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May June
July Aug
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Nov Dec
Memoranda Notes
VOL. I
Introduction
I dedicate this book to:- My High School Friends
And to One Especially; Miss Genevieve McGraw.
Written by:- John F. D. Carrico
17 Miles Ave.
Detroit, Michigan.
Tuesday Jan 1
A happy New Year to everybody. I have decided to keep a diary of the
doings during the coming year. As I said in the introduction, I will try to tell
the truth whenever possible. I made a New Year's resolution to be punctual but
broke it first thing New Year's morning. Such is life. I began the day by being
late for mass. After mass I went over to the Goodspeed Co. to typewrite the
contract for our furnace. Papa has at last decided to put one in. After dinner I
went over to Genevieve McGraw's; we were to meet Fritz and Myrtle at 2:00. We
waited until after three o'clock but they did not show up. Mama and Mrs. McGraw
had gone to the Broadway Strand. Since Fritz did not show up, Genevieve and
myself went to the Majestic. Margaret Clark was playing there in "Bab's
Matinee Idol." Play was fine. We heard Kenneth Hugh, a five-year-old boy
from Saginaw, sing. He has a fine voice. I took Genevieve home; we were on the
car behind Mrs. McGraw. Mrs. McGraw asked me to stay to supper. I accepted but
had to leave early on account of having lessons to prepare. After supper, Fritz
came over. He had been over to Barnes' but could not find anyone home. They had
moved. We gave him their new address. He would not stay, but nothing would do
but that he should go over to Myrtle's and try to find them. Well, you can't
blame the poor fellow. Just think it was three days since he had seen his
"beloved." Tomorrow school opens. How a fellow hates to get back in
harness after the holidays. Only six months to the summer vacation. Not so long
to wait. I guess it is about time that I end the first day. In bed at 10:30.
Wednesday Jan 2
Rose at 8:00, went downtown. Arrived at school at 10:30. Met Genevieve on
the car. I had only one class in the morning. Mr. Porter, the Latin teacher, was
not at school. He had too much New Year's I suppose. They talk about us not
returning from the holiday on time, I think the teachers had better practice
what they preach. John Povlitz and half of the fellows were not back yet from
the holidays. I have started the New Year by having all ones. My name is under
Cum Maxima Laude. We took up some new commands in drilling to-day. I got in
"Dutch" but wasn't alone. The cadets certainly are a great thing. I
have hopes of being a Sergeant next term. When I got home, I found the furnace
men there. They have parts of the walls torn out and as I sit here on my bed I
can feel the cold air come up from the basement. The mice are chasing up and
down the walls and I suppose they will come out into the room tonight. The men
promise to have the furnace finished by Friday night but what good is a furnace
without coal. Papa worked late tonight. He tried all day to get coal but was
unsuccessful. He has the promise of a ton but we can change the old saying to:-
A ton in the bin is worth two in the dealer's yard. We have only enough coal to
last about two days. Only two days and then what? I began to write a new story.
Have not decided on its name. Wrote a description of Bedford, Indiana for the
English class. Well, I suppose I will have to get down to business again. There
are only two more weeks left in this term. My! I didn't think it was so late. My
watch shows 11 o'clock.
Thursday Jan 3
Did a little better to-day. I got up at seven. But even then I was ten
minutes late for school. This was due to no fault of my own, but to the D.U.R.
The trolley broke at Mt. Elliott and Harper and we had to wait until it was
fixed. Mr. Porter has not shown up yet. He had to report to the draft board at
Lansing and we don't look for him back. I hope they do not take him for he is
the finest Latin teacher. I read my description before the class. It was
humorous and caused everyone to laugh. Miss Green said I did fine. Mr.
Armstrong, the Gym teacher of last term, is here on a visit. He is a Lieut. or
Sergeant at one of the training camps. I don't know which. We are to have a mass
meeting either this afternoon or tomorrow for him. I have just filled my pen and
this is the cause of the ink being of a different color. I left school at the
end of the VII hour. We went to the Madison Theater. Jack Pickford is playing
there in "Tom Sawyer." The book written by Mark Twain was fine but the
play is still better. Jack Pickford certainly does make a fine Tom Sawyer. When
I got home, I found that we had received two tons of coal. Oh! But it was a
grand and glorious feeling. I guess we will not freeze for some time yet. Papa
is working again tonight. The shop is busy on war work. Did not see any of the
McGraw's to-day. I had intended to go down. Fritz said he would be there
tonight, I doubt it. Any time he gets to spare he is going to spend it with
someone besides McGraw's. I had too many lessons so could not get away tonight.
Paul was sick to-day. Caught cold. In bed at 10:15.
Friday Jan 4
I was on time for school to-day. It was the first time this year. Mr.
Porter is back again. He does not have to go to war. The draft board made a
mistake in calling him. Sergeant Armstrong was at school again to-day. He
drilled us in the morning and afternoon. I wish he could stay with us all the
time. We had a mass meeting this afternoon to get recruits for the Cadet Corps.
Mr. Willard, Mrs. Novak, Sergeant Armstrong, Lieut. Piking and Miss Scheean
spoke. The Cadets will be a great thing for Northeastern next term. After the
meeting, Mr. Willard called for recruits. There was a rush for the booths and
about a hundred and fifty signed up. The Military Training of the Detroit High
Schools has been placed in the hands of the War Department. Trained men from the
army will drill us. The fire is started in the furnace but only the kitchen is
connected up. The men are trying to have all the pipes up by tomorrow. We played
our first basketball game this season. The game was with Cass and started at 8
P.M. at N.E.H.S. We lost with a score of 8 to 12 favor Cass. I thought that Cass
would do better than it did. Our fellows played fine. And did well in keeping
the score as low as it was. Mr. Novak, Mr. Porter and Mr. Graham were the only
teachers present. I rode home with the Edwards boy. Lights out at 10:45.
Saturday Jan 5
I got up early this morning. That's breaking all records for on Saturdays
I generally sleep late. The chances are I would have slept late to-day if the
furnace men had not started to pound and saw in my room. I didn't care to lay in
bed and listen to the music of their hammers so I got up. We have heat in all of
the rooms this evening and if we can only get the coal we will be all right for
the rest of the winter. I went to town this morning and got back about 1:30. I
tried to get Mr. McGraw's book at the library but it was not in. I guess he
thinks I am not trying to get it for him. If he ever reads these pages, which is
not likely, he will know that I try every time I go to town. I have not seen any
of the McGraw's since New Year's. I will have to go over to see them tomorrow,
especially Genevieve. I have her picture setting here on my wash-stand. She is
the first girl that I have ever taken anywhere. I hope that during the coming
year we will be able to have some good times together. Bishop Foley died to-day;
he was 84 years old, and has been ordained priest for 61 years. He was Bishop of
Detroit for 29 years. The people hate to see him go but it is to be hoped that
he has gone to his reward in the next world. I went over to St. Thomas this
evening. I have been sitting here so long that my foot has gone to sleep. I
guess this is a sign that I had better turn in. My day ended at 11:00.
