March 30, 1917 - Here is great news.

Here is the last letter of March and Joe seems in full gear to get a house as they get close to their June wedding. Not easier then than today. For what he inferred was a quick note this is a five page letter.

Friday,
Dearest,

Have but a moment to write. Will leave for New York tomorrow morning at 10, arrive at 11:30 and have an appointment for 12:30 downtown. I made it because I received two telegrams to be there at 2 but figured I could get through by that time and take in a matinee if you desired; or a nice long walk in this glorious sunshine.

Here is great news. Just listen. I've been negotiating with a man in Shelton for one of the prettiest new bungalows (8 rooms) specially built for him last winter. I haven't been inside, but it is new, and the exterior is so fine I presume the rest is harmonious. However, he said on Monday he would let me know whether he will sell it or not. I think he will, from the way he talked yesterday and today. What he is thinking about is where he can go to, so I suggested he would be at the shore all summer, and Goldberg like said “I never thought of that”.

Renting or leasing it is out of the question. If at all, he said "If I got a flattering offer, I’d consider selling it, and use the money elsewhere”. I asked him for his offer, and he suggested it. For your sake, I’d give it to him now, but I was told that he wants to think the matter over, over Sunday. So get your guardian angel working, and see if your luck will work so that he decides to take the money and let us have the house.

Here’s another. A friend of mine who has a new Cadillac Coupe (8 cyl.) of the last winter’s make, having used it hardly at all, has decided to buy a large seven passenger car, and I think I can get this one. It’s sedan style, room for four comfortably, and a real pippin – special body etc. just your style. I talked to him and he’ll let me know Monday whether he’ll keep it or let me have it.

This too is funny. I’ve spent practically all week looking for a house. I was on track of one several times and missed. Yesterday I saw a new bungalow and could perhaps have gotten it, but believe me, my garage is a mansion along side of it! It was the cheapest bit of junk I ever saw. Somebody’s back yard faces the front window, and there were a half a dozen barrels of ashes decorating that.

And when I glanced at the construction, well I told the man that I wouldn’t take it for a gift.

That was late yesterday. Last night at Stella’s I told her that and said I was disgusted. I felt blue all over. Nothing was good and not a chance. So I said “Well, I guess that’s what I should expect, that’s my luck”. So Stella, sisterly like, gave me a lecture about kicking at my luck, saying, you seem to get what you need, and you should be ashamed to bemoan your luck. Everything that’s good comes hard, she said, something will turn up. Just then a name came to my head. I recalled that he had a new house built last winter. I had heard that it cost him too much to live in it or something, and that he wanted the cash to get a smaller one.

I don’t know exactly what his reason was or is and don’t care. I called him and by golly, he began to talk business. Again today, with the result I mentioned so the clouds are rapidly going and the sun is out again.

I’ll call you when I arrive tomorrow, or if you are not home I’ll call any how and you can leave word where I can meet you.

With love
I am
Your
Joe

Bound for train Xcuse scribbling

The next letter is April 2

March 28, 1917 - I had a pippin of a brief prepared, that hit the case squarely in the kisser.

Joe is keeping Helen in his court case loop. Guess he wanted her to know that she was marrying a man that was heading for success.

Wednesday

My darling,

The sun this morning looked remarkably good alongside of that rain storm of the evening before. And your letters added a ray of sunshine in addition.

You know Charles and Stella are to be in New York Saturday, and while Charles attended the Bnai Brith meeting Saturday night; it was my idea that we could take Stella to a regular show, and later get a regular "after theatre dinner".

But I am just as delighted to go to "Dels" if you desire it and will see Stella tonight maybe and try and make other arrangements, unless she also wishes to go to the dance or whatever it is. I'll let you know. I'm going to Shelton this afternoon, guess what for.
I tried a very pretty case yesterday. Mayor Kneen was my client, and we had a perfect claim. Luckily too, our witnesses were fine people, who told  clear cut, straightforward, truthful stories, and were not even contradicted nor questioned. It then only became a question of the application of law to those facts.

