THE SHOEBOX LETTERS

THE

SHOEBOX

LETTERS

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LAURA WOODROUGH STENECK 2001

Revised 2006

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PREFACE

On October 5th, 2001 there was a message, on my answering machine, from a very excited sister in law, Margot Woodrough. When I called her back, she related a very exciting story!

It seems the attorney that was handling the estate of my late uncle, John Blakely, had cleaned out the safe at John's office. Mark, his adopted son, had taken what he wanted, from the office and safe, the personal files had been shredded, but he had some old letters he thought the Blakely heirs might want to keep. So he boxed them up and shipped them to my brother's old address at Dolphin Cay, here in Florida. Well, the people that bought the condo called Margot and told her they had received this box, addressed to them, and were in the lobby to drop it off. "No need to come down; we're in kind of a hurry". So a couple of days later, she mentioned it to Steve and he went down stairs and brought back this shoe-box sized package, not having a clue what it could possibly be. When she opened it, she was totally flabbergasted! Inside were stacks of old letters written to my grandfather, Stephens Laurie Blakely, by both of his wives! She started pouring over them and discovered that the early letters from Jane DeValcourt Piatt were sweet, but "friendly,” until she finally declared her affection for Steve, and then they became love letters. Probably the most surprising find were the letters written by "Peggy"!

This was such an exciting a find, too good to put away in a closet, or file away in a cabinet or safe. So we decided to transcribe the letters, should time eventually take its toll and the letters crumble into dust.

I guess you might say I'm the "family transcriber". In 1998, I came into possession of some notebooks and papers of my grandfather's, and discovered there were some daily diaries, among other things. I sat down at the word processor and began to decipher and type. After several months I finally put together all of the diaries and compositions of my grandfather, some writings of my great grandfather, and a genealogy of several branches of the family tree. All of this was put into a binder and a copy given to each of my children, nieces and nephews as a gift in celebration of my 60th birthday. So I guess it was just natural that Margot would ship the entire box to me!

Most of the letters were still in their envelopes, so before sending them to me, Margot arranged them according to the postmarks. The ones that were not in envelopes were "dated" by the contents, if no date actually appeared in the letter.

Interesting to note that the first letter from Jane dated Aug. 28, 1898 bears a 2¢ stamp and the last letter from Peggy, dated Apr. 22, 1929, also bears the same ____________________________________________________________

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red 2¢ stamp! Postage rates seem to climb every year now, but back then - well, for at least these 31 years, the rates remained the same.

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INTRODUCTION

This is the story of four people, two couples. It is being told through diaries, letters and memories of their grandchildren. It is the intertwined lives of "Steve,” Stephens Laurie Blakely, "Jane,” Jane Stamps DeValcourt Piatt, "Wyk,” Jacob Wykoff Piatt and "Peggy,” Margaret Hamilton James.

Steve was born April 23, 1878 in Covington, Kentucky, the first child of Laurie John Blakely and Lillian Hudson Lendrum.

Jane was born March 12, 1882 in Lexington, Kentucky, the second child of Edward Courtney Piatt and Sallie Scott Richardson.

Wyk was born July 11, 1880. He was the first child of Edward Courtney Piatt and Sallie Scott Richardson, and the older brother of Jane.

Peggy was born August 5, 1888 in Covington, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Howard Keats James and Margaret Hamilton.

When someone would ask me about my family, I would try to explain that my grandmother was really my great aunt, and her children were not really my aunts and uncles, but were my cousins, once removed................or something like that. It really was quite a complicated family and not easy to explain in a few sentences.

As with most grandchildren, I only knew my grandfather as an older man. He was very tall and stately, with a beautiful head of solid white hair. He had a soft, yet booming voice.

The grandmother I knew, growing up, was rather short in stature, with pretty white hair, when she left it alone. But she would "go to have her hair done" and when she came home, it was blue! Eventually, it would wash out which meant she had to go get it "blued" again! One time I remember, she came home and it was purple!

My grandparents were called "Pappy" and "Gee,” pronounced with a hard G, like "get".

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Family Group Sheet

Subject* Edward Courtney Piatt (62)Birth* 25 Jul 1858 Federal Hall, Boone, KY.Marriage* 21 Oct 1879 Elk Hill, Lexington, Fayette, KY.Death* 29 Aug 1894 Lexington, Fayette, KY.Father* Jacob Wykoff Piatt (166) (b. 29 Mar 1801, d. 29 May 1857)Mother* Martha Eugenia De Valcourt (165) (b. 1813, d. 5 Dec 1903)

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Spouse* Sallie Scott Richardson (63)Birth* 9 Jan 1858 Lexington, Fayette, KY.Name-Marr: 21 Oct 1879 PiattDeath* 13 Jul 1934 Nicholasville, Jessamine, KY.Father* William Hall Richardson (277) (b. 26 Oct 1820, d. 1877)Mother* Jane Shore Stamps (278) (b. 4 Feb 1828, )

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Three Known Children

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M Jacob Wykoff Piatt II (217)Birth* 11 Jul 1880 Lexington, Fayette, KY.Witness: 28 Jun 1906 Marriage; Stephens Laurie Blakely (35) and Jane DeValcourt Stamps Piatt

(36); St. Mary's Church, Covington, Kenton, KY.Marriage* 27 Apr 1911 Margaret Howard James (209) (b. 5 Aug 1888, d. 27 Jun 1974), daughter of

Howard K. James (223) and Margaret Hamilton (224)Son: 23 Apr 1913 Jacob Wycoff Piatt III (262); Covington, Kenton, KY.Daughter: 27 Jul 1914 Elizabeth Page Piatt (264); Tiffin, OH.Daughter: 7 Aug 1916 Margaret Hamilton Piatt (263); Meridian, MI.Death* 17 Jun 1917Burial* 19 Jun 1917 St. Mary Cemetery.

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F Jane DeValcourt Stamps Piatt (36)Birth* 12 Mar 1882 Lexington, Fayette, KY.Name-Marr: 28 Jun 1906 BlakelyMarriage* 28 Jun 1906 Stephens Laurie Blakely (35) (b. 23 Apr 1878, d. 24 Feb 1959), son of Laurie

John Blakely (43) and Lily Hudson Lendrum (44); St. Mary's Church, Covington, Kenton, KY.

Son: 14 Jul 1907 Stephens Buckner Cuthbert Blakely (38); Covington, Kenton, KY.Son: 11 Oct 1908 Edward Courtney Piatt Blakely (39); Beechwood, Covington, Kenton, KY.Daughter: 20 Dec 1909 Jane Ashton Blakely (6); 8:02 pm; Beechwood, Fort Mitchell, Kenton, KY.Son: 4 Nov 1911 John Ruffner Blakely (40); Beechwood, Fort Mitchell, Kenton, KY.Son: 1 Aug 1918 Paul Lendrum Blakely (41); Beechwood, Covington, Kenton, KY.Death* 6 Oct 1928 Infection, Covington, Kenton, KY.Burial* 8 Oct 1928 Fort Mitchell, Kenton, KY.

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M William H. R. Piatt (259)Birth* 19 Jan 1886Death* 28 Jul 1887

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Part I

Jane Stamps DeValcourt Piatt

The "Jane" Letters

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Note: Because of the sheer volume of letters, some of which are short, I chose to put more than one letter to a page.

The following note, to Jane Stamps deValcourt Piatt on the occasion of her First Holy Communion, was written by Martha Eugenia deValcourt Piatt. Jane was 13 years old.

Newport June 27th, 1895

My darling Grandchild.

I received a note from dear Belle saying you would make your first Communion next Sunday. I was overjoyed to hear it. I hope you fully realize the great happiness in store for you, to receive God's greatest gift, Himself, is the greatest blessing that He can bestow on you. Pray for your dear father. If he were living, how he would enjoy being present at your first communion. God decided it otherwise. I wish your dear brother could be with you; he has been very sick, but well again.

I send you a book mark for father Enius. Tell him to keep it in his breviary an occasionally say a prayer for you and me, that God may preserve you in your faith, that you may never forget the good advice received at your Alma Mater. Thank him for his kindness, preparing you so nice for your first communion. Pray for me that God may give patience to bend under the trials of life resignation to His Holy Will.

I send you a chain and medal. I know you will appreciate them as they belonged to your devoted Grandma. Ask father Enius to bless them. Present my kindest regards to him, and tell him I am expecting that visit.

Love to Belle and all the kind nuns. Ask them to pray for me. I forgot to tell you - remember me in your Holy Communion.

God bless you.

Your devoted Grandma

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M. E. Piatt

No envelope

Chicago April 7th, 1898

For my dear Grandchild.

With dearest love from her devoted Grandma. Wishingher a happy and pleasant Easter.With love to all the dear Nuns, begging their prayers anda special remembrance from you at your Easter Holy Communion.Aunt Tallie joins me in love.Remember me to your mother.

Note: This note was not signed but, by comparison, the handwriting matches that of the earlier signed note from Martha Eugenia deValcourt Piatt, pictured on the next page. Her granddaughter, Jane was now 16 years old.

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Martha Eugenia deValcourt PiattWife of

Jacob Wykoff Piatt

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At the time the preceding note was written to Jane by her grandmother, young Stephens attended Xavier College in Cincinnati. Pictured here with his classmates, he is second from the left.

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Envelope Addressed: Miss Jane deValcourt PiattUrsuline ConventSt. Martins, Brown Co., Ohio

Postmarked Maysville, Ky. Apr 24, 2 AM, 1899Stamp on back: Westboro, Apr 24, 3 PM, 1899 and St. Martin, Apr 24, Ohio

St. Francis de Sales AcademyMaysville, Ky. April 21, 1899

Dear Jane,Nothing could have surprised me more pleasantly than your very interesting

letter. It seems such an age since I saw you in September. And since Wykoff left Covington, have no one even to tell me about you; well, Jane, I heard about Wykoff's going on the stage when I was home Easter; it is needless to say that I was surprised, but I know it must be all for the best.Momma said, she saw in the paper, that you were to spend the summer in Covington; is the paper to be relied upon? I do hope it is true. We miss you and Wykoff from the circle so very much. I am afraid you would not recognize the circle; it has changed so. I hardly recognized it myself, when I was home Christmas and Easter; it does not get along nicely and smoothly as it formerly did. I do not think even Wykoff would recognize it. It is split into two parts, the Wallace Wood's and the downtown one, as the former calls the latter. I am neutral, as I have not been home since all the trouble began, but I think I side with the Wood's party. I can not imagine why Irene did not answer your letter; I have seen so little of her in the last year, in fact, of all the girls. I went out very little last summer, but during the Christmas Holidays I had a gay time; I went to some entertainment almost every night. I attended my first hall dance, given by the boys, and my first German, given by Bessie and Wallace Gray, of Mount Auburn. Tell Wykoff, when you write to him, that the Gray's are to sail for Europe in May. The trip is Wallace's twenty first birthday present. And I went to my first reception given by the Misses Kennedy. I suppose you have heard the name before. Ruth Simral gave a phantom dance and Bettie Mackoy had a little party. Did you know Bette's mother died shortly after Christmas? I think I like school better every day; the only thing that I regret is that I can not return next year; it is fully decided that I shall continue my studies at the Art School. You know how much I love the Art School, still it does not compare with the Convent. One thing I have enjoyed this year is the Reading Circle. We have had lectures from different Jesuit Fathers, from the College in Cincinnati; one was Father Finn; I suppose you have read his books. Father Finn lectured on Kipling's works and we had discussions on his various works. We read Hamlet, also, in preparation for a lecture given by Judge Wadsworth of Maysville. Anna belongs to the Reading Circle at the Oak Street Ursuline Convent. She enjoys it so much, and seems to take a great interest in it.

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The fire bells are ringing furiously at the present moment; I wonder if Maysville is going to burn down; it would make a good size bonfire, don't you think so? We just came in a few minutes ago from a fine game of hide-and-go-seek; we certainly had a good time. I am afraid I have exhausted all the news, so I shall have to bring my letter to a close. I often wish for you, and your letter made me wish all the more to have you. Sister Mary Suitgarde asked me to give her love to you, and said to tell you she would write to you, possibly in the summer. I know all the Sisters and girls would send their love to you, if they knew I was writing to you, so I shall send it for them. You asked me when our Commencement is to take place. It is decided that it will be on the fifteenth of June; so we have only about six more weeks of school. With much love for you, dear Jane, I remain

Your devoted friend,

Edith Marie Noonan

Note: In 1899 Sallie Scott [Richardson] Piatt was widowed and lived in Lexington,

Kentucky. Her husband, and father of Jane, died on August 29, 1894 at "Federal Hall,” his childhood home in Boone County.

Jane was 17 years old and attended a convent school for girls in St. Martins, Ohio.

Wykoff, called "Wyk,” her older brother was 19 at this time and appears to have begun his career with the Southern Railroad.

Unfortunatelyy, there is no SLB diary for the year 1899.

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Envelope addressed: Miss Jane deValcourt PiattUrsuline ConventSt. Martins, Ohio

Postmarked Jun 2 1899 R.P.O. (city not legible)Stamp on back: Saint Martin Jun 8, 7 AM, 1899, Ohio

Lexington, Ky.My dear Wutie,

I know you are simply dismayed at my long silence. For weeks I have been so chaotic in regard to my affairs, in making preparations to leave Philadelphia and in making my trip to Lexington, that I have hardly been in a condition to know my own mind long enough to collect my thoughts sufficiently to write. I left Philadelphia two weeks ago, and remained long enough in Cincinnati to stay all night with your Aunt Belle Carroll and to spend part of a day with Cousin Susie. Upon arriving in Lexington, I found Wykoff in fine spirits and health. He has a splendid position here with Mr. Murphy who is Superintendent of the Southern Road. His salary is small but he will be promoted as soon as he learns short hand which will be in the course of six months. It is the chance of his life as over two hundred men applied for the position. Mr. Murphy is a good catholic and a friend of Father Brossart. Jennie and her children reached here yesterday from Philadelphia to spend the summer with your Aunt Deal. Angela and John are delighted with their Kentucky Cousins and enchanted with the place. I wished you would send the white shirt waist as soon as possible to me. All of your clothes are finished except you distribution dress, which I will make in a few days so as to send them all together. Mary Russell has a nice position. I am going out to see your Uncle Jack tomorrow and stay with him for some time. Wykoff went out yesterday to spend the night with Mr. Leslie Combs, and a party of young girls and boys, and had a most charming time. He sang at a strawberry festival given at old Mission Church Saturday night and dined with Miss John Innes who had a most delightful affair. I think you would enjoy a short visit with Cousin Susie in Covington. You can write to her and ask her if it will be convenient for you to do so. I think she would like to have you very much, and I know you would have a lovely time meeting your old friends. Write real soon to your devoted Mother,

Sallie Piatt

If you and I could get passes from Cincinnati to Chicago, we would spend a month with your dear Grandma. You might speak to Astele about it and she could write to her Papa and see if he could get them for us. Let me know about it soon.

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelySanford StreetCovington, Ky.

c/o Mr. Laury BlakelyPostmarked: Erlanger, Ky. June 26, 1899, 4 PMStamped on back: Received 1 Covington, Ky. Jun 27, 1899, 6.30 AM

Erlanger, Kentucky

Dear Stephens,

Pardon me for not writing to you sooner and thanking you for the lovely flowers you so kindly sent me; they were certainly a surprise to me, and quite a pleasant one at that.

As you can see by the heading of my letter, I am in Erlanger. Yes I have been here ever since last Wednesday and am having a lovely time. Wykoff was down to spend the day with me yesterday and my! what a big boy he has gotten to be; have you seen him lately. He has left the Carnival Company and has a good position in the Southern Road, in Lexington, and is doing well.

I am going to be in Kentucky for about another week, Erlanger I should have said, and during that time I shall try to spend at least one day in Covington and see all of my friends; tell Elizabeth she shall be among the first I shall see.

How are all of the family? I heard not long ago that your mother has become a Catholic which I am sure has made you all very happy. How is Paul doing in St. Louis?

Well Stephens I shall have to bring my letter to a close, once more thanking you for the lovely flowers. Believe me

Sincerely,

Jane Piatt

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelySanford StreetCovington, Kentucky

Postmarked: Erlanger Ky. July 1, 1899, 4 PMStamped on back: Received 1, Covington, Ky. July 2, 1899, 8.30 AM

July 1, 1899Erlanger, Kentucky

Dear Stephens,

Your letter was received and read with much pleasure and I gratefully accept your Mother's kind invitation to spend a day with you all, which day will be Monday if convenient to you all, as I am going to Lexington either next Wednesday or Thursday morning.

I should like very much to have you call to see me but there is only tomorrow and there is only one train which comes out early in the morning. There is one which comes out in the evening but does not return to the city that night so the only way you could come would be in a buggy or on a wheel. The road you come out is the Lexington Pike.

I have just returned from raspberry picking and after climbing about ten barb-wire fences, you may guess at my appearance.

Hoping to see you soon, I shall bring my letter to a close. Give my regards to all of the family and believe me,

Your friend,

Jane PiattP. S. Meet me at the Grand Central at about a quarter of eight Monday morning.

* * * * * * *My Dear Jane - If the gods be propitious I will be in Lexington on next Sunday, and I would like very much to come to see you, but I am deterred by the fact that I haven't the slightest idea where you live. I wish you would supply the deficiency.

I would like to attend the democratic convention but I don't think I can.

Remember me to your folks and believe me

Sincerely Your FriendStephens L. Blakely

Covington August twelftheighteen ninety nine

Note: At the time this note was written, Jane Piatt was 17 years old and Stephens L. Blakely was 21.No envelope.

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Envelope postmarked Covington, Ky. Aug 23, 7.30 AMAddressed: Miss Jane Piatt

#45 Constitution St.Lexington, Ky.

On the back is a stamp: Lexington, Ky. Aug. 23 10 AM Rec'd.

My Dear Jane, you don't know how disappointed I was at being unable to see you yesterday. On last Friday I received the cheering intelligence that I had to work all day Sunday, not at Dun's Agency, but on some work for the present political campaigne. You may be sure that I didn't want to miss my visit to Lexington, but as my efforts were to be directed against Wild Bill Goebel I consented with an outward show of cheerfulness, anyhow, to desecrate the Sabbath.

If my invitation still holds good I will be in Lexington at No 45 Constitution St. next Sunday if I have to hop a freight or hire a special train.

Sincerely Your Friend

Stephens L. Blakely.

Covington August the twenty eighth 1899

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelySanford StreetCovington, Kentucky

Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Sept. 22, 1899, 5 PMOn back stamped: Received 1, Covington, Ky. Sept. 23, 1899, 8.30 AM

Lexington, Ky.Dear Friend,

Your pardon, for not writing sooner and explaining matters. I was very sorry not to have gotten to see you and felt badly in not being able to write and explain before you came. I did not receive your letter until Monday night the night before I left for the country, being then so busy packing. I put materials in my valise intending writing to you after my arrival, but when I arrived at my destination behold every horse on the place was at work in the fields, and consequently had no way of sending my letter to the post office.

I am thinking of coming down to Cincinnati, up to Cincinnati rather, after Xmas every week to take Elocution. Will not that be quite fine.

If you ever come to Lexington write me. I shall be at my home at 45 Constitution St. ready to welcome you.

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With love to your Mother and the girls and my regards to yourself and ----- , I remain as ever,

Your sincere friend,

Jane de. Piatt

Pardon mistakes and bad writing.

Note: "Father" was scratched out, so I left it blank.

* * * * * * *Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely

Scott StreetCovington, Kentucky

Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Oct 9, 1899, 10.30 AMStamped on back: Received 1 and Covington, Ky. Oct 9, 1899, 7 PM

Lexington, Ky.Dear Stephens,

I was very sorry that I did not get to come to Cincinnati to the circus last week for I know I would have enjoyed it so much but it was simply impossible for me to do so as I was so busy preparing to make my Aunt Harriett Ellis a visit at Ghent, Ky. Willie Innes and I are going together. We shall arrive in Cincinnati on the train that leaves here at 7.30 a.m., leaving Cincinnati on the boat at 5.30 p.m. If you can get off I should like to have you meet me at the train, but if you can not I shall try and see you together with the family at your home as we shall spend the day with Cousin Susie.

Stephens, you don't know how much I enjoyed your last letter, especially your adventure at Florence.

I shall have to bring my note to a close. Pardon this half sheet for it is the last I have. Have been so occupied that I have not had time to get more. My regards to all, Believe me,

Your true friend,

J. P.October 8, 1899

P. S. I shall try and write more of a letter next time.

Note: The last sentence is written down the side of the page, thus the signature "J.P."

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelyScott Street bet. eighth & ninthCovington, Kentucky

Postmark not legibleStamps on back: Received 1, Covington Ky. Nov. 15, 1899, 10.30 AM

Lexington, Ky.Dear Stephens,

Your letter was received last week and much appreciated. I should have answered sooner but I have been rather on the sick list for the past week and consequently am not much in the humor of letter writing, but I shall try and make my letter as interesting as possible though news I lack.

Yes, Stephens, I received your letter in answer to my last, but not until I had reached home. I thought it very strange that you did not meet Willie and me and more so, when you did not write and explain matters. So that is why I did not write you I was coming to Covington. I felt very revengeful though I do not think the manner in which I took my revenge was anything very great. Am I forgiven? for it was all my fault from the first. I wrote you in such a hurry, not reading the letter over as I had so many other letters to write, but I promise to do better next time. I am now knee-deep in trouble owing at least ten letters, and I don't know when I shall ever find time to write them all.

Yes, your letter sounded very religious, so much so that I expected you to tell me every minute that you had joined some "monkish" order.

Wyke is doing very well in his railroad work, and expects a promotion in a few days much to our satisfaction.

No, I shall not return to Brown County any more, that is to school. In answer to the question of the flowers: Mother Gabriel, the directress, did not open the box but told me to get them out of the hall. I did so and she managed to be standing in the corridor when I came out with them. I opened the box, while she very gracefully came up and said "oh how beautiful" & "who are they from"? I showed her your card but she only admired them once more, no shocked expression presented itself upon her countenance, but I could see there was a big thought on her mind at the moment, perhaps a shocked thought. But as you said, you were at a safe distance.

I suppose you are still very excited over the election as it proved such a bad one, but I do not think Gobel will be able to take his seat as Governor. He will either have to resign the office or be killed, the latter of which I think most probable. I should have liked to have seen that company of rag-tags of big & little men you organized; your description of it was certainly very vivid, and I laughed till the tears rolled down my cheeks when I read it.

I will be very glad to exchange pictures with you. I have none at present, but will send you one as soon as I have it taken.

I must tell you of two of Lexington's society youngsters who were married here the other day. The parties were Nell Scott and John Stoll and a queer looking couple they made, she being at least two heads taller than he, a very comical sight.

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Must say Aurevoir for this time. Write soon. My regards to all the family, I remain,

Your sincere friend,Jane de V. Piatt

Tuesday, Nov. 14, 1899

P. S. Pardon this colored envelope.

Note: Written on the back flap of the envelope is: "High hopes faint on the warm hearth stone, He rides fastest who rides alone." It appears to be in SLB's handwriting, not Jane's.

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelyScott StreetCovington, Kentucky

Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Dec 28, 1899, 4 PMStamped on back: Received 1; Covington, Ky. Dec 29, 1899, 6.30 AM

Lexington, Ky.Dec. 28, 1899

Dear Steve,Many many thanks for the lovely Xmas gift you so thoughtfully sent me; an

ink stand is a thing I have long wished for and it fills me with pride to place such a beautiful one on my writing desk.

I should have written to you sooner, but have been visiting ever since Xmas day and just arrived home yesterday evening.

Steve, I am coming to Covington next Monday afternoon to attend a dance that night, and should love to spend the remainder of the night, if it will be truly convenient for you all to have me. Write immediately and let me know. Wykoff is going to stay with Cousin Susie P. and thought it too much of an imposition for both of us to stay with her, as she has a house full.

I have read by the papers and slips you sent Wyke, of the trouble you have been having and I admire your nobleness in punishing those who so unjustly insulted your father, but do try and keep out of all the trouble you can.

How are all of the family? I hope your father entirely recovered.I shall have to bring my letter to a close for this time. Meet me in the

afternoon train on Monday. I come on the D. Southern. I do not know the time it arrives in the city. If unable to meet me do not worry about it as Wyke is coming with me. Hoping to see you soon and with love to all the family, I am your devoted friend,

Jane de V. Piatt

P. S. Pardon the hen scratching.

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When my grandfather was 22 he served in the Kentucky Militia, and was stationed at the capital in Frankfort in 1900. I believe this picture was taken sometime during that assignment. An excerpt from the diary he kept:

Wednesday March 14th Got up at 6.30. Weather cool. Saw by the papers that Beckham intends to capture the place in 24 hours. Leut. Peek went to Washington this morning and Hyne to Covington. Got a letter from Ethel Myers and wrote one to her. Three of us members of the big six of which I have command, paraded up in front of Beckhams headquarters in the Capitol Hotel with our rifles. Got a letter from Mama tonight and one from Paul. Mama said that Wykoff had a position in Cincinnati. I wish I could hear from Jane. I cannot understand her long silence. Captain Berkly of the Arsenal came to the ground tonight. Said that Beckham had appointed Day as his successor. Ho! Had some lunch in the commissary at 12. Major Edwards is back. He passed the cigars tonight around the camp fire. Went to sleep in the tent about one.

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelyFrankfort, Kentucky

c/o Covington MilitiaPostmarked: Lexington, Ky. Mar 24, 1900, 6 PM

Lexington, Ky.Dear Steve,

I guess you have begun to think me quite beyond redemption for not answering your letter sooner but I shall try and do better in the future.

Have you heard that we are going to move to Erlanger? Yes, we are going to rent a dear little cottage there. We leave here in the course of two or three days. Don't you think that is fine? I am perfectly delighted to think we are going to leave slow old Lexington and once more near a hustling bustling city.

I advise you not to hang out your sign in Lexington. It is the slowest place on earth, and a very poor opening for a young man.

Steve, what are you doing in Frankfort now? Can't you stay at home and be good for a little while.

How do you think this affair is going to turn out? Kentucky politics are certainly in a very bad fix.

I have been visiting my friend Martha Crawford for the past two weeks and have been having a delightful time. Last week I saw "The Heart Of Maryland" which I thought right good. This week a crowd of us went to see "The Two Orphans" played by the Peruchi Beldini Opera Co., a very cheap priced company. The princess, one of the characters, had false teeth and did nothing but "hiss and sis" all night; but the old hag in it was very good, she could not have been better.

Mrs. Leslie Carter was in Cincinnati last week. I was just crazy to see her; every one thinks her so fine. I don't suppose you see much in the theatrical line now as you are such a busy young man in Frankfort.

Well, Steve, I guess I will have to stop as I (have) nothing more to say and there is no news abroad. Write soon to

Your sincere friend,Jane de V. Piatt

P. S. Steve, guess how old I am now?J. de V. P.

March twenty fourth, Nineteen hundred.

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Excerpt from the diary of S. L. B.:

Monday March 26, 1900 A beautiful day. Got a letter from Josie and best of all one from Jane - a long one. Drilled this morning and afternoon. It’s reported that Golden has broken down and that Davis will be released. Judge Denny and Tom Campbell, the notorious prosecutor in the Goebel case, often drew their revolvers in the Court room. A man who was there told me that every body in the room did the same. But the affair came off peaceably. The Governor returned from Louisville this morning. We even lined up in the front yard and presented arms as he passed. Answered Jane’s letter. Wrote her a long one.

The last entry in this diary is dated April 26, 1900.

* * * * * * *

Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelyCo. A Second RegimentFrankfort, Kentucky

Upper left corner: If not delivered in 5 days return to Erlanger, Ky.

Postmarked: Erlanger, Ky. May 1, 1900 Stamped on back: Frankfort, Ky. Rec'd. May 2, 1900 1.30 AM

The great city of Erlanger,May 1, 1900

Dear Steve,Here I am again way behind time in answering your letter and

acknowledging your picture, (thank you for both), but all I can say for myself is that I am the poorest correspondent, to my sorrow.

Your picture I think a splendid likeness though you look a little too solemn. You were thinking I guess of the trials and tribulations in store for Mr. or is Gov. Taylor correct. I am beginning to think I am never going to have my picture taken, but Mama wants me to wait and have some taken at Barnums, in my first ball gown. You shall have one the minute I get them.

I write you at Frankfort as it is my impression you are still in that place.I guess you are quite overcome at the changes that have taken place in Frankfort in the past month. Do tell me what you and your Co. have been doing. The last report I heard was that Taylor was to be arrested the minute he landed in Frankfort. Did it happen or did you all again come to his rescue and prevent it?

I was in Covington two weeks ago today to a German. Elizabeth was there, was so sweet and looked so pretty. I did not get around to the house as I left on the eight o'clock train the next morning for Lexington. I was very much disappointed at not seeing them, but could not stay over as I had promised my friend Martha

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Crawford to be with her that morning.Frank Piatt was out last Sunday and spent the day with the Piatt boys. He

looked very well. Don't you think he is the very image of his brother, Will?He is very enthusiastic over ball, and he and the boys played all day long.

Wyke was just able to go to work the next morning.It is so dull out here, nothing to do, but yes, I am invited to "the last party of

the season" given by the young men of Erlanger.When are you coming home? I do not think you at all nice in staying in

Frankfort, but I see it does no good to tell you this as you will have your own way.By all means come and see me on your way home. You will be most

welcomed.Once more thanking you for the picture, I must close for now. Good-bye.

Sincerely,

Jane

P. S. Do forgive those two ugly blots on the other sheet, accept them as more thanks for the picture for I can not write this letter over. I am so tired.

JP* * * * * * *

Envelope addressed: Miss Jane Piatt308 Garrard StreetCovington, Kentucky

(no stamp or postmark)

My dearest Miss B.Not withstanding the fact that my intentions are good I forgot to give you the

skirt braid so here it is. I suppose it was because I was trying to think of some excuse to stay longer. The next time I don't go home when you tell me to, get a club. But I'll be obedient after this, and I'm telling the truth this time. Wish I could see you tonight but goodbye until Thursday.

Yours alwaysAbe

August second, nineteen hundred

Save the paint and I'll paint the floors for you.

Note: Although this is signed "Abe" it is in the handwriting of SLB. I do not know why it is addressed "Miss B." Could have been an inside joke!

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. BlakelyScott StreetCovington, Ky.

Postmarked: Erlanger, Ky. Aug. , 1900, 8 AMStamped on back: Covington, Ky. Aug. 8, 1900, 10.15 AM

Erlanger, Ky.Dear Steve,

Have been intending writing to you every since I received the lovely picture but it seems I have not been able to carry out my intentions as we have had so much company. Aunt Hattie Ellis took us by surprise a few days after Elizabeth left & Louise Gedge was with me for a few days at the same time, so you see I have not had much time to myself.

Tell Elizabeth that she left her pin and velvet band here. I send the pin now and will bring the band some time.

The picture, Steve, is perfectly lovely; you certainly displayed good taste in choosing the frame. T'is adorning our hall and every one admires it so much "specially" "me". Many, many thanks to you.

My! I am so tired. John and I went blackberrying this morning. I didn't pick over a quart but I am utterly worn out.

What have you all been doing? T'is so dull in Erlanger. The only pleasures I see in view is a horse back ride tomorrow night with Mr. Childress and a trip to Lexington the next day. Oh yes! and a picnic next week. Don't you think I am having a rush? T'is quite a joke.

I just can't write any more. I am so hot and sleepy. My love to all. Believe me,

Sincerely

Jane

P. S. Come and see me when you are not such a busy boy.J.

I find I can very easily enclose band too.Jane

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A post card:THE QUEEN & CRESCENTCincinnati & Florida Limited

en routeAddressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Scott Street, Covington, Ky.Postmarked Aug 9, 1900

Erlanger

Dear Steve,

I am so sorry but will be impossible for me to go with you on Friday night as I have another engagement, but I will be glad to go out driving with you on Saturday. I am sorry to have to disappoint you Friday and thank you so much.

Sincerely

Jane

Note: This note is written above, on either side of, and below the picture of a train.

* * * * * * *

Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Scott Street, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Erlanger, Ky. Aug 30, 1900, 8 AMStamped on back: Received Covington, Ky. Aug 30, 1900 12.30 PM

Erlanger, Ky.Dear Steve,

I know you have begun to think hard of me by now, for not answering your nice letter sooner and telling you whether or not I could go with you to the Fair. I have had company for the past two weeks and my brain has been in such a constant whirl that I have not been able to bring myself to letter writing - - - - - and you know my failing.

I appreciate your invitation very much and will be delighted to go to the Fair with you on Saturday.

Edith Noonan is with me so Wyke is going to take her and you, me. Won't we make a jolly crowd. I am crazy to go. I know we shall have a great time. County fairs are so ridiculous.

Don't forget the step ladder, for you know two weeks ago Saturday, coming from Harvest Home picnic we came across the loveliest orchard, tho we did not need a ladder on that occasion.

You have drawn me another picture. How lovely of you. I am so anxious to see it. You are quite an old follier, Steve. I shall have to close as I discovered that

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this is the last sheet of paper I have. My love to all. Hoping to see you soon.

Jane

P. S. Hope you all are well. Tell Eliza I am going to write soon. Pardon writing but am very narvus today.

J.

Note: Did not correct the spelling of "nervous"; I think it was purposely misspelled!

* * * * * * *

Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Scott Street, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Cincinnati, Ohio, Oct 11 1900, 3 PMStamped on back: Received Covington, Ky. Oct 11, 1900, 4 PM

Erlanger, Ky.

Dear Steve,

I regret very much to write that I can not accept your lovely invitation for Friday night as Mama is going to Lexington Friday evening to be gone until Monday, so I will have to remain at home and keep house.

I do not expect to go East for some time as my Uncle, who is in the Navy, is apt to be sent from Philadelphia at any time so that they won't be settled for many months and of course I will want to visit them when I go. So I shall be very glad to accept this lovely invitation at any future time, though I do want to go Friday so badly.

Must close as Mama is waiting for me to go out with her. With love for all. I remain

Your sincere friend,

Jane

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Scott Street, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Erlanger, Ky. Oct 29 1900, 8 AMStamped on back: Received Covington, Ky. Oct 30 1900, 6-30 AM

Erlanger, Ky.Monday morning.

Dear Stephens,

I tried to write to you last week but was so busy keeping house for Mama that I scarcely had time to think. The picture is lovely, Stephens, and I am really ashamed of myself for not thanking you sooner. The whole - subject, frame and all - was such a lovely surprise. Did you think the girl looked like me. None of us could see the resemblance at all except that the hair was like mine.

Well, how is this great world treating you? I have not heard of or seen you for so long. Times are very dull out here but there is consolation in the fact that it won't last always. I am going to Lexington next week so that will be a pleasant change. I have not told you of my visit to Owensboro. I had a charming time going to dances, theater parties, dutch lunches, dinners and to the Owensboro Fair, and everything that was enjoyable.

Did you ever meet a Mr. Freeland of Frankfort; a news paper man. I met him in Owensboro. He was very nice to me while I was there and was from Frankfort.

How are all of you? I hope well. Cousin Bell Morton, nee Bell Piatt, left for Houston this morning. We all hated so to see her go. She had been home just a month. Must bring my letter to a close for I have at least five other important letters to write. Once more thanking you for the lovely picture, I remain

Sincerely,

Jane Piatt

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Erlanger, Ky. Mar 30, 1901, 8 AMStamped on back: Received Covington, Ky. Mar 30, 1901 12-30 PM

Erlanger, KentuckyMarch 26, 1901

Dear Steve,

I received the lovely book you so kindly remembered me with and your letter. I have always been anxious to read some of Dunbar's poems, but some how have never had the opportunity to do so, so you may know how delighted I was to receive that pretty little volume. I enjoy them so much especially "the deserted plantation". It reminds one so plainly of the condition of the south after the devastation of the Civil war. T'is so pathetic and touches down deep in the heart.

So you are going to speak at the Banquet. How nice that will be. I think your subject very good and one you will do well on. I hope you will do well at your examination. I have not a chance to make any visits for you at the church, as it is only open on Sunday morning, but will remember you in my prayers at home.

Tell Elizabeth I will write to her to-morrow. I would have written sooner but have had a great deal of trouble with my eyes since I came from Covington. My left eye was especially affected, the eyeball and lid being so swollen and inflamed I could hardly see. I cannot imagine what it was for the queer part about it is that Mama has taken it from me in the same eye and is affected in the same way.

No news in Erlanger except that John has accepted a position and left last night to travel in Pennsylvania. I am beginning to miss him already. We were so much together. I do not think a day passed that I did not see him.

Lew speaks of going to Chicago Saturday night so I don't know what we shall do the Piatt family is getting so small. I think the liking was mutual between Lew and your father, as Lew spoke in such glowing terms of him on arriving home.

Must close, as I have to go to the dentist's. Remember me to all. Believe me

Sincerely

Jane

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Nicholasville, Ky. Apr 17, 1901, 4 PMStamped on back: Received Covington, Ky. Apr 18 1901 6-30 A

"Lexington"

Dear Steve,

I have been intending writing to you every since I arrived but it seems that I have scarcely had a moment to do anything but rush society at a great rate. I have been having the greatest and finest time I have had in a long while. Have been visiting the Whitney girls and attended two dinners and a "German" or "Dutch" as they call it. I am now with Gillie Dregman and still continue to have a splendid time.

I shall leave for home tomorrow evening so as to be at home in time to keep my engagement with you on Saturday, which I gladly accept. You ought to feel very highly flattered to get me from Lexington at this gay season. It was so sweet of you to ask me to go with you to the "theatre" and I appreciate it very much.

I was so glad to hear that you had done so well at your examination and to hear that you have become a full fledged lawyer. Your hoodoo I know must have been a most interesting client. I would love to have seen and heard him.

Well, tis growing dark now so I shall have to close and as Gillie is waiting for me and we have a great deal to do before the night is over. So aurivois. Will see you soon.

Sincerely,

Jane(de V. Piatt)

no. 1. Please pardon this terrible "writing" (is that better?)no. 2. Also excuse paper. I failed to bring mine with me.

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Scott Street, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Erlanger, Ky. May 7, 1901 4 PMStamped on back: Received Covington, Ky. May 8, 1901 6-30 A

Erlanger, Kentucky

Dear Stephens,

I should have written to you sooner but it has been impossible, as I have had my hands full with nursing and house keeping. My dear Mother has been ill in bed with a terrible cold and we have been scared about her as we feared pneumonia but she is better now, I am thankful to say.

I must say, Steve, that your last letter was a great surprise to me, but not a very pleasant one. I am so sorry for I never thought that you felt more than mere friendship for me. I wish I could return this love but it is impossible. Steve, I can never be anything to you but a friend, as always and positively and surely nothing more.

