Love for the Work . . . for Fourteen More Weeks

From Jim's letter, October 8, 1938:

"My Darling Gwen,

. . .I would imagine my letters must be rather boring to you, in a comparative way. For example, all I can write about is my life and my work, and my love for you. My work from day to day is much the same, and you already know my life and where it is centered, and my love for you never changes, so each letter must be pretty much the same. So by simple deduction you must get as tired reading my letters as you used to get when I told you in a spoken word and then proposed to you. Gee you certainly must have got a big laugh out of me and my weekly proposals. However, if I had you here, or if I was there, I'd do it again. Would you accept this time instead of saying 'after your mission'? But I love you and I want you to marry me. So there. And I won't change my story.

"And say, 'peanuts,' would you ever want me to change? In your letter I thought I could detect a wee bit of skepticism, and I want you to know that if it were here, New York, or Chicago, I could embrace you and still say 'My Gwen.' In my opinion you are the finest young lady and the most beautiful in Salt Lake. The best is none too good for me, so I aimed high and I got the best. And that's my story and I'll stick to it too. Gee, but I'm wondering if you could still look at me and only say 'My William.' That's all I would want to hear, because I would know what you meant. Remember the chewing gum wrapper?

"We have so many sweet memories and so many ways of our own of saying, or expressing our love, that in every act or word of my days work I am reminded over and over again of you. So you see darling, you did become a part of my mission and a real vital part as well. And I am glad.

". . .My word Gwen, can you fully realize that we only have fourteen weeks left of this mission. It certainly is surprising how quickly the weeks flit by and away into months. . . I'm certainly looking forward now to my arriving in New York again. And I hope you'll be there to meet me. . . "

From Jim's letter, Monday, October 24, 1938:

"My Darling,

You think of everything, and sometimes even me. Last week was my week of weeks, and I'm so happy when your letters come. I'm twice as happy when two letters come, and your card made me want to work real hard, complete my job, and hurry home. . .

Elder Jim Telford (right) with another missionary

"Last night I was in Sunderland on circuit, for my Sunday, and gee it was a swell meeting. Such a fine spirit and feeling in it, that even with having to speak I enjoyed it. Something came over me and I wanted to shout from the housetops that what I have to teach is the truth. Nine months in this work has done me a world of good, and sweetheart, I'm proud to say that you and my mission share my love, you and I share my mission, my mission and I share you. Each day brings me some new experience to teach me something new. Each day teaches me to love you more and I don't care if you get tired of reading of my love for you in my letters, because I'll go on writing it and telling it as long as it is real. . .

". . .And now I am to lose Bro. Bryson as my companion. Our conference over and our usual Elders meeting with Pres. Brown resulted in his transfer to Wales and he will leave me in about one week. I saw two of my associates off Friday, to Salt Lake. They may call to see you when they arrive and again they may not. If they do, you will fine two fine fellows . . .

". . .my thoughts are ever of you, and my prayers that our ideals may ever stand as a beacon light to our future. Praying for our future together, and loving you sincerely, I am, devotedly your sweetheart,

Jim
(XXO may I)"

Tension and Preparation for Emergency Evacuation

Letter to Jim from the American Consulate, September 22, 1938:

"Sir (or Madam):

This office has been considering a plan for assisting Americans in this consular district in the even of an emergency and this letter is the result of a consultation held at the consulate between a few leading Americans.

"I wish to state at the outset that I do not wish to alarm you unduly and that I know no more concerning the possibility of war than appears in the newspapers. The international tension seems to have relaxed somewhat, but it was agreed at the meeting above mentioned that a rough plan of action be outlined.

"The following points were considered:
1. In the event of war, Newcastle-on-Tyne would probably be bombed from the air.
2. Such attack might be made with suddenness leaving no time for evacuation.
3. Events might so shape themselves as to give warning of hostilities and make immediate evacuation desirable.

"In the case of (2), it was agreed that it would be unwise, if not impossible, for Americans to attempt any concerted action. They should place themselves in the hands of the British authorities and adopt such measures for their safety as these recommended. . .

Letter to Jim from American Consulate, Sept. 29, 1938

". . .For your information, there are estimated to be about 125 Americans, including men, women and children, in the four counties comprising this consular district, namely, Northumberland, Durham, Cumberland and Westmorland, and the County Borough of Middlesbrough, Yorkshire; 106 of these are registered at the consulate. If you know of any Americans who are not registered, please ask them to call at the consulate at once. . .

"Very truly yours,
Harold Playter
American Consul."

Letter to Jim from the American Consulate, September 24, 1938:

"Sir (or Madam):

". . .You will have noted that the situation has grown more tense during the past two days. Cook's tourist agency informs this office that a general exodous [sic] westward of Americans has begun. It will be well to remember that if conditions grow worse bookings will be difficult to obtain. . ."

Letter to Jim from the American Consulate, October 1, 1938:

"Sir (or Madam):

Having reference to my former circulars concerning Americans, I now submit a more detailed plan. .

"Points to be remembered:

Transportation:
- Persons traveling in the cars of others can take no more baggage than they can carry in their laps.
- Dress warmly. Take blankets, if possible, and enough bread and tinned meat for two or three days.
-Travel the unfrequented roads to the Etty Farm.
-Send license numbers and description of your cars to the Consulate so that Consulate may be able to save them for confiscation and obtain petrol.

"Key Men:
-Get in touch with your key man at once. At the time of the preparation of this circular the international situation has much improved, but the British Government is still delivering gas masks and taking other precautions, and the Consulate deems it proper to develop this plan. Please cooperate.

"Very truly yours,
Harold Playter
American Consul."

Hitler and The Worry of War

From Robert Telford's (Jim's Dad) letter, Sunday, September 18, 1938:

"My Dear Son,

Robert and Charlotte Telford

I greatly fear that when you are reading this letter there will be a state of war in Europe. The aggressive attitude of the Nazi's in Czecho-Slovakia in their determination to become incorporated in the German Empire and the admirable determination of the Czech's to keep the boundaries of their country just where they are, together with England's vacillating and weak policy toward the whole situation, have created a problem which in  my opinion can only be settled in war. If it must be war then it may as well be now as later. If that mad man in Berlin and his equally mad sattelite [sic] Henlein think that they can realize Kaiser Bill's dream of world dominance, then now is the time to call their bluff. Hitler is depending on his bluff. He knows that war means his doom, and notional suicide for Germany. If Chamberlain could muster enough courage to say to Hitler, and say it with a very significant smile on his face "Don't be silly" the impression and conviction conveyed would jar Herr Adolph worse than the impact of a bullet. Enough has happened already to justify Hitler in carrying out his threats to take the Sudeten Territory by force if necessary, but he isn't doing it. He won't do it until circumstances into which he has forced himself, and from which he cannot back out, force him to fight.