Having spent considerable time on it, I had a pippin of a brief prepared, that hit the case squarely in the kisser. And I had several cases reserved, so that when my adversary made his argument and claims, I read these to knock a big whole into the argument. Say, girlie, you should have seen Mr. Kneen been as I made my points counts. When it was all over, he was happier than I. You see he was the man responsible in part for my position and when he appointed me as Corporation Counsel, I was told that he told some aspirant that  "there wasn't another fellow around in it with Joe; if there was only a ghost of a chance to win".

So with love and kisses and sympathy for your ma and of course love too,

I am Your
Joe

Next letter is March 30

March 27, 1917 - I had to stand in a smoker where the air was blue . . .

Here is a letter where Joe catches Helen up on his uncomfortable train ride home and as always a little philosophy.

Tuesday noon.

My own little sweetheart,

I am enclosing two clippings, the one from the Shelton paper, the other from New York. In the cartoon they seem they seem to like my name considerable. What do they want from my young life?

My hands are so cold, I can hardly hold the pen.

You know that when you phoned down for a taxi, you might expect one, but no, I stood in the door way and nearly "ferplatzed" (fell down) and actually saw my watch say 12:05 before one came. I told the driver to hurry, and would you believe it, the train was on time; and I actually fell on as it was getting ready to leave. You see there was a mob, and everybody seemed to push right on. That is nothing. "Listen"! I had to stand all the way. And that's not all. I had to stand in a smoker where the air was blue and where a gang of roughnecks cursed and swore a blue streak all along the route.

However I was in bed at two and up at 6 and on my way feeling so grand at the thought of being yours. Things looked so wonderful, especially as the sun crept up over the sound; and I thought how like it, your smile and warm embrace are radiated so much goodness.

This morning I was told that Mr. Lustig, whom we tried to visit, had passed on, Sunday morning. It's terrible, to me, because, all day Sunday the idea kept recurring to me, so much so that I almost telephoned, but restrained myself. But that's man, one day we are like the seed, planted, sprout, bloom, a frost comes along, and away we go. Perhaps this life is as Dr. Wise says a dream life. If so it's terrible to be suddenly awakened.

Dearie, I'll write tomorrow. With love and kisses I am
Your
Joe

The next letter is March 28

March 23, 1917 - The world looks good and the future glorious.

As you can tell by the amount of stamps on this envelope Joe really wanted this to get to NYC asap!

Friday noon.

My dear,

It was not only impossible but absolutely in no way could I get to a phone yesterday to tell you that I could not get away.

And now, in a few minutes, I am leaving for New Haven to try a case, and will not return till tonight.
I am planning to leave here tomorrow at 12:46 and arrive in New York (G.C.) at 2:09 I think or maybe the 12:55 and arrive at 2:15. That will leave ample time for me to check my things and get to Carnegie at three.

I wonder whether you will care to meet me at the depot, or shall I call you on the phone?
Just follow my plan. If I don't see you waiting, I'ii assume that you are at home and will call. But at any rate, I'll take that  train (either generally leaves about the same time).

Shall I really tote along my dress suit? Or could you deign to go to the Wanderer without my being dressed up like a waiter for once.
I had an idea that I'd go down early in the morning; but an appointment in Derby prevents that.

So, dearie, we'll meet again soon. The air is balmy, and the sun bright. The world looks good and the future glorious. That's because you're a part of it all.
With imaginary kisses till the morrow. I am
Your fat man
Joe

The next letter  is March 27

March 21, 1917 - I'll let you into a little secret. Don't tell any one.

Here is a letter filled with information about Joe's house hunting. He also brings up, as he often does, his food intake. Here is the car that Joe went out for a ride in which Joe  mentions at the beginning of this letter.

 1917 Pierce Arrow Roadster

March 31,1917.

Darling:

This is really the first day of spring-when maiden's thoughts turn to fancy, and youth's to love etcetera, as the poet would say. And in addition I received your lovely letter. What more can a mortal want? Lots, I hear you say. Yes, and better yet, a house on one of those lots. Yizza boy.

I have just returned from Shelton(l2:40)P.M. and will go to New Haven this afternoon in a nice new Pierce Arrow Roadster.   You know that I sometimes think that I'll get a two-passenger car and then again a five. I think it depends on just what's what, I think of a larger one when thinking of taking friends out; and then when I find them heckling you, well perhaps my nature isn't so generous in that direction, that's all.