You are very wrong in believing that I doubted your word in regard to that message. My only motive in telephoning Wyke was to find out the subject of the message. I simply wanted to satisfy my curiosity. I am sorry that I caused you any unnecessary pain about the matter.

I must bring my note to a close as Mama is calling me. Let the past, Steve, be the past, and let us be good friends. Write to me sometimes. Believe me

Sincerely Your friend,

Jane deV. Piatt

May the eighthNineteen hundred and one

Written in pencil: I have changed my mind.May ninth Yours forever,

Jane

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There is a gap of 2 to 3 years here. No letters from Jane appear to have been written, or perhaps just not saved. I will include here some excerpts from what diaries exist during this period of time. The first diary ended in April, 1900 and the next began with this entry:

Tuesday Oct. 13, 1903 Owing to the fact that since my return from Jackson I have been very busy. I have not been able to write any diary. Coming through Lexington with my troops, five or six of them got drunk and disorderly and I sentthem to jail. I was held responsible of this and asked for a court of Inquiry and aCourt Martial. Capt. Maddox was also before the same and we both were fined.I resigned from the service immediately. Mr. Howard announced his candidacyfor Commonwealth Attorney and I made a thorough canvass with him, but he wasrelying on Pugh’s backing which he did not get and so was beaten at the primaryby Squire Lewis Maunix, who has never had a case in his life. Tarvin wasnominated for Circuit Judge and the rest of the Pugh ticket went through. McCrary and Tracy are badly beaten. Have begun to go to Law School at theMcDonald Institute in Cincinnati. Attended the first lecture last night. The Democratic Campaign Committee has put me on the list of speakers. Curt Jett was sentenced to death at Cynthiana and Caleb Powers at Georgetown. Both cases are now before the Court of Appeals. Worked on my speech and studied formy class tomorrow. John Menzies, Roy Culbertson and John Stevenson spent theevening with me and John stayed all night. Weather beautiful.

Although Jane's letters don't survive, she is mentioned in the S. L. B. diaries. There is this entry:

Sunday Oct. 18 - 03 Beautiful weather. Church at 8 and Jane came with us. At the office most of the morning, writing my speech and then home and studied and read Prescott’s “Conquest of Peru”. This is my second or third perusal of this work. John Sherman came after dinner and together we called on Daisy Hood, Louise Ebbert, and Mary Cambron. Victor D’Anna came in about seven o’clock and John left. Victor and I called at Kirtley’s. Roberta Ward there and Challen Ellis. Left at ten.

And these, still from the 1903-1904 diary:

Tuesday Oct. 20 I hear that the Alaskan boundary Commission, meeting in London,has decided against Canada and concedes most of the United States’ claims. They are allowed the coast line -- a strip from ten to forty miles broad completely shutting out Canada except in the Southern part of her coast line. Aileene sent me her picture this morning and Ruth Simerall paid her bet of five pounds of candy which she owed. Walked down town after supper and met Geo. Lott and went out to the Country Club with him. Recital and dance out there. Met Miss

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Piatt, who is visiting Laidley’s, and danced with her two or three times. Subscribed to the small Germans. Home about twelve.

Thursday Oct. 22 Went over to the Y. M. C. A. before supper and took a bath.. At Kirtley’s dance tonight, was given in the Cafe of the Burtin. Walked down home with Lou and Wyk and then took Mary Russell up. Had a good time -- danced with Russ, Anna Holmes, Daisy Hood, Ruth Simerall, Dot Abbott, Linore and Virginia Good and Miss Piatt. Home about one thirty. Hubert Howard and I stopped at Linemans before going home.

Sunday Nov. 1st All Saints Day and the Golden Jubilee at the Cathedral. At mass at Sixth street Church. Cousin Effie and Aunt Mary at dinner today. Called on Bettie Mackoy and Ruth Simerall this evening. Went to church with Mama and Elizabeth and Jane and Mrs. Piatt tonight and heard a good sermon. The new Episcopal Thome has been placed in the altar and the same is much improved. Walked home with Jane and her mother. Home and in bed shortly after ten o’clock. Began to rain about that time.

Now this is an interesting entry. In the last letter included here from Jane, her final words were: "Yours forever, Jane". Reading this entry, it appears SLB was still "playing the field,” unsure of her true feelings for him - perhaps?

Thursday Nov. 5th Weather beautiful. Brent Woodall came in the office tonight and asked me to take Matilda Alexander to the small german next Friday week, so when she came in I asked her and found out she was going home that night. Asked Daisy Hood. Home tonight and played flinch with Jane and Elizabeth.

Jane Piatt is now 21 years old, SLB is 25, and Elizabeth, sister of Stephens, is 20. All through the month of Nov., 1903 you will find Jane's name mentioned, but SLB is by no means concentrating on her or making much of an attempt to "win her affection". For example:

Tuesday Nov.24th Left this morning at 8.45 and arrived in Lexington about eleven.Saw Betty Klain and tried to get Frank Maddox and Carroll Gullium at State College, but could not. Telephoned Jane Carter and had a very pleasant conversation with her. Also went to Maury Kemper’s office to see him but he was not there and so left my card. Saw Andy Campbell who had been a Lieutenant in Frankfort - the first time in three years. Arrived at Cynthiana about four o’clock and Edith met me at the station in her trap and we drove about town until six. Drove out home with her and bid a fond adieu and kissed her two or three times and then back to the hotel. As I entered the place of liquid refreshment the first sight that met my eyes was Bob Lucky and Hub Needham. Asked me what I’d have and I said a seltzer and Hub said he had just bet $5.00 I would call for a whisky. Told him I had quit more than two months ago. Went to supper together and had a very good one. Upstairs and dressed and then to the dance about 9 o’clock. Went in the same carriage with a man named Frishie and he took Miss

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Osborne. Had a fine time and didn’t quit until about three. Back to the hotel and some liquid refreshments and a bottle of ginger ale for me. Bed with Needham at four. This is the first dance I ever attended in Cynthiana though I have relations here and my mother used to come up and visit the Smiths and the Pattersons - before the war. Didn’t get a chance to see any of them this time but expect to go up again at Christmas.

Friday Nov. 27th Jane told me this morning that she couldn’t go out to Ruth’s debut party with me because her grand mother was very dangerously ill. Still snowingtoday. Got over to Ruth’s about 9.30. The Cincinnati girls were over but the only names I remember are Miss Elizabeth Shillitoe and Miss Eleanor Stone and Miss Hicken Cooper. We tried to show them a “good time” but oil and water don’t mix and neither will Ohio and Kentucky people. They all came over together without escorts as is usual across the river. And when we began to “break in” the Cincinnati people were astonished. They left about supper time and none of us were sorry. Went out to supper with Virginia Martin. Brent Woodall, Geo. Lott and two or three others with their partners also in the crowd. Left about three. Walked home with Brent and Frank Colville. Still snowing.

Although he is working in an office and attending Law School, SLB still manages to maintain a very active social life:

Friday December 11th Harry Holmes telephoned me this evening that Marie Simerall had a guest, Fannie Sandford, so I had to find company for her. Finally got Harry Southgate and we arrived out there about 8 o’clock with Frank Colville and Hamilton James. Found Miss Sandford was a very pretty girl and had a verypleasant time tonight. Home at one, and then back to Tommie’s for supper. There were fourteen of us - Lewis, Hood, Colville, Woodall, Lott, Wallingford, Southgate, Spears, Cambron, Finnell, Harry Holmes, Warner and the rest I can’t remember. Was elected toastmaster. Broke up about 2.30. Matilda was at the dance. This morning went over to the medical college with Steve Sharpe and saw Dr. Rausohoff, a very eminent surgeon, perform an operation on a man who was suffering with a “topical absess of the liver.” He had been a soldier in the Philippines and contracted the same there. He was brought in on a cot - very pale and emaciated - and after stating his case the surgeon administered anesthetics, which made the man very sick, and he wasn’t under the influence for five minutes or so. Then he made an incision on his right side, taking out about two inches of two ribs and exploring the liver. Then he took a cauterizing --- heated to redness, and plunged it into the cavity and the pus and matter ran forth to the amount of four or five gallons. Was much impressed with the cleanliness of everything, both attendants and nurses - and the instruments used. Every thing coming into contact with the wound was treated with an antiseptic solution. Was also much impressed with Rausohoffs’ skill, he seeming to have five or six hands. The female nurses were also very quick and skillful handing him the instruments and other necessary articles at exactly the proper time.

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I included the preceding entry for two reasons; SLB mentions "Hamilton James" and he also gives a lengthy description of a surgical procedure. He was known for his curious mind and didn't pass up this opportunity to see what an operation was actually like.

Two days later, he is practicing his law skills. Interesting that he kept Sunday office hours.

Sunday Dec. 13th At eight o’clock mass with mother, Elizabeth, Laurie and Jane. Atthe office this morning. After dinner Hubert came up and we called on Ruth Simerall - about fifteen there paying their party calls. Then over to see Marie and Miss Sandford who, by the way, is from New Castle and I discovered we knewa great many mutual friends. Then to Bettie’s for a little while, and home. Aftersupper went to see Lieut. John Stephens of Co. I, this city, who is in jail chargedwith petty larceny of two pairs of trousers said to have been taken from the armory. Met John and then home and spent the evening there. (John) stayed all night with me.

Monday Dec. 14th John Stephens was brought before Squire Dunn to be tried for petty larceny but new evidence seemed to have been discovered against him and the charge being changed to grand larceny I had the same continued until Wednesday.

Wednesday Dec. 16th Stephens was tried this morning and bound over to the grand jury, his bail being fixed at $500.00. If he had not made a confession to Detective Gaffney, I believe I could have saved him, but as it is, unless the confession can be successfully attacked, his case is bad. Aileene Herr has invited me to her house party but I do not think it will be possible for me to go.

Tuesday Dec. 29th - 03 Down at Piatt’s for a while tonight and then home and read on the Stephens case until late.

Wednesday Dec. 30th - 03 There was a terrible fire at the Iroquois Theatre in New York and the paper says 800 people were killed but I suppose, of course, thereport to be exaggerated. Stayed home tonight and read on the Stephens case.

I will skip ahead, now, to 1905 and "set the stage" for the next letter in this collection.

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Monday Feb. 13th 1905 At Mrs. Laidley’s tonight practicing for “David Garrich” much against my will. Found myself cast for Mr. Ingot one of the principal parts; made up my mind to resign immediately. Good many people there including Elizabeth Reynolds, whom I like very much. The river has been frozen over some time, people walking across it, a wonderful sight. Weather very cold and stayed all night with Wyk. Had a toddy before going to bed.

Thursday Feb 16th, At Laidley’s again tonight with Wyk. Elizabeth there and ten or twelve other people. Enjoyed myself very much notwithstanding my unsuccessful attempts to resign. Wyk and I left about 9.30 and to his house where Jane was entertaining Imogene, Elizabeth, Susie and Arch Fulkerson, Wyk and me, with a little card party. Home about twelve.

Sunday Feb 19th Slept today at Wyk’s (where I stayed all night) until eleven and home after dinner. At Laidley’s with Wyk this evening and at Helen’s tonight by myself. Elizabeth Reynolds there.

Wednesday Feb 22nd Tonight Joe Farrell, Wyk and myself went to a dance at the Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati whither we and four other Kentucky boys, John Walker, Ham James, Geo. Lott and Frank Colville, had been invited by Elizabeth Reynolds. All the girls were strangers to us and I must say that none of us exhibited any desire to become more intimate. They were all Northern girls and not to compare with what we are used to in Covington. Home about two. Confession today.

Thursday Feb 23rd Rehearsal at Laidley’s tonight. Intended to tell Miss Reynolds that it was impossible for me to fill a part but my courage failed once again. Took Elizabeth Reynolds home tonight. Bed after eleven.

Friday Feb 24th German tonight. Carriage called at 7.30 Up to Joe’s and after he dressed, got Helen; then to get Elizabeth Reynolds at The Dempsey and finally at the Club at 9.30. The german was very pretty and much better than the last. Enjoyed myself thoroughly, especially after supper. Left at 2.30. Our carriage was the last out, and the driver lost his way, foundering all over the muddy field and running against trees until we thought the horses were running off. It was necessary for me to get out in the mire and show him the road. After taking the girls home it was half past four when I got to bed.

Thursday March 2nd Weather warm. John Wiggins came to town today. Has sold 20,000 pounds of tobacco at 13¢ and 20,000 at 15¢. An average of 14 ¢ and the best price this year. Sold to the trust; but money is money and John was never strong on ideals. Also gave me the surprising news that he intended to get married; that he had arranged matters with the young lady and her father. Had told me and intended to tell his mother. I don’t know whether it’s the truth or not, but it may be. Took me to dinner at the Bismarck where we had the best steak I ever ate; a porterhouse - big, thick and juicy and not too fresh; also potatoes au

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gratin, very delicious, and corn fritters. Am afraid I ate too much for I felt stupid most of the day. This afternoon testified in regard to the ownership of the pool rooms I have examined the title thereto. The owners were being sued for maintaining a nuisance. Tonight called for Wyk and went to Laidley’s. Talked to Elizabeth a great deal and we spent some time together in the dining room. Think we should go ahead with the play and give what is made to the Park Association or similar organization. Left about ten-thirty and called at Cousin Mamie Walker’s for the girls who were spending the evening there. Cousin Mamie gave me some of the refreshments and then home. Bed after twelve.

Tuesday March 7th Very wet and rainy. This morning went to Central Covington to get Mrs Fahey to swear to a petition but found her not at home. She (is) coming to the office later in the day. Tonight at Ft. Mitchell dance and enjoyed myself very much especially with Helen and Elizabeth Reynolds. Home about two, very wet and muddy.

Thursday March 9th Up at 7 and after breakfast to the Grand Central Station and met Clyde, as beautiful and fascinating as she ever was. Had some trouble about the ticket but arranged it and got on the train and rode to Ludlow. I promised to come up and she promised to come down and further more to send me her picture. Tonight at Mrs Laidley’s to practice. Took Elizabeth home and as we walked down second street for the car, she told me -----*-- Talked at the gate of the college until one of the maids came out. Home about eleven.

Saturday March 11th Tonight called on Elizabeth Reynolds but a man named Lattimar from Georgia was there and as he came from such a distance I left early. Told me of some of my ancient relatives there, among them of Chief Justice Blakely who was the wit of the bar. Home and to bed around twelve.

Sunday March 19th Up at 7.30 and to eight o’clock mass. Walked home with Jane and Edith Noonan and had breakfast at Jane’s. Jane took dinner with us, and afterwards we went calling, Harry Southgate going with us. First we called on Daisy Hood. Richard Colville there. Then to Dora Hall’s to see her guests Cleyd Harvey and Nannie Pitts. And after all that had happened between Nannie and myself we simply shook hands and said how glad we were to see one another and then spoke to each other not at all until I said goodbye. Vuily Mace is a wonderfully constructed being, and very ---- and frank - in a letter. According to the laws of Romance I should have met her at the train and at various other times but I have n’t seen her at all. Another case of ships that passed in the night. Then to Jane Martin’s for a few minutes and to Mrs. Simerall’s. Sarah Southgate’s. Miss Gosset of Cynthiana was there but had to go to the train with her Cous. from Louisville and we left shortly after. Met John Menzies standing in front of the Van Winkle’s and he and Edwin Van Winkle talked to us for a few minutes. Then to Bettie’s and home. After supper walked home with Jane , and to Helen’s. It was a beautiful night being warm and the moon shining brightly, so we walked across the field to the Club and stayed until ten; and then walked

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slowly back. Home with Charlton and to bed at ten.

Tuesday March 21st Up about eight a.m. and to the Police Court where I acted as City Attorney. Nothing of importance doing. Tonight at Piatt’s and Wyk came home with me and stayed all night. This morning I was in the Federal Clerk’s office talking to John Menzies and Louise Ebbert, and she told me that she thought all was well on Garrard Street and the she thought she was coming around all right. At first I could n’t catch her meaning. I had forgotten that old story so thoroughly, but I have been thinking what strange thing it would be should the “one woman” do this thing, and whether or not I could ever feel as I did then. And when I reflect it seems to me that I should have been noticing certain changes in her. However Louise may be just talking and I may be just imagining - and I for my part will let matters drift along.

Let me interrupt here for a second, and explain a thing or two. "All is well on Garrard Street" - Jane Piatt was living on Garrard Street, and so did Louise Ebbert, a mutual friend who appears to be funneling information about Jane to Steve. We shall hear more from her later.

Wednesday March 22nd At Police Court this morning and after lunch to Emma Reamme’s studio to be coached in my lines for “David Garrich”. Tonight at law school and home about ten. Very sleepy. Bed at 11.

Thursday March 23rd Elizabeth Reynolds talked to me over the telephone this evening and made an engagement to have me call there this evening. Tried to get Wyk and Logan to go with me but they both having engagements, started over alone. In Cincinnati met Frank Colville and Brent Woodall and made them the same proposition with the same result. At Fifth and Walnut met John Stephenson and invited him to which he responded with an invitation to go to Peoples Theatre. The offer being very tempting, I desired to yield, but the matter of the engagement held me back. Thinking perhaps to secure the courage of my desires, I tossed a penny and the penny decided for the engagement and the same penny being tossed again gave the same decision, and I left John and the theatre for Elizabeth. She was waiting at the window and my coming was evidently not unheralded for at the same time there was a burst of melody from unseen throats. Amid these pleasurable sights and sounds I was ushered into the parlour by a pretty maid servant, and seated myself in a safe place behind a table. After waiting a decent while, Elizabeth of course knowing nothing of my coming and having to be duly informed thence by the pretty maid servant, the young lady herself entered the room, and noticing the relative picture of myself and the table ordered me to come and sit beside her. Resistance being useless and the old Adam being in me, I came and willingly too. She said it seemed ages since she has seen me; I said it was only last Monday. She said she had never seen me alone before and I, not knowing what to say, waited and not in vain. The minutes flew by unnoticed and not until the pretty maid servant came in again and demurely began to lock the windows did I obey the rules of the college and leave. At the door, I took her

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hand, she looked into my eyes and waited. I bent my head towards hers, and the inevitable was about to happen when her courage failed her and she turned away. With the maid servant approaching again the opportunity was gone. She whispered to me she would see me from her window - but in the court area it seemed to me I was a very foolish figure gazing at a window, so went my way. Home and in bed about eleven.

Whew! This is pretty steamy stuff for 1905, isn't it?

Saturday March 25th Weather very warm and summer like. Tonight Elizabeth Reynolds had a party which her grandmother, Mrs. Morse, gave her. A great many people were there and we danced in the new dining room which Mrs. Dempsey has built. Took dinner at Jane’s tonight and asked her to go with me. Higgins Wood was there and is quite devoted to Elizabeth, but he is an entirely not dangerous rival. Jane and I and he remained, after all the rest had gone, dancing with Elizabeth and Miss Martin and Ned Ranch. To Piatt’s for the night about 12.30.

Now here's a twist. He's inviting Jane Piatt to go with him to Elizabeth Reynold's party? Then, in the next sentence, he dismisses his concerns about Higgins Wood as a "rival" for Elizabeth's affections!

Tuesday March 28th Weather warm and beautiful. Called for Elizabeth at the college about six o’clock and found her very beautiful and glad to see me. Down to Emma Raymies’ studio and sat there waiting for Emma to come and give Elizabeth some coaching in her lines. Rehearsed at Laidley’s tonight and for the first time the play took shape and consistency. Afterwards walked up to Dempsey’s with Elizabeth and sat on the front porch. When Mrs. Reynolds came, went inside and Elizabeth brought me some cake and we ate it sitting on the divan. Bye and bye the cake grew less interesting and Elizabeth more so, until after the various and well known stages had passed I found her with her arms about my neck and her head on my shoulders and I ---------**was doing the only thing proper under the circumstances, after being reminded once or twice that it was not leap-year. Finally Mrs. Reynolds upstairs said “Elizabeth!” and I began to leave. I can not explain it all. I knew it was very sudden and I will tell myself, but no one else, that I am entirely blameless - except that I told her I loved her, but under the circumstances it was necessary. When she told me she loved me and hiring her head and said she would rather have my respect and friendship than a protestation I did not recan(t). I thought that she would not think she had either if I did not tell her, after matters had gone so far and she had committed herself, so I lied --- like a gentleman. Very probably I did not - The phrase is not satisfactory to my conscience at any rate. Home and read and to bed at 12.

Well, I guess you kind of get the picture, and now you know who Elizabeth Reynolds was. Now, two days later, here's Louise:

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Thursday March 31st Tonight Louise Ebbert gave a dinner to Sarah and Rachel Wooliscroft and Jane, Wyk and myself. In honor of the event Wyk and I put on evening clothes and arrived with great formality at 6.30 p.m. Dinner was not yet ready owing to some derangement in the kitchen plans, so we sat in the drawing room and talked until seven thirty, when Louise announced that the evenings program was about to be carried out. The table was very pretty, a lighted candle and painted card for each of us and Jane by my side. The dinner was sub rosa Louise’s mother being away and the rest of the family disposed of. We were very merry and after dinner played cards and I told fortunes which were all good. Jane as wearing a wedding ring and Louise, money and the rest of them pleasant things of one kind or another except Rachel, who drew a coffin and I who drew some rocks - at which the girls were very much amused, and I not letting it be known that I knew they had seen the cards. Left at 11.30. I stayed all night with Wyk and the girls with Louise.

Sunday April 2nd At 11 o’clock Mass with Jane - St Aloysius - Home with her and stayed to dinner. Louise coming in, also. Afterwards, Wyk and I walked home with Louise and then called on Louise Simerall and Miss Louise Van Winkle. Saw Eleanor Miller and came down in the car with her. Then we called at Wooliscroft’s and their guest, Miss Hall. Stayed there a while and then I to see Elizabeth Reynolds and Wyk home. As usual the lady was very glad to see me and we sat there in the parlor talking to her grandmother, Mrs. Morris. Then we went out in the hall and sat on the little sofa beneath the stair case. Then I took her hand and she let me, and then I put my arm around her and she lay her head on my shoulder and put her arms about my neck. Well, things went on and on and she told me she loved me and asked me if I loved her and I, remembering the one woman, don’t think I said yes, thought the Lord only knows what (I) did say, and I am sorry for it all. But she kissed me on the lips and held me there and I, being a man and only human, carried it out, though against my better judgment. Finally the door bell rang and Jo Finnell came in. I left and went to the office and called up Helen and asked her to go to the show with me tomorrow night. To Wooliscroft’s again. Louise and Jane there. Helped Sarah fix the lunch and had a most enjoyable time. Wyk came in about 10.30 and we all walked up the street together.

Now it kind of makes you wonder, doesn't it? Why is he continuing to call on this Miss Reynolds when he knows how she feels about him, yet he seems to be thinking of "the one woman"? Well, let's continue this story for a short time, and then we'll read the letter from Elizabeth.

Monday April 3rd Wyk telephoned me this morning, said his mother was very sick and asked me to go around there and see how she was, which I did. Saw Jane and telephoned to Wyk. This afternoon Jane came to the office, said she had had some trouble with Mary Russell Innis and asked me to go over to see Wyk and explain it, which I did, and came back and told Jane. Said she was sorry and was afraid of Mary Russell’s tongue. Sat on the bench and talked a while, and then I

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back to the office and out to Rosedale with Mr. Lamb to try and sell him one of Mrs. Wiggin’s lots. Tonight went out to the Highlands for Helen and found she was at Sarah Simerall’s so I had to come all the way back. Got to the Auditorium about nine, before the second act. Coming out, saw Elizabeth Reynolds with Higgins Woods and she saw me with Helen. Took Helen home and to bed about twelve.

Tuesday April 4th Tonight the storm broke. After the rehearsal, I took Elizabeth to the Dormitory. We walked and that was ample time for the vials of wrath to be poured on my head. And the most of what she said was the truth. She said she was ashamed of what she had done, that she didn’t blame me but herself. That I had never given her any reason to act as she had, that I seemed to be afraid to say anything to her for fear she would take me up. That she despised a man who was afraid. That I could not make a fool of her; that the whole town was talking of how much she was in love with me. That it was much a game with me, that if I wanted her to, she would play the game---- And I during this time could and did say nothing except-Tirnes Danaos dona Ferentes-It is very true that we appreciate little what is freely given.

Thursday April 6th At rehearsal tonight and took Elizabeth. Could see that her anger was vanishing and when I took her home, to the college, that it had all gone and we stood by the door talking for a long while. She said that she loved me and that the reason she had acted the way she had last Sunday night was because she did love me. Said goodbye at nearly eleven and came home, feeling much better in spirits. Before the Grand Jury again this morning.

Sunday April 9th Up at eight. Jane came by on her way from Mass and we walked to the Post Office together and I asked her to go to Ft. Mitchell with me and spend the day, but she couldn’t. Telephoned Elizabeth Reynolds and then called to see her and had a very pleasant time until eleven. Walked to church with her and her mother. After dinner called on Bettie Mackoy and Anna Holmes and then on Elizabeth Reynolds. Anna Lee Rothier, Frank Colville and Higgins Wood there and later on came Logan Cambron. They left and Anna Lee and Joe Coombes and Elizabeth and myself walked down to Rotheis’. Jo and I left and I went out to see Helen. Took a long walk and home at eleven. Charlton Thompson and Halle Southgate engagement and that of Ruth Simerall and Harry Mackey’s.

Tuesday April 11th No rehearsal tonight. To see Elizabeth tonight and the usual time. Was introduced to the Federal Court by Harry Myers yesterday and signed the oath on the same page where my father signed his name thirty one years ago.

Saturday April 15th Father called me up about three o’clock today and told me that Mrs. Woolliscroft had died at half past one. I immediately went down there, and saw Miss Lucy and Sarah and did several things they asked me to. Tonight at Piatt’s and wrote a letter to Walter Ross after which Wyk and I walked over the

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river and sent him a telegram. Back about ten and read until twelve. Today Sarah asked me to write up her news for tomorrow’s papers which I did and described two dresses worn by some ladies. I was new at the business and don’t know whether the same will hold together. All night at Wyk’s.

Sunday April 16th Up at half past eight. Dressed and came down stairs and read. By and by Jane came in from Church very cold and I took her hands to feel just how cold it was outside. After which she bade me grind the coffee then go down into the cellar for coal and do other things to help her get breakfast - and breakfast ready, we sat down to eat it by ourselves. Jane saying the table looked very home like and I thinking very hard, and remembering what Louise had said sometime ago, and thinking what it should be like if all were really well. At St Aloysius to eleven o’clock Mass, it being Palm Sunday. This evening at Piatt’s about three and Wyk and I called at Laidley’s. Dimple is still sick in bed with her scalded arm and Pete Moore was there with boils on his neck. Elsie was telling us about a colored boy who came there this morning for something to eat. Said he was from Pensacola Florida and he didn’t know where he was. And when Elsie had given him his breakfast in the kitchen and told him the name of the town was Covington and the State Kentucky, he said “I might a knowed that.” Then to Rothier’s and to call on Mrs Robertson’s guest, but she was not at home. Stopped at Wooliscrofts and saw Miss Lucy and Sarah who asked me to come and sit up tonight and to get John Stevenson. Then to Elizabeth Reynolds and a big crowd there. Stayed until six, and up with Wyk to Mrs Woodwards to get John. Promised to be at Wooliscrofts at 9.30. Took Wyk home with me for supper and then I to see Mary Wood. Henry came in and told him I could not stay all night with him. Telephoned Helen Southgate and then to Piatts until half past nine. Jane very pretty. Louise, Claude Johnson, and Mr Hart there. At half past nine to Wooliscrofts.

This is one busy Sunday, as most of his Sundays seem to be! His day begins at the Piatts, and breakfast with Jane, and after much "calling" the day ends at the Piatts, until he leaves to "sit up" with the Wooliscroft girls. It was the custom in those days for friends and family of the deceased to remain with the corpse throughout the night, until the funeral the next day.

Thursday April 20th Rehearsal tonight. Walked over with Wyk and Oliver. The latter is the only Yankee I ever knew. I find him most peculiar but a pleasant fellow. Higgins brought Elizabeth is very much in love with her. Talked to her, but he took her home. Walked home with Oliver.

Well, it appears that Higgins Woods has moved in on Elizabeth!

Friday April 21st At church tonight, with it being Good Friday, with Jane and sat with her a while when we came home. Am still wondering if what Louise said was true and if it were true, what would I do.

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Is now the time Steve will make his move on "the one woman"??

Saturday April 22nd Spent most of the day at the Court house with Lui by settling the case of Fahey vs. Fahey and getting a fee. At rehearsal at five and brought Elizabeth and her mother to Covington. Tonight at Piatts for a while and then to see Elizabeth and she was very loving.

Sunday April 23rd My 27th birthday. At mass this morning with Jane. Walked home with her and then out to Ft. Mitchell and strolled about the woods. Home at one and this evening Jane and I called on Bettie who has been sick and Anna Holmes and then we came down to Cousin Mollie’s and sat on the porch with some of the girls. Supper at Piatts and then out to see Helen. Looking very pretty and gave me a beautiful cigarette case for my birthday. Left at 10.30 and stayed with Henry all night.

It really is very hard, now, to pick and choose which excerpts to include, as each day relates somewhat to the previous or the next.

Thursday April 27th A beautiful day. Called on Louise in the office today and again she told me that all was well on Garrard Street. I don’t know whether it is or not, at least I shall not think that it is until my knowledge comes first hand and that may never be. Another and a final examination tonight, and afterwards at Dempseys to the rehearsal. Letter from Elizabeth Reynolds today. After the rehearsal, about 11 o’clock, Wyk, Bob Green and myself at Jo Ruh’s until half past twelve. Stayed all night with Wyk.

Saturday April 29th This evening at rehearsal and tonight at Jane’s. She was dressed in her new green silk and looked very quaint and old fashioned and pretty, and I believe I could fall in love with her--------if she should fall in love with me. I am still looking for the signs Louise spoke of, and I believe I distinguish some. At least it used to be that she was the mistress and I the willing slave, and now she is not the willing slave perhaps but I certainly am the master of myself. She and I and Wyk walked down to Wooliscrofts. Louise and Mr. Jones there. Stayed an hour and left with them, and I fell behind a little and Jane said “come on Steve” and I came and walked beside her - and “come on Steve” is a great deal for Jane to say. Left Piatt’s at ten and home. Cousin Mollie and Eugenia and Harry Southgate there. Bed about eleven. Confession today.

Sunday April 30th At eight o’clock mass and received communion. Jane and I to Eden Park this morning - walked through the conservatories and saw the beautiful flowers and then up the tower. The man, incidentally, thought we were from the country because he showed us all the sights and as we were leaving said “Now when you get back home, you can tell the folks what you saw”. Dinner at Piatt’s and afterwards, to see Elizabeth Reynolds. She told me she had been foolish enough to think that I cared for her, and she had given up every thing for

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me, that she had given up a man who truly loves her, that such a thing only came to a woman once in her life and now she had lost it. We talked for over an hour and all the while Higgins Wood was waiting for her to take her to dinner. Mrs. Reynolds came in and made her go, saying to me she was afraid Elizabeth had lost Mr. Woods friendship etc. To Helen’s tonight. Met John Sherman at Grand Hotel at 11 PM and stayed all night with him.

Tuesday May 2nd At rehearsal tonight with Wyk and leaving about nine o’clock we came over home and Jane was waiting for me to take her to Mrs. Howard’s dance. She had on a pink dress that Sarah Wooliscroft had given her. Got to Ft. Mitchell about ten, and had a good time. About forty people there. Mr. and Mrs. Howard, Jane, Elsie Laidley, Bob Green and myself at dinner together. Looked hard for signs, Louise has been speaking of and think I discover some --- at least one faintly distinguishable one. On the car coming home, I had n’t said a word for a long time. She said “What are you thinking about, Squire?” and I answered “You.” She turned her head a little and said “You mean you are thinking about Elizabeth” - and I said “Never” and she “Ever” and then we talked a little and skated off the thin ice ------- As I have said many times before - I fain would climb but that I fear to fall -- and worse than all there is no Queen Bess to bid me venture. I have known many women and many have liked me and some more than that - but this one woman is different from all the rest. I am trying to win, on a -?--, and all my acts seem in vain. In fact I have never used any. I have always been honest and straight forward with her. Maybe every thing will come out all right in the end. Louise says it will. I hope so, but if things go wrong I shall not be harmed any. In this case, what must be will be, and I shall not be disappointed. When we got home found the front door open and I went through the house with a match looking for burglars, but found none. Then Jane and I sat and talked until Wyk came in and for some time after that. Bed after one.

Wednesday May 3rd Up this morning early and down to the kitchen thinking I might find Jane, but her mother was getting breakfast, so I ground the coffee and helped and in a little while down came Jane. We ate breakfast together Mrs. P. being absent, purposely or necessarily I don’t know. Saw a few more signs. Wyk left before I, and Jane and I walked to market. She said I shouldn’t have gone into a kitchen with a lighted match to hunt for burglars. I might have been shot - another sign - though a woman might n’t want any man to be shot. Tonight called for Elizabeth and took her to the rehearsal. Afterwards we walked up to the College, first going to Washington Park and sitting there until it closed. She said the time had now come when she wanted nothing or all, that she loved me and so forth. And I told her she was a savage, that she merely desired conquest - another scalp. She is a fine girl - entirely natural and simple and I like her - and if it were not for the one woman - I could very easily love her. Home and in bed a little after twelve.

Thursday May 4th (a partial excerpt)............. So tonight I went to Piatts and asked Jane to go with me and she said yes. First we tried to see Claude Johnson and

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get him to take Louise, but he wasn’t at home, and when we went to Louise’s he wasn’t there, tho’ this was his regular night to call so we had to go without him - promising to sit in a certain place where they could see us, if they came later. But we found the place we thought of was occupied and we couldn’t sit there, but at the far end of the reserved seats. Had a fine place to see though; and the horsemanship was magnificent; and the representations of the battles apparently most perfect - plenty of noise and smoke and action - And Jane, well I saw no more signs and I am worse off than I ever was before --- I must find out again -- or keep the resolution I have been keeping so well for four years. Louise has done much damage if she has not told me the truth. After we came home sat on the bench for a while, but no signs. Left after ten and stopped at Frank Colville’s. Oliver there and walked home with him.

Friday May 5th Rehearsal tonight and afterwards took Elizabeth Reynolds back to the college and sat in the park awhile before going in. It was the same old story and I should feel badly about it, but it’s all on the surface with her. Walked across the bridge and stopped at Jo Ruh’s with Wyk and Bob Green. Left at twelve - and stayed with Wyk.

Saturday May 6th Up this morning about half past seven and down to the kitchen expecting to find Jane, but she was still in bed and came down a half an hour later. A few signs I noticed and walked to market with her. At Louise’s office after lunch and talked - some encouragement. Jane and I wanted her to go with us to the opening of the Inverness Club, but the poor girl had some work to do and she couldn’t leave. So I went to get Jane and found her waiting. The day was beautiful and the grounds fresh and green. A good many strangers and some people we knew. Helen came to greet us as soon as we came in, and Bettie came out later with John Parlin. Stayed until half past five and took Jane home with me to dinner. I had to go up on Twelfth Street to take an acknowledgment and didn’t get back to Piatt’s until eight and then again to the Club. And this night I shall never forget it. It is either the beginning of the end or the beginning of all things. I have done a fearful thing and one likely to result more seriously - far more seriously than the other - and I mean this. That I am more in love with her than I have ever been, that I am afraid of myself - I love her too well and not wisely, and I know of nothing I would not like to sacrifice to have her. Whether I would or not is another thing but I should hate to be put to the test. I can think of nothing else night or day, every moment is one of hope because of the things Louise has told me, and the things that happened tonight, and chaos or whatever it might be called, because of what has happened in the past. Like Patrick Henry I have no way of judging the future but by the past. And during the past four years I have kept my head. I have lost it now. I am headed for the rocks and there is going to be an awful crash soon - and I’m going to make the noise. But the signs - ah, they were auspicious tonight - she was with me. We sat out the dances together and I teased her about Mr. Hart and she asked me if I didn’t want to be with Elizabeth; and coming home I asked her for a little ring she wore and wonder of wonders she gave it to me, and I told her I would return Helen’s

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ring and never wear it again. Then when we came home she made me some tea and I cut the ham and we had a midnight lunch all by ourselves; and all the time venturing on dangerous ground but nothing happened and Wyk came in; and by and by she said good night. It’s all off with me.

Monday May 8th Wrote to Louise today; had to do something to relieve my feelings. She is at London attending Court with Lottie Sharp. Tonight the signs were favorable for I stopped there on my way to the rehearsal and found Arch and Wyk there. They left and I told them to go on and I would meet Wyk at the bridge. And when they left I sat and looked at Jane and could hardly say a word. Then I thought of Helen’s ring. Lucky thought. I had the ring and took it out and asked her to wear it. She said “Oh, Steve” and didn’t want to wear another girl’s ring. I didn’t want her to wear it on the little finger, and it was quite necessary to hold her hand while I rubbed soap on the engagement finger so the ring would go on. Why didn’t I say the word - I didn’t know - I didn’t see the opportunity or maybe it was the fear of another reproach. At any rate, I left for the rehearsal, and there was nothing more than a hand shake between us. I almost forgot she insisted on me taking her ring from my finger when I entered the presence of Miss Reynolds and I said “Never will I take off the ring.” and she said “I didn’t want to make an enemy of her and she saw me give it to you last Saturday, and I believe she suspects something.” “Suspects something” thought I - would there were something to suspect. But for Janes’ sake I put the ring in my pocket and Elizabeth saw it not. After the rehearsal, Wyk, Bob Green and I went to Ruh’s and there until midnight. Then I (went) home with Wyk. And tonight is the fourth anniversary of my first rejection. Then things seemed very hopeless, now she wears my ring, and when I spoke of my mother’s engagement ring, she was not uninterested in the subject.

So after reading all this, here is the next letter in the collection, written to Stephens L. Blakely by Miss Elizabeth Reynolds:

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, Kentuckycor. 4th & Scott Sts.