Sunday Jan 6
I went to nine o'clock mass to-day. I sat two seats behind Genevieve. The
pastor gave a talk on the K. of C. drive for money. He said that at the early
mass he asked all the young men and old men to remain after mass so that they
could arrange a plan of campaign. He said that two men got up after mass was out
and left. He called them slackers. They may have had some reason in leaving. We
should not be hasty in judging our neighbor. He said that if any man left after
mass that he was a slacker. This made me mad. If I want to do a thing I'll do it
but he's not going to force me to remain. After mass quite a few of the men got
up and left; I was among these. This made mama mad and while we were talking to
Genevieve she said I was a slacker. Genevieve said I was one too. I just turned
away and started for home. Nobody's going to call me a slacker. I had intended
to go down to McGraw's tonight but now it is all off. If this war continues and
the country needs me, I will enlist as soon as anybody. If a boy would call me a
slacker I would fight him for all I was worth. I spent the afternoon in writing
for our club magazine. Tomorrow we will decide if we are to publish an annual. I
began to read "Beverly of Granstark" by McCutcheon. I am nearly
finished and can hardly wait for the end. If Papa don't come up to bed I intend
to try and finish it tonight. I am at the part where the two rivals are fighting
a duel for the hand of the princess. I have just finished the book. The poor
guard turns out to be the prince and they live happily ever after. Here comes
Papa to bed. So that means turn in. 11:15.
Monday Jan 7
Another day gone by. I rose early which was about 7:15. The Harper
jumpers were running on schedule so I got down to school about 8:00. I was
appointed as managing editor of our club paper. I chose a staff of two boys and
two girls. I called the first meeting for recess to-day. Only the two girls
showed up, which was satisfying to me but did not speak well for our paper.
Well, I will do all I can for the paper and will try to make it a success. The
tickets for "The Crucible" were placed on sale to-day. You pay 30¢
for a ticket and then when "The Crucible" comes out next week, you
hand that ticket in for a copy of the magazine. Mr. Van Tassel gave me ten
tickets to sell. He did not give them to me until after 2:00 so I was able to
sell only one. The said one being to myself. John Povlitz was not in school
to-day. I answered an advertisement in yesterday's paper. An insurance company
wants a high school student to work after school. I haven't heard from them yet
but I hope the reply will be favorable. I went over to the drugstore after
supper to call up the library to see if Mr. McGraw's book was in. It was not. I
suppose there is a great demand for it. As I was coming home, I met Agnes
Teschendorf and her mother. I have not seen Genevieve since yesterday after
mass. And I have not been down there since New Year's. I wonder if she is mad at
me for walking away Sunday. Just as soon as I get Mr. McGraw's book I will have
an excuse to go down. I hope that I will be able to get the book tomorrow and
then me for McGraw's. Light out at 10:30.
Tuesday Jan 8
Just did get to school on time. All my studies went along all right. The
final exams will be held the week of Jan. 21 but I guess I won't have to take
them. I went in this afternoon to make up some drawing so I did not leave school
until 3:00. I had intended to walk up to the library after school. So I started
up Grandy Ave. and who should be ahead of me but Adele DeGraw and Edna Krisgen.
I did not care to walk with Adele so much but Edna, that's a different story.
This is the first time we have met since St. John's excursion last summer. I
have seen her at church several times but we have only said "good
morning" to each other. This evening we walked together for about fifteen
blocks. When we came to Harper, which was the place where I should have turned,
I just walked onto the boulevard. It meant an extra seven blocks walk back to
the library. We talked of the old times when we were at St. John's. Those were
the days of real sport. Edna certainly is a fine girl. I only wish I could walk
home with her every night. John Povlitz was not in school again to-day. I went
up to his house and met Frank, his brother, playing outside. I asked him where
John was. He said that he wasn't home from school yet. I started to say that it
was strange because he wasn't at school to-day. I caught myself in time. Mr.
John has been playing hooky. He was supposed to be in school. I came near
telling Frank that John had not been in school yesterday or to-day. A person
never knows when he will be found out. The moral is:- Never do anything that you
will be ashamed to let people know. Did not see Genevieve or any of the McGraw's
since a week ago to-day. Hit the hay at 10:30.
Wednesday Jan 9
The first day of another week. I arrived at school on time. Our English
Class has decided to give a banquet Friday morning. It will be a banquet minus
the "eats" as we are only giving it so as to get experience in giving
toasts and speeches. Each of the class will have to respond with a toast or
speech. Our Grade Room held a meeting this afternoon to elect the officers for
next semester. I was the first one to be nominated for President. I hope that I
am not elected and if I am I will try to resign. I haven't been in High School
long enough to try to run our Grade Room club. There was no Gym this afternoon.
Lieut. Piking drilled the Cadets. He will also drill us Friday which will be the
last time as he has to go back to Fort Sheridan Sunday. I went over to McGraw's
this evening. Mrs. McGraw was not feeling well and Mr. McGraw is thinking about
buying an automobile. He wants papa to go with him Sunday to look at one.
Genevieve played several pieces on the piano for me. She certainly can play fine
and if she keeps it up I believe that someday she will be an excellent musician.
They are thinking about moving and if they do I hope that they will not move far
away. If they were to move to the other side of town, I never would get to see
Genevieve. If I can scare up the money, I will ask Genevieve to go to the Adams
with me next week. Papa is working again tonight. He put the brake of his jitney
on too hard to-day and sprained his leg. Retired at 10:45.
Thursday Jan 10
I did not get up until 7:30 but left the house at five minutes to eight.
Some hustling, believe me. Arrived at school on time. There was nothing extra
doing except that our grade elected their president for the coming year. The
rest of the officers will be elected tomorrow. I lost by two votes. Victor Adler
won. He is in his third year and that caused him to get the majority. I had 62
votes which was 2/6 or 1/3 of the amount cast. Victor had 89 which was 3/6 or ½
of the number of votes cast. This left 1/6 for the other two candidates. I still
have a chance to run for vice president. Studying may mean hard work but it pays
in the end. Now that we are nearing the end of the semester, I can look back and
be proud that my name has been under the "Cum Maxima Laude" (With
Greatest Praise) on the honor roll. I thought that school would be hard for me
after working a year. I have not found it so very hard. I have had rather an
enjoyable time at school. Our High School days certainly are the days that we
will remember. It is then when you make the friends that you will hold dear
through the rest of your life. I know that I for one shall always remember my
High School Days and the friends that I have made during this past semester. I
went downstairs to-day to fire our furnace and after shaking it down I turned
the water on to spray the ashes. I forgot to turn it off and came upstairs.
After a while mama went down and found the cellar floor covered with enough
water to go swimming. In bed at 11:00.
Friday Jan 11
Started the day at 7:00 but did not get to school until 9:25. This was
due to the Harper cars. They were behind time as usual. A mass meeting was held
during the noon hour. It was for the purpose of awarding the letters to the
different athletic teams. No gym to-day. Spent the seventh hour in mechanical
drawing. I have spent fourteen hours in drawing during the last week. Our
schedule calls for only four hours. The Cadets reported at the gym for drill
during the eighth hour. Lieut. Piking did not show up until about half past two.
He drilled us for about twenty minutes and then had to leave. The upper classmen
who are coming back to military drill are trying to run everything. Mr. Willard
is spending all his spare time in drilling them and from the way things look now
they are the fellows who Mr. Willard is going to appoint as officers. That's not
fair. All of these older boys have not been drilling during the past semester
while we have. The old cadets have joined together and if Mr. Willard appoints
these new boys as officers we will take it up with Mr. Novak and try to get
someone else to drill us. I could not go to the basketball game tonight as I
went over to the shop to typewrite. Lawrence and Joseph went however. The game
was with Eastern and we lost as usual. The score was Eastern ____ Northeastern
____. The weather is something fierce out. A regular blizzard is blowing. In bed
at 10:30.