Miss Reitter has been ill since Saturday, and we are again short-handed. It is a slight attack of grippe and perhaps she'll be back again this week.

I'm very happy that you will be able, or rather that you were able last night to try to return to your little bed early.

Monday night I went to Shelton and worked with Mr. Kneen and the City Clerk till way late; last night the meeting kept up till after twelve; so to-night I'll try to repeat your performance.

I can hardly tell about Thursday night just yet; but the phone is still in use, and maybe I'll change my mind about not calling on the phone again; your letters sound so good and I know that you are feeling that way.

But I'll be in New York early Saturday afternoon if you have tickets for the recital, Please let me know whether you have secured the same, so that I may plan accordingly. My idea would be to take the train about 12:46 arriving somewhere about two; and then again I might be able to arrange to get away earlier, if Miss Reitter returns this week, as we hope she will.

Now for some pretty good news. Pretty good I told you, and remember it is only news. I spent quite some time looking over the Miller house in Shelton. That is the one that sets back from the street about 200 feet, with the large lawn in front filled with shade trees and many rose bushes, including three large magnolias, almost ready to bloom. The house has not been used for some time, and naturally -will require new painting and papering inside. At present it seems to be frescoed, and has very pretty electric fixtures, a new steam boiler, instantaneous hot water heater and many other convenient appliances. Of course, it is a large place, with many rooms, and I'll talk it over with you before anything is done. The price of it is considerable, and I am figuring what the expense of the upkeep would be to see whether we ought to consider it in view of that fact. In the meantime also I have been conferring with another man about a house that I think you’ll like much better, and will undoubtedly have definite “dope” when I see you.

I'll let you into a little secret. Don't tell any one. I got in very late last night and did not retire till two. Having a court appointment early this morning I made the seven o'clock train, but had to rush away without “breakfast”. When I arrived here I found both girls out, and Charles and the Doctor gone for lunch, they assuming that I'd arrive about noon, and await their return. Well, they haven't returned as yet and so I am waiting.

I was interrupted several times by clients calling both personally and on the phone, so it is now two and not a mouthful since yesterday afternoon, when I remember distinctly that I had two poached eggs on toast and a cup of tea for supper, only. Yet when I get a chance to look anything that resembles a square meal in the face, and seem to relish it, the eighth wonder of the wonder­ful world seems to be happening, according to the comment. And to tell the cold truth, it is so late that I have no desire for food, and presume that I'll wind up with a hungry headache before the day is out. The only saving feature of it is the fact that I'll take the ride to New Haven, and the open air will help some.

I saw a couple of cartoons in the paper and am sending them along; not that the match the kind and quality of yours, but mere-that they might make you smile at the suggestions.
In the meantime, enjoy yourself and like the spring, keep up your happy mood and radiate happiness as you so ably can. With lots of affection, I am

Your
Joe

The next letter is March 23

March 20, 1917 - sh – maybe I might take a day off in addition; who knows?

Here is a fun letter catching Helen up on daily life and his mother's shoulder.

Tuesday noon,

My darling,

Not only your letter but also its length and contents made me very happy this morning. I was in Shelton last night and must go there again tonight. For that reason I may not have a chance to write today, and so take this occasion.

You go right ahead and hear Ysaye Wednesday. It’s a treat of a life time, so don’t miss it. I’ll not go to New York, but remain here and get out some other things I can see on my desk waiting.

As to Thursday, I cannot really tell whether I can get away that night. If so, I’ll be very glad to do it.
So far as your going to Lakewood for a week or two is concerned, I don’t know but that it is a good idea. It will give your mother a fine opportunity to rest up a bit and a change of scenery. Of course you can figure on my seeing you as often there as in New York and – sh – sh – maybe I might take a day off in addition; who knows?

Mother’s shoulder is very painful as yet, but it is relaxing and will probably pass away very soon now. There, the phone is ringing for me. Wait!
All right. Oh, last night on the car I found an old Leslie’s weekly describing the revolution in Costa Rica and showing a picture of General Tinoko (spelled that way) who is now the President. Ever hear of him? With love and kisses

I am
Your
Joe

The next letter is March 21

March 19, 1917 - The world laughs, in spite of itself and its great struggles.

