Paris

March 21, 1945

Dear Mary,

Some of the letters and packages from last December are starting to arrive. I received Loretta’s package yesterday. Just in case she’s forgotten the contents, I’ll list them- sugar, saltines, animal crackers, sardines, and the N.E.A. journal. Everything was in pretty good shape, except the cakes – they were pretty well crushed.

I received a card from Harry’s mother last week. If you have a chance to see her, say thanks for me. All her letters are very interesting; I’ve received quite a few since I’ve some over.

If you can think of any particular perfume you’d like, send me a letter and I’ll try to get some for you. I have a few bottles for you and Loretta, and Kate – I’ll hold them a week or so – I’ve been trying to get some more Shalamar but haven’t been lucky. I got a large bottle for Mary; when it arrives, if you like, write and tell me, and I’ll try to get some more. I have a bottle of Lucien Le Long’s (indiscreet). I think you’ll like that – Guerlaine’s, Shalamar, and Blue Hour – seem to be tops – it’s quite hard to get, too – I had to be in line by eight thirty and wait till the shop opened at ten. There were four ahead of us, too. Perfume is about all you can buy here in Paris; everything else is rationed or too expensive. Silk scarves sell for about twelve hundred and fifty francs to about two thousand francs (or forty dollars).

I suppose you’re looking forward to warmer days now. We’ve had very good weather ever since we arrived. It sure was a welcomed change from the delightful English weather.

That’s about all for tonight, Mary. - Say hello to everyone for me –

S’long and love

Frank