April 20, 1932

Dearest Kat -

Guess you're saying - damn a woman like Lucile Nowlin anyway - has she got writers cramp. I answer no. I merely have spring fever plus complications like, blueness, disappointment and discouragement. And this last two weeks have been test weeks - and your letter was missent. The mail service to this town is zero minus.

Thanks for the poem - that was the one I wanted. As for the answer to the question - I know darned well I have to face life without him. I've known all along I couldn't ever have him - ever since I started going with him. But I'll have to break down and admit I could face the next forty or fifty years of my life with a great deal more joy and equanimity if I thought all the things I dream of could be true. But I have no allusions about that. And could I just enjoy being around him? I think so. Katherine, I'm honestly learning things about being in love. I know I've never even remotely been in love before. Ain't this a helluva note. I don't know how I'll survive this summer. He said once he wasn't going to write. (I'll change his mind.) But three days is as long as I can stand even when I see him downtown or when he comes for Donald & Doris at school, so what will I do for 2 months. He'll come to Mobile to see me before I leave. He'd better. I got the cutest picture Monday. I think it was one made for the annual last year. Anyways, it's plumb good. I just loves it.

Weep, Weep. the orchestra is playing "Auf Weidersen." I really like that piece.
We're going on a fish fry tomorrow night. I'm really glad its turned warm. Moonlight. The man I love, a campfire. Oh la la. They put it off twice last week for Beverly and me. I had to go to P.T.A. Thurs and Wed. he had to keep the kids.

There's no news. I'm afraid I'd get morbid if I wrote the things I've been thinking since last Friday. I'm really discouraged and tired. Wish the next six weeks would pass while I slept some night. We were supposed to get out May 27 but got 2 wks Xmas so we don't get out until June 3. Then I don't know how I'm going to N.Y. Mary Jane is going so I don't know where I'll meet her, Nash. or Memphis or Atlanta. We'll leave about June 15 or 20. I dread thoughts of school, but it's perferable to teaching. 'Less "somepin" happens I won't be alive to go anywhere. Gotta stop & go mail this.

Love, Cile.

April 8, 1932

Dearest Kat:

I really was all surrounded. Imagine keeping the secret so long. I don't see how they managed it. Get all the details and let me know. He would do something like that - but me - I'm so damned in love that I can't see straight. Honestly you've no idea to what a state I've been reduced. But to return to N. P. G. you're quite correct in assuming that in April 1930 he was making eloquent love to me and writing compromising letters to me. Will have to drag 'em out next weekend and read 'em. "Darling, I hope I can prove to you someday how much I love you" - or words to that effect. (I'll have to hand it to him. He had a most marvelous line.) He has, by marrying the girl he thinks he loves. He must to marry her. Saw in the Herald where Carolyn Hardison got married. I wish her happiness.

I have enjoyed seeing Beverly this week so much. He came for me Sunday and I saw him Mon. & Wed. Haven't got a date tonite. He went on a wild party Tues. nite and has got to sleep tonight. But I'm gosh awful funny. I wake up at 5:30 thinking of him. And all day, little brother does things that are characteristic.* Sometimes I want to slap him and some days I want to squeeze him hard. But Beverly sees that I go to all the things around here to go to - comes for me Sunday and is so darned thoughtful and sweet. I was never gladder to see anybody than I was him last Thursday nite when I was sick. If that's a sample of this summer I'd better reserve myself a padded cell up at Tuscaloosa. I'm going to have an aching void and nothing to fill it with - if I had heap much money and plenty of friends in Mobile to play around with it would be different. But possessing neither and no prospects I wonder what I'll come to.

Enough of me and Beverly - you're probably bored still - but when I eat, sleep, dream, and almost teach him I have time for little else. Lyman, etc are just nil. They don't register one peg.
I am quite crushed over the wedding. I thought I'd at least always have him to fall back on. Remember how you used to tell me you thought I loved him or came nearer loving him than anyone I'd ever gone with. Guess it's all over now even the shouting. What are they doing - is Nolan still going to school - and are he and Mary living together - or is he home - and given up pursuit of higher learning. (Helen Rowland says that girls go to college so they an come home with a knowledge of how to apply make-up and a higher education in the "noble" art of necking - wonder why boys go?) I want all the dirt on this affair. I've heard no gossip in years - not since I left school anyway. I've been much to busy giving the village gossips something to wag their tongues about to hear any of the gossip much less Tennessee gossip.

Gotta quit and make maps for the little dears. I cordially hate 'em right now.

Love, 'Cile

*Beverly's little brother Donald must be in the class of students she teaches.

April 4, 1932

Dearest Kat,

Remember the poem you sent me not long ago - I lost it and want you to send me another copy. It's the one J. gave you about recognizing your "life's love."