"Well, what am I telling you all of this for anyway, you know as much about it as I do.

Letter and writing sample of Charlotte Telford (Jim's Mother)

"A report has just this moment come over the radio to the effect that Britain and France have agreed that a plebiscite is the only solution to the Czech problem. In the first place the Czechs won't accept it. In the second place, if they do, they may as well hand the disputed territory to Hitler on a silver platter. Well, we haven't had a letter from you this week, I guess you are pretty busy. . .

". . .I want to write a letter to your Uncle Harry and one to your Uncle Bill today, so not having more interesting news for you and wishing to avoid sermonizing at this time I will close. Your check for $35.00 has gone forward and will now be in your pocket. Please tell me how you are faring on this amount and what you have on hand, how your suits are, and if you need anything extra. We don't want you to get shabby or to want for anything.

"Gwen was in and spent a couple of hours last night. She comes in quite often for a visit and we really enjoy her. In fact I don't know what we would do without her. Oh, by the way, when you write to Len you had better address your letter to the new edition of Fred Astaire, same address as usual. Len is now dancing instructor in the ward with Gwen as his partner. So we have changed his name to Fred. His is proud of his job.

"Best respects to everybody over there and kindest regards to you,
 From yours affectionately,
Dad"

From Robert Telford's letter, Sunday, September 25, 1938:

"My Dear Son,

As I start to write I suddenly realize that I have not very much on my mind that I can put into my letter. Naturally, the predominant thought in one's mind is the condition of Europe as it relates to peace or war there. It crowds out of the mind any thoughts of a great many other things, and in spite of every effort to the contrary, remains paramount.  ___________________________
I stopped writing to listen to the International Radio Broadcast of World News during which a flash from London came over saying that the Czechs had notified Chamberlain of England that Hitler's latest statement of conditions giving them to Oct 1st to evacuate the Sudeten area are unacceptable. Unless Hitler backs down this means war. I fail to see how that braying ass can back down now without losing his prestige with his own people and with the rest of the world, and by the same token I see no way to avoid war. Let's hope for the best.

Letter from Jim's Father (Robert), Sept. 25, 1938

"We had Gwen in last night practicing a dance with Len. Len had his young lady in here too, so don't get upset about Gwen with him. He is too infatuated with his own little Dutch girl to have any eyes for Gwen. The little Dutch-ess is quite a sweet little thing . . .

". . .I haven't had a letter from your Uncle Tom Gate yet. Maybe I stumped him with my letter on administration to the sick. Have you ever talked to him about that letter? Rather, I should say, has he ever mentioned it to you? . . Knowing these old non-conformists local preachers as I do, I am mindful of the fact that their knowledge of the bible is limited to a few tenets in the New Testament which apply to certain conditions of salvation . . .I know that it is hard to get these old duffers to change their minds or even get them to think a little on the possibility that there might be something more to the plan of salvation than they already know. So you just have to be patient with them, and realize that you cannot change a lifelong conviction with a single argument, especially when that conviction has been the basis of a man's moral and spiritual attitude and conduct throughout his whole life.

"Tuesday morning, 10:15 o'clock a.m. A radio broadcast has just come in stating the U.S. government has advised all Americans to leave Europe immediately. As this includes England I may as well stop writing because if the governments advice is heeded, this letter will not reach you there, you may be on your way home anytime. So until further developments, I will send our very best regards and am as always,
yours affectionately,
Dad"

Meeting Jim in New York? and the Worry of War

From Gwen's Letter, September 11, 1938:

"My Dearest Sweetheart,

. . . What will you do when you get home and find that you no longer have to write letters. Gee, honey, it seems like half your and my life have been filled with writing letters to each other. Just think from 1933 to 1939 is six years and truly almost half of that courting was done thru letters wasn't it. I can't wait until some cold stormy night when we're cozy and snug together before an open fire reading some of our many letters to each other. Wouldn't that be fun to see in letters how we changed from kids to older kids and from mere acquaintances with dignified 'Dear Jim' to intimate lovers [?]

". . . Last night at the Old Mill was the stake gleaner dance. I asked Lenny to go but it was his girl's birthday, so Stan went with me and Lenny brought his girl. I wasn't going to the Old Mill with anyone but you, but since Berdine and I had to do the entertaining and since I could go with a Telford (the nearest thing to you), I finally decided to go. . .that Lenny has developed into a darn good dancer. It must be a talent with you Telfords. . .We were both recalling memories of other nights at the Mill and in the midst of it all I saw a fellow dancing just in front of us and, darling, he looked so much like you it made my heart almost stop for a minute. He was your height, had hair and features like yours, and danced so smoothly, just like you. Well right then and there I realized how wonderful, how unexplainably satisfying, it would be to go with you again.

Gwen with a friend (Berdine?)

". . .Oh, Jim darling, I was so glad to read in your letter that you wanted me to come back to meet you. I thought perhaps you would rather I didn't, but now I'm really going to do everything in my power to get to come back and meet you. The prices for round trip on the Challenger aren't bad and I'd love a trip like that, and I know Berdine would too. Oh, honey, I'm so excited about it already I can't wait. Do you think we could make arrangements to meet without fail in New York? Oh, if we only could and then if I knew which train you were returning on I could come back with you. Oh, kid, think of the fun we could have seeing those places to-gether. It really would be worth it don't you think so? Would you be able to let me know a little ahead of time just when you would land and all? Maybe I couldn't see Europe with you, but I could surely see the United States with you. . .What makes me feel bad though is that your folks probably want to come just as badly as I do, and if I go do you think they might feel that it is kind of unfair and selfish on my part [?] For a while I thought maybe I could coax dad to drive back and take your folks too, but he says he couldn't possibly get off work at that time of the year.

Union Pacific's Challenger

". . .I hope you're still planning to tour the continent, Jim, that is if they aren't having a war in Europe by March. I'd surely like to see you go see all those wonderful places. . .

". . .Here's to our love, our success, and marriage in the temple on June 19, 1939. Oh, darling, that would be glorious. Now goodnight sweetheart and did I tell you I love you more than anything in this world[?]

"Your Sweetheart, Gwen"

From Gwen's Letter, September 26, 1938:

"My Only Sweetheart,

. . .What do you hear concerning the war over there? Is England really planning to join France against Germany? What difference does that make in your work? Are they really drafting a million young men in England? Well, I guess by the time you read this letter war will either be on or off. We hear so much about it. Almost every fifteen minutes over the radio they announce something concerning it. Oh, kid, I hope Hitler and Mussolini fall down and break their necks or something.

