Dear Margie,
Im know, you thought I died, but I fooled you. I hope you'll forgive me for not writing sooner, but I've really been on the go & I mean go! First of all, thanks a million for the box you sent. Everything was swell! Did you make the cookies? They were really good & the box came in fine shape. I had a very nice time over the holidays & hope you fellas did too. At least it was as nice as could be expected under the circumstances. You know I had planned to be home but things turned up, so I didn't get to make it. But Viny got home anyhow so that was something. I've been going with a very swell girl & we both had 2 days off over Xmas so we & another couple had a wonderful time. We went to Midnite Mass but was so crowded we couldn't get in. We were disappointed but got to attend a solemn high Mass Xmas day. Had a very white Xmas so that made everything swell. Since then we've had a wonderful weather yesterday it ws just like a Spring day. It

was really warm. I borrowed a motorcycle from one of the fellows & went riding. It was wonderful. That's my favorite sport you know. Riding up & down the mountains & stuff. Wahoo! Don't know if you know I made Sgt or not, but just got another promotion. Staff Sergeant now. Guess that will have to last me a while though. Have you heard from Bill lately? I got a Xmas present from him the other day. Was a swell pipe that he bought in Paris. He also sent a few lines. Was in Belgium then & having a bit of a rough time too, I guess. He's very anxious to get home & I don't blame him. Was reading over your last letter in which you again asked about "Leona". It dawned on me that you mite mean Leona Breitenstrater. If so, yes, I know her. Or who were you refering to? And about the "gal back home" Well there used to be but she is engaged to someone now. And perhaps it's just so well cause I think I've met a better one. She really a sweet gal! One of these days. I'll send you a picture of her. Who knows, I mite even bring her home after he war. Boy - am I a dreamer! Well Margie, it's rather late so I'd better sign off for now. Tell your father I said "Hello" & be good. Write when you can.