About Beverly - I can't write you all things - but if I could talk to you you might understand. (I'm afraid I understand too much.) He's forgotten to mention the "other girl" since January. If he's married he's a pretty unfaithful husband. If he's just engaged - like you I'd not feel sure of his love - tho' once he said he'd thought he didn't love her anymore but as soon as he saw her he knew he'd always love her. and he once told me that he'd love me for a lifetime, but I'd better not get out of sight!!! I take it he's one of the most fickle of the fickle males. Nevertheless, that doesn't help much the state of my feelings which are chaotic to say the least. Once when I first knew him (before he told me of his love affair) he remarked that I was an unbelievable person and I told him I believed nothing I heard and half I saw. He then asked me if I believed him and I swore I wouldn't - all laughing you know. He thanked me. But he's told me he loved me so many times I'm afraid it's beginning to make an impression. And wouldn't I love to believe it! I don't know where to start - or stop for that matter when I get started on him. He came up to see me last night (forgot to mention that I'm at home this week with the flu). Shore was glad to see him. I've missed him like hell and thought of little else for Wed. and Thurs.

The tornadoes haven't been too close to here. We've gotten rain - just lots of it. cold weather. a little wind but no storm.

My Easter was candy. I was so disgusted with Beverly I didn't know what to do. He's given me candy two or three times before and as I've never had flowers I wanted them terribly. I've had a terrible cold for two weeks and was feeling abdominable so Fri. nite he gave me my candy & said he wasn't sure he'd see me Sunday so I could have it then. I came home Sat. morn. crawled in bed and have been there every since. So see your letter came to cheer my lonely hours in bed. And believe me I've been plenty bored.

I crave me some new clothes like nobody's business but I'll need 'em too bad this summer to buy any now. And besides I need all the cash I can get to go to school. Hope to heck we continue to get paid - I can certainly use it. And may even have to borrow off 'en Mother. A little. But Frances isn't going to have much and I know I'm not quite as extravagant as she is, so maybe I'll manage.

Am up and dressed today for the first time. Just a little while this afternoon. Am weak - can hardly move a chair. First time I've been outside since a week ago. Unless I improve rapidly don't see how I can stand the kids Monday.
Guess I'll sign off and let you try to make heads or tails of the mess.

Lots of love, 'Cile

Sunday

This got mislaid and did I have seven varieties of kittens. I was afraid Daddy would read it and I couldn't remember exactly how much or how little I said. But I repeat: if you can make a thing of this you're a regular Sherlock Holmes.

Am parked waiting to see if Beverly is going to come for me. I have an idea he's going to make me ride the train just because I haven't in five weeks. He's mean enough to and then laugh about it and tease me. Ma mere says I should lie down and I guess she's right. Nevertheless, I don't want to.

If I wrote anymore it would be Beverly so I won't bore you. Honestly don't see why you don't tell me "fer cryin' out loud in church" to shut up about him. Must bore you to tears. He's hoping you have a big time from now until school is out.

Signing off a second time.

Love, 'Cile.

P.S. Got back up here and hear that when I wasn't here Mon. and Tues. (that) the town said I had eloped with Beverly. Don't know how they accounted for me being gone and him here.

November 9, 1931

Dearest Kat,

Rave on darling! I often follow any train of thought when writing to you, but you know I'm crazy so I don't even bother to apologize.

I'm writing you instead of grading my kids and fixing report cards as I should.

Don't guess I'll get to Tenn. Thanksgiving. I'd sell my soul for the money to get there but nobody wants my soul at that price. Seems to be a very bad one - cause $60 or $75 ain't much money for a soul in good shape. Guess I'll petrify around here, Thanksgiving.

Keep right on writing the things we use to say. I miss spilling my wild ideas, blues, downheartedness and what have you that I usually burdened you with. I spill some of 'em to Lyman cause he's got more wild ideas that I have and isn't the least shocked and tries to talk me out of half of 'em. But he can't understand as you do. Nobody could.

Yes, Lyman is quite the Earle Parsons build, tho' I'd never have thought of the comparison. He isn't my big moment, tho I have to keep yanking myself up to be sure. I like him lots - but you see with him I'm a gesture of defiance aimed at the girl he's in love with desperately, and she goes with him but isn't in love. She's full of ambition and he's a stepping stone and a good thing to use in the up-climb. The first part I deduced (old detective!) and the last someone told me. I don't know whether all of it's exactly true but at least part of it is. I don't know her very well but well enough for that, so using anyone to make him jealous would be wasted energy. I'm merely the best-looking and newest woman in the vicinity to amuse himself with during the week. (no conceit, just facts. 'cause the rest of 'em are 40!) There's another male that I date occassionally but we hold wrestling matches, his idea of what a woman is good for is a hot petting party and I have strong views in the opposite direction. Presto - a fight! Haven't heard from Bull again. Hope so cause it made me very happy to know he still thought of me after a long time.

I want Santa to bring me things useful, hose, pants, or just most anything. What do you crave - personal gift or gift for the house? Let me know and I may be able to buy somethin' providin' they pay us. Our checks were three days late last time because State aid was lacking and I don't know what will happen the rest of the year.