David O. McKay with  Pres. Hugh B. Brown

"Darling, I was surely thrilled to read about the success of your conference and I could have cried when you told me how you were so happy and thrilled to stand and speak before that audience. Isn't it wonderful what missions can do. You must have worked hard to interest 230 people over there. I'm surely proud of you and you bet I've got the account of it in your mission scrap book. From the way you describe President Brown, honey, I would surely love to meet him and be acquainted with him. It's good to have such men as ideals and guides in your life, and with such high ideals Jim, I'm sure you will become as wonderful a man as you set your goal to become. As for me from my acquaintances, I believe I want to be like David O. McKay still, and as for a woman ideal I would aim at Sister Wood. Have you ever heard her speak? She's young and blonde and so full of enthusiasm. She and her husband are now presiding  over the West German mission. . .

". . .Berdine and I are still planning for New York in the spring--that is if you come home. Wouldn't be any fun to go if you decide to stay, but darling after your tour, please hurry home as fast as you really want to.

"So long and remember I love you always.

Your Sweetheart, Gwen"

International Relations in Europe=War?

From Jim's letter, September 15, 1938:

"My Dearest Gwen,

Oh, if you could only be here now. At night, when the air is cool and crisp, and the feel of it makes you stand straight and walk fast, and a moon peeks out from behind a misty cloud to throw it's light to the earth below, my mind runs back to one September 12th, just before you were to return to school. But the days are warm and pleasant for the sun shines, the trees are dropping their leaves, and the flowers are hanging their heads, the country side is being painted by a master and I am reminded that under these conditions we used to have a drive into the mountains. So you see darling our going together, and our love for mutual things, took us into such a variety of places that even over here you are a part of it all. And I hope you will always be the same in the future.

". . . No, I don't kick in my sleep. I do enough in my waking hours.
I love you. Will you marry your Sincere Sweetheart, Jim."


From Jim's letter, September 20, 1938:

"My Only Sweetheart,

Another twentieth day of another month, and incidentally this is really number twenty of a once eternity of a mere twenty four. Or, we only have four more to go before we can say one of our greatest dreams has become a reality and then we are going to go to work on even a greater dream and ideal. Do you know which one that is?

London Times article dated Wed. Sept. 21, 1938

". . .You know over here we are very nearly into a chasm, caused by international relations on the European continent. All the folk seem to want to talk about is the possibility and probability of a war. But what is the attitude and opinions of the folk and papers at home[?] Over here the papers are too conservative in what they give to the general public. Why don't you send me a paper some time? Would you like one of these that we have to read?

". . .Well Sweetheart, even though twenty months have come and gone and we have gone through many changes, one thing remains true. That is my love for you and the sincere desire to make you my own, as soon after my return as possible. After we have been so patient and have waited for so long, it seems to me we deserve it. What do you and your folks think? You may know it, and again you may not, but my own people, at home, think you are the only girl in the world. Even the ones over here seem to know you as their own. They are all coming to our wedding, so we should have a real crowd of relatives.

"Well darling, I really must close this lousy letter, and go to bed. It's late and morning comes too soon as it is.

"So darling, here is my love for you and a kiss, the expression of how high I hold it. Love me, as I love you, Sincerely,= Your Sweetheart Jim."

A Serious Question and Looking to the Future

From Gwen's Letter, August 28, 1938:

"Darling,
. . .'Sir James' before we proceed any farther with this courtship by correspondence will you answer me unflinchingly one very important question. I'm convinced that my whole future well-being depends on it. By rights, I really should ask Elder Howard or one of your former companions this all important question, 'Do you kick or talk in your sleep?' If you do I'm very afraid we'll have to install a petition when we get married. The last week and a half I've been having a nightmare of time. Mary Elaine has been staying with us and although I'm crazy about that kid in all other ways, she's not so hot as a bed partner. It seems that I'd just doze off into sweet slumber and 'Bam!' right in the middle of the back and when she gets in the land of nod she can really kick. Next time I'd doze off she'd sack me on the nose with her elbow. By this time I'd move over a couple inches and try again. Then in the mysterious stillness of the night I'd wake up with a start to hear an awful groaning and gnashing of teeth and then she'd shout a whole story of jumbled lingo that sounded like a fish market full of China-men eating mush while they gossiped wildly. But the last straw was when I finally fell asleep over on the perilous edge of the bed hanging by the extremity of the springs and she gave me another lusty kick. Wow but it was hard to believe she was so cute and sweet all during the day. And now as I write this letter after a week and a half of wrestling nights, the circles under my eyes are so dark and large that they're practically hanging to my knees and my brain feel[s] like the barrel on a merry-go-round, so, honey, do you blame me when I ask you in all sincerity, do you kick or talk in you sleep?

A copy of the monthly Millennial Star

". . .'Supervising Elder Wm James Telford,' you're getting to be a big shot aren't you? Every Millennial Star that comes lately tells of how you were a featured speaker at some meeting or how you blessed a baby and confirmed or baptized a couple. Kid, it's hard to believe that you're really you and doing all these wonderful things. I'm so gal dern proud of you that I'm saving every clipping I find that even mentions your name. Darling, truly our prayers are answered and dreams do come true. I only hope you won't let that dark head of handsome hair up there expand at all. Are you still keeping from being spoiled?

One of the articles Gwen clipped and saved from the Millennial Star

 ". . .Sweetheart, now you can imagine how excited and happy I am when I realize that the time is so short that you're even beginning to send some belongings home in advance. That's just like when you see the buds on the trees you know the spring isn't far behind. And the best part of it all is we've weathered the storms, the rocks and all obstacles and if we can just get safely in the harbor now  we'll meet again as the old Gwen and Jim, deeply in love and yet also a new Gwen and Jim with more experience, greater patience, more understanding and very, deep purposes.

". . .Well, honey, soon school starts and then Christmas comes and then spring and you. I can't wait. For now I must be patient and try to just write you and say here 's all my love.

Your Sweetheart,
Gwen"

Gratitude for Opportunities, Blessings, and People

From Jim's letter, August 1, 1938:

"My Only Sweetheart:

. . .My word I wish you were here with me right now. Today is an English holiday, and right now 7:30am it is a lovely sunny day out, and we could have a real lovely time going up to Scotland on an excursion train, or down to the sea side to lay on the sands and dream dreams of our future. However be that as it is, our day will not be too far ahead of us now. . .Can you realize my darling that it is eighteen months and twelve days since we last saw each other? But better still that it is only seven and one half until we shall see each other again. What shall we do that first night at home? Talk? Movie? Dance? Drive? . . .

Photo capturing the Dominion Monarch's size

"We had a very nice week last, seeing some things that I shall never forget. Over in Newcastle there is a cathedral and in the coloured glass windows they have portrayed the life of Christ. One window in particular took my fancy, and you as a student of art would really have appreciated it more than I. Then as a lark and merely on chance, we went over to a ship yard on the Tyne and by making ourselves known we saw the launching of the largest ship built here since 1907. 13,000 tons of steel plate, 650 feet long when completed will weigh 27,000 tons. The lady who broke the champagne on her (the ship) nose, had merely to pull a wire and away she went. Gee until you stand along side of one of those boats, you can never really realize there immense size and tonnage. But I know ships don't interest you so I'll not go into more detail. . .