Postmarked: Cincinnati Ohio May 9, 1905 10.30 AMStamped on back: Covington Ky. Received May 9, 1905 12 30 PM

10-45 P.M. Monday night

Well - my dear Father - I have just returned from rehearsal and am now seated upon the floor - with a small candle by my side - trying to write to you - not because I think you want to hear from me - but just because I want a little chat with you before I enter that glorious land of dreams. I am very, very much worried and all because of you!! You have been trying to make me understand - for a day or so - that our little "game" is at an end - that the cottage and log fire etc. have lost their attraction now that summer has come. I should have "expected this" (as Garrish did) but alas! I did not - so fascinated was I with the scene and so here I am - left all alone with what? Why, only a dozen notes tied with blue ribbon! They are beside me now and I love them but yet - they cannot satisfy, without my knight with the black hair and broad shoulders - even the blaze of the logs in winter and the little porch in summer - fail to lure me unless he be beside me. Will you not try not to tire of it all so soon? Please do and lets not have it a game at all but a real - true "something" which shall always last. - dear me - the first thing I know - you will be frightened at my seriousness and never let me see you again! And the rehearsals will soon be over too! I am just beginning to realize first how much these rehearsals have meant to me but even though they must end with Friday night - May I not see you in Covington? I shall move over on Thursday morning. Just think - dear - I have only had a few dances - since Friday night! If only you will let me see you I will promise to rearrange the cottage so you will like it and will never - never "scold". At least you will answer this - will you not - my dear attractive Knight? Alas! My candle burns low - so good night. Perhaps we may meet in dreamland!

Yours - Elizabeth

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The letter written by Elizabeth Reynolds, on the 8th of May, 1905, was received the next day by Steve at his office. His diary entry for May 9th is extraordinary, I think. So I include it here:

Tuesday May 9th I can’t tell about it. Jane knows more than I. I don’t know how I ever got to it. But Jane and I are engaged to be married --- Looks cold in ink. And when I repeat it to myself, I don’t believe it. It sounds like the voices I have heard in my dreams - and I have dreamed of this thing many, many times. But anyhow, tonight I dressed up in my gray suit and called on Jane. Mrs. Piatt and Steve were there and he and I had an argument on expert testimony, he speaking as a physician and I as a lawyer. Consequently, we came to no conclusion at all but separated in good humor. Then Mr. DeBus came in and took Mary Russell to the theatre and then Jane and I went to the drug store to get some medicine for her mother. Boulton said it wouldn’t be ready until tomorrow. We left and walked down to the Point. She had been asking me to tell her what Elizabeth said about the ring, and I told her that Elizabeth had said “I know you are in love with Miss Piatt.” and that I had answered "yes". She laughed and we walked to the Point and looked at the water and then up Garrard and down Greenup and over Fourth to Garrard again and up and down Garrard, and then started to go in, but I made her sit on the bench, which she did not unwillingly. As we sat there I took out a piece of paper and began to tear it up. She asked me why and I said “To measure you for a ring”. So I took her hand and held it unnecessarily long in fitting the paper about her finger and then I said “Now when I give this to you, you’ll give it back to me in about a week.” She said “No,” very softly and I “How long will you wear it?” and again, very softly, “Always”. What followed I do not distinctly remember. I think I said “Do you mean it?” and that she answered “I do mean it” and kissed me. And then, on the bench, we talked things over and I learned she had loved me for a year and I didn’t know it. And she promised to wait for me until I made enough money to marry. Wyk came out about this time and told us to come in, it was too cold. At the door I took her in my arms and kissed her and she kissed me and we said good night. This one woman and I - the woman alone I have always loved - and now she says she loves me. I haven’t realized it yet, and when I got to my room I sat and smoked for an hour trying to find out whether I dreamed or was awake. And now that I think of it, I believe just after she told me she loved me - I said “Wake up Blakely,” much to her surprise.

Wednesday May 10th Told my mother this morning, but she didn’t seem to believe me, and Jane came to the office this morning, after she had told Elizabeth and confirmed what I had said, but so shyly that Elizabeth didn’t know what we were talking about. After lunch I went around to Jane’s. We had intended to write to Louise and tell her the news, but Louise comes home tomorrow and we thought it hardly worth the while. So we sat on the divan and talked and did other things necessary and proper to the occasion; and Mrs. Piatt called down stairs that we had her blessing; and she was sure I could make Jane happy. And Jane told me all manner of nice things her mother said about me and we were very happy. But

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time was slipping by too rapidly and Jane said I must go back to the office, so we walked down together and she told me good bye at the door.Tonight went down again about dinner time. Wyk came to the door and said “You’re a nice one to come into my house and break up my family. A beautiful return for my hospitality. You’re no friend of mine.” and I said “Father I’ve come to ask your consent - go to thunder.” Mary Russell was out so we talked the matter over at the table until I got very much embarrassed and told them to cut it out. Wyk and I walked over the bridge together and told me how Jane had told him this morning. That she had begun “Brother I have something to tell you.” and he said “You don’t have to tell me a thing. I know all about it----.” and that if I had come to him and asked him first he should have told me to “go along” and Jane said “then you’d have had an elopement on your hands.”After rehearsal, Oliver, Wyk, Will Ranson, Bob Green and myself at Joe Ruh’s. All night with Wyk. This ends the first day of my engagement.

What I find so extraordinary is the fact that a man would commit these feelings to paper. After reading his diaries, I came to know my grandfather as a young man, a man in love for many years, but afraid to express these affections for fear of another rejection.

The next letter in this collection is dated October 2nd. Let's see if there are any more significant entries in his diary between now and then!

Wednesday May 24th Time has gone by me rapidly since Saturday. I have divided my time between Jane and the office, working hard during the day and enjoying myself in the evening; only Jane won’t let me come every night. Last night she took dinner with us at home. I walked home with her. Then we went to see Louise and I told her I didn’t intend to come to see her until she asked me --- and in a few seconds she asked me to come next Saturday and Sunday. Took her home early and got to bed about eleven. Miss Dora Nixon has been staying with us since Thursday. At Law school tonight. Got a hundred in Constitution Law and was told my paper was not only the best in the class, but the best ever presented on the subject.

Friday May 26th I haven’t seen Jane since Tuesday and today Elizabeth brought a message from her and the message was she wanted to see me. Tonight I went and found her sitting on the bench in the front yard. She said it had seemed so long since she saw me she couldn’t wait any longer --- and this from Jane. I thought I loved her three weeks ago but I love her more every day. Stayed until half past ten and she kissed me good night.

Friday June 9th The Caleb Powers case is being argued before Federal Judge Cochran upon a motion to transfer to the Federal Court - and the lawyers for Powers rely upon the infamous war amendments. My sympathies are all with Powers, but not with the assumption of power by the Federal Courts. I believe the motion will be over ruled.

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Tonight Ed Rauch and I walked to the Point and sat there for a while. Then Logan Cambron and I to see Eliz. Reynolds. She was out and we repaired to Tanning’s for a drink. Left at nine and stopped at Cousin Mollie’s. They were sitting out on the porch. Jane was there and we walked home together and sat on the bench. This time she was not tired and I know she loves me dearly -- and we kissed each other good night, not once but many times.

Tuesday June 13th Weather very hot. Intended to call on Dimple Laidley tonight, but as I was leaving saw Jane on the bench and changed my mind and stayed with her. We took a walk up to Eighteenth Street and back again, talking of the time when we shall be married and of the many things there were that had to be done before that time. Then we talked of Elizabeth Reynolds and Jane asked me whether or not I had kissed her last Sunday and I said no. Jane told me if I did such a thing she would not marry me, that all her ideals would be broken. And then I asked her about the men who had been in love with her and she told me about Tom Richardson and the rest, and that she had never loved anyone and told me again that I am the only man she ever kissed and I know this to be true. John Stevenson and Eugenia called and we all sat on the front steps. Jane and I left about a quarter of ten and I stayed with her until eleven. Bed about twelve.

Thursday June 15th Suit against Cason for a fee tried today and a verdict for defendant. Called on Peggy James tonight at Brown’s - and then to see Jane at Wooliscroft’s. Sat on the bench with her and then inside and talked until ten o’clock. She doesn’t want me to go to the Stein shower tomorrow night and I promised I would not. And then she said, in a joking way, she didn’t want to marry a drunkard and I pretended to take it seriously and then we made up again.

Now this entry of the 15th is quite interesting. He calls on Peggy James, but doesn't say why.

Through the summer months, he spends a lot of time with Jane, going to church with her every Sunday, calling on friends, going to the Lagoon, which sounds like an amusement park, going on picnics, and to dances.

This entry is rather poignant:

Tuesday Sept 5th Tonight to see Jane. Talked about our house at Erlanger and then I hurt her feelings by some thoughtless remark and we had to make up again. Jane is not like other girls, and I am beginning to appreciate more and more with each day, what I have won and how hard I must strive to make myself worthy of her and of her love.

The diary ends with the following:

Tuesday Sept. 12th Mother and Mary Louise came home today and I am certainly glad. I hope the meals will be a little more regular. Tonight some people came.

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I went for Jane and Mrs. Piatt, and took them home after eleven and kissed Jane where her mother couldn’t see. John stayed all night with me. Bed about one, after a session at Tommy’s with Wood, Carrier, Logan and Harry Sayers of Memphis and Evans. Logan got a little breezy and burned his straw hat.

I have a feeling the last sentence refers to his friend having had a bit too much to drink at "Tommy's" and set his hat on fire!

* * * * * * *

Envelope Addressed: Mr. Stephens Blakely, Linden, Laurel County, Ky.Along edge: Return to "H" 516 W. Jefferson St., Louisville Ky. in 5 days.Postmarked: Louisville Ky. Oct 2 1905 3.30 PMStamped on back: London Ky. Oct 3, 1905 and Louisville Ky. Oct 22, 1905, 9 AMPurple stamp on front: UNCLAIMED Returned to writer and the pointed finger showing the return address along the side.

Covington, Ky.

My dearest Steve,

Here's to the hill billy one hour old, who left a lone lassie back in the hot dusty city. But I will be generous though you have deserted me I must confess, I still love you.

Now be a good boy. Don't drink any moon-shine and come back to me Tuesday. You will find me greatly changed as I now weigh 130 pounds. I know you will hardly know me. You must be very handsome, if as you say you are weighing one hundred and eighty. I am awfully afraid it is too much moon-shine.

Well, I went to a dance last night with a lovely young man. Are you jealous? Had such a good time, you had better hurry back or he will cut you out.

Now Steve please don't start a feud, but keep calm by gazing on my picture. Board the first train Tuesday and come back to

Your devoted Jane

P. S. I bet you a cent I have written first

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Colorized picture ofJane Stamps deValcourt Piatt

c. 1906

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Envelope addressed: Miss Jane Piatt, 308 Garrard Avenue, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Covington Ky. Feb 22 1906 7 PMWritten on letterhead paper:

Stephens L. Blakely Attorney at Law

s.w cor. Fourth and Scott Streets Covington, Kentucky Phone, South 1046

Dear Jane,

Do not think I am with this letter to have you say anything you think it better not to say or to influence your feelings by any hope on your part that I may possibly reach that perfecture you desire me to attain. The efforts I have made are apparently fruitless and I can promise nothing better for the future. You told me not to speak to you, but humiliating as it is to me I intend to do so at least this once so that there may be no misunderstanding between us, what ever may be the character which you will be pleased to give our future relations. First, Jane, unless there are some allowances made by you, I know that I shall never be able to be what you would want your lover to be. You demand in me what no other living man possesses. I am sorry but it is so. I know, as well as you, my many shortcomings, and I feel that I am, in that mind, disagreeable to you. Don't imagine that I am indifferent to this, it has caused me much sorrow that you haven't heard of from me, and don't imagine that I can't see that it is unpleasant to you. I believe that you have told me this every day with your eyes, and your chinglets and sometimes you have spoken of it, but I have known it and grieved over it during all the time of our short little love affair. And that is why I have asked you so often to tell me that you loved me ----- and frankly speaking, I don't see what ever made you. What other people have said, I know. I have been told before you told me. But the best of us can't expect to escape the tongues of our fellow beings, much less I. And Jane, if you and I are to continue to love each other we must forget what other people say or do or think; we must live for each other only and believe in each other only.

Many a promising love affair has been crushed by a well meaning friend or advisor. You know this as well as I do, and that is one thing we both must avoid. And this is the second thing I wish to say - I want you to let me stand by myself ............... to follow any one as approval. If you marry me you will have to marry a man with many faults just like other men, but a man who loves you and who will work for you, and who will try every minute of his life to make you happy.

And now the last thing -- You told me not to speak to you. Notwithstanding this, I asked you if you could see me tonight. You said you "weren't crazy about it". So I do not intend to mortify myself or you by what might be an unwelcome call. If you believe that you don't want to see me, just add this to those other letters of mine. But I have asked you Jane, and I am asking you again if you want to see me tonight - this night - either at home or at the german.

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I almost forgot to let you know about the proposed telephone trip. Under the circumstances I don't believe I care to go, and I have excused myself to Irene. Some other day, possibly Saturday I shall be pleased to take them. I hope I haven't inconvenienced you.

With the same love

Steve

February twenty secondnineteen six

* * * * * * *

Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Fourth & Scott Sts., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Feb 23 1906 12.30 PMno stamp on back

Covington, Ky.

Dear Steve,

Not withstanding the fact I have received no apology for your speech of yesterday I am answering your letter. This declaration I suppose seems to you very unreasonable, but in all my experience with men and gentlemen I have never been talked to in such a manner as I was yesterday and you were the very last I had expected it from. The man who proposed to love me and whom I expected to marry, not content with running down all that I have near and dear to me, you turn against me and try to belittle me simply because have expected a little more from you than others which it seems I have no right to do, and shall not in the future, but I have only acted from the dictates of my, a womans, heart. I see you do not understand my opinion -- of the man who loved me and that I loved was that nothing would be too difficult for him to do for me, and would, from his own hearts dictation and love for me, strive to do all in his power, when with me and alone, to make me love and be proud of him before all. But I see that I must be mistaken and consequently peculiar and different from others, so I will try and I will not expect anything but what you choose to give. I can not say more now but will walk with you to-night at eight when I will be able to arrive at a more satisfactory conclusion of our affair.

Sincerely Jane

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In spite of all their little spats and misunderstandings, Stephens Laurie Blakely and Jane Stamps deValcourt Piatt were married on June 6th, 1906, at St. Mary's Basilica of the Assumption Cathedral in Covington, Kentucky.

Jane and Steve went to The Greenbrier, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, on their honeymoon. I found this brochure among my grandfather's diaries:

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As you can see from the date, it could not have been a keepsake of their honeymoon trip, but could have been brought back by his parents, Lily and Laurie J. Blakely, and may have inspired Steve to chose this spot for his honeymoon.

It's a fascinating little booklet, so I thought I'd open it up and share a couple of the pages:

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The Greenbrier booklet is really too long to include all of it here, but you must see the price list!

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Considering the time - 1904 - these are very large sums of money!

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Jane and Mrs. F. W. Tilton at the Greenbrier, June 1906.

So on to the next letter, which was from Mrs. Tilton. Steve and Jane made her acquaintance while at the Greenbrier, and she wrote this very nice letter:

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Envelope addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: White Sulphur Springs, W. Va. Jul 27 1906 11 AMStamp on back: Covington, Ky. Jul 28, 1906 8.30 AM

Greenbrier W. S. Sp., West Virginia

My dear Mrs. Blakely

I received Mr. Blakely's kind letter, but I feel like writing to you both, and telling you how much I missed you. Mrs. Sommers left soon after you, and I have not been in the Ball Room since she left. I feel no longer any interest in the dancers. One of the ladies here received a letter from Mrs. Sommers, in which she mentioned they would leave the Hot Springs on the 26th. I don't know where they went. Quite a number of visitors have arrived since you left. I generally spend my evenings in the Reception Room by the fire. We have had showers every day. I am rather undecided as to whether I will remain one or two weeks longer. I am expecting letters from a friend who, I am in hopes, will join me at the Hot Springs. I do not care for the Baths here. They are very inconvenient. I am looking for the photograph that Mr. Blakely took of us, and I hope, when you can, will send me one. It will give me so much pleasure to look at you and remember the pleasant evenings we have spent together. I do hope, some of these days, you will visit New Orleans. If I go to the Hot Springs I will leave my address here, and if the photo comes, it will be forwarded to me. I am sure you were delighted to return home, but I am glad you have not forgotten me. And I do hope that some day we will meet again.

With much love for you both believe me to be yours sincerely,

Mrs. F. W. Tilton

Almost a year later. Steve received another letter from Mrs. Tilton. I would think other letters may have been exchanged, just not saved by SLB.

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Picture - upper left corner, under which is:Southern Hotel - Covington, La.

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely Postmarked: Covington, La.S.W. cor. Fourth and Scott Streets Jun 23 1907 4 PMCovington, Kentucky Stamp on back: Covington Ky.

received Jun 25 1907 12.30 PM

June 23rd, 1907

Dear Mr. Blakely

I often think of our pleasant acquaintance and friendship at the "Greenbrier" and wonder if we will ever meet again. I hope so. You remember we met I think, only a day or two after your marriage, and you seemed so happy and congenial that I feel sure you will be happy. I received a package of the pictures you took at the White Sulphur, and I thought I had thanked you for sending them. I know I intended doing so. I was quite a sufferer last winter with the rheumatism, and intend going to some Lithia Spring in Virginia where the waters and baths are said to be very beneficial. If the accommodations at the White Sulphur could be improved, I would love to return there for a while, as I think the water is excellent, especially for Southerners. I received a note from Mr. Mills a few days ago, asking if I wished him to reserve my rooms for me, so I presume no changes have been made. They are still doomed to have those horrid oil lamps.

Give a great deal of love from me to your sweet wife and believe me to be sincerely interested in you both.

Caroline Tilton

I wonder if our Covington in Louisiana can compare with yours in Kentucky. This is a new hotel, just finished. This place is very much resorted to, in the spring, as it is famous for its "Piney Woods".

Yours, C.T.

I have been here two weeks, but will return to New Orleans for a few days, until I leave for Virginia.

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On July 14, 1907, Steve and Jane became the parents of a son, whom they named Stephens Buckner Cuthbert Blakely. I know where the "Stephens" and the "Buckner" names come from, but still haven't figured out where the "Cuthbert" came from. When Steve was about 10 or so, I know he was sometimes called "Nuttybutt,” and I've seen his childish signature: "Stephens Buckner Cuthbert Nuttybutt Blakely". Nuttybutt inspired by the "Cuthbert,” perhaps?

The next letter, from Mrs. Caroline Tilton, came in this envelope, which I thought was rather unique and should be included:

Picture envelope: "Battery Park Hotel, Asheville, N. C."Addressed: Stephens L. Blakely, S.W. cor. Fourth & Scott Sts., Covington, Ky.Postmarked, on back: Covington, Ky. Aug 26 1907 7 PM

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August 25th, 1907

My dear Mrs. Blakely

I received a very nice letter from Mr. Blakely, but I am going to acknowledge it by writing to you and congratulate you upon the safe arrival of the "finest and handsomest boy in the world,” according to his opinion. I am glad it is a little boy, for when the sister comes they will grow up together, and he will learn to take care of her. I did not go to the White Sulphur this summer. I went to a new place, the Mecklenburg Hotel, Chase City, Virginia, The Lithia Water is said to be very fine for rheumatism. I remained there five weeks, but did not receive much benefit, and came to this place, where I have frequently been. I shall remain here about two weeks, and then go to my Cousin's in "Sewanee, Tennessee". I often think of the pleasant evenings we spent together, at the Greenbrier, and hope some day we will meet there again, as I should like to make the acquaintance of the boy. I have enclosed a check for ten dollars, with which I wish you to buy him something as a souvenir. You know, I have never had any experience in such matters, and I don't know what babies like. You must consult him, as you no doubt understand him by this time. I can well imagine what a pretty picture you, with the boy in your arms, will make, and I am so pleased to hear that you are quite well and have met with no mishap.

With kind regards to Mr. Blakely, believe me to be yours sincerely,

Caroline Tilton

I was obliged to make the check to Mr. Blakely's order, as it will be some time before the young Blakely can do it for himself.

C. T.

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Photos taken circa 1907at the old farm house in Fort Mitchell.

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, New Central Hotel, Maysville, Ky. but letter forwarded to: 4th & Scott Sts., Covington, Ky.

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Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Sept 19 1908, Maysville, Ky. Sept 19, 1908 and Covington, Ky. Sept 23 1908Return address on back: R. F. D. No. 1, Covington, Ky.

My dear husband,

Was so glad to receive your letter though short, but sweet. The baby is getting along very well, though he has thrown up his milk twice since we came home and refused to take milk from ten until six yesterday. The doctor surprised me very much by coming out this morning. He said the baby was doing all right, but that he must have mixed milk. I have had such a time trying to get Weir to bring the right kind, and only this morning he brought it from one cow. Scott came to milk yesterday at eleven. Have gathered and put up seven qts. of damsons; they are fine.Though you did not ask after me I will tell you that I am very well, thank you. When the doctor came this morning, he caught me cutting weeds along the drive near garden. I almost went to the center of the earth.

When are you coming back to me? Do not spend too much time over those dusty old records, but come home soon to your wife and babe what loves you.

Devotedly your wife

O O O O O O O O Jane BlakelyO O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O kisses

On October 11, 1908, their second son was born and given the name Edward Courtney Piatt Blakely, in honor of her father.

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By the time of his next diary, which is in midsummer, 1909, Steve and Jane are again expecting the arrival of another child, their third.

Since the next letter is dated August 27, 1910, I will insert here some of his diary entries and some observations.

June 11, 1909 May 29, 1909 was defeated for the nomination for County Attorney by Frank Hanlon, after a two month campaign. Carried the County, but ran far behind in the city. Leaves me in debt to the extent of about $400 more, which I can only hope will be met by an increase in business as a result of the campaign.Was elected one of the Trustees of the first State Court of Foresters in Kentucky, the convention having met at the Hall of the Mother of God School. Weather very wet, having rained nearly every day for a month and sometimes two or three times in one day. Cousin Mollie Cooper very low and not expected to live.

Friday June 18th Great celebration for the Wright Brothers in Dayton Ohio. Foreign representatives and officials there.

Monday June 28th The third anniversary of our marriage and we quietly celebrated itat home. My father and mother’s anniversary - the 22nd - and Elizabeth’s birthday. Steve sick this morning, but better now and think will have no future trouble. Ft. Mitchell incorporated as a sixth-class city and looking for an attorney. Dr. Reilly and Frank VanWinkle spoke to me about it and, I find, Orie Ware also active. Offered to take the position for nothing when I heard this.

Tuesday July 13th Heavy wind and rainstorm yesterday and last night. Three treesin back yard blown down. Babies sick, but not serious.

Tuesday July 20th Latham attempted to fly across the English Channel and fell in themiddle. Tonight flew 70 miles in an hour and a half at Ft. Meyer.Have counted up the money I spent in the campaign and find the total amount to be $675.30. Of this, $300.00 was given me by M & H. I still owe about $150. for stationery and the balance to the bank on notes. Have lost some business, however, by being away from my office during the months of April and May. My garden full of weeds and will not have much this summer. Babies not well - but not very sick. Need close attention all the time. Mr. Gumey today telling me about playing checkers with Lincoln in Paris, Ky in 1851 and how Lincoln recognized when they met in Cincinnati ten years later, and Lincoln was on his way to be inaugurated President of the Untied States. Weather fine and nights cool.

It appears that Steve has the same concerns that plague most married couples, even today. Sick children and never enough money!

Thursday July 29th Wyk took supper and spent last evening with us. Elizabeth Brown

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and Gus Johnson to marry in September. Bleriot, a French aviator, flew acrossthe English Channel three days ago on a twenty foot mono plane. Orville Wrightmade a successful flight of one hour and twelve minutes carrying one passenger - for a government contract. Little Courtney up with the colic most of last night and Jane and I kept him company. Weather very warm. Yesterday, at half past ten, Mayor Craig signed the ordinance making Latonia a part of Covington. Was talking with Mayor J. T. Earle - now no longer Mayor of Latonia - and he said he wanted all the Kentucky towns to incorporate under the name of South Cincinnati; that it could mean much for Covington’s (Cincinnati’s) prosperity. I told him I thought Covington needed not a change of name but railroad facilities and factories; that when these came, no matter what the name might be, prosperity would come and not before.

Monday August 9th Weather hot and business dull. Babies well. Bents move back to town today and we lose some neighbors we desired very much to keep. Sarah,Rachel, Claude and a young man named Steiner came out yesterday but wouldn’tcome in. Laurie home from a two weeks stay in the country. Charlie Ruh - Jo Ruh’s bartender well known to all the boys, was drowned yesterday in the Wabash river.

Saturday August 21st, 1909 Another defeat to my discredit. Dr. Reilly told me thismorning that Orie Ware had been elected City Attorney for Ft. Mitchell, an honorthat Jane and I had been counting on to increase our slender income. It is not a misfortune, however, but something due only to my own neglect. While Ware wasgetting votes, I was doing nothing. It is true that after Brownfield had promised to vote for Ware, he promised to vote for me. It turns out that I estimated thevalue of his promise correctly, for he voted for Ware, making Simrall, Brownfield and Colville for Ware and Reilly and VanWinkle for me.

Saturday August 28th Laurie still sick but fever reduced. Dr. Davis out every night.This morning found a calf down in the pasture - about two hours old. Jane and Itried to carry it up, and finally I had to take it up in the wheel barrow to the stable.

Must note here that Jane is now 6 months pregnant. I'm not so sure trying to carry a calf up to the stable was a very good idea. But, ever the gentleman farmer, Steve wanted that calf to survive and the best place for it was in the stable!

Friday September 10th E. H. Harriman dead. Weather warmer. Willie still withus. Jane not feeling well and very much discouraged with the prospect. Hard onme to keep a cheerful front when I know things are worse than even she imaginesthem to be. Somehow or other I am not discouraged long at a time and, while apparently there is nothing to justify me, I am confident that we will make out.Business has been bad bad bad - and worse than that, I cannot see the outcomeand I must confess there is nothing in my record to encourage me. It has ratherbeen a history of failures than anything else - but still I am - unlike Mr.

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McCawlier let me hope - still confident that something will turn up. I am honest, industrious and ambitious, and why I have not been more successful I can’t say - unless I am incompetent and honestly I believe I am more than competent. Years of struggle, a whole life of poverty, days of discouragement, duties and obligations beyond my strength, vanished hopes are making me an old man at 31. Unconquered faith, a determination to succeed, tenacity of purpose have overcome greater obstacles, and with the help of Almighty God, I purpose that they fight for me. The humble life I lead is now very dark and cheerless, so little do I require aid, so much is wanting.

This entry, to me, was so heart wrenching. I remember when I transcribed it, I cried. He seems to be trying so hard, struggling to provide for Jane and his growing family. And so he keeps trying:

Tuesday September 21st The Equinox today. This morning early to see Theo.Herrichs at Ahlers Factory about being attorney for the Fidelity B. A. and, as `usual, found that Orie Ware had seen him - but I had written him first and he had made no promises and seemed to be as favorable to me as to anyone. There are also others after it. Schroetter is still at the office and is a nice young fellow, though I am dissatisfied and would like to make a change. This noon saw Wilke and Ahlers. The former seemed favorably inclined and I believe I will get his vote. Ahlers had promised Ware, but said he would vote for me as second choice. Have yet to see Kaiper and Christie, but am afraid Ware has been ahead of me. I have Bulloch, Davison and Gleason promised - Tracy and Wilke probable. Herricks probably will do as Ahlers wants him.

Thursday September 24 Saw Mr. Christie today and he indicated that he hoped there would be no vacancy - that he wanted Shaw reelected. Believe, however,I can secure his vote when the time comes. Laurie still very sick with typhoid fever - a relapse after Dr. Davis had pronounced him well.

Friday October 22nd Jane to town today with Courtney. She and I had lunch at Cody’sand then over the river to the nickel shows which were very good and which Ienjoyed. Rained, but escaped most of it and home with the baby by 11.

Wednesday Nov. 3rd All yesterday at polls at Lookout House with Simmons, Scheperand others. After supper, to town and at first thought Tracy and ticket defeated.Largest crowd on street I ever saw in Covington. News at Cleary’s more favorable and at last it began to seem that not only the rest of the ticket, but Tracy also elected. Great frauds - Cincinnati gamblers found in polls marking ballots for Shaw and several arrested. About twelve midnight, heard of trouble in Ludlow and about fifty drive there with Deputy Sheriff Jack O’Meara. Found many men in the polls who were not entitled to be there, but O’Meara thought he could not lawfully remove them. Back again and finally the report from this precinct indicated Tracy’s election by a small majority. The crowd had been forming in the street in front of Boone Block and, when the band came, the

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procession began to move to Tracy’s - where I saw Miss Marguerite er rather Mrs. Tracy - Frank and then to Farmers and Traders where he made a speech. All over town - played Death March in front of Yates and Hogan. Broke up at 2.30. Scheper and I to Cody’s. Saw Pat Carroll with a roll as big as a cabbage and a pocket full of gold. At 4 AM Al and I started for home - got there at 5.30. Gave Jane the good news, made the fire, ate breakfast and back to town. Saw Dr. Reilly and he tells me the order incorporating Fort Mitchell has been set aside.

Steve Blakely was always interested in politics, and this entry in his diary indicates just how fervent he was!

Wednesday November 10th The official tabulation - exclusive of doubtful ballots, shows Tracy - Shaw race to be a tie. 7158 votes each. Enough illegal ballots, however, to give the office to Tracy. Two men arrested and indicted Brown and Guilet for changing votes to Shaw. Affidavit of fraud filed by Tracy in support of motion for Special Grand jury to investigate election frauds.Have made $300. selling Texas land and will make much more. Had telephone put in today. [1909]

So now he's selling land in Texas. $300.00 must have seemed like thousands, back then.

Saturday November 13th Telephone in. Doubtful ballots give Tracy a majority of one. Trying to get some men for the next trip to Texas but without much success. Weather fine and warm. Jane telephones me today that the calf was in Mrs.Joering’s yard but they had gotten it out. Office of assistant to the city solicitor to be abolished and the ways and means committee to be authorized to employ legal counsel. Saw Cleary this morning and he says he will see Deeker for me. Howard to see Kluemper and I will see Busse. Prospect very good.

Saturday Nov. 27th, 1909 Have had Steve circumcised - Dr. Davis. Has about recovered and believe the results will be beneficial. Spent Thanksgiving at home.Had roast chicken. Jane has a little girl to help her about the house. Tanner finished the kitchen floor yesterday. Tritz paid me $100 on account last Wednesday.

Had Steve circumcised? Oh my! That child is now almost 2 years old, a year and eight months, to be exact.

Monday December 20th Weather very cold. This morning intended to go to themeeting of the County Board at Independence with Mr. Kennedy. He came for me but Jane was beginning to be sick and I remained at home. At the office today and this evening came home about six. Miss Jacquett here and Dr. Molley came at 7.30. Mama stayed to supper. Was sitting in the library reading the Literary Digest at 8.22 when I heard the first cry. Mama came in and when Mrs. Jacquett came down, we asked her if it was a boy or a girl. She said she hadn’t had time

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to find out. But a little later she came down and said it was a girl. After the new baby was dressed Dr. Molley weighed it, Mama held the lamp and I am advised the result - 10 pounds, the record baby of the three. Bed about eleven and everything lovely. Yesterday Jane, I and the children spent the day at home andI went over our matter in Minnesota and talked about beginning proceedings again.

And so my mother was born!

Wednesday December 22nd Baby doing well, but awake with the colic last night.Traded my heifer for Twier’s Holstein cow. Think we will name the girl JaneAshton. Weather cold.

Yes, Jane Ashton was her name, but I haven't found out exactly where the Ashton part comes from. There has always been a "family story" that we are somehow connected to the Ashtons of England, but nothing has been established as fact.

For some strange reason, she was called "Datton,” and later "Daden,” by her siblings, and so, too, by her parents. My guess is her brother had a problem with "Ashton,” as Jane and Steve probably referred to her by a double name, Jane Ashton, and he just couldn't pronounce it!

Christmas 1909 Jane woke me early by wishing me a Merry Christmas. Gotlittle Courtney and gave him his toys to play with. Sat on the floor and looked like he enjoyed the whole affair. But he was afraid of a rubber Teddy Bear that blew up and made a squeaky noise. Got a gold pen from Wyk and some handkerchiefs and other things. Gave Jane a snuffbox to match her set and the children fared well. Elizabeth came over and helped cook the turkey. Dinner about four. Mama and the girls came over - and Laurie also. Still snowing hard. Bed about eleven.

Monday January 10th Still snowing and wintry - worst I have known in years.Tonight the Fidelity Bldg. Assn. elected an attorney and when I called Tom Glenson about ten o’clock, I learned they had elected Ware. Permitted Ahlers toto vote his proxy . Herricks promised to vote for me on the second ballot and votes for Ware. Bulloch, who promised me, voted for Roelken and then assistedWare. My bad luck (?) still continues. Miss Jacquett left today. Was installed asChief Ranger of the Foresters last Thursday.

And so his failures continue.

Friday January 14th Weather moderating today and streets and road full of slush. Didnot go home to church. Wyk is going to housekeeping in a flat at Greenup andSterrett Avenue and will take some of his furniture from home. Tritz said he would give me $800.00 if I sold John Wiggins. Courtney sick today. Think he ate

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something that disagreed with him. At office of Pogue & Pogue in Cincinnati about my claim against Mrs. Bandigan and believe I will be able to settle it advantageously. Home tonight.

Monday January 17th In Court all morning. Tracy has resumed the old manner ofopening court - ending with “God save the Commonwealth and this honorable court”. Met John at noon and the prospect not encouraging. This afternoon in the Circuit Court arguing case of Huntington vs Huntington Lot and Improvement Company. Fisk on the other side. Depositions at Stricklett’s office at 4 PM. Supper at the Gibson with Wiggins and Tritz and we have him safely, I think, for a quarter section, out of which my fee will be $400. or possibly for half section out of which I will have a fee of $800.00. Home on last car. Clark’s Commercial School Rooms in College Bldg. on fire but damage slight. Went through Coppins Building today looking at offices. Would like very much to move there and understand Miss H. are thinking the same thing. Offices very modern and nonebetter in Cincinnati.

Saturday Jan. 22nd Snowing continuously. Jane and I to the theatre last night in a blizzard. Enjoyed it very much. Elizabeth stayed with the children. Home after twelve and little Jane was very bad until 4 o’clock.

Monday February 6th John Wiggins went to Texas last Tuesday and it is possible I have sold him at lease 160 acres. My commission on this will be $400. Little JaneAshton christened yesterday at the Cathedral. Frank Tracy and Margaret sponsors. All our family in, including Jane. To Cousin Mollie’s and Mrs. Barnes’ afterwards. Elizabeth took Courtney home early and Jane, Mama and I stayed in town for supper. Home about nine.

Wednesday February 16th Jane and I dressed up in our good clothes and went toMary Russell’s wedding at the Episcopal Church - Trinity. Elizabeth Westfallmaid of honor and Willie was very much disappointed. To the reception afterwards - and had to speak to Mrs. Piatt - though against my will. Met Mrs.Hosea and Miss Hosea of Cincinnati, Jane’s cousins. To the Colonial afterwards to a poor show. Home in a heavy snow about eleven.

Judging from this entry, there must have been some "ill will" between Steve and Sallie Scott Richardson Piatt, Jane's mother.

Wednesday March 9th Finally succeeded in closing John Wiggins for 80 acres. Crawford and Speer bought 40 acres and I will make about $320.00 in all. Ulie had a talk with Pat Phillips today and asked him not to make any promises about the City solicitorship, and that he wanted me to have it. Pat said there was no one that he would rather see have it, but that I did not live in town. Ulie said that I had always lived here and that this was a matter easily adjusted. Pat said he thought it would be all right and I believe he will appoint me.

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So things are looking brighter for this little family. Not as much as he had hoped to make, but something, anyway.

Saturday April 9th Jane telephoned me today that Jane Ashton had a tooth.

Saturday April 23rd. Am 32 years old today but do not feel it. Thompson has bought 80 acres in Texas at $75.00 and my commission will be $300.00. Has offered his Covington property in exchange and it will be necessary to dispose of this before the deal is closed. Courtney has been sick, but is better.

And another $300.00 into the family coffers!

Monday July 18th 1910 Bought a horse and runabout from Ed. Scheper today and down to Independence. First I ever owned.

A horse was inevitable, since they already had the stable! And now they have a car, to boot! I think things are getting a little better for them, now.

Courtney, Jane Ashton and Steve - summer, 1910

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This old photograph is difficult to date because the identity of the child in Jane's arms cannot be determined. If it is Jane Ashton, and I believe it is, then this would

have been taken in the fall of 1910.

In the background is the original farm house.

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, c/o Mr. Waller Hall, Monceverte, W. Va.Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Aug 27 1910

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Saturday morning

My dear husband

Your note of safe arrival reached me yesterday evening and I looked for one this morning in vain. You must be having a fine time. We are all getting along fine, though I miss you terribly. I don't believe you do. Spent the day with Sarah yesterday. Had a very pleasant time, but had a hard time getting home as the cars were so crowded. Your cows, horse and chickens are getting along alright so don't worry.

I am going to town to see about your mail this afternoon. Have spent most of the time sewing for the babies. When do you think you will be home. Don't you think you could stop at Penn Springs for a week. Though I want to see you mighty bad am afraid a week will not do you very much good. Penn Springs is just about twenty miles this way from where you are. What do you think of my swell stationary. I paid the large sum of fifteen cents for it. The baby is sitting here on the bed in the back room as I write and says for you to be a good Dada or something like that.

We had a good rain Thursday night which relieved things very much. Courtney is still walking and is thinking about walking to West Virginia for his DaDa. Please write me a long letter and tell me what you are doing. There is no news to tell you except that Mr. Kennedy is dead, though that is not a very cheerful bit of news.

Well dearie or D. D. the baby is wanting her six course dinner so I must say good bye. Write to me please.

With love and kisses for my dearest husband, I am

Your devoted little wife,

Jane Blakely

Note: This letter was written in pencil on plain white paper. No punctuation errors were corrected.

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Moncevert, West Virginia(c/o Mr. Walker Hall)

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Postmarked: Crescent Springs, Ky. Sept 1 1910

My own dear Steve,Your dear letter arrived this morning and with its coming all my hurt feeling

and resentment vanished, for I will confess I have been very sad and falorn (sic), to think of it being the really first good letter I have had, the only other, the one page you wrote me of your safe arrival.

My dear, I simply devoured your letter. Stood right at the front gate and read it. Can hardly wait to see you. The time has never seemed so long as since my dear, dear husband has been away. You have not missed me one half as much, I know. You must be having a fine time. I only wish I could be with you.