Short and sweet notes to Helen.

Monday near six,

Dearest,

I have just spoken to Mayor Kneen over the phone and we plan to work tonight.
I have also seen a beautiful automobile today that made some impression on me,. Only room for four, and maybe that's sufficient - no!

Oh, how much I could write just now. How much I could whisper to you.
But time moves on. The sun is still brilliant and the world laughs, in spite of itself and its great struggles. That's what urges men on and on.

And good women, who know these men and appreciate their weaknesses, add to their joy of doing and loving.

Do you know that when I saw those hyacinths - the white ones - that Hubbards' ideal woman came to mind? Can you imagine that in the same thought, you were as much my human ideal as I could wish for? And how I would have to take care of her, too.
Nay more, I saw a very pretty platinum watch bracelet and black band. Saw, remember. And I thought of that purse etc. and will wait till Wednesday, yes.

It's time for the train. I close seeing you smiling showing those white teeth and a faint trace of shine under that pink nose powder of yours, in my mind's eye. One big fond embrace as I rush off, as usual.
Catch that kiss.

Your
Joe

The next letter is March 20

March 15, 1917 - I am scheduled to try a case where a man beat up his wife pretty badly.

Here is a letter with an interesting story about Joe's nieces and going to church.

My darling:

Here again is the end of another day; and Saturday is rapidly approaching. I completed my work rather early this afternoon, and really might have gone down to New York, but I knew that you had other engagements for to-night with Nettie - I believe.

Tomorrow night, Justice Wheeler of our Supreme Court has invited the members of our Bar to his home to personally meet three new Judges who were recently appointed by our Governor, and to have a little social session there.

Saturday morning, I see in to-night's paper, I am scheduled
to try a case where a man beat up his wife pretty badly. So that as
soon as that is over, I will leave Shelton direct for New York and
perhaps may arrive   early in the afternoon , though the chances are
probably that I'll take the usual 4:10.   Should I find that I can
get away earlier, I'll wire you, but do not alter any of your plans
for the afternoon on my account.

I have several motions to prepare for the morning and as you are aware I am at the office at the present time.

A funny thing happened to the kiddies yesterday. Listen. The girl had Lucile, Myra, and Beatrice out for a stroll. As she passed the St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church, she went in, and overcome by her religious zeal, naturally kneeled and prayed. The three little kids, perhaps thinking that necessary each did likewise. Can you imagine little Myra down on her knees, also on her fores (the girl said) in a sotto voice, in which Lucile also joined, starting their own little night prayer “Father we thank thee for the day, for the hours of work and play, for the shining stars above, for Thy great and tender love, help us Lord Thy will to do, help us to be more loving kind and true, forever and ever Amen"? That's what they did. Of course Stella was mortified when she heard it but at that it showed the kids had a prayer handy when needed. The girl has received new instructions rel­ative to attending church, however.

With lots of love and just a little truck load full of kisses,

I am Your
Joe

The next letter is March 19

March 13, 1917 - Tomorrow morning I will argue to the Jury and then will await the verdict.

Another short letter but it is Joe's way of communication.

Tuesday afternoon

Dear Helen,

It is after dinner, so I ought to say Tuesday night; but having been away all day in Court, I feel as if the whole day is not over yet.

The show must have been great, to give you a chance to write between the acts.

Tomorrow morning I will argue to the Jury and then will await the verdict.

Barnet is here waiting for a chance to write his name on here.
You'll be surprised to hear that he was promoted for being a good boy and doing good work. Some class, eh!

The little ones are just as well and happy as ever again, and are having the time of their young lives.
Tomorrow is not far off is it?
I have been arguing since 3:30 and am rather exhausted. Talked out, as it were. So you will not expect much of an intelligent letter.

That taxi you saw just made the train in time. I had a good run up stairs, and I think I caught my breath near Stamford.
Be that as it may, I an anxiously awaiting tomorrow.