QSMV (Quadruple Screw Motor Vessel) Dominion Monarch, launched at 3.30 p.m. on the 27^th July 1938, by Lady Essendon. . .The Dominion Monarch was the largest ship built on the River Tyne since the famous RMS Mauretania in 1906. (http://www.oceanlinermuseum.co.uk; photos from http://cruiselinehistory.com)

"Well for a week or two now we are through with our conferences. We had one in Gateshead last night. . .the real high light of the conference came when they gave me a seven week old baby to bless. The little rascal was as cute as a new doll, so we gave him the name George William Brewiss. . . Gwen I think of the opportunities that have been mine over here, some I never would have had at home. I thrill and feel to thank you for your sacrifice, my parents for theirs, and Our Father for His calling me. Really it has been grand and still is for that matter. But a mission such as this, for twenty-four months, is but a school to prepare a person for a still greater mission in life, that of serving in the still greater calling of marriage. There are scriptures to bear out my statement but why bore you with such things. . . So darling, given this opportunity I have come to you to ask again for your hand in mine and together lets fill our mission of life. . .Say you will.

"And now I send my love and undying affection to you and for you alone.
Sincerely Your Sweetheart,
Jim"

Facial Hair, Farmland, and Yellowstone

From Gwen's Letter, July 17, 1938:

"My Sweetheart Jim,

Elder Telford with a mustache?

. . .I can't imagine how you'll look with a mustache, but I have an idea. Anyway, why not send me a picture. It's probably a good idea to have one while you're there to discourage osculation [kissing] and to score off the fair sex, but, honey, when you come home, unless you have a desire to discourage me, please shave it off and I'll let my hair grow as long as you desire. Honestly, the sight of a man with hair on his face--even one days growth--gives me the creeps and reminds me of prehistoric cave men."

From Gwen's Letter, July 23, 1938:

The Wagstaff's twin calves

"What do you think of the idea of our starting a small ranch out on the farm if we have any spare time? Gee, kid, don't yo think it would be fun to fix up a small log cabin out there to go stay in occasionally when we get fed up on the rush and scurry of living where there are lots of people. Maybe we could have a couple of horses and maybe I could learn to ride like you can. Dad thinks it would be grand if we could start a herd of cattle and turkeys. He'll have practically four cows milking when you get home and if he's lucky, four heifers. It'll probably be our luck to have about four bulls though, but anyway the cattle are surely increasing by leaps and bounds around here. If we should happen to have anymore twins, we'll probably have a ranch already when you come home."


From Gwen's Letter, July 30, 1938:

"My Dearest Sweetheart,

Old Faithful Geyser

. . .We arrived home from our trip to Yellowstone last night and although we had a wonderful trip, I was anxious to get home and read the letter from you which I hoped I'd have. Honestly, kid, I do hope you and I can see Yellowstone to-gether sometime. It's absolutely beautiful. And in that one area there is almost every type of beauty and geological formation one could want to see. It would be a marvelous place for a newly married couple to go. The thing I liked best of all though was Old Faithful geyser. Maxine, Mary, Berdine, and I watched it at night through the huge windows of the lodge. It was all illuminated by a huge spot light and, kid, I just know you'd be thrilled to death with it as we were. It looked like an immense fountain surrounded by fleecy white clouds of foam curling up from it. All around it was pitch black except for the foam or steam. We also saw lakes that were crystal clear and as blue as your eyes. One of the springs was just like glass only it was emerald green. It's hard to imagine water of such vivid hues.

"We saw huge water falls framed by giant pines and ravines. We also saw bears. In fact Mary was chased by one while she was trying to take a picture of the mother and cubs. Boy, if you ever saw a flying Dutchman you know how Mary looked when she headed for our cabin. It was interesting to see them feed the wild grizzleys [sic], that is, after they fenced off all of us spectators. . .

". . .I can't realize that we may finally be married next June. It would be grand like you said if we could go to some National Park for our honeymoon. All of the parks seem to be just beautiful but any place would be beautiful to me then in a special way because I'd be so happy about being Jim's wife that I know everything would have new glamour.

"Now, sweetheart, Goodnight and I hope I dream of you.
Lots of Love
from
Your Sweetheart Gwen


XXXX OOOO May I?"

Baptisms. . .and "Lady Gwendolyn"

From Jim's letter, July 25, 1938, London, W.C.I.:

"My Only Sweetheart,

My word can you really and truly believe that it has been better than eighteen months since we said 'Good-bye' in the rail way station, and that it will only be seven more until we say 'Hello' in the same station. Truly Gwen the months are slipping away very rapidly, and it will be over so soon we will hardly know how to react to every thing. And now as the time grows shorter and shorter, I only tell you the truth when I say, I will be glad to be home again. Once I had in my mind an idea that I would like to stay over for awhile, but I think now I shall be quite ready to come home, on one condition of course. That is: You and I and our future. Lately I have been able to realize all over again, my darling, how much I really do care, and how much you mean to me. Purely and simply Gwen, I love you ever so much and I do anticipate and look forward to our being married.

". . .Today is a real beautiful English summer day, and from my window I can look out to and over the lovely green fields to where new mown hay lies in mounds ready to be taken and stored for future use. The farmers are really making hay while the sun shines over here, . . .

". . .Today, according to my calendar, is a real holiday out there in Zion. There will be a parade, a rodeo and a pageant of splendour that will be pleasing to the eye in a big way. But we over here will see none of that. Rather our work goes on in some manner of visits and a meeting and some form of study. You are having a holiday, and while we won't see it together from the window of Smots office, I am quite sure you will see it. Ninety-one years Salt Lake City has stood. Tell me something of what took place and how you spent the twenty-fourth.

"Last Wednesday evening we held our second baptismal service since I came into the district. There were only two candidates this time, a young man and woman from Shields and London. And at their request, I had the privilege and opportunity of taking them down into the waters of baptism. Elder Kearl and Elder Howard confirmed them. The young man was certainly thrilled and happy and so was the young lady. I certainly have been fortunate on my mission to have this, and they're fine opportunities. And if I can only have the privilege of performing a marriage ceremony, I'll certainly be satisfied, I should.

". . .darling, I want you to know that I appreciate your going in to see Mother and Dad. They certainly enjoy your visits and Gwen, they love you as their own. So you see that my own people look for our marriage as much as I do.

"Sir James" in quite the regal sweater

"You know Gwen, over here in England they have some rare and quaint ideas. Probably some of the quaintest in the world. And one of those is their manner of bestowing a title upon some man of renown. In a manner of speaking, I feel very much at home here, for somewhere in my life I gained a 'Sir James' that has hung on. Even over here they fasten it on some times. But each one of these 'Sirs' have to have a lady, and so from now on, 'Thou shalt be known as Lady Gwendolyn.' A royal title for a royal miss. But perhaps I should ask you, 'Will you be my lady?'