Willie arrived this evening and she and Mama have gone for a drive, taking all the chicks and I am sitting here on the back porch in the twilight, with the crickets and frog music for company. Had such a bad scare this afternoon. Was sitting in the parlor, talking to Willie, when Steve and Courtney climbed up the steps. In a few moments Steve came down and we heard Court crying. When I found him, he was on the extreme edge of the roof to the front porch with the window shut so that he could not get back. My heart was fairly in my mouth, as I begged him to come back to me from the window. I was afraid to move.

Everything has gone along so far, but I highly endorse Mrs. Tilton sentiment when she said "Don't ever let him leave you for a minute". Next year we must surely go together. Willie was telling me that this has been the gayest year, since in your Mother's day, that White Sulphur has known.

Please excuse such an awful scroll. Have had to go to the kitchen to finish this and am just a little nervous, as it is quite dark and not a soul near me. I wish I had kept Steve with me for company. Will write you again tomorrow. Write soon. With a thousand more kisses and hugs than you sent

Your ever devoted

Wife, Jane

P. S. Every time I use the telephone Steve cries and cries to talk to you.Jane

From the following journal entry, it appears he did have an enjoyable rest. He must have been terribly busy after his return because he waited several days to write in his diary:

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Wednesday September 14, 1910 Spent from August 23 to Sept. 6 at Walker Hall’splace near White Sulphur Springs on an island in the Greenbrier river. Good time fishing and loafing. To White Sulphur Tuesday afternoon Sept. 6th and left on the 10.30 train that evening. Everything nearly the same - the exceptions being that hardwood floors have been laid and other slight improvements made. Very glad to see the place again. Walked through Lover’s Lane with Hall, went down to the Spring - and had supper. Bought Jane a hat pin. Courtney began to walk on the 21st and when I got home was running about. Everybody glad to see me and I glad to see them. Found my office torn up - and Harris papering. Home at three o’clock. Willie has been with us about a week. Yesterday was mama’s birthday

Two weeks later Steve writes:

Thursday Sept. 29th 1910 My sister, Susie, left for Cardome last week to enterCardome convent. Our family has given many to the church and this generation is no exception. My mother will miss her greatly. Am very prosperous this year and will make, I believe, about $2400.00, with prospects of continuing good fortune. The carpenters began to build my fence today. It will be very fine - the kind I have always wanted for the place, and will cost about seventy dollars. Are preparing to move to town for the winter.

Susan Haughton Blakely entered the order of the Visitation, at Cardome, in Georgetown, Kentucky. The Visitations were a contemplative order, and cloistered. Cardome became a convent school for girls, the nuns leaving the cloister only long enough to teach classes and supervise the students.

During the next 6 weeks, Steve and Jane closed up their house out in the country [Fort Mitchell] and prepared to spend the harsh Kentucky winter in town [Covington]. Jane took the baby [Jane Ashton] and went to Lexington to stay with Aunt Annie, and Steve stayed with his parents, as the following letters indicate:

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Streets, Covington, Ky.Return address: 723 Hambrick Ave., Lexington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington Ky. Nov. 3 1910 12-30 PM

Lexington, Kentucky

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Nov. 3, 1910

My dear husband,

Arrived safely last night but very tired. Jane Ashton was good until about half an hour before we reached here, when I was obliged to walk up and down the train with her. What do you think of this ticket? It was not taken up. I see it is made good until tomorrow. Do you think you could sell it?

Aunt Annie has such a sweet little home, about a mile from the center of town, but I am homesick for you already. I miss you and little Steve and Courtney more than I can say.

Did you have a good time last night? I know you did not miss me a bit.

Write to me please not less than one every day. Be sure and send the article from yesterday's post. And last of all please send your old beggar some money.

With love and kisses for my dear, dear husband and little son, Steve.

Your devoted wifie

Jane Blakely

* * * * * * *

Postcard addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Streets, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Nov. 3 1910

Steve dear,

Have just come down town and found just what I want in a lovely old seat of mahogany, the very thing for our colonial hall. Only ten dollars. Do you think we can get it? Write this minute and tell me.

Lovingly your wifeJane

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Sts., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Nov. 4, 1910 1-30 PM

Nov. 4, 1910

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My dearest husband,Have just received your letter and I tell you I was glad to get it, for I am

missing you more all the time.Am coming home on the fifteenth so be sure and make arrangements about

the rooms. I am afraid I am crowding them all. You know there is just one bed room and couch down stairs and Willie, Aunt Annie and Charlie are sleeping up in the attic, one large room without any fire. I know I am perfectly welcome but you know how I feel. I certainly do appreciate and realize the name of my dear husband and home since I have come. You know, Willie and Charlie do everything and I imagine just to keep things going. Everything is swell and lovely, though.

Went down street yesterday to mail your letter and met Gillie Engman. Said she was coming to see you if she possibly could, but did not have a nurse. Told her if she did not I would be out to see her.

Tell Elizabeth to come up on the thirteenth instead of 20th if she can, and let me know what time the train leaves Ludlow so I can have Courtney there.

You must have had a lovely time at the party, but about that gambling, you ought to be made to give me that money, but I guess I will let you off this time. Many thanks for the check. Have been holding like grim death to my last fifteen cents.

Say, what do you think of the seat? Do you think I am crazy? I wish you could just jump into his old shop; more beautiful old divans, carved beds and every thing beautiful. I thought the seat the very thing for our colonial hall. It is the onlyone I have ever seen for sale.

Please tell me how Wyke is and how he said little Courtney is doing. I dreamt last night that our house had caught fire last night and that we had a regular bucket brigade and thought that we succeeded in putting it out, though I ran out a little later and saw it starting up again in the dining room. Just then I woke up and I tell you I was glad to know it was only a dream.

Dear, can you read this awful writing? The baby is crawling around me so am afraid of using ink.

Am going to get ready to meet Willie down town and bum around for an hour with her and then go up to see Aunt Hat.

Do write me a long letter like you used to, and tell me what you are doing. Remember I am coning home on the fifteenth, two days after the children come up, even though you do not want me. Please write me that you love me a little bit any way.

How is little Steve? Have you bought him any shoes yet? I think it would be nice to divide those winnings with your oldest son as he needs the money. Don't you?

This makes my third to you so I shall expect to hear from you in the next mail. What did you do about the ticket?

With best wishes, believe meYour devoted friend

Jane Blakely

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* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Str., Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Lexington, Ky. Nov 7, 1910 12 - M

Lexington, Ky.Nov. 5, 1910

My dear, dear husband,

Your dear letters, for which I was looking, came this morning and though there is not much news to write, I just have to get out my old pencil and scribble to my dear old man, for I am just so lonesome for him and my other babies that I don't know what to do.

Was down street with Willie yesterday, after receiving your letter, and told her I felt like buying up a whole lot of goods and going home and serving right hard. The days seem never ending with nothing much to do.

Willie and I are going to spend the day with Aunt Hat tomorrow, and Edith Kemper has invited us to a bridge party next Tuesday afternoon, to which I am going late. Which would you wear, the gray silk or the lavender. Am going to spend another day with Aunt Lizzie and Bettie Richardson.

Dear, what did you do with that article you said you enclosed in my two letters? Be sure and send it in the next. Is the note alright? How is dear Steve? Give him a good hugging and kissing for me and tell me what he is saying.

With love and twice as many kisses as you sent,

Your devoted wife,Jane

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Street, Covington, KentuckyReturn: 723 Hambrick Ave.Postmark: Lexington, Ky. Nov 10, 1910 12-30 PM

Lexington, Ky.

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My dear Steve,

I guess you have begun to think you are never to hear from me again, but have been waiting to hear from you. Had your letter yesterday and must say it was not a very cheerful one to get.

You don't think I had better have the children to come. Well, all right, it's just with Elizabeth. It would be lots of trouble to get them home. Will be home next Tuesday on the train that leaves at seven thirty in the morning.

Went to Estelle's party yesterday and enjoyed it very much. She has such a lovely home and such a handsome little man.

Be sure and telephone Mrs. Garfield about coming next Tuesday instead of on the 20th. It will be all the same to her, I know. Meet me at Erlanger. I expect, too, you had better see about a wagon to take our things to town and some coops for the chickens.

Well, how did the election come out? Be sure and write me about it. How is little Steve? Is he talking any better?

Spent Sunday with Aunt Hat and such a nice day. It is certainly a changed household. Mr. Ellis does not touch a drop, and he plays the organ and Uncle Henry the violin at the little church across the way.

I feel a disappointment every morning that I do not hear from you. I think you might write every day. With love and kisses, believe me

Your devoted wife,

Jane

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Street, Covington, KentuckyReturn address: 723 Hambrick Ave.Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Nov 12 1910 1.30 PM

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My dear husband,

Was overwhelmed at the receipt of your two letters yesterday. I tell you, I was mighty glad to get them.

Am so glad to hear you are going to get another suit, though you did not enclose the sample.

Have taken an awful cold. Am just at that miserable stage this morning.

Wrote to Susie yesterday, and told her we would be over Sunday to spend the day. Do you think Elizabeth will be up?

Jane Ashton and I are going to spend the night with Aunt Lizzie.

You may rest assured, dear boy, I am just as crazy to see you as you are me. I am afraid you were just a little glad at the thought of your freedom when I came away.

That was certainly a heated article you sent me about Mr. Ernest and the street cars. Wish they would tie him on the back of the car that takes you home every night.

Many thanks for the two dollars, which I was glad to get. You certainly spend money on little things when you are visiting.

Steve, what about the seat? Do you think we could get it? Am just crazy for it. I also saw the loveliest old dining table, all done over, for $25. It just made one sick.

Well, dear, this sprig boem dow muss close so the bret can bow his doze. With love and kisses on my dear old man and my little son, Steve.

Your loving wifey, Jane

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Scott Street, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Nov 13 1910 4- PM

Lexington Ky.

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Saturday

My own dearest D. D.Your letters certainly come in bunches; none yesterday but two this morning

and I tell you I did enjoy them. There is nothing in this world to me that can fill that terribly vacant spot in my heart but your own dear self, and can hardly wait for the time to come when you will put your big strong arms around me and tell me again that you love me, and will never be separated from me for all time to come.

Jane Ashton and I have just returned from Aunt Lizzie's where we spent a very delightful day & night. Bettie came in for a few hours yesterday.

The picture you drew of me was very lovely, but there was just one thing lacking and that was, that you were not seated in the stall beside me, for you know you are not to give all your time to business and those horrid stag parties.

Steve, how about the seat? I guess you think I am going to worry you to death about it, but went around to Bettie's and saw one just like it and proceeded again to rave on the subject. If one just had the cash, they could furnish a perfectly beautiful home from these second hand stores down here. Every thing is so much handsomer than in Cov.

Am so glad to hear that little Steve is talking more. Does he still call me "Goo"?

Am sorry that you don't want to see me Tuesday, so will not come until Thursday. Can't you go to Frankfort before then and come by and take me home? I think that would be fine.

We are going over to see Suzanne tomorrow and will write you a postal on the way. Had a note from her this morning in answer to mine, saying she was expecting us.

I know you will think I am just an old spend thrift when I tell you that I have not the fare home. It looks like the nickels & dimes fly when one is visiting. Had to spend a quarter this morning for some nasty cough medicine.

The sample you sent of your suit is lovely. Could not be in better taste, and it is all wool, too.

Please write me another of those lovely letters like the last. It really did sound like you love me almost as much as I love you. . . . . . . . . Did you feel those burning kisses and that rib on your left side crack? Well, be prepared next Thursday. You had better wear a full suit of armor. With love and longing for my dear old man

Your grumpy old womanJane

Friday November 25th 1910 Have been living in town - boarding at Mrs. Bristow’s since the first of the month. Jane spent two weeks in Lexington prior to that and stayed at my father’s. Rented the house to Ed. Scheper.

Wednesday November 30th Jane spent two weeks in Lexington and we came to town

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for the winter on the 15th. Have two nice rooms at Mrs. Schofields and take our meals at Mrs. Bristow’s. Thanksgiving Pat mentioned that I was to be CitySolicitor and on the same day Courtney made his first sentence and said “where ish bubu?” meaning where is the apple. Steve had his hair cut day before yesterday. Carlisle buried yesterday. Shelly Rouse, Judge Tracy and myself were on the committee.

"Carlisle" refers to John G. Carlisle, who died August 1st., at least that's when the diary entry is made. He was quite a prominent man in Covington, and I presume the long delay must be somehow connected to building the proper monument and final resting place.

Steve ends his journal for 1910 with this:

Thursday December 29th 1910 Rainy day and warm. Children about recoveredfrom their colds. Had a good Christmas with plenty of money, though I spent more than I ought to. Bought Jane a Victrola for $200. A wonderful instrumentwith which we are well pleased. Took dinner at my father’s Christmas day, but had to leave the children at home. Monday Phillips, Ulie Howard and myself were talking about different appointments to city offices and Pat said that outside of three people he had in mind he had not decided on anything. He said that he had not even “promised Steve though of course that was generally understood”. It will be a great thing for me and will make my career as a lawyer as successful - to say nothing of the salary attached to it.

There are only 3 short entries in his diary for the early months of 1911:

January 9th 1911 To Holy Communion yesterday and spent most of the day listening to the Victrola.

Saturday February 25th 1911 Out home this morning and find the place in very good shape. Adam Noll has agreed to grade the front yard for the old hen house.Claude Johnson out to look at Hofmann’s lots opposite us. Took supper with them tonight.

Saturday March 18th 1911 Jane Ashton began to walk today. She has been standing alone for some time.

On Thursday, April 11, 1911, his best friend and brother-in-law, Jacob Wykoff Piatt, married Margaret Hamilton James in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Here's what he had to say about this event:

Thursday April 27th 1911 Wyk married today at Lawrenceburg. Jane, Mama, MaryLouise and I went down together. Mr. McGruder, an Episcopalian minister,

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officiated, to my disgust, that Wyk should so stultify himself. Jane and I did not sit at the bridal table, though Tom Phillips, Steve Sharp, Frank Evans, Hamilton James, Frank Colville and others did. Came home thoroughly sore and put out with the whole thing, and I, sorry that I went. I thought that Wyk was my dearest friend and would have expected better treatment, even if I hadn’t married his sister. He apparently has forsaken his religion and his family at the same time.Home about ten thirty in a special car.

And Steve has forsaken his diary. He makes just 1 brief entry:

Monday November 6th 1911 Little John Ruffner Blakely, eleven pounds, bornSaturday morning at 5 AM.

Eleven pounds? Are you kidding me??? I'm sure Steve, Courtney and Jane welcomed their new little brother with open arms, especially Jane Ashton!

Although the following was written in 1912, it pertains to 1911 and was quite a traumatic happening:

Thursday Jan 4th, 1912 My house burned to the ground on Nov. 15th, I finding thefire at 3 am. We all escaped with our lives and I was laid up with a burnt foot fortwo weeks. Phillips elected and inaugurated January 1st. I went into office as Solicitor January 2nd. Everybody well now except Jane who has tonsillitis.Living at 738 Garrard.

In a scrapbook I found a newspaper account of the house fire:

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This undated picture of Jane [Piatt] Blakely was taken from the old wooden bridge that spanned "Pleasant Run" creek. In the background, high on a knoll, is the original farmhouse that burned. Behind it you can see the old barn. Regretfully, we do not know whom the other lady pictured is, nor do we know the identity of the child in the sleigh.

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This appeared in the Times Star newspaper.

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After his brief entry about the fire that consumed their home, Steve again neglects his journal.

May 13th 1912 John had tooth three weeks ago. Jane Ashton broke her nose lastweek.

And looking at this photograph, I'd guess the date to be summer, 1912:

Names inscribed on picture by SLB

In June Steve traveled to St. Louis, Missouri to see his brother, Paul Lendrum Blakely, who was finishing his studies at St. Louis University prior to entering the priesthood. Steve took his son, Steve, with him and Jane stayed home with the other three, as the following letter will attest:

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, c/o Mr. Paul L. BlakelySt. Louis University, St. Louis, Mo.

Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Jun 28 1912 12 30 PM

June 28 1912

My dear Steve,Your letter came yesterday, and I must say I was overcome with the length of

it. Were you not tired when you finished writing?Am so glad you are enjoying yourself. You had better stay longer, if you can.

It will do you good.Am so glad Steve was so good on the trip. I was afraid he was going to get

tired on that long ride. I know Paul was surprised to see him. When will you be home? I am crazy to see you. I was homesick for you the minute you left. I guess the knowledge that you were going so far made it worse.

Mr. Rudolf called up Monday night about that deed. Said you promised to send it Sunday; seemed to be rather put out that you had forgotten it.

Went to town yesterday to get your letter. While dressing, missed both of the children, and found them down on the bridge. I know you must have heard them crying from the spanking I gave them.

Must stop now and mail this so you will receive it in time. Give my love to Paul and everybody, and keep a big hug and kiss for yourself.

Lovingly

Jane

* * * * * * *

And the final entries he made in his diary for 1912:

Friday Sept. 13th 1912 Began to dig cellar today for new house.

Thursday Sept 19th 1912 Jane and I had supper at Bismarck tonight. Mama movesto Traveler Place. Jane Ashton in Lexington at Willie’s.

Friday Sept. 20th 1912 First two loads of rock for house this morning. Weatherfine.

They have begun their new country home, the beautiful red brick Colonial house that I remember, and that came to be known as "Beechwood"

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Steve continued his diary, beginning with this entry:

Thursday Jan. 10th 1913 John started to walk today.

Six months later, Steve again puts pen to paper and notes:

Wednesday July 9th 1913 House about completed. Jane fixed up the dining roomtoday. Paul blessed the new house last night and left for northern Ohio. Has been with Mama a week and they all came up to supper last night.

Ten days later:

Saturday July 19th 1913 Slept in our new home tonight the first time - though we arenot eating there yet because the screens have not come.

And then, this interesting note:

Sunday August 17th 1913 To communion today at St. John’s. Last Sunday at dinner in our new house with Louise and Harry and Lunham Robertson. A 50 inch blacksnake crawled in the window of the living room. Carried it out on the front porch and killed it.

I can just imagine the uproar caused by that snake! And was it really 50 inches long? That's a biggie snake! And heroic Steve to the rescue!

So the next day the screens finally arrive, and we find this entry:

Monday August 18th 1913 Took our first real meal at supper in the new house. The screens (are) in and we are finally living in our new home.Big storm today and all lights at home out for a few hours tonight.

There aren't any entries for the next three months, but it's obvious from the next letters that Jane had gone to Lexington again, taking the baby, John, with her:

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, Kentuckylower left corner: City Building

Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Nov 12 1913

Lexington, Kentucky

My dear, dear husband,I just can not tell you how glad I was to get your letter, but I know you don't

miss me half as much as I do you. We arrived at Cardome without any trouble, but of course it was just my luck to have one of my raging headaches. I did enjoy seeing Sr. Gertrude. Found her very little changed.

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Dear, please don't look at this awful paper and writing for the baby is almost sitting on my head.

We are having a very pleasant visit, though we don't sleep much. The baby is so used to sleeping alone that every time I move in the night, he cries. We spent the first night and day with Aunt Hat and all of them. I do wish you would be with me and away from things for a few days.

You can't guess who is in town. Lew Piatt. He has been here for about two weeks. He took Willie to see "Fine Feathers" last night. He was all dilad (sic) up in a tuxedo and you never saw anything so swell. He told Willie he was going to take us both to the new Ada Mead. You don't mind, do you?

I do hope you all are getting along alright. Take good care of your cold. Don't get your feet wet going to Boy's.

The snow is so bad that I have not been out at all, except to come out to Willie's last night. Am going to try to see Estelle before I leave. You haven't heard that Cousin Meskie Whitney has sold their country home for just double they paid.

Do you think you will come up before I go home? I wish you could.While I have been writing I have spanked the baby and put him to sleep

twice, so please excuse mistakes.Do you miss me very much? How soon do you want me back? If you can

spare a dollar or two I would like to have it. It cost me one & a half to go to and come from Georgetown to Cardome.

Well, dearest of all husbands, I must leave you now. Write to me real soon and another real sweet one. With love and kisses for your dear self and some for the babies and Mama, I am

DevotedlyJane

P. S. Don't spank Jane A. too hard.

* * * * * * *[No envelope; not dated]

My dear old boy,

Don't you think this is very stylish stationary?

Have just gotten John to sleep and am taking this few moments to write. I don't believe you miss me one bit. Have just heard from you once in all these days.

I took John and went out to see Estelle yesterday afternoon. John has just been the limit. I don't think I ever want to take him any place again. My trip yesterday was all I have done since my arrival, so consequently have had lots of time to read, if it wasn't for John.

We will be home tomorrow evening, Friday. Be sure and meet us at Ludlow.

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The train leaves Lexington at three p.m.

The mail man has just come and no word from you. I feel very much neglected and not in a very cheerful humor to write.

Must leave you now. The baby is almost sitting on the pencil, which is just about two inches long.

With love and kisses from your loving wifey

Jane

* * * * * * *

While Jane was visiting in Lexington, Steve made this final entry for 1913:

Tuesday Nov. 11th 1913 Hostile Commissioners elected and I will probably go out, notwithstanding the new government is supposed to be more partisan, and my record is good. Dressman says I have made the best City Solicitor and Galvin said the same.

Jan. 5th 1914 Voted out today and came to my new office at 6th and Madison.

And so he was right. He lost his position as City Solicitor, but I feel certain that, at this point he has built a client base and will continue to prosper.

Meanwhile, back at the country home, three months later:

Saturday April 4th 1914 Came back to office this afternoon about 4.30 and Phillipstold me to go home immediately, that one of the children had fallen off the bridgeand had been dangerously injured. After a few minutes I succeeded in getting home by telephone. Virginia Hobbs answered and said John had fallen from highest point - about 30 feet - and she didn’t know how bad he was hurt.Concluded that he was either dead or crippled. Waited for car twenty minutesand it was dark when I got home. Met Frank Fish and he told me the babywas thought not to be dangerously hurt. And so it turned out. Nothing but his heart has been broken. Stayed up tonight and hundreds of people have asked about little John.

Little John is two and a half years old! What in the world was he doing down on the bridge? I remember mother telling me of this incident, and I think she, Steve and Courtney were responsible for this mishap, which could have had a more drastic outcome.

Tuesday April 8th 1914 At Knights of St John tonight. Elected Delegate toSupreme Commander and one of three delegates to Grand Commander. Home at

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12. John much better.

Again, the diary is silent over the summer months.

Tuesday September 9th 1914 Steve and Courtney started to school this morning.

And Jane goes to Wheeling, West Virginia for a rest:

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 4th & Madison Ave., Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Wheeling, W. Va. Sept 10 1914 9 - PM

My dear Husband,I was so glad to get your letter, for I must confess that I am missing you. We

are having such a nice visit and a good rest. Hope you all are getting along alright (sic). I would love to see Steve & Courtney at their desk in school.

This is certainly a beautiful spot. I wish you could be here to see. You would admire the beautiful drive. I know it is fixed with tar and crushed rock and is lovely.

Isn't the news about John Parlin dreadful? I never was so shocked in my life. I wonder what poor Louise will do.

We went into Wheeling yesterday to see the sights. We went of course to the show, which was very good.

As I write, Elizabeth sends her love, and says to come on over here to East Liverpool and grab some of that money, and so say I.

I hope you really are missing me very much. I get right lonesome without you with all these big mountains around me. I don't believe I could ever stand to be here always.

Have not received your second letter as yet. Guess it will come in the morning. Can you read this awful scratch? I seem to get so nervous when I go to write a letter. Elizabeth seems well and happy. Your Mother sends love and I a whole bushel.

Devotedly,

Jane

P. S. I hope you have gotten the children school books.

[Note: The "Elizabeth" that Jane refers to in this letter is Elizabeth Ashton Blakely, sister of Stephens L. who entered the Sisters of the Visitation convent in Wheeling.]

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The family of Stephens L. Blakely circa 1915.

Left to right:

Jane Ashton, Jane with baby John on her lap, Courtney and Steve.

SLB did not make a single entry in his diary in 1915. We do know that Steve and Jane made at least one trip to Dawson Springs, Kentucky. Here are the pictures:

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And Steve went to West Baden, Indiana, in November:

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, West Baden, IndianaLower left corner: West Baden HotelPostmarked: Covington Ky. Nov 13 1915 4 30 PMSent Special Delivery - 10¢ stamp extra

Dear Steve,I certainly feel like the morning after. You can't imagine how I do feel after

what I have done, but I must tell you that it was entirely a misunderstanding. Do you remember when you told me you had gotten the nine hundred dollars, my saying, today, your answering yes? I asked you if you had gotten the money that day and you said yes, I suppose you did not understand me about it. This together with the fact you left me such a generous check made me even more sure that you had received the 900. I called up Dr. Davis and Mr. Boetkin and explained how it was, and asked them to hold the checks for several weeks until the money was in bank. They said that was all right. About the Goode & Dunkie check. I called up the bank and found they had already cashed the check, your balance now being $25.08. I do hope my foolishness is not going to worry you and spoil the nice time you are having. Again, I feel I am always doing the wrong thing. I do feel this a very dear lesson which I shall not soon forget. Do write me right away and let me know if you will have enough money.

We are getting along very well except for colds. Went in for some medicine yesterday.

The telephone people called up about the bill for out here. Shall I send a check?

Am so glad you are pleased about the springs. I am afraid you are not missing me very much though. I could not find one note of homesickness in your letter.

Courtney wanted to know this morning what day you started off for a rest.I have been up and down twenty times since I started to write. Hope you can

read it. There is not much news to write. We are going down to your Mother's for dinner tomorrow. Write soon and tell me you forgive me. I feel like going out and jumping off. With love

Your affectionate wife

Jane

This is what I did with the fifty:Boys suits 10.00; boys tuition, 1.70; boys shoes, 4.00; Jane Ashton coat, 5.00; boys collars, 1.30; table cloth, 2.80; Jane Ashton shoes, 1.70; hat for myself, 8.25; fur for dress, 1.75; picture frames, 3.25; Sundries, 10.20.

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, West Baden, IndianaLower left corner: West Baden HotelPostmarked: Covington Ky. Nov 19 1915Purple stamp on front: Advertised Dec 11 1915

Dear Steve,

I guess you think I have forgotten you, but that is not so. The fact is I have been sick. You know what a cold I have had. Well, I went to town Tuesday to get this paper to write you and came home with a dreadful ear ache & head ache; but I got up this morning and think I am going to be alright (sic) though I still have sharp shooting pains in my ear and head. Little Courtney is sick too. He and Steve were playing horse the other night and Courtney fell with all his might on his nose, mashing the end of it. He has been in bed for two days with head ache and sick stomach and today, ear ache has developed. I don't know what is coming next. I think we will land in the hospital next, don't you?

I certainly will be glad to see you, my dear husband, for it has been one awful time without you. I hope you at least will be one whole healthy being. I have not had a letter since Monday and I am beginning to think you are getting used to being without me. Mr. Phillips, whom I saw Monday, says you are feeling fine & looking fine. I do hope you will not come home in the machine as the weather is so uncertain. It is raining here today & such a trip in the rain would not be good for your cough. The children are all well but Courtney, and are missing you. With love and a big bear hug, the kind that takes nearly all your breath.

Lovingly yours

Wifey, Jane

P. S. Your Mother has been with me until this morning.

* * * * * * *

There were no letters dated 1916 and Steve made only one entry in his diary:

Sunday June 11th 1916 Steve made his First Communion at the Cathedral thismorning. Papa, Mama and I went with him.

1917 must have been a very hard year for Steve and Jane, as the year begins with:

Thursday January 25th 1917 My dear father died this morning at five o’clock, fortified by a life of sanctity and the last sacraments of the church. He came home last Saturday from the office with a congestion of the brain. On Sunday, he received Extreme Unction and the Viaticum, but Sunday night, rallied. Dr. Davis and Dr.

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Greive in consultation had given us no hope earlier in the day, but at night Davis indicated a possible recovery. Sent for a trained nurse who came Sunday night. Paul arrived Monday night. Wednesday night papa was much better, but began to sink about four o’clock and I, Mama, and Mary Louise were at his side when he died. Paul had gone to the College and Jane to stay with Brown’s. They came shortly after he died.

Friday January 27th 1917 Papa buried this morning from the Cathedral, with Paul saying High Mass. C. H. Fish, L. J. Crawford, Harvey Myers, Hugh Colville, John P. Ernst and Cousin Neiley Ryan pall bearers. Laid to rest in St. Mary Cemetery. Thus he died, rich in all things but the world’s wealth.

Much was written about Laurie John Blakely, after his death, in newspapers and magazines. The diary is silent, and Steve held his grief in his heart.

In March, Steve goes away to the Dillsboro Sanitarium, and Jane writes the following letter:

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Dillsboro Sanitarium, Dillsboro, IndianaPostmarked: Covington Ky. Mar 14 1917 4 30 PMReturn address: Stephens L. Blakely, Attorney at Law, Covington, Kentucky

My dear Steve,

Have just come in town and found your letter and the enclosed. Are they your sentiments? I do believe you are missing me a little bit. I have surely missed you and can hardly wait until Saturday. While I am writing, John is in the outer office so will have to make it short. Had such a good wire from Wyke. Very much better and all danger over. I tell you, dear, I am relieved. Have hardly been able to stand it, so worried and he so far away. Doctor says he must rest for three months. Don't you think it would be nice to have them with us for a little while, if they can come? Mama came back Monday and brought two of the children to Polly and went back last night. Well, dear, I was surely glad to hear that you are sleeping better, but tell that doctor if he values his life he had better not detain you any longer than Saturday. Everything is all right on the farm. The hens laid three eggs yesterday. Am enclosing a picture of a very tough individual I believe you know. With love and a million kisses

Devotedly

Jane

P. S. Please be careful on the way home.

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This is the picture enclosed. It is John.

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In her letter, Jane mentions the encouraging news about her brother, Wyk. At the time, Wyk and his wife, "Peggy,” were living in Meridian, Mississippi and were the parents of three very small children; Jacob Wykoff, almost four, Elizabeth Page, two and a half, and the baby, Margaret Hamilton, just barely 6 months old.

She mentions that "Mama" brought two of the children back to Polly. Mama is probably Sallie [Richardson] Piatt, and Polly is Peggy [James] Piatts' sister.

The next entry in the SLB diary is:

Monday April 2nd 1917 War declared on Germany tonight. Jane and I came in to town expecting that news of this would come and as we left the car, the extras were out. Much shouting of newsboys but little other excitement, people accepting it as a thing long looked for.

And the following Sunday:

Easter Sunday April 8th 1917Little Courtney made his First Communion at St. Mary’s church (and I went with him).

The next entry, though dated July, indicates that Wyk and his family did come to visit, as Jane had asked in her letter.

July 6th 1917 Wyk came, and Peggy and little Margaret James, to visit us lastmonth after a most severe illness in Meridian. Stayed two weeks and seemed to be about well and went to Tiffin to see the James family.

Then the heartbreak. It appears that Wyk had a relapse while visiting Peggy's family in Tiffin, so they return to the hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Friday the 15th of July Jane and I met him at the station in Cincinnati and took him to Christ Hospital. Was shocked by his appearance. The physician seemed to be helpful however. Sunday Jane and I went to the hospital to see him and bring Peggy home. He was very weak and suffering much pain.

Sunday night, the 17th After the girls had gone to bed, I was told by the nurse over the telephone that Mr. Piatt had died suddenly about 11 PM. I awakened Jane

and told her that Wyk was worse, but thought she understood me to say that Wyk was dead. When she did understand me she collapsed, and I asked her in to tell Peggy. Peggy saw from her face and shrieked. Had to take Peggy to town in the machine by myself and leave Jane and her mother home. Peggy calmed down in a while and we went to the hospital with Mrs. James. Peggy saw Wyk in the morgue and kissed him. Wyk was buried from the Cathedral Tuesday July 19th and he’s on our lot at St. Mary Cemetery. He had made his peace with God and the church.

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Postcards from Jane to Steve dated February, 1918:

Post Card: Mr. S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Feb 1 1918 6 PM

Thought you would like this little verse as these are your sentiments. Estelle came over to see me last night. Am going over to see her tomorrow. Have not seen Nancy yet. She is teaching school and away from home most of the time.

Lovingly, Jane

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Post Card: Mr. S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington Ky. Feb 4 1918 6 PM

Friend husband,Wish you were here with me, but not reading. Be sure to lay in a supply of

food & coal before I get there. We are leaving on the train that leaves here at 6.30 Saturday night.

Lovingly,Jane

* * * * * * *Post Card: S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Lexington, Ky. Feb 4 1918 6 PM

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Friend husband,Just got your letter. I'm sorry you don't want me to come home, but I will

have to any way. Willie & I will leave here on the six thirty Saturday night. Be sure to meet us.

Lovingly,Jane

* * * * * * *


Are you missing me at all? Believe you are. You are certainly keeping late hours; so am I. Bettie, Willie & I took supper together last night & went to the show. We are going to the Phoenix at five to have tea.

DevotedlyJane

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Don't say I haven't written. This is the fifth postal. Must tell you about Daten. Took her to Cardome Wednesday & left her as happy as a lark! Sr. is going to start her in music, as we won't take her home. Be sure & meet me.

Lovingly,Jane

Judging from these four "postals,” all mailed to Steve on Feb. 4, 1918, Jane must have gone to Lexington for a short visit, and left Jane Ashton at Cardome before returning home.

The following is from the SLB Diary:

Sunday April 7th 1918 Little Courtney died this morning at ten minutes to one after an illness of about four weeks. The little fellow awoke on Saturday morning March 9th with a headache. I jokingly told him it was no use to be sick on a holiday, but he was really sick and rapidly developed pneumonia.

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Everything was done for him, and a few days before his death he apparently had begun to recover. He received the Last Sacraments on the 28th of March. During the little fellows’ suffering, he told me: “Father, I love you the best of all” and I believe that he did. At least all during his little life he showed most affection for me and his greatest pleasure was that he looked like me. It is so hard for his mother and me not to despair, but we are comforted much by the thought that he is happy in heaven now and is intercessing for us, and that as long as we live, and when we are old and our children married and gone from us, we will always have a little boy.

Tuesday April 9th 1918 Courtney buried today at St. Mary’s. High Mass at the Cathedral. John Menzies, Claude Johnson, John Read, Joe Kerr, Stanley Ashbrook and Logan Cambron pall bearers. Found Courtney’s lessons, preparedfor his last day at school. One of them is marked “for father and mother to see”.Another little poem is as follows, as I remember it:

“All things bright and beautiful All things great and small All things good and wonderful The Lord God made them all”.

And so, the greatest loss of all, that any mother and father can bear, the death of a child. There are no words to express the heartbreak, the emptiness. What a burden it must have been for Steve to sit down at his desk, take pen in hand, and put these loving, but heart wrenching words on paper. As many times as I have read these two passages, I still feel the pain, and tears stream down my face.

Wednesday May 1st 1918 Mary Louise married this morning at 7 o’clock to LewisCarroll Baldwin, now of Chicago but formerly of Covington. Paul said mass andperformed the ceremony. Laurie and Dixie - Lous’ sister, were witnesses.

Six weeks after the death of her son, Jane takes the other two boys to Biloxi, where she stays for a month and writes the next several letters home:

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely, 6th & Madison Ave., Covington, KentuckyLower right corner: c/o Peoples Savings BankPostmarked: Biloxi, Miss. May 16 1918 9 PM

The White HouseOVERLOOKING THE SPARKLING WATERS

OF THE GULF OF MEXICOBiloxi, Miss.

Dear Steve,We arrived safely at midnight. The train being six hours late due to a wreck

near Louisville. It is lovely here and the water is beautiful, but I tell you I am

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powerfully lonesome. The children are out on the beach, playing in the sand. It is such pretty, white sand. How I do wish you were here with us. I'll bet you are not missing me half as much as I do you.

We came down on the train with a very loving couple. They seemed to put in most of the time kissing and hugging. I think they must have been on their honeymoon. Well, how are you getting along with out me? Do you like your freedom. There are just about six people here now, but hope to get acquainted with someone in the next day or two. I certainly feel like a stranger in a strange land. We came down on the train with a Mr. Kersting and his little boy, and they were very nice to us. Do you remember him? He used to live on Scott Street near fifteenth. How about the trunk? Hope it is on the way. Had to buy something this a.m. for the boys to wear. How I do wish you were here. I don't think I can stay a month.

With all my love & kisses,Lovingly,

Jane

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely, 6th & Madison St., Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Biloxi, Miss. May 23 1918 3-30 PReturn Address: The White House, Mrs. Cora E. White, Prop., Biloxi Miss.

The White HouseOVERLOOKING THE SPARKLING WATERS

OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Biloxi, Miss.

Dear Steve,

Just received your letter and was surely glad to get it. I was beginning to worry myself to death over not hearing, just imagined all kinds of things had happened.

Steve, I hate to ask for more money so soon but I had only fifteen cents left when the check came and the forty did not cover my bill here, as I had three something to pay extra on the bill for the trunk. I have found a cheaper boarding place & think I will like it just as well as here. The table here is very poor, so I feel it is a crime to pay $37.50 a week & our room is a back one & very warm over the kitchen where we get all the noise & on top of this we sleep under mosquito bars which keep out what little breeze there is at night. The new place is called the Memphis. Have gotten a nice big front room with two beds in it & get a lovely

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breeze all the time. Money certainly flies at a place like this. So much car fare and extras in the way of washing etc. Had to buy some clothes for the boys before the trunk came.

Took such good pictures of the children. Will send one tomorrow. They certainly are having a good time; just enjoy every minute of the day. They have just come in from a swim. They found a great long board and had great sport trying to swim on it. I went in once, two days ago, & sun burnt my neck & arms so. I have suffered a good deal, especially at night.

How are you getting along? Where are you staying? I don't think you miss me one half as much as I do you. Won't you write to me oftener for I do get so lonesome as night comes on. Little (Steve) thought it very strange that I did not hear from you for so long, he wanted to know "what was the matter with father, anyway".

Will have to stop now and see where the boys are. Write to me right away, won't you? And don't forget the money. I will have just five cents left this evening after paying my car fare to the new place. If only a dollar or two send it right away. I leave here owing 1.03 so hurry and help me.

With love and kissesYour loving wife

Jane

How I do wish you were here with us. The place is lovely & we could have so many pleasant trips around to-gether.

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison St., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Biloxi, Miss. May 27, 1918 5-30 P

Monday, May 28

My dear husband,

Received your letter Saturday and one this morning with the five. Was so happy to get the letter & the money was a life saver. Well, here I am in my new boarding home, and though it is not as modern as the White House, am much more comfortable. Have a nice cool front room & the meals are much better. There is just one other old couple here, so we do just as we please. The boys go all day in their overalls, just dressing in time for dinner. We are within walking distance from town.