Saturday Jan 12
I did not get up until nine o'clock. Oh! How lazy. I spent the day in
writing for our newspaper. From the way things look now, I believe that I will
make it a success. To-day is the coldest day in Detroit for this winter. It was
twenty below this morning and a wind that is blowing at a rate of seventy miles
per hour. I can hear it whistling around the corners of the house as if it would
like to blow everything down. God help those poor people who have no coal or who
have to be out in this weather. We can thank God that we have coal and that we
have our furnace in. I wonder what McGraw's are doing with just the one stove.
Fritz and Myrtle were to spend the night with them and all of them were going to
the Lyceum Theatre tonight. I bet ten to one that they all stay at home. A
person would be crazy to go out a night like this. Papa took the jitney out this
morning and ran into a snow drift. He and the man that was with him had to get
out and push the old car out. When they got out of the drift, the "little
old Ford, she rambled right along." We were talking about McGraw's this
evening and got to talking about Genevieve and her music. Mama said that Mrs.
McGraw told her that she (Mrs. McGraw) told Genevieve that she should take John
(meaning J. McGraw) to her recital. Gen thought that she meant me and said she
would if I would let her introduce me as her brother. Mrs. McGraw said why he is
your brother and then Genevieve caught onto whom was meant. I would let her
introduce me as her brother or father or anyone. Retired at 11:00.
Sunday Jan 13
My! But it certainly is cold out. I got up and went to 9:00 mass. None of
McGraw's were there. This afternoon I went over to McGraw's. Fritz and Myrtle
were there and had been there all night. None of them went to mass this morning.
How sinful! I certainly did have a fine time. Mrs. McGraw served a fine supper.
It consisted mainly of beans. Yes you heard right Beans! B-E-A-N-S! Beans for
Sunday. It reminds me of a song we sing at school: Beans for breakfast, beans
for dinner, beans for supper, beans three times a day. Green beans, kidney
beans, wax beans, stewed beans, navy beans, butter beans, baked beans. Beans,
beans, beans nothing but beans. If Mrs. McGraw should read this, I hope she will
not be angry. I had a real enjoyable afternoon & evening. Fritz has
certainly fallen for Myrtle. Well, I don't blame him. Myrtle seems as though she
is a good girl. As we were leaving Myrtle said she had something to tell me but
would not say it before Genevieve. I don't know if I should write it here or
not. For if Genevieve should ever read these pages she will find out what it
was. Well, anyway here goes. All Myrtle said was that Genevieve had my picture
hanging on the wall over her bed. I don't know why she did not say it before
Genevieve. I have Genevieve's picture here before me. When I raise my eyes, I
can look right into hers. It is her face the last thing at night and the first
thing in the morning. The weather is a good deal warmer to-day. In bed at 11:00.
Monday Jan 14
I got up at 6:45 this morning. My, but it did seem early. I thought that
perhaps the cars would be tied up on account of the cold. But such was not the
case. I did not have any trouble getting a car. That's always the way things go.
I did some typewriting for Mr. Eddie, the manual training teacher, this
afternoon. The next time I want a piece of pine or need some band sawing done I
will just remind him that I did some typewriting for him. Owing to me doing this
typewriting made me late for drill. When I reported I found that Mr. Willard was
only drilling the new boys, so I came on home. After supper I went over to the
Goodspeed Company to do some typewriting for our paper. It is going to be
"some" little paper. You can take it from me. When papa and I got home
we found Mrs. McGraw and John there. They had been over all evening and were
getting ready to leave when we got home. Mama certainly gave them a warm
reception. The old furnace was going to beat the band. Even now my room is so
warm that I can't hardly stand it. I guess Mrs. McGraw thinks the furnace works
O.K. To-day was a good deal warmer. I guess our cold spell is about over. At
least I hope so. I don't mind the cold weather but when it gets down to 15 and
20 below zero, that's too low to suit me. If I don't hurry, I won't get to bed
before 12:00. It is 11:00 now.
Tuesday Jan 15
My day began at 7:00. I thought that I would get down to school about
eight or eight fifteen. I left the house at fifteen minutes to eight and Lo! I
found a string of cars from Concord to the railroad. I walked down to the
railroad and when I reached there I found a fire engine. The hose was laid
across the street and the D.U.R.'s barns were on fire. It was not much of a
blaze but I had to walk down to the Grand Belt to get a car. When I got to
Forest, the cross town cars were tied up. That meant another fifteen minutes
wait. I got to school just as the last bell was ringing. I spent recess in
drilling. Mr. Willard is giving extra time to drilling the boys who wish to
become officers. He will drill us every noon. I was elected secretary of our
Grade Room to-day. I had 86 votes. That was 56 more than any of my opponents. I
guess they thought it was about time I was elected. I was nominated for
president but lost by 28 votes. They also nominated me for vice president. I
lost that by six votes. The ballot was: Albert Eikel 73 - myself 67. I gave them
a pretty close race. I guess being elected secretary and having all ones is not
so bad for my first year in high school. We had another big snow last night and
tonight the wind is starting to come up. I guess we are in for another cold
spell. The old furnace is trying its best again this evening. It is suffocating
in our house this evening. The furnace certainly does throw out heat. So if we
have plenty of coal we need not worry. Retired at 9:30.
Wednesday Jan 16
I did not get up until 7:30. I had to walk down to the Grand Belt to get
a car. This made me late for school. I was supposed to stay until 4:30 for being
tardy. After military drill I reported at the House of Royalty but found that
the tardy people had been dismissed. At the end of the fifth hour, we were
called to the auditorium. The Chamber Music Society gave a concert. The pieces
were played by the Culp Trio which consists of a cello, flute, and harp assisted
by a piano. They played several fine pieces, and the concert lasted the entire
sixth o'clock. The sixth hour classes were skipped. So I did not have any
General Science. Our English class magazine is coming along fine. We will have
it finished by the end of this week. It is going to be some magazine. The
headline in tonight's paper said that the schools would close. I thought that I
would get a vacation, but it went on to say that all schools except high schools
would close on account of the coal situation. William and Joe Bunch and Leo
Detlaff came over after supper. Joe wants to buy that turning lathe of mine. I
bought it from him about two years ago. If I can get three dollars for it, I
will sell and get a bugle or uniform coat for my cadet suit. It was not so cold
to-day but it looks as if it were going to get colder. In bed at 11:30.
Thursday Jan 17
I got up at 7:15 and had good luck in catching a Harper jumper. Arrived
at school at 8:15. I'm early one day and late the next. Everything was O.K. at
school. Mr. Porter asked me for his Crucible tag at last. He promised to buy one
from me. He wrote a check out in name for one dollar and I gave him seventy
cents in change. Can you imagine a teacher buying a thirty-cent ticket with a
check? I did not however have any trouble in getting it cashed, the bank is just
around the corner from school. I left school at the end of the sixth hour and
went over to the Goodspeed Co. to finish typewriting our magazine. I could not
start to typewrite until after five o'clock as the stenographer was using the
machine. I did not get all finished. We did not get home to supper until 8:00
o'clock. The coal situation is getting worse instead of better. John Povlitz
lost his evening job as the Edison Co. received orders to only work nine hours.
We have enough coal to last at least two weeks and if not longer. I received a
letter from Harriet Owen to-day. Everything was about the same in Bedford.
Harriet certainly took her time in answering. It was a month ago that I wrote to
her. I guess I will have to forgive her this time. It is getting colder out this
evening. Day ended at 10:30.