"After meeting last night we called on a fine lady out in Harton, and her son and [his] wife. So in the course of the evenings conversation, we drifted to marriage. The young lady is very happy in her married life, and even said she would do it again, if it were to the same man. (I hope you can say as much about me.) And she said it would be wonderful if they could go to the church every five years to have the service performed again. I could not help but think of your suggestion. For they do not have the privilege the same as we do. That of working for someone less fortunate than we, in the temples. In this work we can have what this girl would like to have. the service performed again.

". . .Now I must close and write to the folks. They still have to hear from me too. . .So here is my love to and for you.

All of it.

Sincerely, Your Sweetheart,

Jim"

Anniversaries and Holidays without Jim

From Gwen's letter, June 19, 1938:

"Dearest Jim,
. . .Kid, you're so darn thoughtful. I could just cry I'm so happy to think that even as busy as I know you are you'd think to send those roses for June 19th. Your father brought them down to me before Sunday School and he gave me a very impressive and extravagant presentation address and then turned around and asked me what June 19th was besides Father's Day. Darling, you're grand to think of such things and I don't believe there are many men like you who remember anniversaries so well. You make anniversaries very nice occasions even when we can't be to-gether to celebrate them, but Sweetheart, next year, if luck is with us, we'll make up for two years of being apart won't we. Thanks so much for those grand roses. They're just beautiful."

From Gwen's letter, 4:30 A.M., July 4, 1938:

Gwen with friends "up the canyon."

"Sweetheart,

This is the first time I've written you a letter while dawn was just stealing in and while the birds were just waking up to start a noisy chatter all about their early household duties, and do you know it's wonderful at 4:00 in the morning- -I mean after you once drag yourself out and get props in your eyes. This morning I'm waiting for Berdine, May and Lee and their folks. We're going up the canyon for breakfast.

Gwen's mother (Vere) with Cec as a child

". . .Mother has been sick in bed for quite a while with the flu and Dad has been getting liver shots in his arm everyday. The doctor said he was dangerously anemic so between all of us this is a good hospital. Every night we doctor mother all up with hot foot baths and drinks and alcohol rubs and etc. I'm really learning a few things about cooking anyway. Dad and I have a riot with things which must be thickened because I invariably get too much thickening so he stands by with the milk to thin it so first I thicken then he thins then I thicken some more and so on and so on and on into the night. Usually we end up by having three times as much as we need but we have fun just the same.

". . .Jim, dear, let's do set June 19, 1939 as 'the' day providing neither of us changes and then let's just make it all work out right so our dreams will be realized.

". . .Do you know we have word from the great fashion center, Paris, that skirts are shorter this year, but I noticed your skirt in your most recent picture to me was considerably shorter than the average. You surely look like a healthy, happy Scot and what tartan does your family go by? I might suggest that your most modern hat was a bit extreme in the eyes of a conservative Westerner and your socks were rolled a little too far below the knees, but your smile was a charming beam which held your admirer spell bound. [see picture in 3/30/12 post]

". . .Yesterday, July 4th, Berdine and I had a good time talking and reminiscing in the canyon. Last night we went to-gether to see Marco Polo with Gary Cooper. . .These tall fellows who take the leads always remind me so much of you that I really live the picture.

". . . Cec and Kay said to tell you thanks so much for that lovely card. That was so nice of you to remember them. I'm sure they'll have smooth sailing because they're so much alike and they seem to have the same ideals and desires. Your mother told me once she thought you and I were a lot alike so I think we'll get along beautifully, don't you? I believe too that we're similar because we really do like the same things don't we.

". . .Well, darling, I've got to climb in now because I'm minus about ten hours sleep.
Days are going fast and they can't go too fast for me because my love for you is growing until it's becoming unmanageable.

"Your sweetheart sincerely,

Gwen"

A Letter from Home--with thoughts on Gwen

From a letter to Jim from his dad (Robert Telford), June 12, 1938:


"My Dear Son,

Robert Telford with Jim as a baby

 It's Sunday morning and I thought I had better write you before I get too tired. . . Two weeks ago I got quite a cold and while I have worked my five days a week I have had to go to bed as soon as I got home.

". . . I notice you are expecting a transfer soon. While you may not welcome it at the moment, I think it would be a fine thing for you. You have made many friends where you are and of course you have come to rely on all your friends and feel a sense of security among them. I think now that a change to conditions and places, where you will have to exercise initiative and assert yourself to make new friends and new plans, will greatly aid in your powers of self reliance and in complete development. So if you are transferred to another locality, be assured that it is for your ultimate good.

"Gwen has just come in. I think she has been to Sunday School. Mom and her are sitting chatting while I am writing these lines. For appearance and personality I see none who can beat her. Whatever she wears she looks like a million dollars. Her conduct and her personality suggest at once a real lady.

"Did you get to St. Bees[?] If you did how are all the folks there[?] I hope that you had time to visit all of them. They all want to see you. Tell me all about them when you write.

Robert Telford with Jim's brothers (Jack & Lenny)

"Working conditions keep getting worse. Three thousand men will be laid off at the Utah Copper in Bingham on the 16th. That is next Thursday. Mines and Smelters all around this western country are closing or are already closed down. Owners claim they have closed for thirty days. I think it will be longer. It seems to be a battle between capital and the government. . .

"I doubt whether you are going to keep out of war over there. It looks to me like it's only a matter of a few months or less until it breaks. I hope British statesmanship can find a way to avoid it. It seems doubtful.

"Well I must close. We are all fine and plugging along. Gwen and Berdine Jones have just left. Berdine played the piano and we all got around and sang. I do enjoy them coming in.

"Give my regards to all the folks over there and accept kindest thoughts for yourself. From yours affectionately,

Dad"

Memorial Day Bouquets and Souvenirs

From Gwen’s letter, May 30, 1938:

“Sweetheart,                                                                                                                     This is Memorial Day and the biggest memory I have is of you, so I’m going to write you a letter & in it I send a beautiful bouquet of roses. In the middle is a dark red one to tell you my love for you is as sincere and as deep as it always has been and always will be. Then there is a pure white rose to tell you my love for you is as pure and fresh as a white flower, a yellow rose in the blossoms means you are the sunshine I’m waiting for. There are also some forget-me-nots and orange blossoms. Put them altogether and you have a bouquet which says, Darling¸ I love you with all my heart and I need you here with me before I’ll be truly happy. . .

“.  .  . Your last letter was perfect, kid. I’ve read it over and over again and those handkerchiefs from Scotland were grand. Thanks so much. . . Now that I have so many handkerchiefs from England, Ireland, & Scotland, I believe I’ll start a collection of them. Don’t you think that would be fun?