Have just gotten back from down town with these pictures. Don't you think

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they are pretty good? Don't worry about me, but just write to me. That does me more good than anything.

There are two good picture shows & we have been twice. Last week was the Red Cross drive here, which cost me one thirty five before I got through. They had toll gates, two to every square. How I do wish you were here with me. It would do you so much good. The bathing in the salt water & free easy life is just what you need. I am beginning to feel better. Thought at first I would not stay. I met such a dear young married woman & little girl from Birmingham, but they went home last night. We took these pictures together. Don't worry about the boys. The only time Steve was up to his neck in the water was when I was with him. He really has to go five hundred feet out before it is up to his neck. They are surely having a good time. We are going to start going in before breakfast in the morning.

About the Mrs. White, proprietor of the White House. I did not see her the whole week I was there. She has a cottage about two doors from the hotel & no one ever sees her. She must be busy counting her profits, which believe me are something.

Tell me about Laurie. Did he come back after going to Louisville? Thought he was going right to Great Lakes. We are going to take a trip to Ship Island in a few days. Only fifty cents apiece, about twelve miles out. I have taken a picture of the view of the Gulf from our window. Will send it in a few days.

I must tell you of the soft shelled crabs we are having here. They are so good & we have them about three times a week. Also, fresh fish nearly every day, but I am not so crazy about that. I was so glad to hear that you had dinner with Aunt Hat & Mr. Ellis. I wish you could have stayed longer. Please don't work too hard with the grand jury and try to get out of making so many speeches. You know you need good nights of rest & sleep to be equal to your legal work.

Have made friends with a Mrs. Vaughn, who is here from San Antonio, Texas. We took a walk to the library this a.m. How I wish you could see this pretty place. I have never seen so many beautiful trees, the magnolias especially. They grow to such enormous size. I am going to try and get some blooms off them to send you. Excuse pencil. Will have to get pen and ink when I go down town. Write to me soon. I long for a letter every day and am so disappointed when I don't get one.

With a heart full of love for you and a thousand kisses,Your loving wife

Jane

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The MemphisBiloxi, Miss.

The stationary and envelope are bordered in black, an outward sign of mourning. Even though Jane dated this the 28th, it was postmarked the 27th. The picture postcard was enclosed.

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison St., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Biloxi, Miss. May 31 1918 1-30 P

Dear Steve,Just received your letter, though it was very brief. Also the check, yesterday.

Have you gotten my letter with the pictures & what do you think of them.Mrs. Vaughn, the children & I have just come back from the woods where I

gathered some blooms from a magnolia tree. Am sending you one in this mail. Guess it will be rather faded when it arrives, but you will have some idea of its wonderful beauty & sweet fragrance.

I was so sorry to hear that you have been bilious. I hope the calvinel has helped you.

Do you mean to tell me that out of two hundred and four votes, you got all but three? I think that was wonderful. About my being so far away, you haven't any idea how I felt when I got here. I felt just like I had not a friend in the world & would like to have gotten on the train & come right home. But I am feeling better now, since I know a few people and am really enjoying it. But I will say this, would

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have been a better time if you were with me.Steve has been bothering me to death this morning to go out with him in a

row boat, so guess I will have to hire some one to take us out. I am afraid to go alone, as it is so rough.

I took them to see the picture "the Blue Bird" yesterday and they did enjoy it, but it made me feel very sad.

Excuse this pencil but I just can not write with ink with the children around me. Steve, do you think you could send me the rest of the money in a lump next week, train fare & all. Thought as long as I am so near New Orleans, would stay there. Find I can get room in hotel for 1 $ day & take meals where ever we happen to be. It will be fine for Steve to see. Write me what you think of this, and please make your letters a little longer. They make me feel like you don't miss me very much.

With love and hugs & kisses without number,Your loving wife

Jane

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison St., Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Biloxi, Miss. Jun 3 1918 12-30 P

Monday, June 3

My dear, dear husband,

Just returned to the house and found your letter waiting for me, and I am so glad to get it, after the one I received from you yesterday saying you have been feeling so bad. I am afraid you are working too hard. Please take care of yourself. Your good health is the greatest blessing you can have and though you feel you can not do enough for your dear country, try and take it slower and consider the fact that you have a wife and family to keep well for.

Well, I must tell you about our trip this morning. This being Jefferson Davis' birthday, Mrs. Vaughn, the children and I took a trip to Beauvoir, his home & now the home of confederate soldiers. As we approached the home, we heard the soft and sweet strains of "way down upon the swanee river" and "old black Joe,” sung by some of the veterans and old ladies. They were all gathered about an old square piano in the lovely old parlor of Beauvoir. Looking up over the fireplace, we saw a beautiful oil painting of Davis. We all signed our names in the register and then went out and took some pictures of some of the old soldiers with the boys.

Steve, I have just sent you a telegram about coming home Saturday. You know I was coming home any way the following Wednesday, so that it is just four days sooner and it seems like a foolish extravagance to spend twenty five or thirty

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dollars extra to stay that little while longer. About the boarding house, I like it very much here, but of course the fare is nothing like as good as we have at home though it is much better than at the White House. I have a nice cool front room and it is twelve dollars and a half cheaper, so that I have had more money to spend and it surely does take it. I will owe for this weeks board 25$ and the washing and thought if you can send me the money by Thursday that I would spend Friday & Saturday in New Orleans and leave for home Saturday night, the eighth. It will cost about five dollars over there but I think it will be worth it. You have sent me eighty five dollars so far; doesn't that sound awful? But I think I'm going to be better for the change, though I did take a trip to see the doctor here the other night, to have my kidneys examined, as I have been up five & six times in the night. Don't think there was anything wrong though. Gave me medicine and said I was a little underweight.

Well, don't think for a minute I am not missing you. I wish I had you here right this minute to show you how much. I lie awake hours at night thinking about you and wishing you were here right in my arms.

Well, dear I will have to say good bye for this time as we are just about to go in bathing & I must get into that gay bathing suit of mine. Am enclosing a picture of the boys. The other is like one I have sent, but a better print. Wish you were here to go in with me. The water is fine.

LovinglyJane

P. S. Here are 1,000,000 kisses and hugs. Do you want them?

[Envelope and stationary are bordered in black.]

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Young Steve, Jane and little John Blakely in Biloxi, Mississippi.

[The child on the end is unidentified and probably a playmate, staying at the same hotel at the time]

The telegram Jane mentioned:

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Addressed to: Mr. S. L. Blakely, 6th & Madison St., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Biloxi, Miss. Jun 5 1918 1-30 P

WednesdayMy dear husband,

I received your letter last night & have just sent you a telegram as I was afraid this letter would not reach you in time. I am leaving tomorrow (Thursday) evening to spend two days in New Orleans, at the Grunewald Hotel. Just could not resist two days stay there. Will leave there Saturday night. Will telegraph you what time to meet us. I am enjoying my vacation, but I will be glad to get home again. Little Steve was tickled to death to get the check. Have just paid my board up until tomorrow night, so will have the other fifteen for fare to New Orleans & expenses until the seventy five arrives. I expect to ride on all the rubber neck wagons in town so that I won't miss anything. I sure do wish you could be with me, but I will be with you Sunday night & we will surely have that big time. The boys have just come in and put on their bathing suits to take a dip. Wish you could see Steve. Can't swim but gets his head under the water and turns summer salts. They are certainly enjoying the water. Will have to go now and be with them. Will write soon again. Here are 1,000,000 more hugs & kisses from

Your loving wifeJane

* * * * * * *

What isn't mentioned, as it was a subject not spoken of in polite society, was the fact that Jane was "with child" when Courtney died. When she took the boys to Biloxi, she was in her sixth month. This must have been extremely hard for her, dealing with her grief and keeping up with those two rambunctious boys.

Jane and the boys return to "Beechwood" about June 8th. The next entry in the SLB diary is:

Friday July 5th 1918 After the big German expose yesterday, was congratulatedon all sides. Took Laurie to train today. He leaves for Louisville - then to GreatLakes to serve in the Navy during the war.

"Pappy" and his politics! I have seen several newspaper accounts about the big "German expose,” but none are in my possession.

Now we come to the next SLB entry:

Thursday August 1st 1918 My little boy, born this morning at 12.20, died a few moments after. Baptized by Dr. Molley. Jane doing well.

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And nothing more is said about the infant, Paul Lendrum Blakely, who lies in eternal rest next to his big brother, Courtney, at St. Mary's Cemetery in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky. A heart so heavy already, I guess he just could not write more.

You wonder what he was thinking when he did this:

Thursday September 12, 1918 Registered for military service today. Applied for

admission to Officers Training school yesterday.

Steve is 40 years old! He has a wife, who has suffered the loss of her only sibling, Wyk, and two of her children, all in a span of just 14 months! And he has three growing children, who need his presence, guidance and support!

Monday September 20th 1918 Successfully passed examination for admission to Artillery Officers School with average of 86%.

Under other circumstances, I would think this very admirable and commendable, but I do not. I find it hard to believe, as intelligent and as successful as he was, that he would get caught up in the frenzy!

Steve makes no further entries in his diary, but the following letters from Jane have survived the ages to tell of her hurt, loneliness and pain:

Addressed to: Candidate Officer Stephens BlakelyObservation Battery - 9 Field ArtilleryCentral Officers Training SchoolCamp Zachary TaylorLouisville, Ky.

Lower left corner: 1st SectionReturn address: Mrs. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Nov 7 1918

My dear husband,

Your letter arrived yesterday and I was surely glad to get it. I have certainly been down in the depths since you left. My dear, I never thought I would feel as I have, or I would never have let you go. Have felt so bitter about it all, for I don't see how you can feel your duty to your country before me and the children, but I guess I will get over it. I will try, any way. You must be having a rather hard time, from the drift of your letter & I am worried for fear you will get sick. Went in town today and sent you an army blanket & some foot warmers. I do hope they will let you have them. Take good care of the blanket, for I had to pay fifteen dollars for it.

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Have you received the money order yet? Sent it yesterday. Do you know that today is John's birthday? We have just finished supper and had a cake with seven candles on it & prizes for all and a box of stone blocks for John & they all seemed happy & satisfied. Dear, excuse this pencil, but I am so nervous that I can not use ink. I have been all to pieces since you left me & have thought two or three times that I would just have to get you back some way. I have asked myself a million times, why have you left me. I guess though I will get through the three months, if only you do not go over. I never on earth could stand it, Steve. You can't imagine the responsibility I feel & you know I have not much strength left to go on. The children are well & send love and kisses to you. Must leave you now. Do write to me often. With all my love, ever

your devotedJane

P. S. Do you remember the morning I took one of these pictures? How would you like to be milking the cows?

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Candidate Officer Stephens L. BlakelyObservation Battery 9, Field ArtilleryCentral Officers Training SchoolLouisville, Ky.

Lower left corner: 1st SectionReturn Address: Mrs. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Nov 9 1918 -- Louisville, Ky. Nov 12 1918 4-30 PMWritten in pencil: "not 9th Ob." (that part of the address has line drawn through.)

STEPHENS L. BLAKELYATTORNEY AT LAW

COVINGTON, KENTUCKY

My dear husband,

Received your short but sweet letter yesterday. Haven't you gotten the money order yet? I sent it Monday afternoon.

I came in this afternoon to see about the 350 and find they will not make a report of it until the last of the month. I am very much worried about money. Have just one dollar in bank and the prospect of moving next week. Have just been to see Frank Evans about selling the thrift stamps, so that will help me out. You know I have the taxes, life insurance & fire insurance to pay, besides Xmas to do. What do you think about the war? Do you think it is over and do you think you will train the

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three months? The children are well, though when I went home yesterday I found Steve had hit John in the head with a rock, which made quite a bad place but he is alright (sic) now.

I forgot to tell you about Steve's rabbits. They met with a sad fate. The morning after you left, we woke up and found that something had gotten them in the night, dogs I guess.

Have you received the blanket and warmers yet? I am so afraid you are going to get sick. With love & a hug.

Loving

Jane

Sadly, I note she had written "ugly" after the word loving, but scratched it out.

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Can. Officer Stephens BlakelyObs. Battery - 9 Field ArtilleryC. O. T. S. Camp TaylorLouisville, Ky.

Lower left corner: 1st SectionPostmarked: Covington, Ky. Nov 15 1918 6.30 PMSent Special Delivery - 10¢ extra

Friday

My dear friend husband,

I guess you have begun to feel that I am never going to write. I have been so busy and so tired from moving that I have not been able to collect my thoughts. We moved in town Tuesday & are just about settled. I think we will be comfortable, though it is crowded. Not enough room for clothes. As far as rest, I don't see much in store. It is harder in another way; have to look after the children so much more. Jane & john are down in the park now. They came in just black, though. Just seem to wipe up the very street. Steve is up at your mother's. He has written you a letter. I am sending it with this. I found, after moving, there was no gas in the flat so had to buy a small electric plate for 7.50.

Steve, I did not know what to do about the taxes, as there was not much money coming in, just the usual money on the first & tenth. Found they were $89.00 so had Frank Evans to release the bond & borrowed one hundred. I did not do this

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until I had been to see Harry Klosterman twice. Both times he was out. Do you think you could get some of that money from Gilvin? The bills are pouring in and some very dunning ones. The West Publishing Co. say they can not allow you any more credit, so please do what you can. Received a bill from Edmonds yesterday $16.00 for storage on that old piano & $11.00 for moving in.

When do you think you will come home? I feel as though the bottom had fallen out of everything for me. You should never have left me. I feel it very much. I am afraid that Peggy is influencing you in a great many ways. Why did you call her up and tell her good bye when you left, after I asked you not to. I certainly have found out where I stand as far as Peggy goes. No more kissing & familiar ways go any more. Do you hear? I guess you think I am jealous. Well, maybe I am. I feel very much humiliated at my position. Think of how ill I was just three months ago and you were so ready to leave me I shall never, never understand how you could do it. I do not sleep half of the night, thinking about it and wondering what people must think, for several have told me right out that you should not have left me. Why did you have to leave me and go through so many hardships to appreciate what I have been to you? I have certainly always tried to do what was right & feel as though it is hopeless if what I have been through does not make you love me all the more, without getting away from me.

Have not heard from you for a week. Why don't you write? I feel very blue & downhearted. I want to ask you a question. Please answer it. Did you ever discuss me with Peggy? The reason I ask this is because of a remark she made the last time I saw her. She said that you said I seem to have lost interest in things and people. Now tell me just what you said, will you?

School opened yesterday but I am not going to send the children until next week as the flu is still raging. Must close now. With love from me & the children.

Devotedly

Jane

P. S. Don't think me crazy, dear, but I am so nervous all the time & can't sleep. I have tried to tell you all about it in this letter & hope you will understand. I just feel like if you don't come home soon to stay I will do something desperate.

Jane

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. S. L. Blakely50th Bty. F. A. C. O. T. S.Camp Zachary TaylorLouisville, Ky.

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Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Nov 19 1918 4.30 PMSent Special Delivery - 10¢ stamp extra

Tuesday

My own dear husband,

Your dear old letter by special came last night & I was so glad to get it, though it did make me feel ashamed of myself for all the little doubts that have been chasing through my mind lately. I also received the two letters written the sixteenth. I think some of them must have been lost, though, as I had not heard for one whole week until they came yesterday. I am just counting the days until you come back to me. I just watch every couple I see and think oh, how grand it must be just to be together. Be sure and wire me when you will be here as I want to meet you at the train.

We went out home Sunday to look at the place and to bring in some things we forgot. The trip made me realize how much more cheerful it is in here, though we are somewhat crowded. Will not do anything about another flat until you come, dear, as we might be able to get a room for Mama & Datton in the building. Should we have to move there, you will be here to help me. It was such an undertaking moving in. Such a time as I did have, and just as the moving men came, the man came from Pugh's for the cows & found they had gotten out. After about two hours search, we found them much to our relief. I will surely enjoy our good milk again. We are paying eighteen cents a quart for it & it looks and tastes like chalk water. We have been having our breakfast and lunch in our flat and taking our dinner in the cafe, which is just as Aunt Belle told me, very poor and rather expensive. Our meals costs about 2 dollars. I was so amused at Steve. Someone asked him how he liked town and he said al-right if he could just get enough to eat.

I am enclosing the letter, I forgot to send, from him. Isn't it cute. He is very much excited over joining the victory boys last Sunday & struck out to find a job this a.m. to earn the five dollars for membership. Went to answer the add (sic) he found in the Post for an office boy. Found it was cousin John Cooper, so he did not go in, as he heard him say once that he would not hire any relative to work for him. Steve is getting so manly. I think he begins to feel like the man of the house.

I have not sent them to school yet as I have been so afraid of their getting the flu. It has been raining for two days now and I think they are feeling their confinement and I know I am. It will be a relief when they go back to school. Thought we could let them have lunch there and make it still easier.

About the Wintermeyer case, have not heard as yet about it but will surely wire you if there is good news. I had to buy a day bed after all, but it is a nice one & so comfortable. I tried every place to get an army cot, but they seem to have been

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bought up by the army

I went over to Pogue's this a.m. and had my hair treated and curled & a facial, and all for you my dear, dear love, and you will only be sure to come in the next few days. I will be the happiest woman in town, I know. I love you more than I can say in words. I don't believe I could ever have stood your going to France, for just the thought of your being in Louisville & my not being allowed to be with you has been enough for me. So please come as soon as you possibly can. Please excuse this awful writing and scratches. The children are all around me and I can hardly get along. Your mother went to Cardome last Saturday to stay a few weeks.

Well, dear, I will have to say good bye for now. With a heart full of love, my dear, all for you.

Affectionately

Jane

"Datton" is the nickname for Jane Ashton. "Mama" is Sallie [Richardson] Piatt.Jane is still using the black-bordered stationary, and this letter is written in ink.

* * * * * * *Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely

50 Btry. F. A. O. C. T. S.Camp TaylorLouisville, Ky.

Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Nov 23 1918 7 AM

Friday night

My own dear husband,Your last dear letter came this morning, which I sure was glad to get. I was

beginning to worry on account of the cold you have had. I will surely come to Louisville. Just name the day and I will be there.

I have forgotten in each letter to tell you about receiving the parcels. They have all come o. k. Suit, suit case and all. I have taken your suit to the cleaners to have all ready for your return.

I suppose you know about the Wintermeyer case having been affirmed. Isn't it fine, just to think we will be all out of debt by the first of March. Won't it be a grand free feeling?

I was a little disappointed in reading your letter, as you did not speak of when you would be home. But I would love, of course as you know, to spend a few days in Louisville with you & then will you come home with me? and never, never leave me again. I am a different person now that I know you are coming back to me

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soon.The children are well and looking forward to seeing you. I think John

expects you Sunday and he said this a.m. "only two more days and father will be here".

I sent you a box of candy yesterday. Did you get it? Each piece is a long lingering kiss from me. Do you get that? Wire me when to come and I'll sure make the train. Must say good night. The children have come in and are so noisy that I can not write any more. With all my love and kisses,

Your loving wife,

Jane

This is the last letter written on the black bordered stationary, and she is back to writing with a pencil. It is also the last written to Steve while away at Camp Taylor.

SLB in his uniform, about November 1918 Background - front porch of "Beechwood". Notice closed shutters.

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Sometime during the eventful year 1918, while Jane Ashton was at Cardome, she made her First Holy Communion. Although the picture is not dated, I can tell from the background that she is at Cardome, and she would be about 9 years old.

In an attempt to find an exact date, I went back and checked a list titled "Dates To Remember" that was put together by Steve Blakely, probably later in his lifetime. All of the other children are mentioned, but not Jane Ashton.

So I include her First Communion picture here:

By the year 1919, the Blakely children are growing up. Steve, the eldest, is now 11, will be 12 on July 14th; Jane Ashton just turned 10 on Dec. 20th; and John

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turned 8 last November 4th.There are no letters written for the next three years, so I presume everyone stayed home; Steve at his law office and Jane out at their country home, "Beechwood,” minding the family matters.

These are Steve's diary entries for the year:

Saturday June 28th 1919 Married 13 years today. Bells are now ringing for peace.10 AM.

Wednesday October 22, 1919 This day got the following note from the Belgian Council:Belgian ConsulateConsulat de BelgiqueCincinnati, Ohio Oct. 20, 1919

My dear Mr. Blakely;I take great pleasure in handing you herewith six cards, which will

enable you to pass through the guard in order to be presented to theirMajesties, the King and Queen of Belgium, on Wednesday, at 4 o’clockat Music Hall.

When introducing you and your friends, I want to tell the Kingwhat you have done for the cause of Belgium.

Believe meYours very sincerely,

G. A. AertsI invited J. R. Kelly, J. B. O'Neal, C. E. Little and Claude Johnson to go withme, but finally appeared at the reception with Kelly, Ashbrook, Johnston, Little,& Judge J. B. Read. Capt. Poulius, who had no ticket but got in anyhow. Thereception was held in the lobby of the south wing and we fell in at the end of a long line of about a hundred people - when in marched the King. Aerts stoppedthe line and in a loud voice gave the King my name and said that I was the headof the C. P. L., told him the work that had been done, that while the King was fighting Germans in Europe, the League had been fighting there in Covington, that it was the greatest patriotic organization in the country - and he even told the King that we had been sued by the Germans. The King replied, thanking me and the League, and encouraged us to go on. I then talked with the Queen, shook hands with her, as I had with the King, and left forgetting the Crown Prince.

Tuesday Nov. 11th 1919 Last year the amnesty was signed at Camp Taylor. This morning at breakfast Steve heard an airplane out in the yard, and we saw theNC 4, the first plane to cross the Atlantic, on its way to Louisville. This afternoonmarched in the Armistice Day parade.

Wednesday Dec. 3rd, 1919 One year ago today I was discharged from the army. Wasin Washington last week, sworn in as an attorney of the Supreme Court.

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Although this photo is not dated, it was probably taken around this time.1919 - 1920

These are the entries in the SLB diary for the year 1920:

March 17th 1920 Argued the case of Scot. against the Com. at Washington today.Corsatt on the other side and it being the first case I had to argue before the Federal Supreme Court. Jane and I came to Washington two days ago and are at the New William. Jane meets her relative Mrs. Worthington. Lunch with SenatorBeckham. - Won this case.

June 19th 1920 This day was offered leave to write my own check to use myinfluence to allay opposition to pardon of Schoberg, Knise and Feltman.

Monday Oct. 10, 1920 This morning as we came to town Jane Ashton remindedme that this was little Courtney’s birthday. So I got out my diary of Oct 1907 and read what I had written on that day.

Nov. 8th, 1920-Monday This day I thought of Kipling’s “Boots” that Tom Graydon recited. I have it not in my books but when I get it, I intend to write itdown in here. A man must go through with it as Steerfurth’s friend said. And

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there are many things we must go through with. We must go - go - and go and onand on. At Hamilton James’ tonight where I left Jane with Peggy and then to the meeting and back at eleven to take her home.

An interesting diary entry, probably expressing what HIS deep feelings were, though quoting from a recitation he had heard. Interesting to note, also, that they socialize with Wyk's widow, Peggy. But why not? After all, she is their sister-in-law!

Nov. 17th 1920 Laurie married today at St. Peter’s in Lexington to Frances Shouseby Paul. Mama, Mary Louise and Lou jr., Jane, Peggy and I went up last night. Stayed at Lafayette Hotel where we were entertained by Mr. Shouse. Peggystayed at Estelle Kemper’s and Jane and I there last night to see her and Maury.Home tonight - Jane staying over.

Now isn't that interesting? When I read this passage, I wondered why the widow Piatt would be going to Laurie Blakely's wedding in Lexington with Steve and Jane. Her familial ties to Jane - or just friendship with the Blakely's? In the Nov. 15, 1918 letter that Jane wrote to Steve, she made her feelings about Peggy quite clear!

Friday Nov. 26, 1920 Jane home tonight. Party at Standadhouse Club.

Thursday Dec. 30th, 1920 Verdict for one cent in the case of Grote vs Blakely lastTuesday. Jury so instructed but desired to return a verdict for defendant.

Friday Dec. 31st, 1920 New Years dance at Ft. Mitchell. Menaril Pullerlythanked me for C. P. L. work.

[C.P.L. stands for Citizens Protective League.]

As we now explore the year 1921, in the SLB diary we find:

March 29, 1921 Dance at Ft. Mitchell last night. John made First CommunionSunday, the 27th.

Curious that he never mentions Jane Ashton's First Communion.

Wednesday May 25th, 1921 Meeting of C.P.L. tonight. Frankfort yesterday at Court of Appeals. In the midst of campaign.

Steve is still active in the Citizens Protective League and politics. At some point in his political career, such as it was, Steve ran for Lt. Governor of Kentucky.

June 11th 1921 At races today with Jane, Mrs. Crosby, Geo., John Menziesand Ollie. I to Oak Ridge to a meeting and met the crowd at the Club.

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The following letters from Jane indicate she spent the month of July at the Adams County Mineral Springs in Ohio:

Postcard to: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Peoples Bank Bldg., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Peebles, Ohio Jul 6 1921 3 PM

Arrived safely but very tired after ride of twelve miles over terrible road. Will write tomorrow. Did you send Angela's box? How about the dance? Children seem to be having a good time. Lovingly

JaneDon't forget the candy.

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, 6th & Madison, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Peebles, Ohio Jul 8 1921 3 PM

Adams County Mineral Springs, Peebles O.July 7, 1921

My dear husband,

I meant to write yesterday but was so tired I just could not. I am feeling better today and I believe the rest here is going to do me a lot of good. The place is not as nice as when the Rogers had it, but the table is fairly good and we have two nice rooms with bath between and are very comfortable. The children love it and it

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is just the place for them as they do not have to dress up. I received your two brief notes. The silver, I think is all there. How is every thing going in your race? Don't work too hard. I wish it would rain & cool things off for you in the city. It is very comfortable here. We can usually find a cool spot. Have to write with pencil as have not any ink in room. Write soon. With all my love.

Affectionately,

Jane

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely, 6th & Madison Ave., Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Ohio 1921 (blurred)

Mineral Springs HotelPeebles, Ohio

My own dear husband,I meant to write you yesterday but was not feeling very well so waited until

this Sunday afternoon. Am feeling better but my arms above the elbow are all broken out & itch terribly. I don't know from what, but it may be the water. We are having a good rest, though when we first came I thought could not stay out the four weeks but we have met some very nice people here, especially so a Mrs. Blakemore of Virginia who was here with her mother. Found we both had the same wedding day, only she was married the year before we were. She left today and I know I am going to miss her. She is a cousin of Mrs. Buxton's, so I guess we will see her in Covington sometime.

Many thanks for the candy. It surely tasted good. How is the race coming on? Don't wear yourself out. I hear the weather there has been so hot. I can't imagine it, as we sleep under a comfort every night. The children are fine and getting fat. Steve and John have just bought a fishing line and gone to fish for minnows in the creek. Steve was surely tickled with his gun. I took his picture this morning.

Do you remember a Mrs. Nettie Rust of Covington? She and her sister, Mrs. Worthington of Louisville, are here. They both knew your father very well. You have not said in any of your letters that you miss me. Haven't you had time? or is someone trying to vamp you again. Have you seen anything of Jean since I left. Write to me soon. If you have time, send me something to read. I have read three good books, but there is nothing left. With all my love.

Devotedly

JaneI am missing you and Jane. Will be glad when I get home.

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely, Peoples Bank Building, Covington, Ky.Return address: Adams Co. Mineral Springs Hotel, Peebles, Ohio (picture)Postmarked: Peebles, Ohio Jul 22 1921 3 PMWritten on Hotel stationery.

ADAMS COUNTY MINERAL SPRINGS HOTELA. B. FARNSWORTH, MANAGER

Peebles Ohio July 20, 1921

My dear Steve,

I received your last letter about three days ago. Our letters must have passed each other. The children were so pleased with their letters and the money. This is Thursday night. Have had to come in off the porch as it is so cold. Can you imagine it? The thermometer registered sixty two this morning. How are you doing about the laundry? You should send it regularly every week so that you will be comfortable. The laundry you sent from our garage was the only laundry I left to come in.

We are having a wonderful rest, but the days are very long as we have breakfast about seven and walk and sit around all day. The meals are very good; very much better than when the Rogers were here. How did you enjoy your dinner with the Crosbys? I think Datton was quite envious.

What do you think? I met a girl here with whom I went to school at Maysville twenty seven years ago. She is now Mrs. William Ellis of Maysville.

I am afraid this is not to be much of a letter. Had to stop and fill out a table of five hundred. People are beginning to come now. I forgot to tell you that we have chicken at least three times a week and all we want, and delicious golden bantam corn. Will have to stop now. With all my love

AffectionatelyJane

P. S. How about some more candy?How about our board? We will owe for two weeks this coming Monday.

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely, 6th & Madison Ave., Covington, Ky.Return Address: Adams Co. Mineral Springs Hotel, Peebles, OhioPostmarked: Peebles, Ohio Aug. 1 1921 7 PM

Mineral Springs

My dear husband,

Many thanks for the candy. It certainly tasted good. I also received your letter and check and am glad to hear that you want me home soon, for I am really getting homesick for you.

Well, things have quieted down here. Last week there was quite a lively crowd. We had hay rides, card parties etc. and I have played tennis a good deal. How would you like a court on one side of our place? I think it would be fine for the children & for us, too. Saturday night we had a corn roast which was lots of fun. Do you realize we have been away four weeks today? We are coming home Wednesday, leaving here or rather from Peebles about three o'clock, so meet me if you can, and be sure and get an order from Hartley, and don't forget some sugar. Will pay bill by check in case I do not hear from you. I owe for this last week and two days, also transportation both ways.

Good by until Wednesday. With all my love,

Jane

* * * * * * *

Steve did not make any diary entries while Jane was in Ohio, and these cover the rest of the year. Really, kind of mundane stuff. They have family stay with them:

Monday Sept. 26th, 1921 Home tonight. Laurie and Frances staying with us until their flat is completed. The new depot - for which I received the order from theRailroad Commission, is already building.

They invite old friends to tea, and Steve enjoys his football:

Sunday Oct. 16, 1921 Laurie and Frances - Ham, Liette and Peggy to tea tonight. Center beat St. X football yesterday 28-6. Good game.

And they go "across the river" to a movie:

Thursday October 20, 1921 Jane and I saw the "Three Horsemen of the Apocalypse" at the Grand tonight. Very good but morbid.

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Tuesday Dec. 13th, 1921 Telegram from Peggy this morning asking me to meet her mother, which I did and drove her to the Hamilton’s where we arrived a few hours after Hamilton jr. had made his appearance. So I was the first outsider to see him.

The lives of Steve, Jane and Peggy continue!

Monday December 27th 1921 To Louisville tonight to Commonwealth’s Attorney Association. Thence to Minneapolis on the 30th. Saw a good working model, four successful trials but last time back engine cranked by hand. Well pleased but am not sure of the profits.

Saturday Dec. 31st 1921 Anveher trial this AM. Home tonight and to a New Year’s eve dance with Jane. Party afterwards at Cristy’s. John Milburn drove his machine into pond.

[Note: John Milburn drove his CAR into a pond! A car was called a machine!]

The year 1921 comes to an end and 1922 begins with a round of gay parties and visitors to "Beechwood":

Sunday Jan. 1st 1922 At Cristys tonight for a little party. Peggy came yesterday.Had the Cristys and Menzies up home this evening.

Tuesday Jan. 3rd, 1922 Dance last night at club given by Mrs. Davidson. Stevecame home.

Wonder where young Steve has been? Away at school, perhaps?

Wednesday Jan. 4th Jane in bed with cold . Weather warm.

Weather warm? In January in Kentucky?

Thursday Jan. 5th, 1922 All of us to Christys tonight. Played poker.

Jane, too?

Friday January 6th, 1922 Peggy went home today. Has been with us about a week. Jane better. Cold leaving.

Guess not.

Saturday Jan. 7th To Kansas City.

Peggy goes home, which is probably her parents home in Tiffin, Ohio, and Steve

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takes off on a business trip.

Monday Jan. 9th Saw Belle Piatt Morton and family last night. Successful in Court.

Monday February 20th 1922 Jane Ashton recovered from pneumonia.

He doesn't mention when Jane Ashton was diagnosed with pneumonia. I imagine this was a trying time, as it was pneumonia that claimed the young life of Courtney.

Wednesday February 22nd Riding with Liette and Hamilton, Jane and George Cristythrough Wyoming - was arrested for speeding. Had my new Haynes which I bought yesterday. Dance at Odd Fellows Hall Tuesday night, Had a good time.Quit smoking on the 13th of February.

SLB? Arrested for speeding? Showing off his new car, I guess. And Wyoming is a little town north of Cincinnati.

Jane takes Jane Ashton to Florida, to regain her strength, and writes these letters home:

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, Ky.Return Address: "Hotel Detroit on Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Florida"Postmarked: St. Petersburg, Fla. Mar 7 1922 5 PM


Well, we arrived Sunday at eleven thirty a.m. after a tiresome trip. In fact, I am just beginning to feel rested. I received all three telegrams and they were such a comfort, as I was so worried about you when I left.

I guess you are surprised to hear from me from here. I heard so many discouraging things on the train and from Mrs. Silverman that I thought it best to investigate before going to Pass. There was a tidal wave there last fall and the Bay and Gulf met and washed quite a bit of the island away. Also heard the drinking water was very bad. But I went over this morning and liked it very much. Not much there, but it is very restful. Much more so than this place, crowded full of people, mostly old couples, and very warm, like the last of June at home.

We are going over to Pass-a-grille tomorrow afternoon, but will not be at the Holaway until next week but at a hotel close by called the Normandy. How are you all getting along without me? Are you missing me a little bit? I do you, a great deal. Will write tomorrow. Love to you and Mama and boys.

Jane

P. S. Please send Jane A. new brown oxfords as I forgot them. They are out home.

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Love to Jean and George.

(No envelope) (Probably about Mar. 10th, 1922)


I received your last letter on Tuesday and this is Thursday. I wanted to sit right down and answer it but Jane Ashton wanted and insisted on taking a boat ride to St. Petersburg and it turned out to be quite a jaunt, as we had to stay there all night having missed the boat and jitney. But we spent the evening in the park listening to the Scotch Highlanders band, which was very fine, and also heard solo by some young lady (old black Joe) and it was lovely.

We are having a fine time and wonderful rest. I wish you could be here with us to enjoy the lovely sunshine. It would do you so much good. How are things going at home? You don't tell me a thing about how you are getting along. John's letter was so cute. Did you help him write it? He said he was hungry for some news from me. Tell him to write again.

Jane's wheel came allright and she is riding now. You need not send the shoes if you have not already done so, as she can get along without them.

Have been sewing today, to finish a dress for Jane to wear to the dance tonight, but I don't know whether they will have it or not as it is so windy. People are afraid to cross over the bridge on bad nights.

How do you like the pictures? Two were taken in St. Petersburg and the others here. I wish you could see the fish that are caught here. I have not seen one smaller than two ft.

You might write me at least every other day, don't you think so. With all my love,

Jane

P. S. Kiss the boys for me & love to Jumina.

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Some pictures taken in Florida:

Jane Ashton and her fish?

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At the beach in Pass-A-Grille

Jane Ashton in Pass-A-Grille

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, Ky.Return Address "Normandy Hotel, Pass-a-Grille, Fla." Hotel StationeryPostmarked: Pass-a-Grille, Fla. Mar. 13 1922 5 PM


I received my first letter from you on Saturday and would have written yesterday but could not find the time as we spent most of the day going to St. Petersburg to church. I was so glad to hear from you at last, for I was beginning to feel a little anxious about you. I don't understand your not having heard from me, as I wrote you from the Detroit in St. P. last Tuesday.

Am so glad you are able to be up but do be careful and don't have a relapse. We are having a fine time, though Jane A. keeps me on the jump every minute. First fishing then bathing and then shell hunting. We have found some very pretty ones.

Last Saturday we had a dance over at the Casino and of course Jane had to go and so we danced a few times. Jane A. looks like a different child. She is out doors all day and getting as brown as a berry. It is doing her a world of good. I feel better, too, but still lie awake a few hours every night.

How is everything at home and are you missing your cranky wife? Don't have too much fun without me. How are Jean & George? Give them my love. George was certainly good to you while you were sick.

Excuse pencil this time. Will try and do better. The weather is fine here. About like June at home and the temperature of the water is 77. Write to me often. I am missing you more than I can tell you.

Love,

Jane

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Pass-a-Grille, Fla. Mar 20 1922

Sunday night

My own dear husband,Well, this has been rather a lonesome day. Not feeling very good, have

stayed in the hotel most of the day. I received your last letter written on the fifteenth and the other ones were sent over from the other hotel, including the check. By the way, you had better send me money for my ticket & expenses home as I want to go over to Tampa for two or three days before I start home. We are anxious to see the alligator farms over there and other things of interest. You can join what they call the tourists club there by paying a quarter each and they do a lot for you.

I had such a nice letter from Jean. Am so glad that George has gotten a position. Did the fire do much damage to their house? Jean told me they are having the floors done over.

Jane A. is better every day. Does not look like she has been sick at all. She has not coughed once since we landed. Has John's cough cleared up yet? Write and tell me all the news.

Your last letter was so short but sweet. How I wish I could be with you tonight. I am really home sick for you. Are you truly missing me or are you having one good time without me. How did you like the pictures? I am getting so fat that I waddle; do you care? With all my love

DevotedlyJane

* * * * * * *Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Pass-a-Grille, Fla. Mar 22 1922 8 AM

Tuesday

My dear husband,

Your last letter came yesterday & in the meantime we have had some excitement. Last night we were awakened by the church bell ringing. Got up to investigate and found it was a house on fire about a square away. So we dressed and went to it and in about a half an hour six houses had burned. There was such a high wind that I believe the whole island would have gone had the St. Petersburg fire department not come. It was awful, seeing people put out of their homes in the night without any warning. One poor old lady, who is blind, was led out of her burning home by her husband & they lost everything. It made me think of our dredful (sic) fire.

Well, how are you getting along without me? You don't say you miss me a bit, so I don't think I'll come back.

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This afternoon I took a walk of about three miles along the (beach). The waves were very high and the wind blowing in my face. I came in all in a glow.

How are the boys? Tell them to write. With all my love

Jane

P. S. Did you get my last letter about the money for my ticket home?

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Pass-a-Grille, Fla. Mar 28 1922 5 PM

Sunday


Excuse the pencil but the ink is so bad. Your last letter came yesterday and I was just a little disappointed to think I would not see you for another week. We are having a good time, though. Last night we were around to see Mrs. Shultz, a very charming woman. She had just had Marie Diehl's letter and I am so glad to know her, for if you don't know anyone here on the island it is hard to meet people & know them the way you want to. She is going to take us out in her motor and I feel we will have some good times together.

