May 3, 1943
Dear Katie,
You've got no clue how boring it is without you here. Not that I want you here—I'd much rather you stay put in America where you're safe.
I think you'd love Europe, though. London wasn't all that great; all gray skies and rain. The countryside was pretty, though. France was all green fields and blue skies; I think you'd have loved it. I mean, the fighting was horrible, but otherwise it was pretty.
I'm fine, by the way… damn, I don't want you to think I'm hurt, and I don't want for you to worry 'bout me. I know you've got your own troubles, what with school and keeping Steve out of trouble—by the way, be careful— I won't be there to help you if some creep tries to hurt you. Don't let Steve do anything stupid, alright? He should be getting his own letter soon, it's a lot shorter than this one, though.
Let's schedule another dance, what d'you say? Soon, I'll take you on a proper date. I'll write you again soon, Darlin'. Just know that I'm thinkin' 'bout you, and I'll be home before you know it.
-James B.