Friday Jan 18
I began the day at 7:20. The Harper service was bum as usual and this
made me two minutes late for school. The tardy people were excused so I did not
have to stay until four-thirty. Luck seems to be with me. For so far when I have
been tardy they have always excused us. When I asked Mr. Van Tassel for an
excuse to get to my class he said, "This is the second time this week, eh
John?" I replied, "Yes sir." In other words he meant not to get
into the habit of coming late. What can a fellow do when he leaves home an hour
before school opens and it takes over an hour to get to school some mornings
when it should only take twenty minutes. I was recommended in everything but
will have to take the English exam as it is general and everybody has to take
it. I wonder how Genevieve came out with her studies. I hope that she passes and
will go to Northeastern next term. We received the Crucibles to-day and they
certainly were a surprise. I was not lucky enough to get my story in this issue.
But I have two pictures of myself in the magazine. The one is with the Cadet
corps and the other is a snapshot of myself. From the way the students were
buying the paper, it looked as though it will be a success. Joe Busch came over
this evening to get the rest of the lathe. He gave me three dollars for it. So I
guess I will be able to get my bugle. Light out at 10:45.
Saturday Jan 19
I was lazy this morning and did not get up until 9:30. It was good and
cold out but not quite as cold as it was last Saturday. I went to town this
morning or it was nearly noon when I left the house. I tried everywhere to get a
bugle for about four dollars but the cheapest I could find was about six
dollars. After bumming around town for a couple of hours I went home. Papa was
home when I arrived and he asked me what I could get a bugle for. I told him for
not less than six dollars. So what does he do but takes me back to town and got
me a seven-dollar-and-half bugle. The store left us have it for six dollars. It
certainly is a peach. I blew and blew until I got dizzy. All the sound I could
get out of the thing was a couple of blasts. I guess I will have to take a
couple lessons to learn how to place my mouth. It don't take so much wind to
blow to bugle. It is all in the way you place your mouth. There is only one more
thing that I want and that is a Cadet coat, when I get that I will be satisfied.
I went over to church this evening. The priest did not come in until after eight
o'clock. Papa's factory does not have to shut down on account of the coal
shortage. They are working on government parts. All of the large factories were
closed to-day. Retired at 11:00.
Sunday Jan 20
I went to nine o'clock mass this morning. Genevieve was not there she had
gone to seven-thirty therefore I missed my walk with her. On account of the coal
situation the churches will only be allowed to have heat during six hours a
week. The Bishop sent out the order that the six hours would be on Sundays.
There will not be any heat in the churches during the week. I practiced on my
bugle this afternoon until I got orders to cut it out. A bugle seems to make an
awful lot of noise and I guess that if I want to do any practicing at home I
will have to buy a silencer or else do it in the chicken coop. Mama and I went
down to McGraw's after supper. She said she wanted to see Mrs. McGraw and well,
the person I wanted to see is not John to be sure. Neither is it Mr. or Mrs.
McGraw, her name is Genevieve. Genevieve was out skating when we got there.
Fritz and Myrtle were there as they usually are on Sundays. I beat Myrtle in
three games of checkers. Also, I won three off Fritz. I played two games with
Genevieve and of course I beat her in both of them. I didn't tackle Mr. McGraw
so did not get beat. Genevieve played several pieces on the piano for us. It's
not bragging when you say that she can play. You can certainly notice the
difference since she's been taking lessons at the conservatory. We left McGraw's
at 10:30 and I went to bed at midnight.
Monday Jan 21
I got up at 6:15 this morning. Yes sir 6:15 is correct. It don't seem
possible but nevertheless it's true. I wanted to be sure that I would get to
school on time. I arrived at school at 8:00. My English exam was held
eight-thirty until ten-thirty. The questions were easy and I believe that I made
a pretty fair showing. After the exam I went up to Mr. Graham. He sent me out to
collect in six ads for The Crucible. I collected two ads. Three of the stores
were closed and the other one claimed that he did not give us an ad. I got back
to school at noon. I fooled around school until one o'clock and then went into
the mechanical drawing room to finish my drawings. I got finished with one but I
have one more to finish before I complete the semester. I left school at three
o'clock and went straight home. I practiced on the bugle for a while and then
did some printing. To-day is Mr. McGraw's birthday. I hope he lives to see and
enjoy many more. A week ago yesterday Mrs. McGraw said they were all going to
the show tonight; she invited me to go along. I don't know whether she changed
her mind or forgot about it. She did not say anything about it when I was down
there yesterday. I intend to ask Genevieve to go to the show with me someday
this week. It's getting late so I will have to turn in. 10:30.
Tuesday Jan 22
I did not get up until half past eight. Arrived at school at ten o'clock.
There was no need of me reporting at school but I had two drawings that I had to
finish up if I wanted to get full credit for the semester. I did not get all
finished so will have to go down tomorrow. I ate in the school's lunch room for
the first time to-day. I am still alive so I guess the cooking is not so bad
after all. Mr. Graham sent me out again this morning to try and collect the
money due for the advertisements in the Crucible. It certainly is a job trying
to collect the money. The merchants have their advertisement in the Crucible but
they refuse to pay for them. All the theaters in the city were closed to-day. I
guess it is the first time they have all been closed in a good many years. The
twentieth century certainly is a century of wonders. Who would have ever thought
that there would be a shortage of coal and sugar? I guess a good many people are
beginning to agree with Sherman's saying: "War is H---." The censor
does not permit me to write out the last word. You may rest assured that I don't
mean heaven but the opposite of heaven. So I guess you know what the
"H" and dashes mean. It is not very cold to-day. If it would only get
warmer. I am turning in early tonight. It is only half past nine.
Wednesday Jan 23
I got up at eight o'clock this morning and arrived at school at nine
o'clock. I thought that perhaps I would get to ride to school with Genevieve but
as I found out this evening she did not have school to-day. I finished up by
drawings by noon. I monkeyed around the building until two o'clock when the
class exercises were held. The Northeastern orchestra played several fine pieces
and Joe Gekel, the president of the graduating class, delivered a fine address.
Several of the 12B students presented a little one-act sketch. It was a
burlesque on occupations that the students of the graduating class are going to
follow. The sketch is so supposed to be in the year 1933 just fifteen years from
now. Ten of the Cadets are to have charge of the ushering tomorrow night during
the graduating exercises. I have been placed in charge of the door and will have
an assistant. After the exercises this afternoon I had to go up in Hamtramck so
when I saw Edna Krisgen and Adele DeGraw I decided that I would walk. We talked
of the time about a year and a half ago when we graduated from St. Johns. Edna
is a fine girl and I wish that we were back in St. John's parish. Then I would
be able to see her oftener. I went down to McGraw's after supper. Genevieve was
there doing the dishes when I got there. She generally hasn't started them that
early in the evening. She is going down to the school with mama tomorrow night.
In bed at ten fifteen.
Thursday Jan 24
I did not get up until half past nine. I made about a dozen trips to the
store to call up the Adams Theatre. The line was always busy. Mama went to town
this morning. I went to the Adams Theatre this afternoon to see "Pals
First." I sat downstairs for the first time. The play was fine but it is
lonesome not to have anyone with you to talk to. I wish that I had invited
Genevieve along then I would have had a more enjoyable time. I have had a cold
for the last several days and I do nothing but sneeze, sneeze and sneeze. It
reminded me of Bob. Every several minutes during the performance I would have to
sneeze. I got home about six o'clock and had to hurry and get my cadet uniform
as I was on duty at the graduation exercises. I got down to school in plenty of
time. Genevieve went with mama to see the exercises. There was not much of a
crowd at the school. Mr. Dodge gave the address and he certainly is a fine
speaker. He kept the audience laughing all the time. After the exercise a
reception was held in the gymnasium. I left the school at ten o'clock. Mama got
off the car at Helen Ave. so I had the pleasure of taking Genevieve the rest of
the way home. She said that she was going to enroll at Northeastern in the
morning. Mr. & Mrs. McGraw were up yet when we got home. Mrs. McGraw said
that she was going to the country Saturday after her mother. In bed at 11:30.