I repeat with emphasis and a few added frills all I said about teaching. I don't like it. And already I'm looking forward to May 27, 1932. That's Friday the day report cards are given out for the last time. Reckon I can live until then? I've lost 10 lbs the first 2 months - at that rate I'll be skinny some day - O, yeah!

Well, I'll quit and pass out some bad grades to the brats.

Love, 'Cile

Blog note: Lucile is writing from Citronelle, Alabama.

September 12, 1931

Dearest Kat,

Well, my deah, I'm certainly glad you are enjoying life. I'm parked here doing nothing and losing my weak mind. Talked to Mr. Vigor yesterday and I may possibly teach the 5th grade in Citronelle, Ala. It's not a promise, but we even discussed salary. Hope he calls me this afternoon or tomorrow to go. I'd even prefer that to petrifying here - and twiddling my thumbs seven days a week - 4 wks per mo. for nine months.

If I get a job I'm extravagantly planning on coming to Tennessee Thanksgiving. Some more castles in Spain - but I'm inviting myself to your house for a day and night if I do. Have planned me a hectic time if I come - have promised Evelyn to be in Nashville for a big time. That will take up the other day and night I have there.

Nell is rushing around packing, and sewing and hunting clothes - it seems funny for me not to be doing it. I'm kinder glad I don't have to return to Peabody, tho' my disposition would be ruined for life if I had to live thru another year of that.

You know, old top, I've always promised to let you know when I got ready to take the fatal leap - and if it's possible you're to be present - oh, I'll talk to you before 'cause I don't expect to stay here indefinitely or not ever to visit there and heavens knows when I'll ever fall in love and get married - if ever.

You camly demand that I make out menus for you - I've not near as much time as you think. I've run around interviewing people every since I got here and going down town everyday is a life-sized job but here is a recipe for you of something that is good to eat.

12 pears, 3 oranges, 3 lemons
grind in food chopper
measure and add 1-1/2 less cups of sugar than mixture measures - cook until tender.

It's so good. I'm gaining pounds eating the junk between meals. Mrs. Burgitt, next door, calls it pear relish but Nell and I inelegantly call it "goo."

I thought the wedding was beautiful. I could see J. shaking too, and I got the giggles and wanted to cry too. Happy and I took off at 10:30 and got back to school at 12 - stopping to eat lunch and get some cider. I evidently passed the history exam cause I graduated Monday - no fault of mine. I haven't cracked the text for six wks. and didn't study for the exam. But I slung words around until I didn't know what I was talking about. Wonder if Mr. Driver knew?

Really I'm gripped about rushing down here - unless I get employed. Mr. Grigg won't employ anyone he can't talk to so I came - but when I think of what fun I could have had in Gainesboro, Ashland City, C. & Mt. "Misery" & Tupelo, Miss. and if I get the job I'll go anyhow - so I guess I did right to come. My salary will be $960 and I don't think that will be half bad, with a raise next year and a chance to teach in Murphy Hi. Hope they aren't all castles in Spain.

I'll hush now - and if I find any good recipes I'll rush them of P.D.Q.

Heaps of love,
'Cile

P.S. Found the enclosed menu in the morning paper and thought they might give you an idea. Mother says she's mailing the cook book.

Blog note: Katherine is now living in Ashland City with her husband, and Lucile has finished school in Nashville and is writing from Mobile, Alabama.

August 20, 1931 (newspaper clipping)

Miss Katherine Beckett and J.B. Akin Wed Today

The marriage of Miss Katherine Beckett, daughter of Mrs. Maye N. Beckett, to James B. Akin, of Franklin, Tenn., which took place this morning at 9:30 o'clock at the home on West Sixth Street, will be of unusual interest to a wide circle of friends. Rev. C.E. Crafton, pastor of the Garden Street Presbyterian Church, officiated in the presence of the immediate families.

The ceremony was said before an improvised altar of flowers and ferns in front of the window in the living room. Large baskets filled with bridal veil were used on either side of the altar.

The couple entered to the strains of Mendelssohn's Wedding March played by Miss Christine Beckett, sister of the bride. During the ceremony she played softly "Ah, Sweet Mystery of Life." The impressive ring ceremony was used.

Miss Lucile Nowlin of Nashville, cousin of the bride, served as maid of honor, and Mr. Akin was attended by his brother, Robert N. Akin of Franklin. Miss Nowlin wore a becoming model of green crepe.

The bride and groom entered together. She wore a beautiful poudre blue crepe costume with the harmonizing appointments.

Miss Beckett is a graduate of the Central High School and for the past few months has been connected with the Liberty Range Company. She has many friends who regret that her marriage will take her to another city to live.

Mr. Akin is the son of Mr. and Mrs. M.F. Akin of Franklin and is director of athletics and teacher in the high school at Ashland City, Tenn. He is a graduate of Battle Ground Academy, Franklin, and of the University of Tennessee, where he was a member of the Chi Sigma Delta, the Phi Delta Kappa and the Phi Kappa Phi fraternities.

