Feb. 5, 1947

Dear Ruth:

I really didn’t think you would answer, but I got a big surprise.

I must have been misinformed about you being married, but I was told by one of my old shipmates that he saw in the paper your marriage to a local boy.

At that time the ship was in Miami for repairs (about Xmas of 45).

You know I wish I was in the South tight now, as it is plenty cold here tonight, on the back door it was 14 degrees and snow and ice, car frost up, high winds. I was thinking today of the number of people from here that I know who have gone to Fla in the past three weeks, seven families in all.

I told the boss after lunch I wished I was playing on Miami Beach instead of punching platinum jets. Two other fellows said “let’s go” but what would we do for work and rooms? They had me there.

I have a cold, and got more last night, going out in snow storm but as Commander of the Local American Legion I had to go.

Will close for now, and take some hot wine then to bed.

I remain as ever,

Scottie

P.S.

Mother, Da, and Dutch send their regards and still want to meet you.