Friday Jan 25
I got up at seven o'clock. We had to be at school at eight-thirty to get
our pass slips. I passed in everything. My grades were all ones, the highest
anyone can get. My arm is tired from the teachers shaking my hand and
congratulating me on having all ones during the first semester. It was hard work
at some times to get my lessons but I feel repaid now, that I can look back on
my first semester and see the record that I have made. I looked for Genevieve
this morning but could not see her. It would be just like her to change her mind
about enrolling at Northeastern. I am glad that I went to Northeastern instead
of Cass. I left school at ten-thirty. Papa was home with the automobile so I
went back with him. It was not so cold riding in the auto. I went to town this
afternoon and got a new record. Every time papa sees an advertisement in the
paper he is not satisfied until he gets the record. The game was with Royal Oak
High School and we defeated them with a score of 17 to 14. This was the fourth
game played this season but it is the only one we won. I hope the team will be
able to keep the good work up. It was warm out to-day but it is liable to be
zero before morning. I hit the hay at ten-thirty o'clock.
Saturday Jan 26
I slept late this morning as I usually do on Saturday mornings. The day
was not any different from other Saturdays. I got up so late that I had
breakfast and dinner together. I attended to my usual Saturday job which is to
clean out the furnace. We got a half of ton of coal this morning. It was really
not coal and nothing like it. It was nothing but dirt or slack. Won't it be
wonderful when we get old to tell our children about this wonderful 20th
century? When we had to do without coal, sugar and flour. The factories closed
on Mondays and theatres on Tuesdays. Stores and churches only allowed to stay
open a certain length of time. Woodward Ave. dark and lonesome on Sunday and
Thursday nights, and not only Woodward Ave. but this entire downtown dark. This
is certainly the time when things are happening. The time of Washington or
Lincoln did not have anything on us. The Revolution and the Civil War would look
like a schoolboy's scrap along the side of this World War. Nothing out the
ordinary happened to-day except that I took a swim (Oh no. Don't worry. It was
only in the bathtub and not in the Detroit River. The river has too much ice in
it to suit me.) Papa has gone to bed so I guess it was about time I turned the
light out. 11:26 P.M.
Sunday Jan 27
I managed to get to nine o'clock mass this morning but was late.
Genevieve had gone to seven so I did not get to see her. In the afternoon I went
down to McGraw's and invited Genevieve to go to the Washington to see the
"Birth of a Nation." This play first showed here about two years and
then returned the following summer. I went to see it both times that it was here
so this afternoon was the third time I saw it. I could go to see it again
tomorrow if I would have the pleasure of having Miss McGraw setting beside me. I
am glad that I made the acquaintance of the McGraw's. Genevieve and myself have
had some good times together. When a person gets to be eighteen years old he
wants to associate with girls. I have never met a girl that I liked better than
Genevieve. Before I met her, I could not talk to a girl without being bashful
and turning red in the face. We got home from the show about six-thirty. I did
not stay at McGraw's very long. The folks were just having supper when I got
home so I pitched right in. It is getting colder out and I guess we are in for
another cold spell. I wouldn't be surprised if it was below zero in the morning.
Well tomorrow work will start again. The new semester opens and I am going to
try to keep up my record. Turned in at ten-thirty.
Monday Jan 28
The new semester has begun. Everything was in confusion at school this
morning. All the new programs to be arranged. I saw Genevieve at school this
morning but did not get a chance to talk with her. I bet she is mad because they
put her back in the House of Portia. School was dismissed at 10:00. I went to
the matinee at the Adams this afternoon. "A Pair of Sixes" is playing
and it certainly is a scream of fun from the time the curtain goes up on the
first act until it falls on the last. The Glaser Players are certainly at their
best in this comedy. I don't believe I ever laughed so in my life. I want to try
and get papa and mama to go to see it before the end of the week. I am going to
try to go to the Adams every week. Vaughan Glaser and Fay Courtenay are two of
the best players I have ever seen. I got Mr. McGraw's book for him. I guess he
thinks I have forgotten all about it but such is not the case as I have been
trying to get it every time I went to the library. I will have an excuse to go
down to see them and her (Genevieve) tomorrow night. I would have gone tonight
but I got home too late. I took several snapshots of the Ice Fountain while I
was downtown this afternoon. The fountain is sixty feet high which is the
highest it can go.
Tuesday Jan 29
School work began in earnest to-day. My new program of studies was
certainly in a mix up. Mr. Van Tassel had me write an entirely new program. I
rode to school with Genevieve this morning and also rode home with her this
evening. It looks like all the boys of Northeastern were taking Military
Training. There are nearly three hundred and fifty enrolled for this semester.
My time for drilling is during the fifth hour and I hope that I will be made a
lieutenant or sergeant of our company. I took several snapshots of the school
building this afternoon. On account of the trees it is hard to get a good
picture of the building. Papa did not get home until nearly seven o'clock. Due
to the D.U.R. of course. I went down to McGraw's after supper. Mrs. McGraw went
to bed right after I came and it was not long before Mr. McGraw hit the couch.
This left Genevieve and myself alone. Which was O.K. with me. We had a right
nice time until one of her Dutch friends came calling and knocking on the door.
This of course woke Mr. McGraw up and put an end to our talk. The weather was
not so cold to-day but it is getting colder this evening. Well this is the end
of another day. In bed at 10:00.
Wednesday Jan 30
I just did make school on time this morning. I had to walk to the Grand
Belt line to get a car. The classes were running a little late this morning. We
have two new teachers at Northeastern this semester. One of them Mr. Chapel, who
teaches General Science, has charge of coaching the basketball team. Since we
have a new coach we might be able to win a few more games before the season is
up. I have been appointed as a Cadet instructor to help instruct the new
fellows. We have certainly got a bunch of rookies. I saw Genevieve once or twice
to-day but was not talking to her. After school this afternoon I went downtown
to get an English book. I then went out to the Goodspeed-Detroit Co. Papa was
going to work overtime so I came on home. I had to wait nearly a half an hour
for a Grand Belt car and then I had to let three past because they were crowded
so that another person could not get on. I was lucky though in getting a Harper
jumper. Papa got home about half past seven. I spent the evening in reading. I
have started to read a fine book; "The Sins of the Seven Sisters" is
its name. It is written by Meredith Nicholson of Indiana. Hit the hay at
ten-thirty.