Immediately after the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Akin left for a short motor trip, going later to Ashland City, where they will make their home.

April 7, 1931

Dearest Katherine,

I'm all time writing you astounding news. You'd never guess who called me up and asked for a date Friday night. Ned Lentz in person. Needless to say I'm mad with joy. Don't know whether I'll survive until then or not. Can't help but wonder what brought this on cause I'm just not Ned's type. He likes 'em wilder and woolier and full of fleas. However I shall improve my opportunity. Hope he asks me out again.

Nothin' else to say. Just wanted to tell you the astounding good news.

Double dated with the roommate tonight. My date had the best looking auburn coupe and carried us out to the most adorable camp I've ever seen. Would love to see the place in the summer time.

Well, good bye -

Love, 'Cile

November 26, 1930

Dearest Katherine,

No apologies for the paper. Its all I have.

I wish I was down there. I’m tired and lonesome, (yes in a dorm.) I feel blue and want to weep on someone’s shoulders. In fact I miss Marjorie somethin’ awful tonight. And I want to be babied. But enough of my troubles.

I don’t get to go to Knoxville. Made the hockey team as a sub. Tell Mother for me and I’ll write as soon as I find time. Or you can read extracts from this.

We’ve started working real hard on the vauderville. Tumbling is going to be real cute. The leader has more cute new things that we haven’t done up here. And we are spending more time practicing. Even some Thurs. night.

Hope we win Volley Ball and hockey. I crave going to Bowling Green Dec. 6.

I wish you a real good time Thurs. Guess I’ll sleep late then catch up on back work. And Reflector reports have to be in Friday. I’ve about a million to get in cause the Phys. Ed. Dept. can have as much space as we want. I’ll tear hair long over those. Guess maybe it will be a good time to do a lot of things that I’ve just let slide.

Frances is coming Thurs. I can’t wait to see her. Hope the old crazy stays with me some. If she doesn’t I’ll certainly be disappointed, whole heaps. I didn’t know I was so anxious to see her.

I can’t stand this cold weather. It snowed last night and everybody had a couple of duck fits. Not me, I curled up in a knot and got cold.

Went to the Belmont tonight to see “Common Clay.” It’s real good. Everyone raved so I couldn’t resist the temptation. It had a moral and all but at that it was enjoyable and almost reformed me in a person positively sprouting wings. Not that I was ever bad. Am I? Anyhow it was as good as all I had heard about it.

Well, changed my mind. You needn’t read to Mother. I’ll write while I finish playing marbles.

Lots of love,
‘Cile.

P.S. Am going to Knapp Sat. night. A couple of the summer school foks will be here. Wonder if we will freeze.

October 16, 1930

Dearest Katherine,

I’ve had good intentions for a week. Believe it or not. But life is so complicated – for various reasons (most ten good reasons)

1. “Pee Wee” doesn’t love me.
2. I’m in disgrace with Marjorie – don’t know why and I’m too stubborn to ask.
3. I’ve got too much studying to do.
4. I’m sleepy and tired.

Why go on? All I ever do when I write you is gripe. But I feel as if I could unburden my soul of all my numerous worries to you.

Had heap much large time out at Knapp last week-end but haven’t recuperated yet – slept about 3 hrs. and indulged generally. Then had to come in the next morning and put on a Field Day for the city and country schools. The kids must know we are dissipated – and the most crabbed bunch on earth. We all had circles half way down our faces.

Thanks just lots for the funny pieces – I laughed over ‘em just lots and got a huge kick out of them.

“Psi Kaps” went out last night and fried steak over a camp fire and held our meeting around it. More fun. And good food. But it degenerated into a regular camp meeting and open confessions that should be good for our souls. Some of ‘em were certainly startling enough – just knocked more people off the X-mas tree.

Any excitement there – none here, I’m running too hard.

Oh, I have to teach Swimming Friday with the instructor sitting on the side lines criticizing – (groans). Besides I had to conduct Formal gym class and I marched the class up in the wall. It was awful - besides giving a command that they couldn’t execute!!!

I’m just gotta quit and retire to my little bed on the roof.

Lots of love,
‘Cile.

October 7, 1930

Dear Katherine.

Here's the promised letter and I'm not so sure you're going to like it. I feel like weeping on somebody's sympathetic shoulder and so I'll just expand on paper.

I'm playing "Little White Lies" and "Confessin' that I Love You," & "Moon Song" on the vic. And staring at "If I could be with You One Hour Tonight." There's no comfort in looking at the moon. To me its so cold and far-away just like "Pee Wee" that I just pass away at one glance. My imagination can't conjure up any comforting thought or image. If only he loved me like I love him. I might as well wish for Heaven on earth. the two are one and the same. Snap out of it. The world is wide. But that sage advice is no good in this mood and telling myself I'm a damn fool is so much wasted breath and energy.