With love and kisses
I am Your
Joe

A couple more from
Barnet
Also one from (cat paw)

The next letter will be March 15

March 12, 1917 - Mother fell and injured her left shoulder quite badly.

Just a quick note. I think by the end you will see why he sent this note to Helen.

Monday, near six.
My darling,

To drop just a line is all I have time for now. I must take the 6:01 for Shelton and have a Board of Alderman's meeting to attend.

Tomorrow at 10 we start the Armour case. And the thought that you wish me luck gives me courage to go to it - strong.

I have been very conservative today. I only spent the noon hour at lunch with Senator Williamson talking about my wonderful fiance.
Dear, with this balmy air, and some spring clothes, makes me think I'm in Palm Beach, but, what's the use of thinking!

Mother fell and injured her left shoulder quite badly. Louis was looking after it yesterday; but he had to return to college, so a regular doctor is on the job. She can get around, but it's painful you know. A little tip, drop her a line. You know she's just as fond of you as

Your
Joe

The next letter is March 13

March 9, 1917 - You were the most adorable gal Thursday.

Joe gets into talking about cases with Helen. I wish I had the article she sent him.

March 9, 1917

My darling,

I have been terribly occupied since I saw you last. All day yesterday in Court, and all evening till past midnight with a number of men who formed a new and rather large crucible company. All this morning and afternoon in Court, and now, a little past five, in the office, Charles says that Stella has some meeting for the evening, so he'll be alone "why can't we go to the office and look over some things". Yes, why can't we?

Your card today was good. Speaking of goodness, do you know that you were the most adorable gal Thursday. I could hardly realize it, for you know what I think already of you.
It almost tempts me to go down Wednesdays for a while, till I don't have to go anywhere to see you , excepting home.

I rather Smiled at that queer article you sent me. You wont believe it, but I haven't changed my opinion yet. The article doesn't help me to, either; for from the slight facts stated it appears that the son had made arrangements by wireless for the body to be brought to New York, and the boat then failed to do so. Isn't that a case of simple breach of contract? Is not is like a case where I order a crate of grapefruit, and then the party fails to deliver it after he accepted the order? And the damages in the ship case are rather enhanced by sentiment, but isn't it, at the bottom a breach of contract, a contract to bring the body and then a violation of it? If you say "yes" how is such a case equivalent to one where a man would sue because his father was buried at sea? The nature of the suit is different. If the man had 4 sons, naturally one would make arrangements for the funeral, and if he was thwarted, he could sue. But if one son could sue on general principles, why not all. If he was a Mormon, ye gods - but - why argue it?

My Saturday plans are again changed. I think I'll go down as usual. Maybe a little earlier, but I doubt it. The 4:10 looks good to me, now.

With love I am

Your
Joe

The next letter is March 12

March 2, 1917 - With love as deep as the ocean, but not so green.

So March begins with lots of charm.

Friday evening

Dearest lil girl,

To night is the lonesomest ever. You would naturally think that of yesterday, but then, I was tired and retired early. But tonight, my, but every thing looks so vacant.

However, tomorrow isn't so far away is it?

Your presence certainly was auspicious. This morning I argued several cases, and succeeded in each. That's your inspiration, when you are as lovely and charming as I saw you Wednesday and yesterday.
I am going to Seymour, Conn. tomorrow and expect to be back in time for the 12:46 or 1:03 noon train. That arrives in New York (Grand Central) around 2 or 2:15 or so. I haven't my timetable and so can't tell.

Please write me next week and I'll send you a batch of blotters and a dozen of the finest pencils made. I am not in the office, and without the reminder will probably not think of it.
I believe you said you would wait at your home for my phone call. Of course I'll phone the instant I arrive.

In that remote possibility that always faces a professional man that I cannot get back to Bridgeport for the noon train, then I'll wire your house, and you can see me after the concert. Don't worry, I'll not let this happen, if possible.

I'm going on this trip in the morning in a handsome new coupet car, magnificently upholstered. A chum of days agone is having me driven up at my request.
But, oh pshaw, I'll be all alone, with you in New York pounding the ivories. And later you'll pound another dome, of pure solid ivory. Nicht pas? With love as deep as the ocean, but not so green.

Your,
Joe

The next letter is March 9