Thursday Jan 31
I guess it is about time that I write the hour that I get up. Well I got
up at seven o'clock this morning and left the house at eight. I was lucky in
getting a car so I got to school on time. I guess that I have got my program
arranged all right now. I am carrying a double English course. English 2 is
grammar work and English 3 is newspaper work so I guess I will be able to carry
them all right. I have my old teacher, Miss Green for English 2 and Miss Ripley
for 3. Miss Ripley is a fine teacher, so is Miss Green, if you stay on the good
side of her. My Latin teacher seems to be all right and Mr. Jane, the Algebra
teacher, is said to be the finest Algebra teacher at N.E.H.S. Mr. Chapel, the
new General Science, has a funny way of teaching General Science. He talks so
loud that he gives us the headache. I did not see Genevieve at school to-day. I
left school at 3:05 and went straight home. I spent the rest of the afternoon in
practicing on my bugle. I can get plenty of sound out of it but can't form the
notes. I guess I will have to take lessons to learn how to play it. It is
getting good and cold out tonight. The paper says that it will be five below
zero by morning. The papers don't always tell the truth however. In bed at ten
o'clock.
Friday Feb 1
I got up at seven o'clock this morning and of course I got to school on
time. Genevieve was on the same car with me. They changed our Latin class this
morning and I have got Mr. Porter, my last term teacher back again. I'm glad
that he is going to have our class for he certainly knows how to teach Latin.
The rest of my studies are all right unless they change some more of the
classes. I rode home with Genevieve again this evening. Edna Krisgen was also on
the car. She was going up to a dentist on Mt. Elliott and Grand Boulevard. I
went to town after I got home. I had some photos at Black's that were ready for
me so I went after them. The pictures that I took of the ice fountain are fine
so also are those of the high school. I got home about six o'clock and ate my
supper and then left for the high school. The basketball team played the
Wyandotte High School team. We beat them by a score of 24 to 18. It was one of
the finest and hotly contested games that I have ever seen. The score was a tie
until the last quarter when our team began to work in earnest and scored the
winning six points. This was the last game that will be played on our floor this
season. In bed at 10:30.
Saturday Feb 2
I did not get up until ten-thirty this morning. As I usually do on
Saturday mornings. What's the use of getting up early when there is nothing to
do. I spent most of the day in fixing up my work bench. When I got that finished
I began work on my ukelele. I got part of it glued up and will finish the rest
next week. I will have to ask Mr. McGraw to get me a piece of mahogany for the
neck. It's going to be some instrument and when I get it finished the neighbors
will think that we have got a Hawaiian visitor. Then you'll hear the hula
maidens sing "Yacka Hula Hickey Doola" or "Old Bill Bailey."
I haven't had much success on my bugle and maybe I can learn to play the ukelele.
Papa didn't get home from town until nearly half past six. Mama and I went over
to St. Thomas after supper. They were fixing up the basement for a bazaar or
something. I guess we'll find out about it tomorrow morning at mass. Tonight's
paper said that they looked for the gas supply to give out by Monday. If it
does, we'll be sure to have lightless nights. I wonder what next will give out.
Everything but the war seems to be giving out. Retired at ten forty-five.
Sunday Feb 3
Would you believe it? I got up and went to seven o'clock mass this
morning. It is the first time that I have gone to this mass in a good many days.
Genevieve has been going to this mass but she was not there this morning. I met
her as I came out of church after mass. Mrs. McGraw and John have gone to the
country as Mrs. McGraw's mother is worse. Mr. McGraw and Genevieve are keeping
house. I went over to see them this afternoon. Genevieve let the fire go out
twice and I guess they are having some time of it. I got home about half past
five, ate my supper, and left for town. I wanted to go see Theda Bara in
"Cleopatra" at the Washington Theatre. I got to the theatre at about
seven-thirty and there was a crowd lined up across Washington Blvd. waiting to
go in. I stood in line for over a half hour and then managed to get in the lobby
but could not get a seat until the second show. The picture was fine and had
some grand scenes. The show was over at eleven o'clock but I had to wait
forty-five minutes for a Harper car. My, but how that wind did blow. I was lucky
however in getting a warm car. I did not get home until half past twelve and it
is one o'clock now. So goodnight.
Monday Feb 4
All of the windows were covered with ice this morning and it is the first
time that our house has been cold since we put the furnace in. I just did make
school on time. There is talk of closing the schools until the coal situation is
relieved but I hope that they don't close them. I haven't anything to do but
loaf around the house, which I don't like to do. If I had a job for after
school, I would be in favor of closing the schools. If the schools close, I
guess it will suit Genevieve all right. She doesn't like to go to school any too
well. Mr. McGraw and Genevieve came over for supper this evening. Mr. McGraw
came right over from work but Genevieve hadn't come over yet at six o'clock. I
went over to see if she had forgotten about coming over. She hadn't. It was
simply slowness in getting ready. I helped her get some coal and fire up good.
We then started for our place. When we were halfway here, Genevieve happened to
think that she had left the damper on the stove open. So we had to go back and
close it. At last we got over to our place. We had a fine supper and an
enjoyable time. Mr. McGraw and Genevieve left for home about ten o'clock. As I
was up so late last night, I guess it was about time I turned in. In bed at
11:30.
Tuesday Feb 5
My, but it is cold this morning. The thermometer showed 16° below zero.
We have only got two bushels of coal and papa has not been able to get any.
However when he came home from work this afternoon he brought three sacks full
from the shop and he has the promise of a ton of hard coal from the coal yard.
So I guess the Lord doesn't want us to freeze for yet a while. I managed to get
to school at eight o'clock this morning. I saw Genevieve come in about nine
o'clock. A mass meeting was held in the auditorium at the end of the fifth hour.
Mr. Novak said that the 6th, 7th and 8th hours
would be five-minute sessions and then that the first hour would start again and
continue to the fifth. Each hour to last five minutes. This was for the purpose
of getting our class certificates signed. He then said that we were to go home
and remain there until Feb. 18. In other words the schools are going to close on
account of the coal situation. So I guess we are going to have a holiday. I
don't know what I would do during the week and a half that we don't have school.
This was settled for me however when papa came home. He said that the Goodspeed
Co. could use me during the next week or two. So I guess I will have something
to do and be able to have some spending money besides. In bed at 10:00.
Wednesday Feb 6
It is like a spring morning outside this morning. The snow and ice is
thawing and besides it is raining. The weather here certainly is subject to
quick changes. Yesterday 16° below zero while to-day it is 46° above. I
suppose they'll open school again if this warm weather continues. Well I started
to work this morning. It seemed like old times and it is the first time I have
pulled out to go to work since last September. I have a regular job now. I don't
have to be there until half past eight or nine o'clock. That's what comes of
having your father be chief engineer and everything else including jitney driver
of the Goodspeed Detroit Co. The office is a month behind in posting anything
since the first of the year. Mr. Ramsey started me in on posting the labor and
time in the cost book. Papa and I went out to dinner about twelve o'clock and
didn't get back until after two o'clock. Even then we got back before Mr.
Ramsey, who don't get back until after three. Mama and I went down to see Mr.
McGraw and Genevieve after supper. She went to see Mr. McGraw while I went to
see Genevieve. They don't know when Mrs. McGraw will be back. Genevieve's
cooking hasn't killed her father as yet so I guess they will be all right. Hit
the hay at eleven o'clock.
Thursday Feb 7
The weather is still favorable but raining. I have still got my job
although papa and myself didn't arrive at the office until nine o'clock. We got
there before Mr. Ramsey however. The Goodspeed Co. certainly is a busy place, at
least the mechanical part of it is, but the office doesn't seem to be so busy.
