Dear Mom

Well I had quite a surprise yesterday when I got back from Rome - there were seven letters waiting for me. One was from Robin, one from Unk, and the rest from you. Before I write anything else, I'll start answering your questions. I'll be looking forward to the pipe and cigars - my pipe isn't so hot. The soap will also be welcome since were kinda short on that. I have to laugh at your letters - you seem to think that it's going to be over soon - over here we believe it will last all winter.

I'm glad you joined the bowling team, Pa, maybe after a few months you'll get your old hook back. That picture I sent was of Mac not Dan. This morning when I got up it was so clear that I could see the dome of the church in town. I told you about it - how pretty it was and how poor the town looks. No, I've never been to Barletta. As far as staying here I don't know. I believe we'll stay here until the European War is over - but after that I don't know. I can't think of anything you can send me for Xmas. I haven't had any colds and I hope I don't get any. So the women go out in the streets with pajamas under their coats, eh? Too bad I missed it. Pa, you're complaining of only avg. 130 your first night. What did you expect, 200? No, I won't need any sweaters - maybe one O D one would be nice. It's not too cold, but it's awful damp. No, I've never written to Doris. Your letters are never dull - I read them over and over again. Yes, we are still living in tents. But our food is good - we had chicken tonight - have to be satisfied with that - I don't get much time to write and when you do get free time there are other things you would rather do. Mail is coming in much better now so forget the V Mail letters. Say, Pa, I got your letter the other day. It beats me how you expect better than 130 when you haven't bowled in years. So the bookcases are all finished and in the living room now, eh - bet they look classy.

Well we really saw some action the other day. We went over Vienna and it was rough. That's the toughest target the 15th Air Force has.

Well, it's time for chow so I'll close for now - have to go to Naples this afternoon.

Love, Rae