl”.

            It rained all day, and also yesterday. So the snow is turning to “slush” rapidly, and the ground is thawing out considerably too. It facilitates driving, but really hinders the armored boys. I’m hoping the Russia’s might avalanche reaches Berlin before “the thaw” on that frost. Today they just had 40 miles to go, and it’s the best morale factor since 3rd Gremy’s dash across France last year. Incidentally, did you read, or hear, about the “38th” lauding on Lee-gau? Good ol’ Esquires OC S! Who knows, I may be home before next Christmas after all.

            I suppose you’ve noticed the change of stationary and ink? I procured bottle a few days ago, as I believe I told you in a previous letter. I’ve written so many times in the past three nights that I forget things I’ve said before. Sorry!

            I bought you a souvenir yesterday Cattie; but I haven’t the slightest idea as to just when I’ll mail it. Certainly not before next week, because I have to locate a small box somewhere. I don’t think I’ll tell you what it is. Okay? So there, you’ll be surprised when you open the box.

            Here’s a cute one taken from today’s Starts and Stripes- First Wac: “What do you suppose the boys in the fox holes want the most?” Second Wac: Why, the same things as you I suppose!” 1st Wac: “Aren’t they awful!” Haha

            Boy, was I “day-dreaming” last night! I was listening to the radio, and occasionally we’d “pick-up” an American broadcast. And when I’d hear the announcer describing one of Roosevelt’s birthday balls, I’d start thinking of the glorious ones I’d attended in years gone by. That really made me homesick. I cant think of anything I’d like more right now, than to be sitting at the table at a CCC dance, “sipping” on a quart of Seagran’s , with Emma Lee, you, Joe, and I. “Whatta” day that will be.

            Oh yes, a band was here two nights ago, and sounded swell. They played quite a few good numbers, but I can only recall three of them. “Fly Right,” “Cotton Trail,” and “American Patrol.” I like all three of them. Did you see Esquire’s “Jam Session” in the December issue? Wow!

            Well “Cat,” I guess that’s all for now. I was surprised myself by writing two full pages. Tell Joe and Aunt Irene “hello.”

                                                                        Love- Urbey