The way the people take their time in getting there in the morning and the long
lunch hour they take. Papa and I went downtown for our dinner to-day. We also
went over to the Pemberthy Injection Co. to leave word for Fritz to come over to
our place after supper as papa had a position for him. Fritz's last name is
Monty but I thought it was McCarty and that was what I told papa. So I don't
know whether he received the message or not at least he didn't show up at our
place this evening. I suppose Fritz will murder me when he finds out I gave him
an Irish name. I telephoned down to the Adams Theatre to reserve two seats for
"The White Sisters" tomorrow. I saw the play in moving pictures and
this is the first time anyone besides Viola Allen has played the leading role. I
guess Fay Courtenay will do fine in the part of the sister. Mama is going with
me. I have certainly been up late nights of this week and it is ten-thirty now
so I guess I had turn the lights out.
Friday Feb 8
I didn't get up until half past seven this morning. I certainly had to
hurry to get to the shop by nine o'clock but I managed to do it. It's raining
again this morning. I called up Genevieve this afternoon to find out Fritz's
address. Papa wrote a letter to him telling him to come over to the office
tomorrow afternoon. He didn't want to use one of the company's envelopes as they
have a letterhead on them. There was no plain envelopes so he had to use of the
stenographer's private envelopes. The envelope was one of those long, narrow
pink things and had a perfume scent to it. I guess Fritz will think he is
getting a letter from Myrtle or some other girl. The stenographer at the
Goodspeed Co. is called the office fairy and, believe me, she is some fairy. Oh
boy! Some fairy! If she got paid by piecework, she would starve to death. She
doesn't know what work means. Mama and I went to the Adams this evening. The
house was packed and the play was fine. The walks are covered with ice and it
certainly is slippery out. You can't hardly walk across Grand Circus Park. It is
like a big piece of plate glass. They should have had a moving picture machine
to take pictures of the way people walked across the park. It was two steps and
they dip. Some of the dips would not have passed the censor. We got home from
the show at eleven-thirty.
Saturday Feb 9
A Brief History of My past Life
Before I Started This Diary.
As there is nothing of interest that happened to-day, I will fill this page with a brief history of my past life. I was born at Bedford, Indiana on the 14 of December in the year 1899. The early part of my life was spent at Indianapolis. I have lived at Columbus, Indiana, Cincinnati, Ohio and Hot Springs, Arkansas. We came to Detroit in 1913 and I attended the St. John's School from which I graduated in June 1916. At this time we were living in Hamtramck, Michigan. We lived there until April 1917 when we moved inside the city limits of Detroit and are at present living at 17 Miles Ave. our own home. After I graduated from St. John's, I went to work at the American Radiator where I worked until last April. I caught a cold and was laid up sick until the middle of July. I then went back to the Radiator Company where I worked until September when I then went to high school. My ambition is to finish high school in three years and go through the U. of Michigan Engineering School and graduate as a Mechanical Engineer. I am rather old to be just entering the first year of high school but if a person has the will he can get through and I hope one day to be able to reach the top of the ladder of success. This is a brief account of my past life. I have hope that the future will contain more interesting things for me.
Sunday Feb 10
Well I guess I have gotten in the habit of going to seven-thirty mass. I
didn't get up until seven o'clock this morning but still I managed to get to
church on time. Genevieve came in late. After mass I asked her if she would be
so kind as to grant me the pleasure of having her accompany me to St. John's
after supper. She would not give me a definite answer but told me that she would
send word over this afternoon. She failed to do this so I went down to their
place about seven o'clock and met Genevieve just as she was come home from one
of her friend's homes. Her friends, the Pasquales, live on Denton Ave. in
Hamtramck and Genevieve and John had gone over there this morning. They stayed
so long and when it began to get dark Mr. McGraw got worried and started out
after them. At first Genevieve said she did not care to go but I managed at last
to coax her to go with me. We had a fine time and the play, "The College
Chap" was fine. It was the best that the St. John's Dramatic Club has
given. If we lived in St. John's parish, I would join the club. We got home
about eleven o'clock and found that Mr. McGraw had just got back. I hope that he
won't get after Genevieve for staying at Pasquales so long. As I have to get up
early for work in the morning, I will have to close this day. In bed at twelve
o'clock.
Monday Feb 11
I guess to-day will be the last workless Monday unless the fuel
administrator changes his mind again, which he is quite liable to do. It is
raining again this morning and everything is thawing. It's nothing but slush and
water everywhere. I guess "Miss Feb Thaw" is here. This morning's
papers said that the schools would open a week from to-day but that they may
have to close them again. I don't mind now that the schools are closed. I have
been able to earn a few extra dollars which will come in handy. Mr. McGraw sent
me my piece of mahogany. I only wanted a piece long enough to make one ukelele
stem but I will be able to get a half dozen out of the piece he sent me. We
played rummy until Mr. McGraw was ready to leave. Genevieve rummed once and
right when I was getting to ready to rum, she said that I would have to draw
another card. I felt positively sure that I did not have to draw the card and
after I had lost the game, she told me that I was right and only said that I had
to draw the card so that I wouldn't win the game. They left for home about ten
o'clock and a half hour later I was in bed.
Tuesday Feb 12
To-day we celebrate Lincoln's birthday. It does not seem possible that we
are living in a time more exciting and vital to the freedom of our country. This
sounds as though I am giving an oration but I don't think my diary would be
complete unless I record some of my feelings in this matter. In the years to
come when our country again enjoys the blessings of peace, I will be able to
read these few pages and it will awaken in me the thoughts and memories of those
stirring days of 1917-18. Lincoln said "Government for the people, by the
people and of the people." It is for this that Wilson declared war. The
world shall be safe for democracy. Thousands of people gave up their lives in
the Civil War for democracy's cause but still greater thousands are offering up
their lives to-day for this cause. We who are here at home can hardly realize
what is going on over there in Europe. It does not seem possible that the entire
world is plunged into a bloody war. Well I guess that is enough for that and now
to relate the happenings of the day which were the same as usual. The Goodspeed
Co. worked to-day even though it is a holiday. They are on war work so do not
have to obey the fuel administrator's orders. I stayed home this evening and
read. The weather is still warm and still thawing. It rained for a while to-day.
It is now ten-thirty so will have to end.
Wednesday Feb 13
I got up at seven o'clock this morning and arrived at the Goodspeed Co.
at eight-thirty. Miss Lodge, the bookkeeper, is still sick so I guess I have
been a help to them and came in handy since she has been home all week. We
managed to get the payroll out all right. I guess I will get paid at the end of
the week, at least I hope so. Saturday will be my last day as school is certain
to open again Monday. If this weather keeps up, it will soon be warm enough to
go without our overcoats and fur hats. The rain just poured for a while this
afternoon but it stopped before evening. The 339th regiment from Camp
Custer arrived in town yesterday morning. This regiment is the first bunch of
drafted men that left Detroit last fall. It is a fine regiment of soldiers and
fit to beat the Kaiser any day. They gave a drill at the Armory last night and
will give another tonight after which they will return to Camp Custer. I had
intended to go down to see them but all the tickets were sold and you couldn't
get to within a block of the Armory. I came home alone tonight as papa had to
stay and finish some drawings. He didn't get home until late. I spent the
evening in reading the same as last night but hit the hay a little earlier. It
is only ten o'clock now.