Have taken so much gym that I'm bound to die tomorrow. Went to formal gym late and got squelched. Dottie is good at that. And ran myself down in hockey, besides getting hit in the head. This is one tale of woe but I warned you. There's no ray of sunshine on the dark clouds and I just hate school. and all in all I'm one most unhappy little girl.

We have a P.E. meeting tonight and I'm not even excited. I don't even know any of the new girls and care less. Have got more studying than I can shake a stick at. Even have to make out a course of study - and its got to be plausible 'cause I've got to teach it, after its made out. Tough world. Wish I'd get a great big break that would last a life time. Big order!!

Oh well. hope you haven't caught the blues from this indigo letter.

Love, 'Cile.

Blog Note: Lucile posted this letter two days before her 20th birthday.

September 29, 1930

Dear Katherine,

Box no 236. Please write. I'm homesicker than the devil.

If you see Pee Wee! I don't know what you should tell him - the angel face. I can't stand it if I don't see him soon. Regardless of what he thinks I'm going to call him next week-end.

My schedule has scared me spitless. I'm going to have to study hard - and I haven't studied any in years.

My one burning desire is to leave this place. I hate it! Write please.

Love, 'Cile

August 18, 1930

Dear Katherine,

Forgot the evening dress - but - and here's a long explanation. its not until Fri. night and no formal evening clothes.

Would you be especially generous & let me have your black & white chiffon - if you don't need it - You can have just anything of mine at any ole time - if fact my wardrobe such as it is, is at your command ---

Love, Cile

August 14, 1930

Dearest Katherine,

Fifty + nothing + five + 1/5 of eight = greatest thing in the world

L + 0 + V + E = Love

I leave it to you whether its the greatest thing in the world. I believe you are more of an authority of the subject than I. Anyway, thats the way some one figured.

It all depends on a number of things when I'll see you, such as initiation, our Knopp Farm party, etc. Has your "husband" gone to camp yet? If he leaves 'fore I see him tell him goodbye for me - that I've enjoyed seeing him and the usual thing.

Am so glad Hatcher missed me - He'll appreciate me so much more when I do show up. Somebody ought to appreciate me and it had just as soon be him. Glad the bridge party went off o.k. I'd like to have been there - but this bunch had invited me once before and I'd refused 'cause I was going to your house. I just didn't feel that I could refuse a second time as all of them are pretty good friends of mine. And as I didn't refuse them and my own gang of this summer are going Friday night I've already been warned that I'll be in disgrace if I don't go then, too.

You're a big help. D. Dix herself. I guess maybe I'd get along better if I'd grow up and get a little sense. But its so much fun to be young and foolish!!!

Earle Parsons is a pain in the neck. The very idea. He's an accomplished liar. Can just see the young sister entertaining him. He's very good practice for her - has a fairly good line. What do you think of her. tickles me - there's not so very much change though.

How does Chris like Bob? I still think the same of Ben. These big strong men!!! Do Rena and Ben still seem to get along o.k. (I'm turning green-eyed with envy.) Don't believe that I'm feeling foolish.

Judge my letter from Peabody was an ad on a fall bulletin. hang on to it. so I can see if its useful in my business.

We pledged last Monday and I'm having great fun with the pledges. They're wearing blue hair-bows, carrying umbrellas and their books in a market basket and today they're wearing different colored hose.

Can't think of any startling news. Guess you can read the parts of this you deem proper to the rest of the family. I'm kind of busy writing me some term papers. Should be at one now entitled "Safety in Swimming: A Talk to Girl Scouts 13 to 14 yrs of age" - But pleasure calls before duty and I'm catching up on my correspondence. We have exactly eight more days of classes. If I could think of an idea for a poster I'd be all set. Just make me a poster and write two term papers. That's all - one of 'em's got to be 15 pages.

Lady, it's been a long time since I've seen you. Don't you miss me? My foolishness & noise and raving?

Well I'll be seeing you soon - maybe Sat. morning - tell you after I talk to Birdsong and provided I can finish up the work before then.

Heaps of love,

'Cile

P.S. I shall now trip the light fantastic down stairs and wield the iron so as I have some clothes to wear.

July 29, 1930

Dearest Katherine,

Three cheers for the long letter, wish you’d gotten to write while in the mood. I’d have been a lucky person with such a long letter.

Dorothy Dix now speaks (even if she knows not of what she writes) – I see no terrible harm in it all. But I think I’d be extra-careful and think what he’d think of it – even if it does require a lot of extra mental effort. I’d surely not get him jealous – jealous people aren’t my idea of safe playtoys. I’ve often wondered what you thought of me. Another case where you can be frank. I know there’s room for improvement and like constructive criticism. Is the advice sufficient. It’s all the good I can do ‘cause I’ve not had the experience you have and don’t know J.B. anywhere as well.