We went over to the dance afterwards, Jane A. & I, and watched them dance and I did wish for you many times then as well as later on in the night, for I do love you.

You have been having quite a good time, haven't you? How did the Briscoe's happen to invite you to dine, also the Hinkleys? I did not know you had met the H.'s I am so glad you have the dinner jacket & am sure you are most beautiful in it.

About the money I will need. I guess you had better send at least a hundred & fifty for the last week's board & ticket home & I will give back what I do not need.

I think it fine that you can go to Dillsboro. I wish you could have had a longer stay. This place would have been so good for you, could you have come. The sunshine & bathing is wonderful & the fishing is almost unbelievable. They bring in from fifteen to twenty thousand pounds of king fish, alone, every day. It is great sport. In another week or so the mackerel will begin to come & they say that as soon as the bate (sic) hits the water, almost, you have a fish.

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Am glad to hear John is over his cold. Be careful with him. It seems like he has had a good many colds this winter. Will have to stop now & go to dinner. With all my love forever,

Your Jane

P. S. I wrote Jean an eight page letter ten days ago. I don't see why she has not received it.

* * * * * * *

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, Ky.Return Address: "Hotel Poinsettia, "In the Heart of the City,”

St. Petersburg, Florida (Hotel stationery)Postmarked: St. Petersburg, Fla. Apr 1 1922 9.30 AM


We have come over here to stay all night and see the Carnival. It has been several days since I have written, but we have been out on all day fishing trips to Laurentine Island, about seven miles out in the Gulf. It is great sport and now that the mackerel is beginning to come I guess we will go again.

I received that very warm letter and I did feel better after reading it, for I am longing to be with you night and day. No single life for me. The check came this morning and many thanks. I was beginning to need it. I do hope your rest will do you good. I wish you could be here with us in the glorious climate. Kiss the boys for me and tell them to be good.

Say, while we were out to the show this evening, I had a very mysterious caller. Someone by the name of Brown Bacon Black. I can't imagine whom it could have been. I presented a very blank expression when the bell boy told me.

I am writing with a pencil for I can not use this pen as it is not a stub, so please excuse. I sent some pictures in Jane A.'s letter yesterday. Will send more tomorrow. We will start home the night of the seventh and arrive there Sunday morn. Will write again.

Loving you,Jane

On a separate slip of paper Jane wrote:

I can't say how many times I can but feel tonight as if it might be every hour. Do you think you can stand it?

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While Jane and Jane Ashton are in Florida, Steve makes these journal entries:

Sunday March 12th Today Hamilton’s baby was baptized. Took all the family to church and acted as God-father for Liette’s father. Went to Laffoons for Effie. Had supper with her and took her home.

From this, it appears that Liette's father was baptized at the same time as his grandchild.

Saturday March 25, 1922 Jane and Jane Ashton have been at Pass-A-Grille, Floridasince the first of the month.

Monday April 2nd Started to Detroit Thursday. Broke down at Waynesfield and went by train. Back to Louisville Saturday to get my machine, which was not finished, and Sunday morning Laurie telephoned me that my dear mother had died at ten o’clock in the morning.

Steve's mother was Lillie Hudson Lendrum Blakely, born Sept. 13, 1852.

Tuesday April 3rd, 1922 My dear mother’s funeral this morning at 9 o’clock at theCathedral. John Ernst, Cousin Netie Ryan, Ulie Howard, Lou Baldwin, Laurie and myself pall-bearers. Paul said Mass.

Thursday April 6th Jane and Jane Ashton home today.

Wednesday April 19th Mama buried today in our new lot. Saw her and she looked just the same. Jane, Susie, Laurie, Mother Agatha, Frances, Lou jr. and I at the grave.

Interesting that there was a delay of 17 days before Lilly was interred.

Sunday April 30th, 1922 Little Steve has made - all by himself - a radio receiving setwhich actually works.

Steve is 14 years old.

Saturday May 27th Daisy Day to raise funds for disabled soldiers.

And now they sell red poppies to raise funds for the D. A. V.

Sunday June 4, 1922 Liette, Hamilton, the baby and Jane and I returned today from a motor trip to Lexington, Frankfort and Shakertown.

Tuesday June 6th, 1922 John in an entertainment at school last night as an Indianand went to school this morning with the red paint still on - which proves the charge made against him for several years that he doesn’t wash in the morning.

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Amusing passage. John is 9 years old.

Friday July 21, 1922 Just returned from Kokomo. Thence to Lima Wednesday to meetJHG who drove my car to Detroit. Back Thursday AM and drove home yesterday. Had to crank by hand three times.

And the last entry in the SLB diary of 1922 is:

Tuesday Aug. 14, 1922 Down to Culver Saturday with Ulie & Aileene Howard and Jane. Beautiful place and Steve well and happy. Has won all his fights and has qualified for the finals which came off last night, when he fought a boy named Blount for the championship. Have not heard the result. Home by way of Indianapolis and Kokomo - round trip 480 miles.

Young Steve is attending school at Culver, and in September SLB goes off on a hunting trip to Montana. Jane wrote these letters:

(On a typewriter)Addressed to: Hon. Stephens L. Blakely, % J. F. Silverman, Butte, Mont.

P.O. Box 1391 (this address has been marked through and the following written in ink:) Apgar, Mont.Lower left corner: c/o Lake McDonald CampPostmarked: Covington, Ky. Sep 11 1922 4 - PM

Monday

My own dear husband,Your letter came Saturday and I was so glad, for I am missing you. Also,

Mrs. Silverman's call over phone of your safe arrival. I suppose by now you have been in the park several days and have seen at least one bear. Have a look for me but don't get too close. I know you will have a wonderful trip and I do hope it will do you a lot of good.

We are getting along all right. The boys are in school and Jane A. leaves Wednesday.

We received a letter from Aunt Jane Saturday and she is coming this week to spend a week. I am so sorry you won't see her.

Thursday I went for a swim and afterward to the zoo to a picnic supper and danced until eleven, and last night Jean had one of her out door suppers and that's about all I have done, as I have been so busy with Jane A.

I will send your hankies when they come home, also papers. How are you feeling now? and do you want any medicine? Will have to stop now as I have all of Jane A.'s clothes to mark. Write to me. With all my love

Jane

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens Blakely, P. O. Box 1391, Butte, MontanaLower left corner: (c/o J. G. Silverman)Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Sept 16 1922 .30 PM (time/year not visible)

Saturday, September 16

My own dear husband,I am writing you in a hurry as I have to go in to have my nose treated. I have

taken a bad cold and as usual have a very sore throat, due to my nose. Well, you must be having a wonderful time. The views were lovely. Lunch

must have been very enjoyable, looking out over such a beautiful lake.We have been very busy getting ready for Aunt Jane's visit, but yesterday

she telegraphed that she could not come on account of sickness. We are so disappointed. I was so glad you had dinner with Eugene and Aunt Bell. Have they a lovely home?

I am missing you, dear, more than I can say. I hope you are missing me a little. It is quite a comfort to know that the women you are seeing are not so good looking. I will be so glad when you come home.

There is not much news, except that Louie Wood was operated upon the other day. She is getting along fine. Saw Liette the other day. Steve drove me out for a few minutes. We are going to the show next week. Jane A. is at Cardome and very happy. I received a letter from Aunt Hat about a little girl from Lexington who is going there, Caroline Stewart. Her mother & father are great friends of theirs and she wanted Jane to be nice to her.

Everything is going along fine. I have gotten such a good man to cut the grass and he can really use a sythe. The boys have cut some, but now that school has started they haven't much time.

Say, funds are getting a little low; had to pay Dallenic fifty and with Leona & the boys lunch and car fare and numerous other things the money certainly goes.

Will have to stop now as it is almost one o'clock. Jean sends love. I talked with her this a.m. Will write soon again.

Your loving wifeJane

P. S. I got Miss Rich an awfully pretty cheese & cracker dish, in silver.J

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens Blakely, P. O. Box 1391, Butte, Montanac/o Mr. J. F. Silverman

(This has been marked out and "Covington, Ky" written in, so it must have been returned)

Postmarked: Covington, Ky. Sep 22 1922 12.30 PM; Butte, Mont. Sep 25 1922

Thursday night


I just received your very brief letter of about five lines, also John's and Steve's. Well every thing is going along all right here, though I still have a very bad cold. Yesterday I went to the movies with Liette and afterwards went home with her and spent the night. Had a very nice time.

I know you will be sorry to hear about Mrs. Howard being so ill. She was taken to the hospital Tuesday morning and operated upon for locked bowels, about the most serious of operations. She is holding her own and doing as well as could be expected. Poor Ulie, I do feel so sorry for him.

When do you start for home? I will surely be glad as I am getting very homesick to see you. I have missed you so much. Have you missed me? John & Steve were so pleased with their letters. They are sitting in the dining room now, getting their lessons. Steve laboring over his Latin and algebra & John with his spelling. Will have to stop now and give John a bath for he certainly needs it. With a heart full of love for you

Ever your devoted wife

Jane

[Wait a minute!!! "Give John a bath"?? He's 10 years old, for goodness sake. Jane still must supervise his baths?]

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SLB on hunting trip to Montana - 1922

Steve also kept the following letter, but I do not know who Eva Louise is:

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Post card to Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, KentuckyNOT postmarked; stamp not cancelled.

Dear Steve,

Arrived safely though very tired. Am feeling better every day. Will write tomorrow. Last night we motored to Richmond with Marie Diehl. This is a very restful place. Hope all is well at home. Write. Love, Jane

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Aug 17 1923 (Cannot read city)


Your letter just came and I was surely glad to get it. I had begun to feel that you had forgotten me. Am glad everything is going all right at home. This is a wonderful place to rest and I feel much better than when I came. There are quite a few people here from home and the Bevel's (Bessie Kirtley) left this morning. Eugenia and I have a room together, with a bath and are very comfortable. The other day we motored to the Waco pottery and bought some lovely ware very cheap. I bought a lovely fruit bowl, lamp base and vase. We spend the evenings playing animal. Did you ever play that game? Eugenia is lots of fun as she can not remember any ones name in the game and just splutters and carries on. I miss playing bridge, though we can play in our rooms. Do you remember Herbert Warden? His mother is staying here. They now live in California. How are the boys doing? Did they get their hair cut? and a bath? Tell them to write to me. I don't believe you are missing me very much, are you? I think I will need about twenty five dollars more so you had better send it as soon as possible. This is certainly a wonderful school for those who have not much and are ambitious. Some come with out any money at all and every pupil is supposed to work two hours a day. Write to me. With a heart full of love for you

Your devoted wife

Jane

P. S. I might not need all the twenty five and if I can, will bring some of it back to you.

Apparently Jane went down to the Berea area of Kentucky for a short rest and wrote only two letters home. In turn, Steve went to Mill Springs, Kentucky in November and Jane wrote him this note:

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Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Mill Springs, KentuckyPostmarked: Covington, Ky. Nov 22 1923

Monogram jBp Westmoreland

My dear husband,

Received your letter on Tuesday telling of your safe arrival. I am so glad to hear you like it and are sleeping well. Some parts of your letter I could not make out, so please write a little plainer. Yesterday I went out to Mrs. Tom Stevenson's to a bridge party, and had such a good time. Tomorrow I am going to Mrs. Herndon's tea. We are invited to another dance. The Edwin Van Winkle are giving one on the twenty ninth. Sarah Johnson is having a tea on the thirtyeth (sic).

Everything is going along all right. The water gave out Sunday afternoon, but I have gotten a load from town. The boys are fine, though John has a slightly black eye and sore knee from playing foot ball yesterday.

Laurie and Frances came Sunday night and stayed until Tuesday morning. We are missing you, dear, so much but do hope your holiday is going to do you a lot of good. Write to me. With all my love

Jane

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The following year, in August 1924, Jane went to Indiana and sent the following postcards and letters to Steve:

Postmarked: Indianapolis, Ind. Aug 17 1924To: Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, Ky.

Here we are in old Indiana. Have just gone through the monument & are waiting for the train. Love

Jane

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Postmarked: Martinsville, Ind. Aug 19 1924

Here is where one member of the gorge club eats. Very good food, too. I wish you were here with me. I am enjoying it.

Lovingly Jane

* * * * * * *Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Martinsville, Ind. Aug. 23 1924

My dear husband,

I was so glad to get your letter that every thing is going well. I am having a wonderful rest, only wish you could be here, too. I am taking the baths and am feeling better every day. Am glad to hear we have the cow. Make Steve milk at a certain time every day. How is Rosie doing? Did she really make Sally ???Have you played any bridge? We have had one game. I came away without the kodack (sic); am certainly sorry. We are going over to the fish hatcheries this afternoon. They are the largest in the world. Are you missing me very much? I wish you could take these baths. They are certainly fine. I have been taking hot packs on shoulders, legs and arms & am getting rid of my aches & pains. Last night we went to a picture show and saw "Wild Oranges,” a story that ran in the Sat. post. Walked around the town and saw the undertakers place and the name of it was Cure & Son. This ink is awful, I can hardly write. How about a little Bissingers? What have you done on the pond? Write to me. With all my love

Jane

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The preceding letter was written with green ink on purple, textured note paper. Some words were difficult to make out, and the word following "Sally" was impossible. It could be "run".

Addressed to: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Coppin Building, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Martinsville, Ind. Aug 24 1924 6 PM

My dear husband,

Your second letter came last night with the check. We had just gotten back from the fish hatcheries and motor ride to the White Water River. The man who sits at our table took us. A rich old man by the name of Vincent, from Portsmouth and a great friend of Mr. & Mrs. Gremfer, whom I met at Mineral Springs, related to Mrs. Buxton.

Am so glad to hear the trees are coming out again and that the cistern is full. Yes I am taking the baths and hot packs, though I was right sick one day from the hot packs. The pains I had in my shoulders and back are about gone and my leg, too, is almost all right. The baths are certainly fine. I wish you could come here, too. I know you would be cured of your pains in your arm. A wonderful place to rest as there is nothing to do but listen to concerts every other night and play bridge until nine thirty. Most of the day is taken up with baths and resting.

I certainly do miss you and the children. I think we will be home next Thursday. No single life for me; how about you? Say, can you send me about twenty five more and I will try and bring back some of it. I have a good many extras, with doctor's fees and tips. Have you played any bridge? And has Dadden been in to stay any with Frances? She invited her. I did not call Liette when we came, but will on our way home. How is John behaving? And is Rosie doing all right? Write to me. With all my love, ever your devoted wife,

Jane

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There are very few SLB diary entries for 1924 and 1925, and there is rarely an entry that ties in with Jane's letters.

These two passages I did find interesting, though, so I include them here.

6-26-25 Gave Jane a diamond ring for our anniversary present. Next Sunday will be the nineteenth anniversary of our marriage.

Family story goes that, when he gave this ring to Jane, he said "It isn't real". Jane Ashton inherited the ring, and when her oldest child, Stephens Blakely Woodrough, became engaged to Margaret Ann Vollmer, Jane Ashton gave him the ring to give to his bride, and she wears it today.

6-30-25 Steve left for Camp Knox today for a month training. Went down on the boat.

And that explains this official looking post card:

Front

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Back

For the next three years, everyone stays home. There are no more letters from Jane. I include here some of the SLB diary entries for this period of time:

7-12-25 Jane Ashton operated on for appendicitis at St. Elizabeth Hospital today. Dr. Ryan did it and very successful. Jane stayed at hospital, and Laurie and Frances came out and stayed all night with me.

7-24-25 Effie James died last Thursday night at Tiffin, and was buried at Spring Grove today. Peggy down. Margaret has been staying with us. Polk Laffoon, Ben Culbertson, Frank Colville, myself and Dr. Thornberry and other I have forgotten were pall bearers. Jane and I then went to the hospital and brought Jane Ashton home.

9-23-25 Dadden starts to Miss Doherty’s School tomorrow.

10-27-25 Ann Sinclair died this morning at one o’clock.

2-18-26 Have gotten all my books down in the little room, and so for the first time in my life have books together. Also, have two new rooms in the attic, one for the boys and the other for Leona. Spoke last night at my Alumni banquet from which I had been absent nearly twenty-five years.

The little room he refers to here became known as "the book room,” which was a small room on the second floor of "Beechwood,” to the left of the master bedroom. You had to go through the book room to go out on the little balcony that was just

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above the front door.

12-25-26 Burglars got in tonight and took my fur lined coat, my cloth coat and Jane’s fur coat.

A bad ending for Christmas Day, 1926!

12-30-26 Reordered my fur lined coat Monday. City water turned into the house today. Steve got his first dinner clothes.

Wonder if Jane got her fur coat replaced, too? Well, at least they have running water, now.

Just five entries for the entire year 1927:

2-10-27 Steve preparing for Annapolis exam. Telephone communications between Cincinnati and London opened today.

Don't believe Steve was successful.

4-8-27 Television tried out in New York today. While not, of course the first experiment, it is the first semi commercial operation.

And commercial television came into being!

5-23-27 Saw and heard the Vitaphone at the Capitol Theatre in Cincinnati last night. Will make moving pictures a different thing. Lindbergh flew from New Work to Paris in 33.5 hours.

1927 looks like a pretty exciting year; transatlantic telephone communications, commercial television, talking pictures and finally, Lindbergh's flight across the Atlantic.

We end the year with this:

9-30-27 Began garage and porch on back of my house. Steve started to U.C. engineering course this term.

Sometime early in 1928, Steve decides to put in a subdivision on his property in Fort Mitchell. The entrance street is named "Ashton Road".

The first entry in the SLB diary for 1928:

5-17-28 Have finished grading South Iris Road and Ashton Road in my new subdivision.

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6-5-28 Dadden graduated from Miss Doherty’s School today. Bought Nash automobile from Laurie.

And Steve, still very much into politics, writes:

8-4-28 Steve was twenty-one on July 14 and cast his first vote today at Ft. Mitchell voting precinct at Lexington Pike and Kyles Lane for Brent Spence and Martin Brown, candidates in the Democratic primary for Congress and County Attorney. Spence was nominated but Brown was defeated by Richard Von Horne.

The following entry needs no explanation:

10-10-28 My dear wife was operated on at St. Elizabeth Hospital Saturday, Sept. 29th, received the last sacraments on Tuesday. She died peacefully last Saturday, Oct. 6 at ten minutes of six. Paul said Requiem Mass at the Cathedral at nine o’clock Tuesday and she was buried at St. Mary’ Cemetery. We have been married over twenty two years and have lived a very happy life together.

Jane had gone to the hospital to have a hysterectomy. She died of septicemia, according to my mother.

Jane Piatt Blakely was 46 years old when she died. She left a husband and three grieving children: Steve, age 21, Jane Ashton, age 18 and John Ruffner, age 15.

I end PART I with this entry from the SLB diary:

11-3-28 In Columbus today. Came home Sunday, 4th.

Hmmmmmmmmmm...........his wife of 22+ years died on October 6th. What is he doing in Columbus, Ohio on a Saturday just three weeks later????

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Part II

Margaret Hamilton [James] Piatt

The "Peggy" letters.

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Now we come to Part II, the "Peggy" letters. As I may have said before, I had very mixed emotions when these letters were discovered.

I guess the strongest "medicine" to swallow was the fact that she began writing these "love letters" so soon after the death of my grandmother, Jane Piatt Blakely. Was it a sense of loyalty to my mother's "real mother"? I don't know. I do know that, growing up, I always knew "Gee" was NOT my real grandmother, that Jane Piatt was my grandmother, and "Peggy,” as my grandfather called her, was my step-grandmother. These feelings come from my mother.

My mother knew Wykoff and Margaret [James] Piatt as Aunt Peggy and Uncle Wyk. She spent many, many days, nights and summers with their children, Margaret, Wyk, and Page. Mother told me that these three cousins would come and spend whole summers with them, and her mother, Jane Piatt, would care for this extended family. That might explain why Jane went away so many times!

But Jane died, and Steve must get on with his life. That is understandable. He is a widower, now, with three teenage children that seem to be "out of control,” or so I've heard.

Stephens Laurie Blakely is 50 years old, has a very good law practice, is quite well known and involved in politics. He has a lovely home, "Beechwood,” and his children are Steve, age 21 - Jane Ashton, age 18 - and the youngest, John Ruffner, age 17.

Margaret Hamilton [James] Piatt was widowed in 1917, and is now, in 1928, just 40 years old with three young children - Jacob Wykoff, age 15 - Elizabeth Page, age 14 - and her youngest, Margaret Hamilton, age 12. She has been living in Tiffin, Ohio, and teaching school. Her parents lived in Tiffin, which is probably why she moved there from Meridian, Mississippi after the death of her husband, Jacob Wykoff Piatt.

The last entry of Part I was a quote from the SLB diary. That will have significant meaning as we read the following letters, which begin with one dated November 26, 1928 -- just 5 weeks after the death of Steve's wife, Jane. Steve has neglected his diary, so there are very few entries to interject.

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Addressed to: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Nov 26 1928 1 PM

My own dear love,

We went to the game this afternoon and froze while we saw Tiffin Hi get licked 6 to 0. However it was a good enough game to pay us for freezing and for the long drive to Findlay.

Every body is out but me. Since giving my beaux the gate, I am left high and dry here at home on Saturday and Sunday evenings - a thing unheard of here to fore. Nobody knows just what to make of it. I think every body thinks I am losing my grip! getting old! etc.! Well, "so much for that"!

I write you so many letters and ask you so many questions that I sort of forget which ones I have asked you. You don't answer all of them. Tell me about the apartments - are they rented?

Dikey's letter said maybe Polly would be in Pittsburgh at the same time I am to be there - so I have just put in a call for her to find out if she really is going. I hope she will. I will be just dying to tell her about you and will have a hard time keeping all my happiness to myself. But don't worry, honey, I won't tell, however much I may want to.

Every thing I plan to do or do now days is with next year in mind. I have been trying to get an electrician for weeks to come and put in some more floor sockets for lamps and now I don't care if he never comes. Also, I have given up the idea of moving. I just felt I couldn't live here another winter but now anything is bearable. I am so happy I go around in a sort of dream. But beloved, I must see you. I will spend Christmas day in Middletown and go to Covington as soon after that as I can decently get away. I have a million things to say to you in spite of the fact that I write twice a day! No letter from you today - and none tomorrow (Sunday), so here's hoping for two on Monday. I leave here Wednesday at 3:40. I love you, my own dear, better than anything or any one.

All my love,

P.

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Keeping in mind that Jane died October the 6th, and Steve travels to Columbus, Ohio, on November 3rd, four weeks later.......................

Why he went to Columbus, we don't know. Business, perhaps? Was he trying to bury himself in work or politics or some such, in an attempt to regain control of his life, figure out what to do without his wife, his companion, the "one woman" he professed to have loved for so many years before they got married?

Or to meet a friend, who promised to comfort and console him. After all, Tiffin is just 88 miles north of Columbus, and they had known each other many years. An innocent meeting of friends that turned out to be something quite different? After all, why would Peggy give all her "beaux the gate" if something rather significant had not occurred in Columbus?

It appears that Peggy had written several letters before this one, asking many questions and getting few answers. And judging from the contents of this letter, they have already expressed feelings of love for each other. She makes two obvious inferences; "Well, so much for that!" - kind of implies that there may have been some hanky-panky going on there in Columbus! Then there's this one: "Every thing I plan to do or do now days is with next year in mind." Has he already proposed marriage to her?

The first time I read this letter, I was shocked, to say the least! Initially, my reaction was "How COULD she be saying this, so soon after the death of her sister-in-law?" "Did she have no respect for the children or their feelings, so soon after their mother's death?" "What a conniving woman!" All sorts of negative things ran through my head. It was just too soon! I could understand if this letter, these letters, had been written a year after her death, but not a month! That's just unheard of, even today.

One of the first pieces of advice given me, after the death of my husband, was "Don't make ANY big decisions for at least a year." and I think that advice still holds true today. But I digress - let's continue.

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Pittsburgh, Pa. Dec 2 1928 8 PM

My dear,

You will find this letter waiting for you when you get back to Covington, after your little trip. How do you feel now, dearest? I do hope you feel repaid for the bother of going down. Did you sleep a lot? and eat a lot?

I am sending you, in another envelope, my letter to Aunt Jennie. If you think I have not been tactful enough or positive enough, just don't send it but tear it up and I will write another. We can't be too determined about this thing all at once. Of course we will do exactly as we want to do but will at the same time do it with as little hurt to any body as is possible. Mother must make some other arrangement - even if it means just simply putting her in a room some where in Covington and both of us paying her way. If this becomes necessary I will fix it up when I come down Christmas. In the meantime I hope you will all bear with her and let it get on your nerves as little as possible. I believe Aunt Jennie will come to the front about it.

Now about Steve. I am glad you have come to this decision together. You know, probably, that it is what I have thought for some time. He is a man - and you haven't given him a man's responsibilities. He is too old now to start in on such a long course as a law course - besides which he should be making money. You should not carry him any longer. You have done that long enough. This will make him happier and he will be independent if he does not like the idea of my trying to take his mother's place. I hope and pray he will like it, but would not be at all surprised if he resented it violently. John is young enough to be philosophically (spell it right?) and in due time I can win him, and after a year of the care and responsibility of the house, Jane Ashton will probably be glad to give it up.

I am not going to mail this until tomorrow, as it is late Saturday evening and I will write again in the morning. Oh well, I don't know, if we go out tonight I may drop it in the box. You will be swamped but you keep telling me to write often - so it's your own fault. "The trouble with you is --------"! Famous quotation!

Good bye, sweet - don't love me so much. It makes me afraid I can't live up to all you expect of me.

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Not signed.

Comments:

Too bad Steve did not resume a daily diary or even a weekly diary, for that matter. It would be really interesting to know his thoughts, too!

I haven't figured out who "Aunt Jennie" is, though she must be a sister, or sister-in-law, of Sallie Piatt's. And why would she be writing to her and sending the letter to Steve for his approval? It didn't seem to make any difference, according to this letter, if anyone approved of their plans or not. They would do as they pleased.

"Mother must make some other arrangement........" was referring to the fact that Sallie Richardson Piatt was living at "Beechwood" and Peggy wanted her out. She had no intention of sharing her home with the mother of their deceased spouses! [Sallie eventually moved to Nicholasville, and lived out her years with her brother.]

Evidently young Steve had expressed a desire to go to law school, and follow in his father's footsteps, but Peggy doesn't think this is such a good idea, since Steve is already 21 and should now become a wage earner and, possibly, contribute to the family coffers.

My Uncle Steve died before I was born, so I don't know if he "violently resented" having Peggy take his mother's place. Yes, John was young enough, and I'm not sure Jane Ashton had the "care and responsibility" of the house, since they had a servant, Leona, living there with them, as well as the matronly, Sallie Piatt.

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Dec 9 1928 9 PM

My own dear love,I didn't write to you yesterday and now it's late Sunday evening and I am all

ready to go over to play bridge with Dr. & Mrs. Gooding and hoping Mr. Abbott won't come until I get this written. You see how subtly I introduced the fact that I was going out - even though a "bound woman"? Well, my honey, it was not to be avoided without saying right out that Steve wouldn't let me - I have said no so many times that my excuses are all thread-bare, so that's that.

Your special again found me in bed, a habit I'll have to get over when I belong to a man who considers sleep a waster of time! I was so glad to have it because I didn't get one Friday or Saturday. The one you wrote Friday probably got here too late for the Saturday morning delivery and we never have a Sat. P. M. delivery.

Just think, honey, we might have gone to Toledo after all - and still might. Wouldn't it be the worst luck in the world if it doesn't happen until next Friday? Shall I come anyway? I told you I would wire you when it happens, and so I will. In the meantime, let's both give it some intensive "willing"!

I can't answer all your questions in letters, honey. I am too busy asking a lot of my own! I will tell you all about Polly when I see you. I told her in my letter today that I wanted to see you sometime Christmas Day, so I am sure it will be all right.

Darling, do you know you have put our date up to October now? A week or so ago you said November, and I really think we had better stick to that, don't you? Don't get blue about the long, long time, honey, you know it really won't take so very long for it to go by. Time has a way of hurrying too fast, most of the time, so let's crowd a lot of love and understanding and companionship into these months of waiting so that we won't think only of some future time, but love every minute of this present time.

Honey, you sweet old thing, to say that about helping me next summer. But, sweet, I don't need it. I can manage that all right if I am a little careful about finances this winter. You will have long years of taking care of us, so don't start until you must. You just spend your energies catching up on your plans & clearing up the debts so that we can start even or as nearly as possible.

I must go now, my dear, dear boy. I love you absolutely and entirely.

YourPeggy

Sunday

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Comments:

From these three letters, I begin to know who Peggy was, and she's not the "Gee" I knew! A widow at the age of 30, with three small children to feed, clothe and house, she must have felt overwhelmed - but resolute. She had her family, parents, sisters and a brother that supported her efforts. She had friends and an active social life.

The ten years following her husband's death must have been a struggle for her. Teachers are not the highest paid individuals, though they have great influence on the children, but she somehow managed to get her own little house in Tiffin, feed and clothe the entire little family. Steve's offer of help must have been tempting, but she turns him down.

I also get the impression that it is STEVE that is pressing for an earlier wedding, not the other way around!