One of the handkerchiefs Jim sent Gwen from Scotland

“. . . In answer to your question I say with all my heart, Jim dearest, I will marry you and now since your mission is almost complete the first of our dreams is fulfilled and the second one we planned was our marriage in the temple. Honey, that’s what I’ve been dreaming of ever since the first time you asked me.  . . Sweetheart, I never have gotten tired of hearing you propose. I love it and I’m only sorry you won’t keep on doing it after we’re married. . .

“. . . Kid, if I ever saw a giant in my life it was you standing by your aunt in Scotland. My goodness you looked like Goliath himself. My goodness, have you grown or is she just a small woman? Maybe I’ll retract that offer to beat you in a wrestling match when you come home. I’ll race you instead, huh?

“. . . I love you with all my heart and I hope I can be worthy of your sincere love.

Your  Sweetheart,

Gwen

May I send lots of XXXXOOOO.”

A Trip and a Visit to Scotland and Aunt Letty

From Jim's Letter, May 14, 1938:

"My Only Sweetheart--
     You're so darn good, thoughtful, and true, that even if I wanted to lose you, my sense of value would make me cling to the love which I have for you through anything of what we have had to face and conquer thus far through our individual lives.

" . . .Last week I wished you could have been with me where I was for it would certainly have made a glorious honeymoon. Pennock and I went up to Glasgow [Scotland] to attend the district conference, and we had a lovely time as well as a fine trip. England and Scotland are so beautiful at this time of the year that all a person wants to do is travel and look at the green rolling hills on one side, and the blue-green sea on the other. We had a boat trip down the river Clyde while we were in Glasgow and you would have marveled at how smooth the water was and how green the hills were. The sky blue reflecting in harmony with the green hills to make an incomparable sight that I shall never forget, as long as I live. . .

Jim in a Scottish Kilt

". . .While I was in Glasgow I stayed with another of my many aunts and uncles for two days. She was very interested in my coming here to England . . .She was very surprised when I let her see your picture, the one who I am engaged to be married to, and will return to marry. Aunt Letty, as she is called, is Mother's sister and boy did she treat me really and truly nice. So on my release she insists that I go and stay with her for a while before I go on home. Which, darling, leads us up to the tour on the continent. I have had very poor word from home, and rather than burden them too much, I hardly think I should even consider such a trip. True it would be very lovely and nice, but there is so much more to think about. And even after a release, a month with all of my people and then home will be pretty near April then. . .

". .  .Say, has it ever crossed your mind darling, that this time next year we will be together in all that we attempt to do. I only have 1/3 of my mission to complete and then I'll be on my way home again. And when I come, let's you and I, borrow a car and if I can still drive one, go up to Lamb's Canyon and there have a real chat of all we have done and want to do. I have so much to tell you Gwen, and show you, that we will need many days up there to make it complete. . .

". . . Sending you every particle of my love and wishing to ever be your sweetheart.

Loving you always,

I am

Your Sweetheart,

Jim

"May I leave you kisses? XXXXX Remember me, I'm the guy you gave your goodnight kisses to.  Love."
 

From Gwen’s letter, May 21, 1938:

“P.S. This girl who is interested in a trip on the continent will gladly loan you the money if you’ll write and tell her how much it will take and if you’ll promise not to let the loan influence your feelings or obligate you in the least.

“You say you’ll never understand me because I want you to have a trip on the continent instead of staying an extra year as a missionary . . . I’m thinking of the lesser of two lengths of time  . . . it is probably the only time you’ll ever have a chance  to see a large part of this old world and since you’re that near it would be a shame for you to miss the chance of a lifetime . . .Please write and tell me approximately how much you’ll need . . . and I believe it can be arranged if you’ll make the promise I asked you to make.”

 

Changes? and Hopes for our Future

From Gwen's letter, May 21, 1938:

"Darling,

"I must have thought of you just then. Love, Gwen"

To-day marks the sixteenth month since I last saw you that terribly cold night at the train. Since that night so many things have happened one after another that like you, I often wonder how different we both will seem when we do meet. Will we even know each other? Wouldn't it be something if we passed each other up without recognizing? But for some reason or other I believe I would recognize you if I got within a block of you. Maybe I'm wrong but as long as you walk the same and are tall and dark, I'll bet on my ability to know you. Why don't you write and describe yourself to me--your personality, your walk, your hair, eyes, and all about you in comparison to 16 months ago to-day then I'll be sure to recognize you. As for me, I'm even more of a dishwater blonde than I was before, I'm gaining weight rapidly. By the time you get home I'll look like a tub. I still have a complexion like a volcano. My fingernails are broken off. I still forget to sew buttons on my coat. I'm still awfully particular about the seams in my hose being straight, remember? My eyebrows are terribly neglected since you left and I'm half as pleasant to be around since you left &you know how awful I was before. I get down in the dumps & refuse to get Wahoo's glass of water at supper. In fact, I'm generally deteriorated. I don't have time to read up on current events or anything to improve my intellect, so I'm in a mental rut. In fact, kid, when you get home you'll probably never want to hear of Gwen Wagstaff again. One thing though which is still the same is my love for a guy named Jim. I hope he won't be too awfully disappointed in me when he arrives home. . .

"My birthday, Feb. 13, 1938. . .Note the conservative hat!!"

"As for my idea of you, I know you'll be a little broader in more than one way and I think I'll like you that way very very much, but neither of us really knows do we? Maybe, and probably, we'll be so different to what we expect that most likely we'll start getting acquainted all over again. I hope we still both like dancing, hiking, canyons, moons, apple trees, theme songs, roses and all the things we've always liked before. . .

 "Ah, look at me how fat I'm getting--I weigh 121."
 (in picture: Gwen on left; her parents are on the far right)

" . . .Honestly we'll feel so lost around here with both Cec and Don gone & then, if you still want me when you get home, what will happen to Mom and Dad? They'll be right back where they started about 31 years ago. What shall we do when we're in the same boat as they are, darling? Well when we do get married--I hope--let's build always for that time so that we'll enjoy ourselves to-gether those years just as we should alone together at first. Can't you just see us playing golf, tennis, hiking, swimming, reading, riding & dancing when we're almost 60 years old.  
It's a nice picture don't you think so.                                                                                             
                                                                                                         
". . .Goodnight Sweetheart & with a tender kiss and hug I send oodles of love--
Gwen"

Beachwear, Steamboat Rides, and a visit to St. Bees

From Gwen's Letter, May 7, 1938:

"Dearest Sweetheart,

The Newcastle District Elders. . .at the beach? (Jim 2nd from left)

I was so thrilled to finally receive some pictures of you that I've almost worn them out already I've looked at them so much. Darling, those pictures mean so much. Honestly I had almost forgotten how tall and dark and good looking you were and I think you are looking much happier, much more satisfied than I have seen you look for a long time and your 194 pounds hasn't made you too fat at all . . . You asked if I ever got that picture of your 'little bathing suit' and I did. And when you said 'little' you meant it. . . I still love to receive pictures of Jim in them . . ."