Don’t remember what I said to tell Chris about Ben. He’s one of those people that fascinate you when you’re with them. No wonder you don’t think I’m serious, you’ve heard me rave about so many people. I meant it, at the time. But I get interested in something else – it’s a case of rapid transfer of interest.

And Hatcher. I’m overcome with shock, surprise and joy. See if you approve my plan of attack on him. I’m going to wear my fluffliest, ruffled dress, of course, white shoes, and play at being a dignified, very feminine, young woman. With never a mention of anything more strenuous than dancing. Or possibly swimming – he likes that. Katherine Howard is his c.g. and being as I don’t know her I can’t imitate her. Anyway, be yourself. (Ain’t I getting dumb in my old age?) Can’t imagine what came over him to want a date with me. Hope he doesn’t change his mind in the meantime.

Unless I have to go on a pledge party, prepare for the worst, Aug. 10 – have to serve punch at Vespers Aug. 3. Imagine me presiding over a punch bowl! But it’s got to be done.

Also have more work to be done than I can say grace over. And the sad part is that it’s got to be done.

Later
Have just come back from a field trip on which I rode in the rumble of a Cadillac coupe. Some class and great fun. Also have prevailed on Frances to let me copy a paper that’s worrying me – so I’m some better off. Even if I am meeting and running down in my shoes.

Guess you all know that Daddy is going to Augusta the first and guess the family will be up here sometimes the following week – Thursday is August 1 – guess they’ll be packed & ready to travel Mon. or Tuesday – certainly ought to cause four days is long enough for any one to take up packing.

Where did young Hogan coach last year – C.H.S or C.M.A. I have a class with him and can’t remember who it was that told me he was their coach. Poor memory, not convenient.

Went to Franklin Friday and got stormed on, but started Saturday to Lenten then didn’t like the looks of the place and came all the way back to Nashville and then to Franklin. Rode somewhere near 60 miles for our swim. We’re supposed to go to Franklin again Wed. Hope so, it will be good for the suntan.

Tell J.B. he can almost make up his mind to come to Nashville Aug. 10 cause if it’s possible I’m coming.

Did Earle ever make any explanation?

Lots of love,
‘Cile

This long enough? Any way it’s all I know. Ans. soon cause I know I enjoy letters more than anyone else ever could.

Katherine's Note: J's home was near Franklin and he was living (during the week) and teaching in Ashland City. Sometimes he'd pick up 'Cile as he came through Nashville and take her back to school on Sunday.

June 19, 1930

Dear Katherine:

Don’t know whether I’ll get there with anything to wear or not – Nell’s got all my clothes – I’m going to town today to try to buy something. I usually have the devil of a time trying to find something.

Saw Ned the other night and talked to him. More thrills than I’ve ever had in a short time before. Ain’t I silly?

4 hrs later
Just purchased me a dress. White shantung and a quilted hat – tried to buy some shoes but couldn’t get any that I wanted to fit me.

Don’t be silly about bringing me home. Nolan isn’t coming back for 2 weeks – and besides I’ve lost all interest in him. I’m so fickle.

I ain’t guilty of coming without any head covering. Did come without a hat but had a beret.

Don’t care what I do Fri. night. You know I don’t – but I’m a rotten bridge player. about the world’s worst. I prefer to date Hatcher or Tom – (leave Nolan to the tender mercies of Mary.) if I’m going to date. It doesn’t make any difference whether I date or not.

Oh yea, will you let me wear blond shoes with a white shantung dress and a white hat? If not I can’t come cause I can’t find any white shoes I like.

Well good bye.

Love, ‘Cile

I blistered and am peeling. I look like the very devil.

June 17, 1930

Dear Katherine,

May the Saints preserve our happy home! I just saw Ned - I'm just no account - And he said he was going to call me. If he only does - I guarantee you I'll be bad off - I went around in a daze over Pee Wee - But I'll be in a daze of happiness - (oh fool, quit your raving). Yes, I will.

Guess I'll give the town the once over - leave here at 3 o'clock or thereabouts. As for plans, don't ask me for any - they just ain't. I'm hoping for lots of luck - guess the logical thing to do would be down to come and come back on the bus with him, that seems to work.

If you find you are about to forget thrillling events just make a little memorandum, (in short hand of course) for future reference.

Don't mind this letter, I not responsible - hope you can patch together some sense out of it.

Love, Cile.

P.S. Just don't plan any swimming. I'm due to have the curse - which means I might and again I might not.

May 28, 1930

Dear Katherine,

I thought I'd told you were I was pulling out to, Cartersville, Ga. is my destination. to spend between quarters with my good friend Frances Hill.

Listen, I've just had a thought. Nolan P. Gartner will be home sometimes in June and I crave to be in Columbia, Tennessee at the same time he is and see what happens. Things could be explained, if he would. But really don't you think it would be amusing - I do.

The above paragraph should be in parenthesis. I'll now continue as above. Evelyn said that she would be more than glad to take you to the bus station and see you off if you'd like to spend the night. If we get a ride, tho', we won't leave until Thursday morning. Our plans are awfully vague because exam schedule hasn't been announced.