So let's go on and see what's next.

~~~~~~~~~~

Envelope:Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Dec 11 1928 1 PM

Honey, you old dumb bell, have a look at the map, if you want to know why we can't both come on the same train! I come into the Pennsy Station on a train due there about 6:30 and you come in to the Union Station I think somewhere around the same time. You may have to grab a taxi at your station and get over to mine in time or you may even have time to go to the hotel and register. I don't really care whether you register first or not. Use your own judgment.

Your two letters came today. I loved them. You are sweet to say John needs me. You know how it makes me love you all when I think you need me as well as want me. Of course he looked cute all dressed up - probably never will feel as swell again in his whole life.

Tonight you are at Mary Herndon's. I hope you will say something about me. I like her. She is a very sincere and loyal friend - in fact, I love her.

Honey, if your children need me, mine certainly need you. Especially Wyk. His manners are terrible and he thinks it's silly to pay any attention to them. He never washes.

The picture is exactly the one I wanted and I'm glad you pointed out the gentleman on the left as the one I'm interested in. I'll take it with me to T. so I will know you when I see you.

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Honey, (third time in succession!) well, darling then, I am having the worst time getting old nature to work. Here it is Monday night and not even a symptom! I could just die over the disappointment of not seeing you last week end and now probably being hors de combat this one! Shall I stay at home and send another lady in my place? or shall we just call it all off!

I, too, want you to come here before I move from this little house. I want you to see your beautiful blue lamp and the mirror and table that are the only really pretty things I have and that I love for a million reasons. I honestly don't believe I have ever lighted the lamp that I have not breathed a little prayer of love to you - and I don't like anyone else to light it and every body knows it, but nobody knows why.

Darling, as far as I know now, I am sure of coming to T. on Friday, but of course, with three children, I am never absolutely sure of doing anything - so just in case I can't come - if I know it in time, I will wire you in Cov. & if at the last minute some thing prevents me, I will send a wire to S. L. Blakely at the Commodore Perry. Is this all right? or shall I say Barton? Let me know.

I still - in spite of all your letters and assurances, can't believe it. Good night - dearest and best lover -

Your girl.

Comments:

So here we have the first clue that they are planning an "out of town" wedding! Or is it just another "get away" weekend????

She uses endearing words throughout her letters. So much so, that at first it made me "nauseous". A "honey" or "dear" thrown in now and then is all right, but I think she is really pouring it on, don't you?

Now isn't it a little "risqué" to be discussing "getting nature to work"? It may be the 20th century, but it's not that long since the Victorian era! I didn't think they discussed such things! Wouldn't she just die if she knew we were reading and commenting on her "love letters"???

Well, I get the feeling the plans are for a weekend together, as she says she will take the picture with her to T. so "I will know you when I see you." What does the "T" stand for? Texas? Tennessee? Toledo? Where is the "Commodore Perry"? Presuming that is the name of a hotel.

And then we have "the little blue lamp". Sounds like it's been in her possession for a while and not something just recently given her. An earlier Christmas gift, perhaps? And now she is attaching special meaning to it.

Ahhhhhhhh, the last words -- "dearest and best lover". What kind of an image

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does that conjure up?

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Dec 12 1928 1 PM

My darling you see I just can't not write to you. You draw me like a magnet and I am only happy when I am reading one of your letters or writing to you - for I am always thinking of you and thinking of our life together. As I think of it, I can't imagine that it will ever get hum drum and casual - with maybe cross words or hurt feelings, can you? I can't imagine that I will ever get used to the thrill of waking and finding you or of kissing you good morning and good night and of having you come home at dusk - tired and hungry but happy because we are together - maybe all dripping with rain or covered with snow and smelling that wonderful man smell of tobacco and cleanliness & shaving lotion or whatever it is, but not hair oil.

Let's not let it get that way, shall we? I will always love you - always thrill to your touch - always want to hear your opinions - always bow to your decisions, and you must try to be patient with me and remember that I have to learn all over again the business of being a wife and remember that I am not a good cook and that I have an opinion upon many subjects and like to hear myself talk - many times when I shouldn't.

Well, my darling dear, I'll see you soon after you read this.

All my love,Your

Peggy.Wed. A. M.

* * * * * * *

Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked Tiffin, Ohio Dec 17 1928 4 PM

My dearest, dear love,I can't seem to remember to bring any decent paper to school so that when I

have a few spare minutes, I can write to you.Things seem to be sort of piling up on me, honey. All three children were

sick when I left this morning. I hope if they are going to have this thing, they will go ahead and get it over by Friday. If I find them all in bed when I go home at noon I will have to get a substitute and stay home with them. I don't like to do it as it is too expensive but even so, would not cost as much as a nurse. Now that I have written that I'm sorry, but it is just instinctive with me to write exactly what I am thinking. Don't send or offer to send me any money. It sounded as if that is what I meant and I didn't. I hope, however, that every thing will straighten out in a day or so, and

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that we will start on schedule time, and see you soon, soon, soon. Will we be glad or sorry that we didn't have our week end? Sorry, of course. Every time we are together must draw us so much closer - makes our love so much deeper.

I am wondering if you sent the letter to Aunt Jennie - if Steve has gone away - if he will be home for Christmas - how mother is behaving - if you have seen Dimp - if you love me.

Good bye, dear.P.

Noon - Kids better - thank God!

Letter enclosed:MRS. EARL EMERSONSOUTH MAIN STREETMIDDLETOWN, OHIO

Dearest:Thanks lots for the nice pajamas. Jim will get a lot of good out of them.I feel so good about you the more I think of it. I do hope that you will get

easier & happier in your mind all the time and if Steve can do that for you, I'm for him. Of course have him come Xmas. Will be glad to have him. I think you all better plan to come the day before Xmas definitely. Don't know yet what day Earl gets here but come any way on that...................

Only one page was included in her letter to Steve.

Comments:

Not much to comment on in that letter, other than it does appear that they are planning a weekend "meeting" someplace.

Steve has a housekeeper and cook, not to mention the live-in "Granny,” so his children are not a concern to him when he travels. Wonder what Peggy does with hers? Her parents, perhaps? Maybe they won't stay with sick children; that's the mother's job, to care for her sick ones. So she must hope that whatever it is that is afflicting them will go away quickly! And from her last comment, it looks like it is!

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Dec 18 1928 1 PM

My darling,

Such a stingy little scrap of a letter as I sent you yesterday! I had written it in school and then at noon was so rushed I didn't have a minute - so enclosed part of Polly's and mailed it.

The children are better - but Page and Wyk are still at home - Page in bed but Wyk dressed and down stairs. I think they are going to be all right. This is what I want to do. I would like to send the girls down on the train on Saturday - clear to Cincinnati - if that is all right with Liette and then Wyk and I will drive down - starting early on Sunday. Polly tells me Earl is getting back from Europe on Saturday or Sunday and she would rather we would not come there until Monday - but I want to see you so much that I hate to wait until Tuesday when it might be Sunday.

I am writing this to Liette and if Ham is not well enough to meet the girls, and you have no engagement, could you take Liette over? You could use her car if the boys have yours. Now don't offer if you had something else to do. I believe the train gets in about 7:30 P. M. but will be sure when I write her. Will tell her to wire me if this is not perfectly convenient for her so you can get into communication with her. Sweetheart, I don't want you to feel you have to do this, as I can make other arrangements if it does not suit every body.

You say, Peggy, you are so good to me! Why, beloved, I wish I could be good to you. Is loving you with every drop of my blood being good to you? Then I am. But I am also being good to me. You make me happy. You are going to fill my life with the things I care most for - love, tenderness, companionship - I should really put that first - a husband, a home, children, responsibilities, but not "bread-winning"!

Another dear sweet thing about you, honey. You make it easy for me to laugh. You say funny things - not silly things - I love to laugh, and I love to see you laugh. You have a darling habit of talking & laughing at the same time that I love.

O, I'm getting so silly - I must stop.

All my dearest love -

P.

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Comments:

No, I guess she is counting on her brother and sister in law to take care of the children, because here she is asking if Steve could meet the girls at the train, while she and Wyk drive down the next day.

She quotes from one of his letters, and it sounds very loving. What man would not like to have a woman who is "so good to me"? She calls him by endearing names, repeatedly, in her letters. I begin now to sense just how much she does care for him.

She ends this letter on the lighter side. He did have a way of laughing and talking at the same time! They must have had some wonderful conversations.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Dec 19 1928 2.30 PM

My dear one,

I wish I hadn't written that letter last night - I wish I hadn't told you about that time in Newport - there is no use in my telling you things like that, which don't do any good, and might hurt. And, of course, every woman does them all the time - and I did even more than my share, I suppose. Just forget all about the letter, honey, tear it up and let it be forgotten.

You were so darling last night when you so promptly offered to meet the children. I have always loved the sweet way you have of doing things for me. You never offer objections - or make difficulties, and it gives me such confidence in you. I am always sure of you. Are you of me?

I suppose by this time you have talked to Liette and know whether or not she is going to be able to go to the Station Saturday eve, and then Sunday will be almost here and I will feel that safe, happy, comforted feeling that your arms give me. Don't look at me too hard, honey, if there are other people around - like you did at the lunch table in Columbus.

I didn't know you were through talking last night and I told the girl she had cut us off. She said "Well, he says he's through talking. Have you anything more to say to him?" I said "No, just tell him good night for me"! Did she?

See you Sunday night. Can you hint an invitation to supper out of Liette?

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Your own girl.

Comments:

Well, he must have torn up the letter, because it was not here, with the rest of them. What in the world did she confess to? I'd love to know "what happened in Newport". Another liaison, perhaps? Was she trying to make him jealous?

This letter infers a telephone call, in which he offered to pick up the girls, if need be. And the final paragraph is a hoot! It recalls the days of the telephone operator, when all calls weren't dialed but the numbers actually given to an operator and she dialed the number and made the connection. And if the connection were broken, for one reason or another, you could jiggle the receiver handle up and down and the operator would come back on the line! I wonder if she, the operator did ring him back and deliver the message!

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Stevens Blakely, Esq. Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Pittsburgh, Pa. Jan 3 1929

January thirdDear Steve,

I intended to write you on New Year's day, as being appropriate for what I have to say; but I had the grip and couldn't. I'm still in bed, so excuse queer writing.

Howard and I haven't forgotten that you gave us our marriage license for a wedding present and although it seemed a pretty nice present then, we're only now beginning to realize a little of what it means. This past year, the first of our marriage, has held besides our happiness together some great worries and one bitter grief, but we can't start the New Year without the feeling of a clean slate, a better opportunity - really, in miniature, a new life. And in that feeling naturally we long to include the people we love best. For Mamma and Pappa the very best we can hope for is a beautiful old age; the kids are still so young that one year doesn't seem the golden opportunity that it does to us, but for my sister's I hope ardently that this year may mean a new year, even a new life! You know how I love Peggy; and to think that she may at last be coming into her own, into the happiness that she has earned by all these years of brave struggle, is a great happiness to me. I know that you can do for her what no other man could do, and it seems to me a great blessing that such a thing is possible. You know, Steve, I believe in life; and nothing seems to me so wrong as the negation of it. I think it's the rightest thing in the world that you and Peggy should help each other, now, to a new start.

Howard joins me in the very best of wishes for your happiness.

Always affectionately,

Dikey

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Comments:

This is a beautiful letter of "acceptance" from Peggys' sister, whom she called "Dikey". Where that nickname came from, I have no idea. But then, where do most nicknames come from? Children - who can't pronounce the names of older siblings or relatives!

And this new year - 1929 - promises a whole new life for Steve and Peggy.

This is like listening to one side of a telephone conversation. You can only guess at what is being said on the other end.

Not every letter in this collection warrants a comment or explanation, so from this point I have made the comments, identification or explanation at the bottom of the page, using italics.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stevens L. Blakeley, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 7 1929 2-30 PM

My dear Steve,Peggy has just told us her news and though at first we were too stunned to

answer, I want, now, to tell you that I am glad for you both.I know you will take good care of her and of her children, and will love and

appreciate her.Your feelings for each other is what matters. After that is settled happily

every thing else may be work out.Please must no her Father and me to act generously and kindly in whatever

will help you with.

Very affectionately yours,

Margaret Hamilton James

Mrs. H. K. James c/o office Sunday.

Margaret Hamilton James was the mother of Peggy. She misspelled Steve Blakely's

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name - first and last - on the envelope. Her last sentence doesn't make much sense. The script is very hard to decipher.Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 9 1929 11 PM

My darling --

Talk about bomb throwers! Mama suggests that I stop teaching at the end of this term and then in June you and I go to New York and let Paul marry us! I was so surprised and when I said what will people say? she said, "Well, you know I am as conservative as any body and if I think it's all right, other people will." I asked her if she thought your children would resent it and she said she thought they would be as willing to have it then as later - so here I am - proposing to you! Think it over, dearest dear, and tell me in Columbus how you feel about it. Of course it just opens the gates of heaven to me but I don't want to hurry you into it if you feel it is too soon. I told her, Mama, about meeting you in Columbus. She protested, but mildly.

Have only this one second to write.

I love you better than I can ever tell you. Let me know how you feel as soon as you know yourself.

Your girl.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakeley, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 10 1929 6-30 PMReturn address: THE H. K. JAMES MILLING CO., HOWARD K. JAMES, Pres., TIFFIN OHIO

THE H. K. JAMES MILLING CO.MANUFACTURERS OF

HIGH GRADEFLOUR AND FEED

Jan 10 / 29

Dear Steve,

You know, of course, that what we are most concerned about is Peg's future happiness; and while at first her news startled me by its unexpectedness, the more I thought of it, the more I came to feel that her marriage to you would be the very best thing that could happen. She has made a wonderfully, brave struggle these last ten years, and deserves the chance of having a good and kind husband to lean on for the rest of her life. She will make you a wonderful wife, and while there may be some complications that will need patience and wisdom to iron out, I have full

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confidence that you will be able to solve all the problems.We shall be very glad to have you stay with us any time you can come to

Tiffin, and I want to wish you every joy and happiness in the prospect that is before you.

Affectionately yours,

Howard K. James

Howard K. James is the father of Peggy.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 14 1929 11 PM

Monday - after reading your Specialwritten Saturday night

My darling dear child -Your letter written Saturday night - makes me unhappy. I hate you to go

through this hell without me. My hand should be in yours, your head on my heart - when these blue devils get you. Yes, my beloved, I know - I know. I have been through these deep waters and know that all you can do is grit your teeth and carry on.

Your two dear calls yesterday make me feel that you are all right now - but I have put in a call anyway, as I must be sure you are all right and happy.

I wish you would stop claiming the credit for the New York idea - the next thing you will be saying this whole scheme was your idea!

The lady's letter makes me a little sorry - it doesn't quite convince me that things stopped there - what does she mean about the record!! I thought I had the record!

- - - - - - - - - - -

There! I have just finished talking to you - to the amusement of our children. Your voice sounded wonderful. You told me lots of things. That you loved me - you called me darling - you told me you had sent some more money - that you hadn't gotten a letter from me today. I wish you had told me you were hungry and were going down to eat a good dinner and pretend I was sitting there beside you. Be hungry, honey, hungry for everything life holds for us. I have been hungry a long, long time - not only for what life holds, but for Life itself and Love and You. O, the thrill of it all - the mystery - the perfume.

Beloved, will it be necessary to sell the flat building? I hate to have you do it because I think you want to keep it. Just let me see if I can't rake up the necessary

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pennies to start off with and then you can let me have the building. I am going to sell the little old Armco stock I have, as it will do more good to us that way than holding it will, and I think we can get along without making it too much of a burden to you, my dearest. But if it will make it easier for you to get clear of all these things, go ahead. We can buy something else later on. This is something else we must talk about.

Sweet heart, you also told me you could get me another picture. I'm so glad - and so ashamed to have done such a crazy thing.

You say, "Send me Steve's letter" - just like that. Darling dear, I won't send the little fellow's letter - but I will bring it to Columbus and then let you read it with me.

Well, do I get the license here or in New York. So much ribaldry in the letter that I couldn't make it out. Apparently the man doesn't need one!

Here is a situation. You go to the Biltmore and register thus - Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, Ky. I go and register Mrs. Wykoff Piatt, Tiffin, Ohio. We meet, speak to each other (politely), visit Paul - come back and ask the clerk to have my luggage put in to your room! He refuses. What will we do? Just each of us keep on as we were - finish our visit and come on home? or will we go to another hotel or what? You answer.

Now listen, my good fellow, I think you are going to have to do some tall explaining to Laurie to get him to see the light. You might tell him that my father has given you until June or that I am so impatient you just have to - but don't, don't tell him you want to because you love me. He won't like it - nor me either if you do. With Paul it is different - he will understand. Do you know that I have to learn to like Laurie? Isn't it funny that just being my darling's brother is not enough? But even a bigger chore than that is making him like me.

When I finish this letter I am going to read again the heart-breaking ones I got today. The poem is lovely. I well remember your sending it to me - it flooded my whole being with pain - as it did today. Honey, the poor little girl I was then was a good little sport - even I admit it - but only outwardly - shut in her own room she was a craven coward - crying out at every dark shadow - but O, my dearest - it's all over. I don't have to be brave any more. The dearest, nicest man in all this world is going to take care of me - and all I fear or will ever fear again is that I will in some way hurt or disappoint him.

And honey, what happened to the hedge? Well, don't you mind. We'll fix every thing up and then things won't bother you so much when I am there, will they. Magic Words! When I am there - living with you!

Wykie is threatening me about this letter. Says he can't wait any longer.

My dear, dear love, good night.

P.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 15 1929 11-30 AM

My dear love,

Just think, it is only 7:15 A. M.! Dark as anything outside. I woke up at 6 and simply couldn't go back even for a nap so got up and now am all ready to leave the house. Honey, I'm so afraid the old sleeplessness is getting hold of me again. Periodically it gets me. Can't you do something about it? I feel that if you were with me I could sink in to utter oblivion and I never seem quite to do it. O well, here am I, feeling perfectly fine and happy, complaining because I woke early to think of my lover! I love to lie sort of half awake and think of you and pretend --------------

Because I love to talk about it, I will tell you again to meet me in the lobby of the Deshler some where around six o'clock Friday night. Do you suppose we will still make "dates" like this after we are married? Won't it be fun? And isn't it fun now?

Your Marcus Aurelius is rather steep for me, I'm afraid. You will probably enjoy him more than I do, although I love owning the book.

I will write again later, my darling. This was just to say good morning. I just loved it last night when you said "good night, darling".

Your own

Peggy

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 16 1929 1 PM

My darling,Jo is silly - very - I am certainly not brilliant - not even approaching it - and I

don't want him to give you any more ideas for me to try to live up to. And I am lucky - awfully, awfully lucky to be marrying you, my dearest dear.

The money seems to good to be true - the little old fund is growing up fast. Keep up the good work, but don't send me any you can't really spare - for it will be useless to ask me to give it back.

Yes, it's a trap. You will be committed to every thing when you once set foot in Tiffin.

You haven't told me whether you have heard from Paul concerning your letter beginning "There is a woman"! Also, if I let you see Steve's letter you must let me see my father's - or is it just "man to man" stuff that I need not see? I really don't care, honey, and you may see mine.

So you think I'll be bored in New York, do you?This is my third letter today. You certainly have nothing to complain of.

Dearest beloved, when you don't hear from me it is because the day has been so full of a number of things - that I just couldn't write. I would rather write to you than anything else except be with you - but I just can't do it sometimes. Be patient about it, my darling, and with me.

I deposited the whole $125. as I don't need the $5. to get me to Columbus, hon.

Did you cash the check I sent you? Steve, honey, you must so my books will balance, and anyway I want you to.

Has Steve gone to work yet? He will be disappointed if he hasn't, which is why I ask. How are all of Daden's beaux?

Good night - my own honey - I hope you will call me tonight but I'm kind of afraid you won't. I just hate to call you so much as the kids will think it's funny. You said in one letter that John stood by with an anxious look and in another one that Jane A. asked the next day what I wanted. I don't want to make them wonder until you are ready to tell them, and ask them if they will not too much mind my living in your house and being your wife and loving you more and more every day, and trying in every way to make you and them happy.

Don't you just hate to think of Mr. Barton in Columbus? Let's not have him any more. I don't want him around. I want our own dear name.

I love you, dearest Steve.Your

Peggy

It appears Steve used an alias - "Mr. Barton" - when he went to Columbus!

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Jan 17 1929 2.30 PM

Dearest darling Steve,I had a little bad luck last night trying to call you, didn't I? Well, after this

you must do the calling - as I always seem to pick a time when the children are there or something that makes it embarrassing for you. You said you were petrified with fright at Geo. Diehl's house for fear I would call you. And you see, honey, it will always be all right for you to call me. I loved talking to you later on, though. You make me happier than any woman ever was, I think. I try to imagine what it's going to be like to live with you always - and I can't think I'll ever get used to the thrill of having you come home to me in the evening - that I will ever get to the place where I take you for granted. And I wonder if the problems and difficulties that come into every body's lives will put the whole wonderful thing on an ordinary plane. Will you ever get to be just my husband "or my husband" or will you always be My Husband? Yes, you will always be that. The miracle of it will always endure. I have wanted it for so long that I am sure it will never get to be an old story to me.

Tomorrow I will see you! Margy is better today although still at home and the ice is melting so I can't see any reason why it won't go through as planned, except that it just seems too wonderful and I am afraid of it for that reason.

Shall we have a nice dinner and then get the 9:20 train? There won't be anything else to do, will there? And you don't want me to be bored, do you? Or do you? Me too!

Honey, I am just dying to know what Aunt Jennie said in her letter to Mother and if you have sent your letter and what Paul said and loads of other things - so maybe we had better stay in Columbus, after all, so we can talk.

What do you mean our word? That's my word - and you pretend it's yours, too? Just like calling my good ideas yours! I also have some rights.

Good bye, my own dear love. This is the last letter I will write for a while. If anything happens to prevent my coming at the last minute - I will wire you at the Deshler - S. L. Blakely - or if you can't come - send me word there.

I love you, my own Steve.P.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 3 1929 11 PM

Sunday afternoon

My darling dearest boy,No letter again today! How can I stand it if you don't write to me? You did

write yesterday, I know, but evidently mailed it too late for me to get it. I am disappointed. These days are too long when I don't hear from you.

You were so sweet and so crazy last night, honey. Are you a little bit sorry today that you told so many people? Of course, as this is your engagement, you must feel perfectly free to manage it in your own way, and if you don't hurt the children, you know it is all right with me. You must talk to Hamilton now just as soon as you can, will you, dear? He will not understand it, if you don't.

Did Stan and John tell you they already knew it? How did they act? Well, my beloved, don't blind yourself to the fact that you will come in for some criticism - especially from the wives of your friends - so do not be too brazen. All this sounds as if I disapprove, my own darling, of your having told people. As a matter of fact, I am tickled to death about it. Everybody will know that you are happy about it and are not doing it as a way out of your present difficulties. I love you, my beloved child, and nothing you do can upset me, for I know you could not do anything that would hurt me, in your own or any body else's mind.

I loved having you call me after you got home last night. I thought of you and pictured you every minute from the time you called me at Stan's until the next one. Did you put in the call as soon as you got there, and then while waiting to get me, did you go about undressing and getting ready for bed? So I pictured you - and then sitting on the side of your bed, talking to me - telling me you love me - better than any one in the world. Darling, you make me happy and proud and very, very humble. Can I be worthy of your love? Can I make you happy? O, my darling, it will be such happiness to try! to belong to you, to live in your house, always.

"Steve to Peggy" - it says it all, doesn't it?

YourPeggy

Note: For Christmas, 1941 Steve gave Peggy a white gold and diamond watch and on the back is engraved: "Steve to Peggy 12-25-41". The watch is in my possession.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 7 1929 1-PM

My darling,

You can't know - or rather you do know how I love to hear your voice late in the night. You always sound so husbandish, and loving, and close. But, my lamb, you must cut out calling every night - you will break yourself up. Your bill must be appalling. Of course, hon, if you don't mind paying it, go right ahead. Last night I went to bed about 10:30 and could not go to sleep. I lay there thinking and thinking and wishing for my darling. Then came your dear voice and almost instantly after I got back upstairs, I went to sleep! You make me so happy. You are so sweet to me. You are the most utterly satisfactory lover in the world, and I realize, now that I have you, just why no other man could ever make me love him. I must be very hard to suit - and you certainly suit me.

Well, is it still June 1st or have you changed your mind? Don't change your mind now, honey, no matter what Mary Jackson says, will you? or Virginia Kaiper?

We are in a white world today and I know it's lovely at your house. I would love to go coasting with you tonight. Have you a nice wooly shirt and high boots? Well, then you can't go. I will go with the boys and you must stay at home.

Sweetheart, I don't like to write to Lutie. I feel as if she might not understand it - you know I really don't know her very well and have never been with her very much, and am afraid it would seem sort of funny to her.

I'm so glad Jane Ashton is having a good time and hope those older boys will show her a lot of attention. She will really have a better time with them than with those kids. And honey, John shouldn't go out too much on school nights, do you think? He should get good grades this year. I wrote Earl about a job for him next summer. He, (Earl) leaves soon for Australia and I don't know how long he will be away, but we will try to get things fixed up. Charlie Hook will fix it, if Earl is not back in time. Aren't you glad you aren't going to Australia and leave me at home?

You told me last night that you were in court all day yesterday and didn't have a chance to write so I am trying to steel myself for the disappointment of not finding your darling letter when I go home at noon. It will come later in the day, however, and then I will be happy. It is really terrible the way I have come to depend on your letters. Last Saturday and Sunday were terrible until about five o'clock when I got one.

Tell me when Paul comes and how he acts about this. If he will be glad or just willing to marry us. I would like him to be glad. I would like every body

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concerned with it to be glad, wouldn't you? And will it be in a pretty room and will he have on a robe and will it seem churchy or just sort of not. We just couldn't have it done in a little chapel could we? Of course I know he wouldn't do it in church, but I thought maybe a chapel wouldn't hurt. I would so love it to be religious. Well, if it isn't, we can be a little bit religious after we get to our room, can't we? O, this sounds sort of Maudlin, doesn't it - and I would never say this to a soul in the world, except you, my dearest love - who always understands that I don't mean any cheap sentimentalism - but something so deep and unfathomable - that I don't know, myself, just what it is.

Good bye, best loved in this whole world,

Peggy

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 7 1929 1-PM

My dearest -Tonight I have to go back to school to a Parent - Teacher meeting and I don't

want to a bit - because I seem to have taken a cold and would much rather just stay here where it is warm and nice. Darling, won't it be fun to do that some time? When we had intended going some where, to just suddenly change our mind and decide to stay at home together and read and talk and balance books and then ------Let's do it sometime, shall we? O, let's do everything.

Sweetie, this is my third letter to you today. We have just finished dinner and I am trying to write this, and at the same time, make these kids go on and get the dishes wiped. They are the worst procrastinators. You will have to make them cut that out.

No, this is my fourth letter! O my goodness, you will be surprised.Plans for the dance are progressing. M. talks of nothing else. She wants

chicken salad and ginger ale and cookies and is having 18 kids. She had her funny little tooth pulled and it is a great improvement in her pretty little mouth.

By this time you will have talked to Ham, and I am sure he was all right. He couldn't be anything else. After all, it is none of his business.

Sweetie, I wouldn't let Laurie write to Mary Louise. I think you should do it, don't you? O, yes, and don't you think it is time some one was telling your mother - in - law? Shall I write her? or are you waiting until she gets away? Be sure to answer me this one.

Must go now, my only dear, dear love.

Your gal.

P. S. Can you tell me the origin of 'hoist by his own petard' or something like that?

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This is not a riddle. I just want to know.Laurie and Mary Louise are Steve's brother and sister, and Mary Louise never did approve of the marriage, or of Peggy.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 7 1929 6:30 PM

My sweetheart, I sent you at noon two sweet letters from two dear people. They have been such good friends to me and I do so want you to like them - you can't help it, however, because every body does and I want them to like you. They are going to California in a few days, so I am afraid we will have to wait until they return.

Also, today I had a nice little note from Laurie, so I was sort of compensated about not having one from you - although not entirely. Laurie's was quite short and very characteristic, and I think it was sweet of him to have written it.

I still have a little of the old cold left and it makes me feel sort of listless. Are you all right, honey? You never say anything about how you feel and some times I wonder if you are well or have a head ache or tummy ache or something. Tell me things like that about yourself.

I got mad at Daisy today because when I told her I wanted to have some people for dinner tomorrow night, she told me she couldn't manage it, she had to go to a basketball game! I almost laughed at her (with astonishment), but was so mad I couldn't laugh. But I "compromised" by putting it off till next Friday, and then the following Friday I have another date - with a man, the first one for a long time - and I am going to love him so much he will want to stay here with me all the time.

Honey, do you still keep all these silly letters? You ought to have a housecleaning and destroy them. I will just hate your having them when I am there. It sort of embarrasses me. Burn 'em up, hon, will you?

All my love,

Peggy

Well, he didn't "burn 'em up" but rather kept them in a safe at his office and we are reading them now!

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 9 1929 6:30 PM

My dear, dear love -After letting off steam to you yesterday and then going out home in the

afternoon and talking to them out there, I felt much better, but even today there is a little hangover. I suppose in all happiness there must be a little pain but ours had been so perfect - so sweet - that this hurts out of all proportion, I suppose. I want to talk to you, to hear your darling beloved voice, and I didn't call you last night because I felt that you might call me late in the evening - maybe you will tonight - I can't call you at that hour for fear you won't be at home and it would worry the children. If you don't call me tonight, I will surely call you tomorrow. I think nothing will help the hurt but your arms, honey, so I will just sit tight until the 21st and then we will get it all talked out.

Mama said Liette would probably get an awful jolt if she comes up here on any such mission - they are both thoroughly out of patience with her for taking so much on herself.- - - - - - - - - - - -

Mama just this minute left. She came in about an hour ago. She certainly is sweet about all this and makes me feel better about it all the time.

Sweetie, I sent you a belated Christmas present. It is coming by express and I hope is prepaid, but forgot to tell them at the shop to do it.

We are getting more and more excited about the dance tonight. It is from 7:00 to 10:30 and now is about 5 o'clock and Margaret just can't wait to get dressed.

Papa went to a poker party the other night and now says he wants to have one when you come. Please act like you will like it. I couldn't disappoint the poor old thing by telling him not to pick that week end, as he says he will have a better time if you are there. Bring your tux, anyhow, whether you will need it or not, you'd better have it. Also your cane - lots of comments on that cane! It seems to have been the convincing touch that you had "lots of money"! O, honey, people are so funny aren't they? I love you, my dearest dear, and when I come out of this mood will write you just the kind of letter you want me to - as bad as it can be - but with all my love - yours simply left me gasping. I thought I would die if I couldn't have you right then! You must talk to me like that some time, but don't write any more - I think it is dangerous.

All ways, always yourPeggy

Now that's a letter I wish Peggy had saved! It must have been quite sensual, to leave her "gasping"!

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 12 1929 1 -PM

My dearest - What is it that makes you so infinitely dear to me? It seems that I never do anything but think of you and of how happy you make me and of how I will love living with you. You are my last thought at night and my first in the morning. Just think, honey, there are only eight more days to be lived through until you come! I will be so happy every minute of the time you are here. I have so many things to ask you about.

If I can find a little time today I will answer H's letter. I will assure him of my appreciation of his interest and thank him for his good advice and then tell him that I hope he won't be too surprised to know that I am going right on with my plan. Steve, I would just rather give it all up and never see you again as long as I live than let anything except illness interfere. Your letter yesterday was so normal - so reasonable. You are right in all you say about how people will feel. No matter what they think it will not take them years to get over it. The idea is absurd. O, I don't want to write about that any more. When you come, we will talk it all out and then dismiss it from our minds. I would much rather talk about Feb. 21st or June 1st, wouldn't you? As I told you, Papa wants to have a party Saturday night, so that will rob me of one evening with you, but I will be some where in the house, and you can sneak off every little while and let me tell you how I love you and want you.

Tonight I have to go to a lecture - "The Bright and Slow Child" or some such subject. I am really interested and shouldn't say I have to go, for I don't.

Tell me more about Katie's party Sunday night. Do any of those people say anything to you about "us"? Do they tease you a little or is it all very much under the rose?

I'm sorry about John's grades, honey, very sorry. Does he not realize the necessity of doing his job and doing it well? Just as a matter of principle, he should feel that he is too much his father's son to fail in anything he undertakes.

I must stop now, my own dearest love. I love you more and more every day I live.

Your own

Peggy

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 14 1929 1 - PM

Wednesday night -

Beloved - the house is so still and I have sat here for more than an hour, reading you wonderful letters - and now I have just finished reading today's over. It is such a dear one - they all are - they are so full of your love and trust in me. I loved your telling me about writing to me in the little book room (I have always been grateful to you for not calling it a den!) Steve, honey, I am sorry to hear of John's bad grades. I suppose it's the school teacher in me that makes me hate it so - but when a child has a brain he certainly should use it and you say John has a keen mind and likes learning new things. Well, then, we must somehow or other get it across to him that he must do his job and do it well. I think if I were you I would send him to the other school and let him have a try at getting through. He doesn't want to have to go to summer school, does he? And certainly he doesn't want to stop school and go to work! The only alternative is to get through.

I am going to write to Mother when I finish this letter and enclose it. If you do not think it is all right - just don't give it to her, but I really think she ought to be told, as long as every body in the two states knows. If you aren't ready to tell her or think my letter is not right - just destroy it and tell me what to say. How do you suppose Aunt Jennie worked it out?

Isn't the letter from Hamilton sweet? You need not send it back, either, as I have answered it. I told him that I hated to go against his advice but that the three months he treated so lightly in his letter to Mama, stretched before me like three eons, and that I could not wait any longer than June. I was very loving about it as he was - but very firm. I am afraid, however, that my parents were not near so gentle as I was, as they were both of them very, very angry with both Ham & Liette because they had made me unhappy - and they told him so. They get simply furious if anybody says anything to me.

O, darling dear, won't it be fun, next winter to sit together up in the book room and talk and read and tell crazy things that people say and do? I feel as if I don't want anybody to invite me any where. I just want to stay at home with you. Will we ever get tired of each other? O, I won't, for I have always wanted somebody (you) to love and to be with every minute. And I will love you so, honey, and think about you and plan things you will like and try hard not to hurt you or tease you too much.

This afternoon Margaret and I were walking the streets of Tiffin and we

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stopped in the Western Union and sent you a Valentine. Did you get it? I told Marg. that you sent her word that her "bush was wonderfully beautiful in the snow". She was so tickled to know it was still "her" bush!

I'll tell you something that will make you question that brilliant stuff you're so fond of talking about. My bank statements came in today and they do not agree with my check book at all, and they never have as long as I have had a check book! Call that brilliant? I should think you'd be afraid to let me have any money.

I don't believe you are going to call me tonight, (it's past your usual time for calling) so I might as well go on to bed. Margaret has had a cold and been sleeping in my bed and I have been sleeping with Page and didn't mind it at all. I bet I am going to love it.

Darling, are you not going to have any of the proposed changes made in the house until I come? If you decide this way, all right, fine, but I would like the door cut from your room into the bath room if any thing at all is done. However, we can have it done right away after I get there, if you had rather wait.

My dearest dear Steve, I love you so much, and am so glad you know it. You mean more to me than I can ever tell you. Good night, dearest love,

Your Peggy.

The following letter from her brother, Hamilton D. James, was enclosed:

Covington,Feb. 10, 1929

Dear Old Peg -----

I think you know from our talk about it, how glad I am that you are going to be married. Steve is a fine fellow, and I'm happy in thinking you are going to be. It also means a lot to Liette and me to know you will be here where we can see you, and be with you.

I hope you will not be married until the year is up. I'm morely being honest in saying this, and I believe you wouldn't want me to be otherwise with you. Dear Peg, I couldn't write you at all without saying this, even at the risk of hurting your feelings, which is the last thing I want to do. I can't bear to think of your making such a grave mistake that will hurt your happiness. I am thinking only of your happiness. Steve and I have discussed all this, and I have told him I am only expressing an opinion, which hasn't even been asked for, and that I want you both to understand I am not trying to interfere in something that is entirely your affair, and Steve's. He and I understand one another, I think, and I hope you will forgive

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me for having an opinion that may not agree with yours. You and I have been so close always, and have stood together through so many things that I have no fear of your questioning my love or my loyalty. It is for this reason that I can't be insincere or dishonest with you.

Dearest love to you and the kids.

Devotedly,

H. D. J.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 14 1929 1 - PM

At home - Thursday A. M.

My Sweetest dear -

I came over to put something in my desk just before starting to school and just at that minute the 7:30 bell rang - and I decided I had time to write a little note to my darling. I feel so good this morning, honey. Got up at 6:30, had a cold shower, breakfast, made my bed, got the kids up and now am ready to start. Every minute of the time, I was thinking of you and of all the nice things I heard about you last night. I went out home for about half an hour and heard that you were the one man in the world for me to marry. That we had always been "very fond" of each other! and that June was the ideal month! Did you know all this?

Beloved, it seems to me that I have always wanted you, always loved you. Long, long ago when you lived in a little house on Garrard St. and we drank beer out of a bucket, I used to think how much fun it must be to be your wife! Was I wanting you then? Well, at any rate, I want you so terribly now, that I can hardly bear it. I am getting old and gray under the strain. So, beloved, make June hurry up. You say how wonderfully peaceful you will be from June 1st to 12th. After that - "no more"? Well, you know what I will have to do, then.

You are mine, Steve, all mine. Don't even think of any one, no matter how pretty or cute. Better not even look at them much. I just simply won't share you.

O, my darling, I love you so.

Peggy

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Dearest darling little boy;-Your letter today was so sweet that it made me want to hold you tight and

tell you again how much I love you. Please don't tell me you aren't ever going to tell me again how smart you are. I want you to tell me nice things people say to you and about you. Of course you are a good lawyer and together we are going to make every body know it and recognize it.

No, you will never be able to guess why the boots and woolen shirt make me feel as they do - it isn't because they make me think of camping out with you, although they do that, and they make me sort of realize the man part of you. tut tut

Tonight I am having three other women to play bridge and for dinner, but can't give them a cocktail as I haven't the necessary stuff to make one, but we will have a good dinner and I hope I won't lose all my money, but they are all mighty good players and can't hold better cards than I can.

You get three letters from me the day you wrote and it seems always to make you so happy. I wish I could write three every day or more if more would make you happy. For Steve, my dear, I am going to try always to do all the things that will make you happy and never to do things that will make you unhappy. I am going to spoil you and make you so dependent on me that you cannot be happy unless I am with you. I am going to love you so much that when you are away from me it will seem that you are away from some vital part of you that helps you to live.

The lovely morning when you and Paul stand waiting for me will be the loveliest morning of my whole life. I love to think of it, and of all it means to both of us. And talk about a "ball and chain" - why it will seem as if you were removing one from around me instead of locking it on! I will feel so safe and so free and so happy - and it will all be so right and honest and fine. Do you know, honey, that we are both of us unusually honest people?

Of course Covington is full of all this, hon, but it doesn't make a bit of difference. I have come to feel that nothing outside ourselves really matters any more. All that is really important is that I am yours and you are mine and that we love each other truly, deeply, passionately, tenderly and completely. Could two people ask for a more stable foundation upon which to build?

Will you send me Mary Louise's letter? Even if it is reproachful? And sweet heart, has Dadden talked to Mother yet? and did she tell her about us? or did you give her my letter? You needn't try to answer all these questions in a letter for I will ask them again when you are here. You will be here in five days! Had you better wear a white carnation? I don't want to miss you in the crowd at Fostoria. But if I should, I will just go on home, and you can take the traction - they run every hour and a half.

All my dearest love to you, my own darling,Peggy

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Friday at 1:30 P. M.Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 25 1929 1 - PM

My darlingYou have come and gone and now you are dearer and sweeter and closer to

me than you have ever been - and I hadn't thought I could love you more. You grow so close to me when we are together - we are so harmonious, aren't we? Always in tune with each other. Wasn't it fun last night when you slapped me? You are the only person in the world who ever did that to your old woman. Honey, every body just raves about my beautiful gorgeous ring. The kids are just as silly as they can be about it, giggling and oogling it (both giggling & oogling spelt wrong, probably).

When I heard the train go by Miami Street I just thought I couldn't stand to have you go away from me for so long. But we had such a good time and you were so wonderful to me every minute of the time that I must not complain about this separation which, after all, is just for such a little while. Your visit this time showed me so plainly what a good time I am going to have with you - all the time. You are so much fun to be with - and didn't we have fun at the Grill? There were a lot of little things about that dinner that you couldn't appreciate - but they gave me a big kick - just local stuff that you can't get unless you live among them.

Darling dear, you must tell me that nothing I did made you love me less. Isn't that a crazy thing to write? Don't answer it - as if your love was a fluctuating thing which was affected by insignificant acts!

I am wondering if you will talk to the children about your visit and tell them about it or if you will just say you had a nice time and let it go at that.

Honey, I hope you go to bed real early tonight and get a good, good sleep.Do you know that I did forget after all to ask you something I wanted to

know? Did you like Jalna, and if not, why? or haven't you read it?Did Steve meet you? I must stop now, my dearest beloved, and will write

again tonight.

I love you very deeply, my Steve.

Peggy

And so he makes it "official" by traveling to Tiffin, spending the weekend with her parents and giving her an engagement ring.

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Wednesday - 1:00 o'clock

My darling dear love -I hadn't time to write this morning, as I usually do, so am trying to grab

minutes to do it this P. M. I don't like, any more than you do, to try to write when there are so many interruptions - but it's the only way I can do, if I am to write two a day - and that is what you like me to do.

Sweet heart, your letter at noon was not dry - it was terribly interesting. I love to read about Helen C., Frances, Susie and all the rest of them. Yes, Helen will think it is all right. Right nervy of her to try to make Frances talk, isn't it? Well, beloved, I would rather you didn't tell any one except your own family as to the exact date. Speaking of dates, - we have nothing to bother about, as far as your visit is concerned, understand?

So Mother knew you were in Tiffin, did she? Well, she probably knows what your business there was, too! She will probably electrify us all by telling us she is moving away permanently!

I'm sorry about the Briscoe's. They were good friends of yours and would have been sweet to me because of it. We must see them in New York.

Honey, I was pretty sure the trial was not conducted along the correct lines, and suppose that spoiled the story for you. Don't worry about the book. I will fix that up all right.

My dearest Steve, you make me so happy when you say such wonderful things to me. I will try so hard to be all you want me to be, and to make you and the children happy. Your happiness is in my hands! How gently I will hold it - how dearly I will love guarding it - how earnestly I will try to keep it whole and not lose one little bit of it. I will love you and honor you and all the world will know that we love each other more than we love any one else. I want you to be sure that you need not be afraid I won't understand every thing - don't hesitate to tell me things - don't think I will sulk about things. I love you so much that I couldn't hurt you or worry you.

As to the debts, honey, we will pull out of that. Try to keep the bills down as much as you can and we will get every thing fixed up all right. I do so wish I could come down if only for a few days sometime in May. There are lots of things I would like to see to - but suppose I will have to wait.

Good bye, my dearest, dearest Steve - my Steve. I love you more and more all the time.

Your Peggy.

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyLower left corner: BeechwoodPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Feb 28 1929 2:30 PM

Feb. 27, 1929

Dear Papa, (to be)I always write beautifully when I start out so that you'll read the rest of it.

Pretty soon I'll begin writing terribly, but don't be afraid.Your wife has a bad, bad head ache and has gone to bed. I don't know for

sure but I have my suspicions that it came from looking at her ring too much.(These women!)

I don't know what you said in your letter but she loves you just as much as she ever did. June gets closer all the time and she wishes she could see you.

There! Don't you think I'm smart? I bet a dime you say those things in every letter. It's too bad I'm not a loveress because I can write perfectly beautiful love letters! See? I told you I'd write perfectly terribly as soon as I got interested.

Page is going to sing in the Glee Club at the P. T. A. to-nite. It was spring yesterday, winter this morning, and spring again this afternoon.

I'm warning you, Papa, if you call us steps we'll call you treader you know, always putting your foot on us.

I expect you to answer this to me not to mother. She gets too many letters (not for her, however) and it's spoiling her.

We got our new rumble seat yesterday and I had the honor of being the first girl in it. How are the offsprings? We're springing around quite beautifully, thank you!

I got 100% in English and Arithmetic and Physiology today.Happy Day!

Wyke is going to Fremont to see the tournaments and stay over night. Won't that be grand?

If you won't get vain - a lot of people said a lot of things about you - all nice!Well, pa, toodle - oo

me |Margaret

P. S. Don't forget that you're gonna get hitched sometime soon.Toodle - oo

Me

Cute note from Margaret Hamilton. She was just 12 years old, when this was written.

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Darling - I had a terrible head ache last night and had to go to bed right after school - so Margaret wrote to you for me. It is always an accompaniment of the what-do-you-call-it and always puts me to bed. I will hate it if it happens in New York, for I am helpless when it comes. It is all right this morning, though, so don't think any more about it. I was mad about it, for I was anxious to write a lot of letters and read "the Devil,” which I have almost finished.

This afternoon I am going out home. Mama is having a few of her friends out to tea and I am going out to let them admire my ring.

This is the last day of Feb. and there are only nineteen teaching days in March! After that I will feel as if June was almost here, won't you? I will begin packing books, having blankets washed etc. and will be so busy the time will go by almost before I know it.

Mrs. Gooding called up to tell me that they thoroughly approve my choice. They said a lot of sweet things about you.

You have written to Paul and I am so nervous about his reply. For some obscure reason his approval means more to me than the girls! I suppose because he is to marry us, and I wouldn't like the feeling that he was doing something that was distasteful to him - when it means so much to us. Send me his letter, won't you? When you tell me what he says, I always feel as if I miss some of the meaning, as I did about Susie's. Has Mary Louise written yet? I'm afraid to ask to see hers.

My face is still swollen and red where you hit me, and it is embarrassing to have to explain.

What have you been doing and whom have you seen since you got back? I suppose you won't go to the Jameses until they call you. I wouldn't, I'm sure. I am anxious to know what Helen C. will say to you. If you see Mary Herndon you might talk to her and I will write her before very long.

Steve, my darling, I love you so. I love you more than you can imagine, and I feel that to live with you and to be your wife is the most wonderful thing that could happen to a woman. I love being with you. I will love doing things with you - talking and laughing and figuring out the answers to all our perplexities. Talk to Dadden about keeping expenses down. Don't let them all blossom forth into a lot of summer things that they don't need, and don't do any more to the house than is necessary. We must try to get some money in the bank. Won't it be grand not to owe any? Let's work for that? You know I think it would be smart of us if we could save a little right along - regularly - and then at the end of our first year use that also in paying off debts. And of course if P & G goes to 500 by July I am going to use some of that money to help us get even. We need it now as much as we ever will need it and I am not going to have you burdened and distressed. These are the years we want to be happy and have things as easy as possible.

All this because I love you so and I so want you to be happy.

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Even more than a hint of Spring this morning. Beechwood will be lovely from now on. I wish I could see it blossom into loveliness. Send me the picture you spoke of, will you?

All my love to my darling -

Peggy

Note: In this letter, and others, some of the names were just initials, so I inserted the name, using italics to indicate this.

Beechwood

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 1 1929 11.30 AM

Thursday - 9 o'clock

My own Darling -

The kids and I went calling and have just come in to find Wyk suffering from the craziest accident. He and another boy were romping over at the "Y" and he got hurt in his shoulder (the ligaments torn), the same injury he got a year ago in an automobile accident. He had planned to go to Sandusky to the tournament tomorrow and Saturday, but his arm and shoulder are strapped up in tape and he has to wear it in a sling, so I don't see how he can do all that driving.

My love, your letter today was wonderful - but you ask me "Do you want to post pone it?" Is that a joke? or do you mean it? I can't imagine your giving me an opening like that. Suppose I should say yes.

I'm glad you told me that about Laurie. It makes me happy to think he & Frances are going to be all right.

I went in to the library to pay for the book and she said to wait awhile, that often books with the stamps in them would be returned. O, yes honey, you promised Page something that you forgot to pay so I gave it to her and pretended you sent it, so don't be too surprised if she thanks you. Now, if you send me any money I will be furious. This isn't a hint. Except, of course, for "the Fund".

My darling, I do love you so much. You are so sweet and so good to me. You make me so happy. This is the last of the last day in Feb. Only March, April, May. Then, honey when we are together let's not go away from each other ever again. Take me with you when you have to go away.

Good night, my own dear, dear Love.

Your Peggy.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 1 1929 1 - PM

Friday morning -

Darling -This is really Spring! The sun is so bright and my grass looks a little bit

green. Isn't it just too wonderful! March the first. How close it makes June seem.I feel so good this morning. All the little aches of the last two days completely

gone. Only one more time, honey, when I will have to stand up and teach school when I feel like that. Poor little teachers! How brave they are.

O, honey, you said that even if you didn't love me you would marry me. Don't you know you are just stealing what I told you? Of course I would. I would marry you for loads of other reasons. Because it is so much fun to live with you, because you are so sweet and gentle, because you are smart and people like you - and then - the one reason I always hate to mention for fear you will believe it is the main one - because I won't have to teach school any more. But all these reasons are entirely obscured by the real one - that I love you so deeply, so devotedly, so intensely, that life without you is an unthinkable thing. I want nothing else, and I want this one thing with my whole soul.

Honey, when you put the beautiful ring on and kissed me, I was so happy I almost cried. And now believe this - it was not the ring - exquisite as it is - that made me happy. It was you - you - you and the ring was and is entirely secondary. When the wedding ring goes on I will feel that that is the justification of my whole life. That all these years of self control and discipline have some meaning if they have taught me to be in some small measure worthy of you and all you are giving me.

I will try not to disappoint you. I will always love you and honor you.

Your Peggy.