From Jim's Journal, Tues. May 10, 1938, Glasgow:

RMS Queen Elizabeth

 " . . . I shaved in cold water, Brrrr. Pennock and I with Sis Malmberg took a trip down the Clyde to Dunoon on a river steamer and saw all the boats they are building and the new Queen Elizabeth.  It was a lovely trip and we all enjoyed it very much. And so back to Glasgow on a train from Gaurock [sp?] . . . After lunch we started for home and ended up on the road to Edinburgh when we had started on the way to Carlisle. Three rides were needed to put us into Edinburgh . . . Another day."


From Jim's Letter to Gwen, Mon. May 23, 1938, London, W.C.I.:

"My Dearest Gwen,

. . . Yesterday was such a lovely Sunday here in Carlisle with the sun out and all, that we had to take a walk out in the fields, through the lanes and it was all so fine and lovely that I wanted you to be here with me. But you were so far away that all my wanting availed nothing and only made me want you more. It was all very much like Lambs Canyon and our rendezvous, and if I could only have reached out and taken you in my arms to kiss you and say again that I love you so much, I would have felt much better than I really did. Just one of those times when I love you so much it really hurts.

". . .We had two lady missionaries here last night and so had a lovely discussion from both sides of the water. From their side of the question they say a girl will wait, but an Elders ideas are altered so much he fails in his desires and ideals. . . A lady missionary wants in a husband, (1) spirituality, (2) personality, (3) ambition, (4) ideals. How do those qualities compare to you who have not been on missions? We had a lovely discussion, and finally they asked me how I felt about girls coming on missions. So I told them and now they are trying to convert me to the idea that they can do all an Elder can, except perform temporal and spiritual ordinances. But I'm still not convinced.

" . . . I am going to make this letter rather short this time as we are traveling again and we are ready to leave. Remember darling that all my love belongs to only one in this world and can never be rightly shared with anyone, and my one purpose and desire is to see that love culminate in a union of you and I.

"Love me always as I love you.
Sincerely, devotedly,
Your Sweetheart,
Jim"

From Jim's Journal, Tues. May 24, 1938, Egremont: 

"Looking toward the front of church [in St. Bees] where Mother & Dad were married"

"St. Bees Head fron the north side" (written on back)

"Lower Main St, St. Bees. Uncle Bill [Telford] in foreground"

"After dressing and eating we borrowed the bikes and rode over to St. Bees to see Aunt Rebecca and the Telfords. There we spent the day with them, before we returned to have a walk to Cleator to see Harry and Ida. Back in Castle Craft, we had supper and Margaret and I played shuttle cock before we hit the hay."

Brotherly and Family Love

From Gwen's Letter, April 28, 1938:

"Darling,

I couldn't help thinking of you to-night at the Gleaner and M.Men banquet . . . That 'tall, dark & handsome' [young man] Max told you about is surely a sweet little brother. Of course, he's only about 6 foot 4, so I feel so much bigger than he is. I wish you could have seen him. He's been studying etiquette all week & he did right smart. He was a good sport about skipping the dance part of the evening so we went for a long ride to talk . . .

Telford Family a few years later (Lenny is far right on couch)

". . . He's a really swell kid, Jim, . . .I think he kind of likes you since he's so anxious for you to come home.

"To-morrow night he's going to the Granite High Girls' Dance, and he doesn't know what to wear or what to do. That all reminds me so much of so many girls' dances and all our good times.

". . . Lenny has already planned that he & his girl & you & I are going to the Old Mill. In fact, we four, he says, are just going to make up for all this lost time. He's so grown up, Jim, you just won't know him when you get home, but you'll be proud of him I know."

From Gwen's Letter, May 1, 1938:

"My Dearest Jim,

May first and eleven to go. Boy now we're really on the home stretch aren't we, honey, and I'm not one single bit sorry because I'm looking forward to seeing you so much.

".  . .The other night at the banquet I decided I'd let Lenny beat you at tennis for me because he tells me he's so good that all the girls are wild to have him teach them the game. Like me though, they'd probably learn faster if they'd get a teacher who wouldn't have to say 'Keep your eye on the ball.' Did you know that you was [sic] the secret of my failure because I couldn't get my eyes off you, my teacher, long enough to watch the ball? There I go feeding your ego and with all the other nourishment its probably getting I'll bet you'll burst with vanity huh?

The Wagstaff Family with Don (far left) and Cec (far right) next to Gwen

". . .You should have been here last Sunday and you'd surely have gotten a laugh out of Cec & Kay. Remember how Cec & Don used to burst in on us when we were saying goodnight--Well, Sunday Kay & Cec were in the front room reading the paper while I was in the kitchen writing you a letter. I got already then found I didn't have any ink, so I went in the dining room to get it and as I came through the door Kay jumped from a position on Cec's lap and in his arms to a very sedate paper-reading position. I guess she thinks I'm opposed to guys & girls about to be married sitting with their arms around each other, but anyway I surely had to laugh. She surely is grand though, Jim, I just can't wait until you meet her. I couldn't ask for any nicer sister-in-laws than I have & am to have. Kay is about my age too & I'll bet we could almost be like real sisters. Gee and how I've always wished for a real sister. When Cec leaves that will really leave our family small won't it. . .

". . .Darling, the more I think about it the more I think your idea to build an English house is a good idea. Then we could make it different from the usual American houses & you could still feel like you were in England, a little anyway, & I'd have my wish to know what England was like.

" . . .Now, honey, I've got to got to dinner. I love you always. . .

"So long Sweetheart,

XXXX  Gwen."

A Week in the Life of Elder Telford with Transfers, Tracting, and a New Companion

From Jim's Journal, Monday, April 11, 1938, So. Shields:

"This morning I was out to write to Gwen and then go over to Sunderland to see Pres. Oates. . ."

Tuesday, April 12, 1938, Sunderland:

"Pres. Oates woke us up and I had a shave and breakfast and he drove me into the town. I made the train to M'bro [Middlesbrough]. In M'bro I was met by the Elders . . .went to see about the hall for conference. Linthorpe Assembly Rooms . . . was booked. We then went to So. Bank for lunch . . .then went to the station to take a train for Sunderland and then on to So. Shields."

Wednesday, April 13, 1938, So. Shields:

". . .After breakfast I started to pack things to-gether preparing to go to So. Bank. I didn't know I had so much junk until I started this. Finally everything was in order and I went to say 'Au revoir' to Mrs. Burns and Sis. Fudge. And so to Sunderland. . .before going to M'bro to M.I.A. with the Elders. After we went to M'bro and So. Bank. . ."