Didn't send Hatcher a bid 'cause Nell has my one & only evening dress. Any way they've made a new rule of no stags and the dances are stickier than molasses. It would have been nice, tho', if I had.

Don't know whether you are slamming me as a chaperone or not but I give you warning, I'll take the job, if offered. Would be pleased to pieces to accept. Just find a man to take me, and we'll dance away at Primm's. Whoopee -------------

We were initiated last night. I'm wearing a pin instead of a recognition pin and don't think I'm not proud of it. Hate for the time to come when I'll have to give it back.

Yep, went to the Manless Dance and didn't enjoy it in the least. They are getting sticky - or something. I'm fed up with school and everything and everybody. I've decided that I'm tired of getting educated in general.

I hate to think of the persons who won't be here next year. Seems like the whole school won't be back. I'll miss Marjorie like nothin' else, 'cause she's the one up here that I talk to like you and I talk.

I was just kidding about being jealous of you. but I'm almost that bad. As I said before, you really don't know me.

The saints preserve us. I've got to go teach swimming to the kids on the parks for the next three days. Teach girls and boys from 10-14. I hate Edna Marts for asking me, Roberta Miller for telling her I could and Dottie Tollson for saying that I had to. I'm told it's a great life. But I'm weakening - wonder if it's any better then. Couldn't be worse.

Miss Rood, the woman who had me scared to death, talked like she was going to pass me but I've got to make an addition to my paper that I'll have to make up out of a clear sky. Don't think there's any thing to be found on it. Even if she does talk like that I'll be holding my breath until I get by think bout June 10. Long time.

Better start the paper.

Love, 'Cile.

Blog Note: Nell is Cile's younger sister.

May 21, 1930

Dearest Katherine,

Okyea, Peabody will allow you to stay with me if I'm here. But it's like unto this - I may leave here Fri. night at 9:30. If we finish exams Wed., like we hope to, Frances and I are pulling out. You're welcome to the use of my bed tho! and I can give you directions on how to get to the bus station. It isn't hard to find. Or my suite mate - Mary Jane might be big hearted and take you in her car. Don't you reckon I'll have a fairly good time this summer ... a car in my room and one in the suite. Ought to be able to get a ride once in a while.

I'm glad you are going to get to stay with Ruth, but I'm sure you wouldn't mind a stranger, you'd be having such a good time you'd have lots to talk of etc. I know from experience that it isn't so bad as it sounds. and you get along with strangers better than I do.

I should hope to say I would like to go to the C.M.A. dance. But I'm used to not having the things I want most - like that so why bother - it all comes in a lifetime and 25 years from now I'll be too old to care. Guess the Columbia girls are pepped. They know what it is now not to have uniforms about. Maybe I'll get to see Pee Wee again. Now I ask you, honestly? If I ain't the world's dumbest creature. Anybody that would. It's just plumb silly - anyone can be a fool but it takes me to be a damned fool. I've a confession to make. hope you won't be mad. I snitched your picture of last year's C.M.A. football team. If you want it back you can have it. even if I did swipe it for Willson's picture. If you see little Pee Wee give him the same message I said once before you could give him.

I appreciate you trusting me with the secret. I'm busting with importance. and rely on me not to tell - and when the news is broken, I'll turn actor and do it up brown. But you'll most probably get to write me when it is announced 'cause guess it will be about May 28 or thereabouts won't it.

I'll have to remember all I can about the paper - can't get a copy - and I'd rather not write it. Even I must be bad!

As to being jealous - I'm even jealous of you when I think you like somebody better than you do me. There is only one girl up here I'm not jealous of and I know where I stand with her. She has a crush on one girl but she's my friend, gives me good advice, etc. What a life - but next to you I'd count on her if I got into trouble.

As to riding - not planning on going with anyone, just taking care of any emergency that may come up.

Guess I've about answered your letter - now to start on new things.

I most assuredly am still running errands. Got to report to one of 'em as soon as I get out of this class. She lives in an apartment and hope I don't have to wash dishes or clean up her house. I'm getting used to the ribbon except when someone gives me a queer look - got so tickled yesterday when Miss Rood asked two old numbers where their hair ribbons were. Going to chapel every morning gripes me. at 20 til 8 and I don't have classes till nine. Have to get up a whole hour earlier than I would - loosing more good sleep.

Guess maybe we'll get initiated Sat. or I hope so anyway.

You know I just thought - imagine me doing that. Hope Hatcher doesn't forget about that dance at Primm's he was going to take me to.

We're going to have a Manless Dance Sat. Don't know whether I'll go or not. I've evidently lost my taste for them 'cause I didn't enjoy the last one a little bit.