~~~~~~~~~~


My darling - the sight of my telephone bill today has sobered me down a good deal. Did I really call you so many times? And if mine is $21.80 what must yours be? Sweet heart, we simply must not call up so much. Of course, sometimes I think I will die if I can't talk to you and then I will call and it must be so with you. We are acting like crazy kids about it.

Your darling letter, written in the office because you were having Charlton and Hattie to play bridge, was waiting for me when I got in at noon. It's always the

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thing I look for as soon as I open the door, and when I see the dear hand writing I feel sort of comforted - as if my sweet dear had put his arm around me and kissed me. I pick it up and smell it and hold it in my hand while I take off my coat. Then I rush out and light the stove and start something cooking and then I peep into it, and how I love reading it in snatches and then after lunch is over I sit down for ten minutes and read it slowly and gloat over all the sweetness. You say such darling, dear things to me. You make me so happy, my Steve. Honey, I didn't think too much about that cross examination - but will confess that Sunday night at the Grill I was really afraid and would much rather not have answered you. Of course you have faith in me, honey. You couldn't love me if you hadn't, and I have in you. I have thought for several years that women were fools to believe in their husbands - but I know now that if I didn't believe in you, I would be positively unhappy.

You say "You and I belong to each other and love each other devotedly" - you just bet we do, my sweet heart, and we always will love each other that way and we always will belong to each other - O, darling, do you belong to me! How can it be true? You, with all your sweetness and gentleness and dearness - are willing to give your happiness into my keeping. Steve, my dear, you can't know what it means to me to have you. You can't know, for you can't know what terror and fear and loneliness - hellish loneliness and longing are - so you can't know the wonderful happiness which comes when you are delivered from them.

Sweet, I am so sorry if you feel you must let your property go for so much less than its value. But in those things, you must use your judgment and that of your banker. I am certainly not qualified to advise, but I don't want you to be worried and distressed - so go ahead and do what you think best.

As for what you call the "other thing,” I am going to worry about it if you don't get yourself squared up about it. We won't do it any more. I love and adore you. You make me happy.

I am anxious about Paul's letter. He mustn't hurt you. If he does, he can't marry us.

All my love, my Honey,

Your Peggy

Who was the fourth when Charlton and Hattie played bridge? Dadden? NOT Mrs. C.?

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My darling -

You poor little boy. Did you really think you had hit me hard enough to leave a mark? O honey, I was just fooling, and I am so sorry it was such a bum joke that you didn't even recognize it. You darling, sweet thing, you couldn't hurt me. As you say, your hand just wouldn't do it. I can't imagine your hurting me any more than I could hurt you. I love you, my Steve, with my whole heart and soul and body and I will never change.

Although this is Saturday and I might have had a good long sleep, I woke up early, early and waited for day to come. Then I got up and cleaned my room, and now, although it is only eight o'clock, I am writing to my beloved. Your two long darling, darling letters have just come and I had so much fun reading them, down here all by myself - and nobody to interrupt.- - - - - - - - - - - -

There, speaking of interruptions - I have just had dozens. The gas man came to re-read the meter - the laundry man came - the children got up - and now it is ten o'clock, and I'm afraid I won't get this in the P. O. in time for you to get it tomorrow and then you will be disappointed, and honey, I don't want that.

Sweet heart, Susie's letter would have hurt a lot except that you told me not to let it, but I thought Elizabeth's was sweet and generous. What none of them can understand is that I am not going to take Jane's place nor even try to - but am going to try to make my own place in their hearts as I have in yours, and honey, you must take me to see them when you can, so they will know how much I love you and how good I will be to you.

I am glad you talked to Ben about it - for I believe he would be honest with you about it and now you feel better to be re-assured about the criticism. Also I am happy about Laurie and Frances. We will all four of us have lots of good times together. Lets make them learn to play bridge - and they will like me for I will like them.

Steve, darling, you write me perfectly beautiful letters. They are so sweet and lovely that I want to read and read and read them.

I am glad you had a good dinner and a nice time. We'll do that lots, won't

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we?

Your idea about April is just wonderful - absolutely - and I will always adore you having asked me, but even you and I, crazy though we are, know that it can't be done then.

Beloved, I simply loved and love my beautiful gorgeous ring - of course I was enthusiastic - how could I be otherwise? It is the loveliest ring I ever saw and lots of other people have said so, too, and Monday is a teacher's meeting over at High School and I am going to wear it over there and give all the poor little school teachers a treat.

Your dear voice made me happy last night. I had had another bad head ache - I usually have one at that time but not often two - and had gone to bed. Was lying there thinking of you and of how I love you when your call came. Steve, I wish I could tell you how I love you. Words fail me. You are an essential to me now, as the air I breathe. I love you completely and entirely.

Your Peggy

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 2 1929 2-30 PM

Beloved - mail this or not - at your pleasure. If it is not the right thing to do, just drop it in the waste basket.

Your own Peggy.

Evidently Peggy enclosed a letter she had written and wanted Steve to read it first and mail it if it met his approval.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 5 1929 1-PM

Monday night at eleven thirty.

My darling -It is late and every body in the world is asleep but me (every body in Tiffin)

and I am sitting at my desk writing to my Steve - whom I love more devotedly and more intensely every day I live. Your letter today told me so many things. I love writing to you like this when I am sure I will not be uninterrupted. It is almost as if I were talking to you - except that if I were, I would have my head on your darling shoulder and my hand in yours.

Now for your letter - I, too, hate Sunday afternoons - I always have since I have had to spend them alone - but for that very reason I am going to love them most when I have you. Beloved, you make me glad every day that I did not say to you in Delaware "No, it's too soon, don't say it now" when you asked me if you could say it. - and hon, that is what I should in all decency have said - but if I had - if I had condemned you to a year of loneliness and silence just so we could say it was a year, you would certainly not have been able to go on as bravely as you have - and so, my own darling, I am glad, glad we have had these months of happiness and hope.

I can't answer you about the planting and work you did and in doing it thought and hoped I would like it and "I never did or never told you so". It breaks my heart to have hurt you about it - but it was my only weapon - silence. I will never again be silent about my love for you - my devotion to you, but then I had to be.

As for Mrs. Cloud - of course you must play bridge with her when you are asked - don't think I meant that I don't like it - I like Hattie and Charlton and you mustn't make them mad by refusing.

I'm sorry Jane Ashton was sick. What was the matter? Take care of her, honey, she is so thin, and while you make fun of my little fatties, they, at least, don't worry me by looking as if a wind would blow them away.

Now, about husbands. You just darn bet I am sure mine is all right - but I believe I know more about them than you do, honey, and it's not all good, either.

It's sweet of Lutie to ask us to be married at her house, and you must tell her we appreciate it. And, my own sweet, if Paul won't have me in his chapel, maybe it would be nice. We will talk about this.

And no more of that talk about the Belgian widow, either.I'm glad you got to church - it worried me when I suddenly realized that you

have to go to Communion on Easter. Honey, I would hate to hurt you that way or any other way. I will be glad of the book. This other one is too "pro" and doesn't give any con.

The teachers at the meeting today all raved about the lovely ring and I said "Yes, I love it" and one of them said archly "But you love the giver more, don't

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you?" and I said real loud "I certainly do. I love him more than anything in the world" and then felt so good. And I do, my own beloved Steve - all the beautiful rings in the world would mean absolutely nothing to me, just as rings - but this lovely one just seems - because it is so lovely - to typify our love - beautiful - exquisite, perfect, and because it was your and mine and because it has the darling marking inside it - I adore it.

The twelve o'clock bells are ringing and if I were sure you were at home and it would not frighten you, I would call you. I would love to hear your dear voice before I go up to bed.

Sweet, don't have the bed done over if it is going to be expensive or inconvenient. I will love things just as they are.

Good night, my Steve - I love you so - you make me so happy and your love is so wonderful. God bless my darling boy, and keep him safe for me.

Peggy

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 6 1929 1-PM

Wednesday morning3-6-29

My own darling Boy -I love you so this morning, honey! When I wake up the first thing I think of

is you and I have a little half awake half minute when I can almost imagine you are with me. Then comes the full realization that even though you are not there, I am one day closer to the time when you will be there. Could we have waited until October or November? I don't believe we could, even if we thought it would be the right thing to do.

You are not an easy person to stay away from, honey, because besides being so dear and sweet, you are so much fun.

Now listen, my dear young man, don't talk about coming up in March unless you intend to do it. I can stand to wait until April if I am not encouraged to think otherwise, but I don't want to count on it or even hope for it and then be disappointed. You sort of wanted to wait until after Easter and that's all right with me, if it is with you, but don't get my hopes up.

I'm glad Steve has gone to work. Is he working for Mr. Hodges? And poor little Johnny had to go back and start over - that's too bad but we'll get him through all right. Don't you worry and don't make him feel too badly about it.

Wyk is all right now - plaster off his shoulder and he is so sweet these days - so loving. I think he is beginning to weaken about being away from me next winter. Of course it would be a real sorrow to me to have to go through the winter with out him, but I have not said anything like that to him. He must make his own decision and abide by it.

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Sweetie, be sure to tell me when Mother is going, if you can find out. Also, be sure she has a little money, or shall I send her some? We are both broke, so I don't think either one of us can be very liberal. I wrote to Jane Ashton about talking to her, but asked her to talk to you first.

I'm glad you did some planting, honey. I will love every little twig and leaf on the place. Have we any lilac bushes? And I wish we could get a bush of that old - fashioned yellow rose - I just adore it.

I feel as you said you did - that it won't make any difference if we never go off the place - we will have so many interesting things to do right there - and being with you is what I want.

I have only 17 more days to teach! Time really is going along, though some times it seems to go mighty slow.

Try to find out just when Liette goes to New York, honey. Just ask her casually, sometime, if she had decided the date of sailing.

It is 9:20 and there goes the old train past Miami St. - not carrying my darling away from me today.

I love you, I will always love you more than any one. I want to belong to you and live in your house, and wash out the tub after you take a bath.

Your Peggy.

~~~~~~~~~~


Tuesday night.

My sweetest darling -I just simply had to talk to you this afternoon. I was tired from standing up

all day and felt that the nicest thing I could do for myself was to talk to you. Your darling voice had its usual effect on me - made me feel happy and comforted. I talk about being comforted as if I were not perfectly all right - and I am. All I want and all I need is you and plenty of you.

So you heard from Paul! I am so anxious to see his letter. You didn't sound very convincing about it being "all right" but I will have it tomorrow - and then will be sure.

I am going to stop writing now - there are so many interruptions - and will finish after the children go to bed. My darling, I love you so. You say -"the best part is that you want me" - why, honey, I never wanted anything so much before in all my life. I just feel half alive without you.- - - - - - - - - - - -

My own dear, since writing that we have had dinner and now things seem to have quieted down.

I liked the little poem you sent. It was just what you said - "quaint".

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Your letter to Margaret was much appreciated by us all. You and she sort of vibrate on the same plane of humor, don't you?

I didn't have one single minute to write to you this morning so you won't get the usual number of letters, and will be disappointed - for which I am sorry.

On the 18th of March I have to give a talk on the "Value of Examinations" to a lot of teachers! Can you beat it? If you could know how I hate the idea!

My Steve - my own Steve - will all this longing for you ever end? Will my joy be as great as it seems now it must be? Will you love me so much? For I will love you, my own Sweet heart, more than you will ever know - and I will be so happy living with you.

Good night, dear Steve. I love you so.Your Peggy

Write me about the dinner at L's. Did you have cocktails? and play bridge? Was she nice to you?

~~~~~~~~~~


Thursday - 1:30

My darling -I feel very much neglected. I didn't find my letter when I went home at noon

- but honey, I suppose you were busy - or maybe you didn't feel well, (you told me you had been feeling badly) or maybe you just got the letter in the P. O. too late for the Tiffin train. Anyhow, it's all right - my honey - for I get so many dear sweet ones that I shouldn't even mention it. I did get the book and will read it tonight. Thank you so much. I don't think you are doing missionary work, darling - I asked you to send me a book that could answer my questions. I don't believe either one of us could ever suspect the other of the faintest inclination to proselyting (sic). We feel exactly alike on this subject - so much so indeed, that this is the only time in all our lives we have ever touched on this subject.

It is just bitter cold today - a terrible wind blowing - snow - and every other sign of winter. I won't mind the winter when you are with me. I won't mind anything. You will make everything all right.

Tell Lutie we might take her up on that proposition. The more I think of it the more I feel Paul won't be able to let us go into the church. I am sure he would if he could. In that case I think it would be sort of fun to go to the Briscoe's. How do you feel about this, my honey? I believe you would like it, and I am sure they would.

My ring is just lovely. I love it more all the time. I can't bear to part with it long enough to have it made smaller and any way I don't want the sweet little letters marred. The "Steve to Peggy" that is so perfect, and that means every thing

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wonderful and beautiful.It was so cold last night. I woke up at three o'clock and wished and wished

for you. I think that word I wrote at the end of last night's letter made things worse. I need you so, honey. I want you all the time, in so many different ways.

I wish I knew exactly what Mary Herndon said to you. You must certainly go to see her, Sweet heart. I am very fond of her. Don't tell her about June 1st, and if she asks, say it will be in the early summer. You had better tell Lutie, though, if you think we will be married in her house.

Fifteen more days of trudging up that old hill! Doesn't it make you think there must really be some truth in this business? Maybe we really will marry each other and live together as man and wife and love each other so much that all the world will know it and will want to be with us because our love is so beautiful and rare a thing.

Steve to Peggy -- Steve and Peggy -- Steve with Peggy -- Steve - Peggy, can you think of that one? Any combination of the words is lovely, isn't it?

Good bye, my most beloved of all the world. I will write tonight. Think of me and love me, and once in a while, write to me.

Your own

Peggy

~~~~~~~~~~


Thursday night

My darling -Your letter came tonight! Soon after I called you. Wasn't it nice? I was so

happy and just sat and read it over and over - imagining how you looked and where you sat and everything, while you were writing it. And tonight when I was talking to you, before you went out to dinner, I heard you say "What do you want, Steve; shut the door, will you?" and I felt almost as if I were right there - you sounded so close. I could hear you so plainly.

I am glad you changed your mind about wanting me to write to Hallie - she would probably be the most surprised person in the world if I did. It would be very much better for you to talk to her. You know her so much better than I do.

And by now you have written to Paul and assured him about the children. He will be glad to know they are all right about it.

Mother leaves on the 30th you say. Can Steve drive her down and get back the same day? or will he have to be away on Easter day?

You say, "I can hardly wait for you". How I love to read those words, and

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they are just about the same words I wrote to you today when I told you I needed you all the time and in so many ways. We do need each other, my own Love, don't we? The way I ease my conscience about doing this to you, is by telling myself that you really do need me. You say why did I pick you? Why, honey, I don't suppose you will ever know what I suffered those days before I saw you in Columbus, wondering whether you would pick me! I couldn't believe that such a marvelous thing could happen to me - or that if it did - you would be picking me because you really loved and wanted me.

Hon, we don't agree on our politics, but I know you are so much smarter and wiser than I am that I will listen and try to be convinced by you. Unlike religion, it is a subject we can try to come to an understanding about, by discussion.

Steve, my dearest, I love you so deeply, so intensely, so entirely, that there is no room left in my heart for any thing else.

Why do you keep hinting at April? I can't bear it, you know, to be tantalized. I don't dare let my thoughts dwell on it. That is really too soon - my own dear, so don't tempt me.

All my love,Peggy

~~~~~~~~~~


My beloved -The young brats are taking a test in Geography so I have a little extra time

and will use it in writing to you rather than in watching them agonise (sic)over the questions. Some of them look as if they would bite off their poor little tongues.

I had a sweet note from Frances, which I am sending you. You need not send it back - just tear it up. They are all certainly taking this dose like soldiers, I will say that for them and I will try to make it up to them all. They might have been really ugly about it, honey, and we wouldn't have had a word to say, except of course, that it would not have made the least difference, except that we are much happier this way.

Now, sweetie, I want a little advice from my lawyer. When I quit teaching and get ready to move, etc. I will need some money. Would it be wiser for me to sell say my two odd shares of P & G (I have 122) which will probably increase in value, or to sell my 12 shares of Armco, which probably will not - or not appreciably? My preference would be to sell the P & G, as I would sort of like to hold on to the other - for a while anyway, and I would still have a lot of the other left. Tell me what to do. Don't tell me not to sell either one, for I must have some money, and I will need a good deal, as I must get the childrens summer wardrobes fixed and Wyk's camp outfit, as well as some glad rags for the old woman.

It is snowing hard, and I disobeyed you about wearing a hat to school, so will

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have to wait and make Wyk come up for me in the car. Is Beechwood still covered with snow? Let's have some pretty correspondence paper and cards made with Beechwood on it, shall we?

I'm so glad both apartments are rented and wish they had to pay rent twice a month! (the renters not the apts.!)

Well, honey, I love you - maybe you have guessed it. I adored you last night when you laughed and said "Why you bad thing,” when I told you I loved your letter - it was because it was yours, my own, that I loved it, not because it was bad. You know that.

You are my best beloved. You have taught me the infinite possibilities for happiness which lie in us. You have taught me the meaning of love and the beauty and thrill of it. You have shown me how deep and how strong is man's love for his loved woman, and you have welded me - soul & body, to you - for all time. You have thus made a woman - your woman.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 12 1929 10 - AM

My dear darling -It is 9:30 - the kids are still out. I tried to call you at about eight and they

told me you wouldn't be home until twelve - so I have left a call for you then. Honey, I am just desperately lonely tonight - partly because I have felt all day that I let you down last night when you called and were so low. But, beloved, I didn't dare let you find out how horrible it made me feel to hear the pain and longing in your voice and know I couldn't comfort you. And now I can't come down this week end, as I told you I would. But maybe I can the following week. Will that be all right or will you be busy with your case that weekend?

I think Jane Ashton is so darling to take up the cudgels in our cause, don't you? But, my dear one, don't let there be any open break in your relations with M. L. She will wake up some time and will then realize that she can not administer other people's lives. I would love to have you send me a copy of Jane Ashton's letter. Of course she (J. A.) can do more to plead our cause than anyone else in the world. If our friends know she wants it and is happy about it - they will have nothing more to say.

Just think, honey, soon you will be writing the 70's at the top of your letters! Won't it be wonderful? And when I stop teaching we will be down to the 60's!

If we are married at Lutie's - you will be the one to get us away. I looked it up in the book of Etiquette and it says the lady must be modest and retiring and uninterested - it is the gentleman's part to show eager haste to get away.

Darling, I think if right this minute I could have you here and feel your lips on mine, I would think the world could give me nothing else. I love you so, my

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darling Steve. I love you so that I can think of nothing else. When I am out with other people and they are all talking and laughing I hold my darling secret close in my heart and gloat over it - my mind keeps saying "Steve loves me" - my Steve loves me, and O darling the miracle of our love is just too wonderful to believe. That we should each love so much, and know it to be so real, so deep, so tried by all kinds of tests and to have grown lovelier and finer through them all! It makes us so sure of the rightness, doesn't it?

All my love, honey, and I am going to talk to you in a couple of hours.Your Peggy.

Monday night~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 12 1929 1 - PM

My own darling -I was so sick for the sound of your voice last night. The children were out

and I was alone and lonely. I called you and left word for you to call me when you came in - but waited until after one o'clock and then decided you hadn't gotten the message, so went forlornly to bed. I wanted you to tell me you felt better than you did Sunday night.

Honey, it is really getting to be Spring like out of doors. I believe "Winter's back is broke" and June will actually come!

I thought of some thing today that I will just love. My suit case is quite small and if we go to New Haven for three or four days I will have to put some of my things in your suit case! Won't I love that? And you will probably grumble at me for taking up all the room. How husbandly of you! Steve, dear, all the funny little things like that that most wives just take for granted are going to be so much fun for me. I am going to love it all so, and love you so.

I am very much interested in reading the book you sent me. It makes me awfully mad some times and makes me wonder where the writer got all his information and whether another man would not be able to take the same facts and make quite another story - but at least I am giving myself a chance to look at this thing from another angle. I only fear that when I finish it, I will still be in a fog, though. You know, if I was at all inclined to be introspective, I could let myself be quite unhappy about the whole question of religion, and I envy you your attitude of absolute surety that you are on the right road - but you didn't get there by thinking it out or by choice - your feet were set on that road and you just simply never have gotten off it. Don't let this hurt you - of course you won't.

Don't you love being sure of people? Sure of their love, confidence, sympathy, understanding? I'm so sure of you, my dearest one.

I must see you soon. I can't wait much longer. I love you, Steve, and need you.

Your Peggy

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 13 1929 11-30 AM

Tuesday night -

Honey, haven't you gotten my message yet? When you didn't call me last night I was sure you would do it tonight but you haven't. Have you found some one else to love? No - sure you haven't and are just busy or never did get my message. I'm sure you will call me tomorrow night, though.

Your letter today was short and it was written in the office and they are never as long as the ones you write in our little book room.

Honey, in one of your letters you said Jane Ashton was sick and then in this last one you said she had gone over to see the doctor. What is the matter with her? Isn't she well? Be sure to answer this. We can't have a sick little girl.

Margaret and I are reading "Mutual Friend" and poor Bradley Headstone is in it you know - and I am just so sorry for him - but we just love the book. M. has a bad cold and we have just had a fight about putting Argyrol in her nose. She won the fight - for I just can't battle with her or any body else tonight. I want you too badly to care what any body else does or does not.

I mustn't beg but I just wish so much you could come up this week. I would help you to keep all your good resolutions - honestly I would. Honey, my darling, I know you would come up if you could and I would certainly go down to M. if I could. We simply have to wait, I suppose. I think of June all the time, and of all the dear lovely days after June 1st.

Beloved, don't feel badly about what you wrote - and it was my fault. I know when I wrote it that I would get an answer like that, so don't worry about it. If it helps a little let's do it now and then - it seems to be better than nothing and is just another proof of our love and confidence in each other.

Only twelve more days for me! Can you realize that?I will be so glad to have the pictures of Beechwood, honey.I know you miss Joe and Lutie a lot, my darling, and wish I could help you

about that, too. When we are together, though, you won't need them so much, and it will be soon, my own darling Steve.

All my love,Your Peggy

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely Covington KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 13 1929 1 - PM

Wednesday morning

My dearest Darling -These are busy days for me - there seem to be a million reports and papers

for me to fix up for the teacher who is taking my class, and I have to stay after school every day until four o'clock. It won't last long, though, as there are only eleven more days for me!

Honey, I slept so good last night. I had not slept very well the night before and was dead tired - but today I feel like my old self - full of pep. Are you all right, honey? I don't like that cold hanging on so long.

Is Mother making visible preparations for departure? and is the 30th still the date set?

Elizabeth is coming either today or tomorrow for a week. I do so wish you could be here, too. She is so sweet. You will love her.

Be sure to send me Jane Ashton's letter to Mary Louise - sweet little thing - to be fighting our battles for us! I love her so for it.

You don't tell me how John is getting along at Cov. Hi. Or don't you know? Please help him, honey.

Do you realize that when you get this letter, we will be down into the 70's? Isn't it thrilling? and so soon we will be writing 50's and then teens! O, honey, hurry it up.- - - - - - - - - - - -

I had to stop for a while - as the bell rang and school "took up" - crazy expression! Honey, I have 44 of the dumbest dumb bells in the whole world, I believe. After drilling intensively on Trade Discount - they tell me this morning that you subtract the list price from the rate of discount. O, I could kill them.

You ought to see how nice I can make my hair look, now. It is really getting long enough to stay up, and I like it. I'm glad I went through with it.

Wykie still keeps to his resolution not to drive the car until he gets his debts paid - but it is a terrible ordeal for him.

The meeting where I have to make my speech has been postponed until the 25th. The subject is "The Value of Examination" - and I know a lot about it!

Yes, I expect Polly can tell me a lot about what was said on that trip to Lexington - but you can bet your last cent on this - that nobody said anything bad about us while Polly was there. She absolutely beats the world when it comes to loyalty to her own, and I am her special one, so I know she said every thing she could to make the others see it the right way - and I expect she has a good deal of influence with Em, and probably showed her the light.- - - - - - - - - - - -Another, or rather a hundred other interruptions, and now I haven't time even to read this over, but I feel it is so cut up and so scrappy it has no sense. But will send it anyhow - for I know how valuable letters are, when it is all we can have of each

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other.

My darling, I love you so much. You make me happy - happier than I have ever been. To be really happy and to know we are happy, we must know sorrow - mustn't we?

Good bye, my darling Steve - you are so sweet to me.

Your Peggy.

P. S. Are you going to send me Mary Louise's letter?

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely Covington KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 14 1929 1 - PM

My darling Sweetheart -I just loved talking to you tonight, but hate to say good bye. You have just

made me so happy by telling me there is a bare chance of you coming up this week. O, my dearest darling, wouldn't it be wonderful if you could? Mama has written to Ham and Liette inviting them up and if they drive, maybe you could come along with them. It would make us all so happy to have you - specially me.

My honey, your dear letter more than reassures me about your love for me, and I will try not to be exigent, but I do want to be sure that when you murmurr a name in your sleep it will be my name!

I should have written "it's pretty awful, so I hope June will hurry up" - the sleeplessness, I meant.

My dear, you say "to have you always willing to come to my arms" - O Steve - more than willing - a thousand times more - aching and hurting to come. Feeling that only in your arms am I completely alive - that only in your arms am I safe from all hurt and unhappiness. And to have you reach out and draw me closer - does the world really hold this happiness for me? And shut out all the unhappiness in the world - can I do that for you, my Steve? How wonderful that it should be my happiness to do this for you! I can't feel that I deserve it, my darling. And when that wonderful June day comes and you and I are alone after all these years - I will try to tell you in every way I know, how much I love you - how I have always loved you - how happy you make me - how proud I am to bear your dear name. O, my Steve, my darling, I am going to be so happy. You told me tonight you were happy. So am I, honey, except when I get to longing for you so that I can hardly bear it.

Was Jane Ashton contrite that she had forgotten to give you my message Monday night? And where did you play bridge and with whom? You didn't tell me.

Good night, my dearest dear Steve. I love you, honey.

Your Peggy

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Wednesday nightAddressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely Covington KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 14 1929 1 - PM

Thursday morning -

My darling Dear -

I have just this minute mailed a letter to you - so haven't any thing special to say to you, except to tell you again how very much I love you this morning.

I was very, very happy after I talked to you last night. You told me I was so good to you - that I wrote you such nice letters you couldn't help but be happy. Darling, do you really feel this way? I am so glad, for unless these coming weeks are happy ones for you, they can't be happy for me, and I do want to always think of all our time before and after our marriage as the very happiest time of my life.

Just the thought of that bare possibility of seeing you this weekend makes me so happy - but I keep telling myself not to be too disappointed if you can't come, for you told me you had to try a case and I know that can't be postponed. Well, I am coming down to Middletown next week, if there is any chance of seeing you then. I will drive so it won't take very much of my hard - earned cash! Or, if you tell me you are going to be in Court all day Saturday, maybe I had better compose my soul in peace until the following week - when you will be up here. Then in April I can go down and not have to hurry back as there will be no more school for me to come back to - Glorious!! Tell me what to do about this - which plan is better?

Steve, darling, in all my life I have never loved anyone so selflessly as I love you, and I have never loved anybody so absolutely as to let down all barriers of self-consciousness or restraint. With you I feel as if you were just a part of me - my other self - not even another self - but my own self, and I want to give you all the love, all the sweetness, all the desire and passion that has been locked up in me all my life. You know, honey, I really and honestly believe you and I have something that is so rare as to be almost non-existent? Our love for each other really is greater and finer than anything I have ever known of and I do not believe these are just the ravings of a woman completely in love, either. I think it is so.

Honey, I love your letters and I love you. You are so sweet to me, and so good. If you do come up, honey, I will help you to keep all your resolutions - honestly I will.

Your own

Peggy

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Mar 14 1929 6-30 PM

Thursday P. M.

Beloved - You must not mind any more about Mary Louise's letter. It is too appalingly (sic) cruel. I never for one minute imagined she could ever think of such things. Don't, for heavens sake, send me the letter - what you have told me is more than enough. But after a few weeks I will write her and then I bet you dollars to doughnuts she will come around. I never thought she could descend to that fish wife talk - what have life or her church taught her about malice toward none? She had better go say her prayers with a more open heart and mind. But as I told you before, I don't hold much with family quarrels so will do all I can to put our relations on at least a civil basis.

Honey, you comfort me so when you tell me those dear things about this crazy madness that takes hold of me, I am sure you are right and that after I have you, you all the time - with all your great love and sympathy and understanding, I will be all right.

I love the picture of you and little John in the book room - he studying - and my darling writing to me, and looking up ever so often to help him. You are such a good father to them, honey.

Darling, you are wrong about my setting fire to Steve's Ford. I might have done it if I had thought of it - but honestly it didn't look as if it would make a good blaze.

As for my marrying you for your money - she has the cart before the horse. You have designs on me!

Elizabeth called up and said she would be here tomorrow instead of today. Wouldn't it be just elegant if you could all drive up on Saturday?

I had the dearest sweetest letter from Mary Clarkson in reply to mine. I will send it to you. The loving, sweet words are so spontaneous and she is so sincere about it that it shows a very decided contrast to some of M. L. 's ideas.

Does Margaret flirt with you? Well, I suppose she does, but you think it's cute, so what can I do about it. You encourage her, and lead her on - just as you have done with lots of other women.

I will write again tonight, honey. I love you so much.

Your Peggy

Peggy may have written several more letters, but Steve did not save them all, as there is a gap of several weeks here.

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Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio April 9 1929 9:30 AM

My dearest Love -

I did not expect to live to see the day when you would admit you had been eating too much! You, of the tiny appetite!

When you read this letter it will be nearly time to meet my train at the Grand Central! Won't it be fun? I had a message from Polly that she would expect me Wed. night so it's all right with her.

Be sure to bring my ring, honey, I have missed it so.

Cousin Harry and Cousin Margaret left yesterday, and I think Mama & Papa are enjoying a small family.

Your bad old letter came this morning. You'd better stop that if you really want to wait until June 1st!

Don't count too much on Sunday at Beechwood. We will have to talk to Polly about it and see what she thinks. Apparently you and I are not able to judge these things for ourselves!

I won't write to Lutie until after I talk to you and see how you feel and what you want me to do. It's partly your wedding, too, honey.

I'm glad you aren't going to tell me what hotel you decide upon. That will be more fun and anyhow, I don't care a bit.

Good bye, my sweet heart. I love you, and will see you soon.

Your Peggy.

Tuesday A. M.

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After neglecting his diary for several months, Steve made the following entries:

4-09-29 Played bridge at Hamilton and Liette’s with Peggy last night. Weather has been very warm and things much advanced. Had lunch today with Arthur Hubbard and John Menzie.

Interesting that there aren't any letters from Peggy from the 9th of April until the 22nd. From the next entry in the SLB diary, we can surmise that she was staying in Middletown, Ohio with her sister.

4-19-29 Went to Middletown last night. – Dinner at the Emerson’s with Polly and Peggy; bridge afterwards - won - all night at the Manchester Hotel and homethis morning.

Peggy's next letter to Steve is postmarked April 22nd, and Steve's journal entry for that same day reads:

4-22-29 Peggy went home yesterday. Took a lesson in contract bridge yesterday. Played with her, Polly Emerson and Mr. James. Paul came today.

For some reason Steve didn't save any of her letters for the next month or so. And he made just one journal entry:

4-25-29 Mailed application to Fr. Blees signed by Peggy and myself.

This would be the application for a dispensation from the church, as Peggy was not Catholic. At the same time, they probably gave notice that the wedding would be performed out of state.

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Addressed: Mr. S. L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio Apr 22 1929 10 AM

My darling Love -You will get this on your birthday and it brings to you all my love - you are

my dearest - my own. Every time I am with you I love you more. You just exactly fit my idea of what a man should be.

We had a very comfortable trip and Pop and Mom were here for dinner. It was nice to have my babies again but I had a perfectly desolate feeling about you. That same old sickness I have had so many, many times in my life when I have been with you and come away. But I comforted myself with the thought that only one more time will I be going away from you. Then, honey, no more. Our lives are too short to have any more leave takings.

I feel this morning as a man must feel after an absence from his desk. Mail piled up above my head - but none of it interesting. No word from Mother! I was sure she would write me as she did you.

Beloved, this can be only a short note, as I must go uptown and get back in time to give the children their lunch. I will write again tonight.

Good bye, my Sweet heart.

Your Peggy.

~~~~~~~~~~

A month later:

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, Ky.Postmarked: Tiffin, Ohio May 24 1929 9 AM

Thursday night -

My darling dear -I wrote a letter to you this morning but it did not get mailed, so you will have

two - and you will like that and will not curse me and say "Dam her, if she doesn't want to write to me, I don't care" - and know all the time you are lying, for you do care - terribly.

Bess Loomis asked if she could give me a party next Friday! I told her I was sorry but had another engagement.

This is Thursday night - one week from tomorrow I will be going to New York to meet my fella, and then we will be married and live together all the rest of our lives and love each other more than two people ever loved before and I will be happier than any woman ever has been, and you will be dearer and more precious every day. I wish I had gotten you twenty years ago - we would have had so much

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more time together.

Sweet heart, I want so much to talk to you tonight, but am afraid you aren't going to call me. I didn't like to call you so late last night - it disturbs Papa and I hate to do that for fear he won't be able to go to sleep again if he is awakened.

Honey, wasn't I smart to figure out an earlier train to New York? Now listen, sweetness, - I am due to get to Pittsburgh at 9:00 P. M. & the train for N. Y. leaves at 9:30 - so even allowing for a little lateness, I should be able to make it. However, there is a chance that I will miss it - so if I do, I will wire you at Joe's house - or wherever you say. Or shall I have Howard wire you in any case from Pitts.? if so, where? Then I am due in New York at 7:55 or 8:55 (daylight savings) That will be fine, won't it?

Honey, you aren't fooling me, are you? You're going to marry me, aren't you?

Your Peggy.

~~~~~~~~~~

Addressed: Mr. Stephens L. Blakely, Covington, KentuckyPostmarked: Tiffin, Ohio May 25 1929 - 9:30 AM

My Darling -You gave me such a nice little surprise last night! But you had me at a

disadvantage - two strong cocktails & only about two bites of dinner! But I was happy all evening with the sound of your darling voice in my ears. Were you going out yourself that you called me so early?

Hon, you know I think it would be loads of fun for us both to be in N. Y. on Friday. You and Stan and Agnes & I could stay together and we could have a good time - but somehow or other I feel that you would rather have me get there Saturday, so I'm writing Howard to ask him to get my ticket & reservation for Friday night.

Margaret had to take her History exam today - has just gone. We got up at six o'clock to review the book, and while going over the causes of the Civil War etc. she said "wouldn't Uncle Steve froth at the mouth if he could hear this?" She said it so funny and cute.

Darling lamb, I got home at twelve last night and did not close even one eye until a quarter of four, and then wakened up at 5:15! Just couldn't stop thinking about and wishing for you. The time seemed so short - only five more days until I will be leaving - only three more for you and only seven more nights like last night - wishing for you, wanting you. My dearest Steve, I will talk to you tomorrow about four o'clock but if you are going away in the afternoon, call me. I am going to Allie's for dinner and to Mrs. Gray's for supper.

I love you, my own Steve, with all my heart.

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Your PeggyThe last letter saved, but probably not the last written. The only account of the wedding in New York was this:

7-13-29 Peggy and I were married June 1, 1929 in New York by Paul in Briscoe’s apartment on Fifth Ave. Joe & Lutie, Ray Heiser and Willie, Laurie and Frances and Stanley McCandless and Agnes there.

I have often wondered why they went to New York to get married.

Stephens L. and Margaret J. BlakelyOn their honeymoon in New Hampshire.

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The children circa 1931

Front seat: Jane Ashton Blakely, Page & Wykoff PiattIn the back: Steve Blakely, Margaret Piatt, John Blakely

Note from Margot Woodrough – February 2007I married into this family and was always aware of jealousy among the children of the blended family. They were first cousins as well as half brothers and sisters. I never knew Jane, but my impression is that she was rather well-bred and sweet. I did know Margaret “Gee” and found her distant and unwelcoming. Obviously she had a more passionate side.

Jane Ashton Blakely Woodrough cared for her step mother until the end of Gee’s life. Jane did it from duty not from affection. When Gee died there was a fuss over who would get the house. John eventually bought his sibling’s part over their protests that they were not adequately compensated. John had married late in life and had four step children who also fussed over their inheritance when he died. John’s stepson, Mark Reardon eventually got the house. In the process Jane Ashton was asked to relinquish her life estate in her small house on the property. She received no monetary consideration for the loss of her estate.

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THE SHOEBOX LETTERS