Thursday, April 14, 1938, So. Bank:

"Elder Pennock and I went to the hall and town to do some shopping and go out to his grandmothers. . .After our lunch we went out tracting and over to see a Bro. Bland. We had tea there . . . At the lodge we found a transfer for Elder Palmer to go to Burmingland. So we started him packing. . ."

Friday, April 15, 1938, So. Bank:

"Today is hot cross bun day, and a legal holiday for everyone in the blinkin' country. So we lay in for awhile . . .then after we had shaved and eat [sic], we went and played a game of tennis and billiards. . .came home to write Pres. Brown, and go to bed. Another day."

Saturday, April 16, 1938, So. Bank:

"After our usual routine duties this morning, Elder Palmer and I were away to a train, after calling at the police station and post office . . . arrived in Sunderland to go to the game. Pres. Oates and I had a rare old time of it, boxing and scuffing about. We saw Leeds and Sunderland fight to a no-score tie and then went to tea . . . had a flat tire. We fixed it and then went home to change it over. . ."

Sunday, April 17, 1938, Sunderland:

"Out and shaved. We worked on the car for a while then had our breakfast, and saw Elder Palmer away. At noon we were on our way to Newcastle to meet Bro. Wappett,and call on Bro. Finaly. And finally on our way to Carlisle over the Roman road to Sis. Wallace's for tea, and then to the Branch Conference. We, Kearl, Dunn, Weston, Oates and I, spoke and then had friendly chats with all the folk . . . We drove thru Hexham, and to Sunderland . . . Another day is done."

From Jim's Letter, April 25, 1938:

"[T]oward the end, [your letter] turned out to be questionnaire sent out to test my I.Q.
rating, you know something like we used to have in the study hall at Granite. So if they really meant something to you, here goes:

1. If you were to arrive here in Newcastle district, you would immediately become matronly Sister Wagstaff, to even me, your fiancee. . .

2. I have a companion now. J. Albert Pennock of Salt Lake. . . .

3. My double quartet floundered: no interest of the good people in So. Shields.

4. Still too cold to do any bathing in the ocean yet.

5. Bryson should make a fine S.E. in Wales if he learns one or two things before it's too late. He will be released in July.

6. My English sweetheart is fine and is old enough to come out to Salt Lake now. Should I bring her home with me?

7. I'm in So. Bank now, near M'bro, and from where I live we can see nothing by steel mills and smoke. Something like Magna over here. Smoke, dirt and slag mounds. . .

" . . . This week is our conference week. Thank heavens. Pres. Brown will be here on Saturday afternoon to marry a young couple in the hall at West Hartspool. That is how far the church has come in the last few years. It has not been so long ago that the Latter-day Saints were not allowed to perform marriage ceremonies. But, gee, there is a lot to be done even now. . . Latter-day Saints at home have lots to do as well to make themselves real Saints like there are here in this land. Back home we take all things too much for granted. Over here they cherish the church and value it very high. . ."

Susie Hot-head Drama and a Potential Movie?

From Gwen's Letter, March 27, 1938:

"My Dearest Sweetheart,

I was so thrilled to get your card for our anniversary--it was a beautiful card but the best part of it was the part you wrote. It's always been a mystery to me how you can think up such beautiful things to write and they just seem to come so natural to you while I have to ponder and ponder how to express my feelings in such an appropriate way. Just imagine, darling, engaged for two whole years to a fellow whom I think is "tops" and one reason why I think you're the 'only' man for me is because of your romance and thoughtfulness. It's a thrill to know you remember and think of the days which truly are 'ours.' Darling you're one man in a million and I'm the lucky girl whose wearing your ring."

From Gwen's Letter, April 10, 1938:

"My Dearest Sweetheart,

Three letters in a row expressing doubt as to my feelings have really got me worried. . . I hope that my quickly and impulsively formed conclusions which were apparently wrong haven't made you lose faith in the strength of my love for you or in the sincerity of my pride at the wonderful work you are doing. . .I tried to be unselfish in letting you go and I guess my selfish side kind of got the better of me in that one letter. I was really afraid that another year might change you until the things and people at home wouldn't be good enough and that would just leave me with nothing to look forward to. There is no other reason why I was so hasty in letting you know I was so impatient to have you home in 1939. My love has not changed one bit except in growing stronger. From now on I'll try to quench that selfish little hot-headed gal down inside of me. Did you know before that I was a duel personality. Yes, I am. One girl named Mary Gwendolyn is religious and tries to be unselfish, while Susie hot-head tries to be selfish and sarcastic. I'll try to keep Susie under lock and key from now on. How's that?

". . .Someday I'll bet it would be fun to read our letters over and see just what they were like. . .Did you really think I ever contemplated sending back a silk-hanky of yours? Do you by any chance want me to send it back? Unless you desire it I doubt if you'll ever get that one back. . . Remember when you wore that huge ring of mine and I wore your wristwatch--then did you ever think I would be wearing a diamond ring of yours? At that time I never dreamed you'd ever even take any notice of me, but that's no sign I didn't hope. . .But kid, sometimes the girl meets her leading man and fortune smiles on her--I've been very lucky. Luckier than I sometimes realize--that I am engaged to a fellow with ideals that are very high and a fellow who has a 'never say die' spirit and on top of that a fellow I'm so in love with that sometimes that love makes me feel selfish. I can't understand why I am so lucky. I only hope that someday I'll grow to be worthy of all of this.

". . .You mentioned being ridiculed on a street meeting. What happened? I hope no one got tar and feathered.

". . .Now, sweetheart I must stop . .Please know that I am still as much yours as I was the night we became engaged and I want no other career than 'our' career to-gether. Forgive me for being impatient and please throw that Mar. 2 letter in the fire.

Loving you sincerely,

Your Sweetheart Gwen XXX OO"

A Response from Jim, London, W.C., April 25, 1938:


"My Dearest Sweetheart,

Say if I thought for one minute I would receive a letter from you like your most recent one . . .lady, you would receive some letters. Your letter dated April 10, was a literary achievement in comparison to the immortal one of March 2, which will never be destroyed. I'm going to preserve that one and the last one for history, and someday they will make a movie based on those two letters like they do today based on Marie Antoinette's letters to Napoleon. But we will never be able to reap any royalties on them, so maybe we should try something now. What do you think?"



(Pictures: The Infamous Mar. 2 and April 10 letters. Notice Gwen's concern for the first "gorge" between them in the Mar. 2 letter)

" . . .Say, can you realize that we only have a mere eight months left of real missionary work. 32 weeks or 229 days. Which seems the longer to you? Months, days or weeks?

". . .True love will live forever, Gwen darling, and ours is true love.

Loving you sincerely,
Let me remain
Your Sweetheart,

Jim

Thanks for the X's and O's. May I send you some XXX OOO."