We spent Sat. night and sun. out at Knopp Farm. Had a fairly good time but it rained and stormed on us. and I got scared half to death - the chaperone just barely missed catching me smoking. She walked into the room and wouldn't even look at me. She's my friend for life. Even if she does up and bust me on some courses. 'Cause she could ship me on it easy enough. but she doesn't want to get rid of any majors. I'm cured of one thing tho! - I'm going places where the chaperone won't be likely to walk in next time I choose to indulge in the nicotine habit.

Saw a cute show last nite - don't up and not go just cause I recommend it now - Charles Farrell & Janet Gaynor in "High Society Blues." I enjoyed it just lots. Also went to Ward-Belmont May Day yesterday and was kind of bored. Of course it was pretty. things over there always are, but just the same I have seen better ones.

This class is about to end and my information is running out so -

Love, 'Cile.

Bus schedule
Leaves Nashville 7 & 8 in the morning 12:30 and 4 in aft.
Time of trip about 8 hrs.
Arrives Knoxville calculate for yourself.
Rates $5.00

P.S. Little girl, you just don't know anything about me and I just wouldn't be interested in disillusioning you all at once - so live and learn - now you have something to live for. Thank me for giving it to you.

Blog Note: Katherine's trip to Knoxville was for her future husband's UT graduation . Perhaps the secret Lucile keeps is Katherine's engagement to J. Ruth is J's sister.

April 15, 1930

Dear Katherine,

I started you a letter last night, but didn't get to finish. I realize I don't owe you a letter but I'm mad and you're elected to hear my woes. So prepare for the worst.

I'm mad at my roommate. And I mean truly mad. I didn't think anything could make me lose my appetite – and here its happened twice in two weeks – or is it three?

I've done some good at that. I've decided why I fell like a ton of brick for "Pee Wee." And what I wouldn't give to see that little boy! You just don't know.

Why am I such a d --- d idiot? Someone would do well to invent something to make people sensible. They would be a godsend to people like me.

I'm deciding that I've got to learn to play tennis. Starting this aft. but you should see how I blister. My nose is burned and slick as a peeled onion. Just the same, I'm going to learn to play tennis. I'm getting brown as an Indian.

This is for a purpose – you might have known it! I'm coming down next week-end – April 20 to be exact. Think I'd better give dates so we will understand each other.

A letter on the installment plan, doesn't it sound hashed – but who cares? It won't make a bit of difference a hundred years from now.

Love. 'Cile.

Blog Note: Katherine and Lucile are first cousins. Both girls were born in 1910.

January 19, 1929

Dear Katherine,

I’m having the most fun sitting up in some onelse’s room and playing their “vic.” out of hours! I don’t know what I’ll say to Mrs. Harlan if I get caught.

Your kind sympathy for my soreness is accepted and I’m still enjoying it because I’m still sore. Oh! my poor legs are in the worst condition imaginable. Never mind! After Mon. night I won’t have to play. We play our first game and I’m afraid we will be successfully eleminated.

I’m mad. Did you see that piece in the Tennessean about the “Phis. Ed.” majors. It said we drank, smoked, cussed, wore pants and were mad because we couldn’t take wrestling under a handsome man and he’s ugly as a mud fence. We signed up for wrestling because the man’s notice was on our bulletin board.

We haven’t been able to go swimming yet. The pool closed two weeks before holidays and they haven’t opened it yet. So sorry to hear you’ve been sick in bed. I guess you are up now. Here’s hoping.

One of our cutest majors left last week to teach. I surely miss her. Hope don’t any more leave.

Kiddo, another Manless Dance Friday night! I can’t decide whether to go.

As to Harmonson, suits me, but please, if you value my life don’t spring him on me. I haven’t had a date in so long.

Dear Katherine, I’ve cut my hair short, windblown in fact and everyone likes it fine. Since cutting mine I advise cutting for yours. You must follow my example. Yours truly, Dorothy Dix.

Ask me another!

Also ans. P.D.Q. or I’ll be awfully aggra-fretted.

You asked who had captured the “fair lady’s fancy.” Listen, no body, no one soul, and I have no intentions of them ever doing so. My only crushes have left me too far in the depths and one horribly disappointed human, so I’ve sworn off crushes along with cigs.

I’ve done rash things. Last week I promised to keep training and today I promised to go to bed before eleven and not eat between meals until after Monday. Will power come to my rescue or I’ll break my promise and that would never do.

Guess what I did today. Went to the show by myself. I wanted to see William Haines in “Alias Jimmy Valentine” and I do believe everyone I know had either seen it or had a date to see it tonight. Everyone said it was darling so stubborn me went alone. It really was cute so was Colleen Moore in “Synthetic Sin.” I can do the tackiest things. Four of us went to the show in slickers and without hats and we saw more Peabody people than I ever have seen in town at one time. We got in at eleven, with a whole half-hour to spare imagine us!

I just barely missed being called before Miss Carr again day before yesterday, honey, pray for me that I’ll get good an won’t get sent home for making noise.

Be good, if you can’t be good, be careful, if you can’t be careful, name it “Lucile.”

Love, Lucile