E M T
Hope Valley
November 27, 1918
Dearest Lucas,
Oh my, did I ever have a time getting Jack settled this evening but finally he is asleep. He was so excited about the special Thanksgiving party as he called it that he wanted to retell the events of the evening over and over and there was so much that he wanted to say. I didn't want to dampen his excitement, so I just let him wear himself out. I have made a journal entry, but I too am eager to talk about the wonderful evening. So, I find myself with pen and paper and a desire to speak with you. I so wish that you were here with me now, but this letter will suffice to make me feel closer to you.
You, my sweet, are the kindest person I have ever known. You felt empathy for your men from the US who were missing out on their Thanksgiving with family and gave them a most touching experience. I was moved to tears of both sadness and joy as they shared memories of their beloved family and friends at Thanksgiving. And those that were able to reach their families by telephone will never forget your generosity, as will they all.
Gustave outdid himself on the meal. The turkey was roasted to perfection and all the accompanying dishes were superb. I hope he wasn't offended that I brought pumpkin pies or "peasant pies" as he calls them. Rosie was eager to contribute to the cause, so she pitched in to help me as her baking skills far exceed mine although I do have a way with cookies and muffins. Gustave's pumpkin dessert "Pot de crème Citrouille" was indeed divine and enjoyed by all, but I think the pumpkin pie was appreciated for its traditional contribution to Thanksgiving dinner.
The exchange of memories during dessert was truly a heart-warming experience that I will never forget. I was surprised that everyone shared at least a small memory. I think it helped that you started with your memories of Thanksgiving in Canada as a child and that you turned it over to me next. Hearing our stories got them inspired to share theirs as well. There were tears and laughter and the comradery was wonderful. Jack laughed so hard at Tom's story about the turkey that got away from him when he went to butcher it; sounds like it was quite a chase and the turkey got away. In the end, they had to serve roast beef, obviously not traditional fare, but it sounds like they had a grand meal anyway and what an entertaining story to retell each year.
I can't believe that James wanted to teach us all the Virginia reel which was a traditional part of his community's Thanksgiving tradition. I was happy that you encouraged me be his partner for demonstration. The music you played on the Victrola was lively, as were the steps to the dance.
And the final toast of the evening, as we enjoyed a bit of brandy, got me all teary eyed. Lucas, you were so eloquent and obviously spoke from your heat. The men were just as moved as I was. You have a way about you. You my love, are a true leader, gentleman, compassionate neighbor and the kindest of friends. These are the most important reasons that I fell in love with you. Oh yes, there are many others too, but these formed the foundation, that is, my admiration for the wonderful person that you are. This first phase of my love for you began so early on that I can't remember it not being there. It became firmly rooted when you donated the library of course, but it was even beginning to be laid during the Allie gambling experience. Your compassion for her was evident and while I felt that I had to be firm, once you explained the situation, I could see that your motivation was from the heart.
And Lucas, you have a heart that seems to have a limitless capacity for love. I see how you treat others but of course I am blessed to have your romantic heart, and you make me feel so adored. It seems that you are always thinking, "how can I make her happy today." I can't believe the ideas that come to you; each one is a special gift because they come from the heart. Sometimes it is the simplest of things like a cup of tea while I am working that makes me know you are thinking of me. Or sometimes it is something extravagant like our first trip to Union City for the book reading. This was something that you knew would bring me so much pleasure, but that you really had little interest in. When you told me that you bought the tickets "just because" I knew what the reason was, "just because Elizabeth will enjoy it so". You will never know just how touched and special I felt.
I am finally getting sleepy so I should end this before I wake up at my desk with ink all over my face. Thank you for the lovely evening. You made a group of men (and this woman and little boy) very happy today. I am so proud of you Lucas. And you were so accommodating with Jack, the early hour of the meal to accommodate his schedule and then holding him on your lap during the memory sharing…. You were laughing just as hard as he was at the turkey story and I know much of that belly laugh was for his benefit and the rest was the child within you.
I love how you love us so unconditionally.
You own my heart,
Elizabeth