Thursday Feb 14
To-day is Saint Valentine day. The day on which you send your friends or
the fair ones valentines. I mailed a valentine to Genevieve last night and if
she should ever read these lines she will find out that she is the first girl to
receive a valentine from me. I had intended to go down to see her tonight but a
storm came up about seven o'clock. It began to thunder and lightning while the
rain poured. They say that a thunder shower is the sign of spring and that
winter is over. I wonder if this will be true. I doubt it however; it is just as
liable to be cold and snowing in the morning as not. I will try to get down to
see her tomorrow night. I hope she received the valentine to-day. By mailing it
last night she should get it this afternoon. I spent the day as usual at the
Goodspeed Co. I am glad that they need me for I don't know what I would have
been doing this week and a half if I didn't have the chance to work at the
office. If there is one thing I hate, it is to have to loaf around home. I
always want to be doing something whether in school or at work. I guess there is
no doubt about the schools opening again next Monday. There seems to be plenty
of coal coming into Detroit now so I guess the schools will have enough. It is
ten forty-five now. So out goes the light.
Friday Feb 15
The thunder shower last night was not a sign of spring. It was real cold
this morning with everything froze up again. We got over to the shop about eight
forty-five this morning after waiting a half an hour for one of the Harper
jumpers, and then we had to walk to Mt. Elliott as there was no car in sight.
The Harper line is getting worse every day instead of better. No matter what
time of the day it is, you always have to wait for a car. Tonight's paper
reported the death of Mr. Vernon Castle, the great dancer. He belonged to the
English Royal Flying Corps but was at Fort Worth, Texas, training men when he
was killed. I went down to McGraw's after supper this evening. Mr. Stokey had
arrived. Father Graeber was at our plant to-day to find out McGraw's number. We
told him where they lived but when I got down to McGraw's this evening I found
that nobody had been at home so they missed seeing Father Graeber. Mrs. McGraw
had gone to the show with John and Genevieve was away. I have not gone to a show
so far but I don't know whether I can go all through Lent without seeing one.
There are going to be three shows in town next week that I would like to see so
I don't know whether I can keep from going to them. I got home from McGraw's
about ten o'clock and went right to bed.
Saturday Feb 16
Well, this will be my last day at the Goodspeed Co. Mr. Ramsey paid me
ten dollars for the time I worked, which was a little over a week. That's not so
bad considering that I had counted on being idle during our vacation. Mr. Ramsey
also said that I could come over and work Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and
Saturday mornings. Believe me I'm going to take the job, two or three dollars a
week will come in mighty handy. It's been a long time since I have seen a ten
spot that I could call my own and I was certainly glad to get it. I started one
of the U.S. Savings Books this afternoon and intend to try and get it filled as
soon as possible. Mama got a letter from Aunt Sophie to-day, the first one in
about two months. She said that Henry and Theodore were both at the training
camp and would leave for France in about a month. She didn't say at what camp
they were or when they had gone. It's a pity they can't write oftener and let us
know what is happening. I answered Harriet's letter to-day. I received two from
her but kept putting off to write. I will have to do better in answering her
letters for if we don't hear from her we won't find out any of the Bedford news.
I went to the barber shop this evening to get a haircut. I shaved myself for the
first time this evening. Hit the hay at eleven o'clock.
Sunday Feb 17
Well, I went to seven o'clock mass again this morning. Genevieve was
there also. Mass certainly lasted long enough; the priest had to read the Lenten
regulations in both Polish and English. Papa worked until half past four to-day
so we had dinner and supper together at five o'clock. I took everybody's picture
to-day and then went down to McGraw's to take theirs. I heard some sad news at
McGraw's this afternoon. They are going to move back to Greenwich, Ohio. Mr.
McGraw is going out to see about renting a place next Friday. It's too bad that
they have to leave Detroit and will certainly miss them. I know that I'll miss
Genevieve. She may not miss me and may forget all about me when she gets back on
the farm, but I'll never forget her or the good times we have had together. I'll
always keep her picture hanging in my room. I hope that something turns up to
keep them from leaving. We have been true friends and I have spent more than one
enjoyable evening in her company. Genevieve leaving the city reminds me of
Tarkington's "Seventeen" how William Baxter felt when Lola, the city
girl left the little village where his home was. It is all in life, we make
friends and then must part. Although she is in Ohio and I'm here in Detroit I'll
always think of the days we spent together in dear old Detroit.
Monday Feb 18
School opened again this morning. My, but it was hard to get back into
the old schedule again after working for a week and a half. But while I have got
the chance of going to school I'll certainly not let it go by. It is becoming so
that you've got to have a least a high school education to get along in the
world. The weather seems to be getting colder and this evening there is an awful
high wind. I suppose we are in for another cold spell. Papa got home from work
about five o'clock, ate his supper and went back. It is now twelve o'clock. He
is certainly not working this late and must have gone to a show. Even then he
ought to be home by now. Mrs. McGraw and Genevieve came over after supper. We
played Rum and then Genevieve tried to show me how to play Pedro. I knew as much
about when we got finished as I did at the start. Poker is my speed (maybe). We
had a fine time but they are still determined to leave Detroit. Every day brings
the day of parting nearer. How I hate to see it come for then I will lose one of
the finest and truest friends that I have ever known. Genevieve is a fine girl
and I consider it an honor to be one of her friends. It is twelve-thirty now and
papa is not in yet. If I intend to go to school tomorrow I had better turn in.
Tuesday Feb 19
I started to work at the Goodspeed Co. this afternoon and will work every
Tuesday and Thursday afternoon and Saturday morning. I got over there about two
forty-five. I had to miss my English class and I guess I will have to drop it as
it seems as though Mr. Van Tassel can't change it to some other period. Now that
I have got this chance to work, I want to make the most of it. Papa went home
sick about three o'clock. He went to the show last night and didn't get home
until after twelve o'clock. Everything was all right at school to-day. I was
appointed temporary Sergeant Major to-day. That is the highest position so far
that anyone has ever held. Those who are appointed to act temporary are
generally the ones who get to hold the permanent positions. It has rained nearly
all day and is still raining now. I spent the evening in printing the negatives
that I took Sunday. All but one were good. The two pictures of Genevieve were
about the best. She looked so sweet and pretty as ever. It is the finest one
that I have ever taken of her. My, how I hate to see her leave Detroit. I'll
certainly miss her when she is gone. Retired at eleven o'clock.
Wednesday Feb 20
I overslept this morning and did not get up until after seven-fifteen. It
took some hurrying to be able to leave the house by eight o'clock but I managed
to do it. Just as I got up to Harper Ave. a car came along and I missed it.
There was two ahead of this one so I started out to walk to Mt. Elliott Ave. and
took the Grand Belt line. I reached school in time however. I had to drop
English 3 because Mr. Van Tassel couldn't arrange for me to take it some other
hour so that I could get out at the end of the seventh hour. I went to town
after school this afternoon to get myself a Cadet coat. I have now got a
complete uniform and look fine in it, even if I do say it myself. The Cadet band
got orders not to practice in the auditorium any more as we made too much noise.
We were sent to the botany conservatory and I don't know whether they could hear
us to-day or not. I went down to McGraw's after supper to see Genevieve. I took
some of the pictures down to them and they thought they were fine. McGraw's are
still in the notion of going back to Greenwich. My, but how I wish they would
stay here. Hit the hay at ten-thirty.
Thursday Feb 21
It was two below zero this morning and I had to walk as far as the
railroad track to get a car. I got a Crosstown house car as it was coming out of
the barns and for once the car was warm. I got down to school about twenty
minutes after eight. I didn't have my Algebra prepared but for once he didn't
take the papers, so I was safe. The Cadet Corps are coming along fine and if all
the new fellows will get suits, we will have a pretty good showing for the
review next June. We are trying to get in trim so that we will get the medal and
flag that is given to the school which makes the best showing at the review. I
didn't see Genevieve all day but saw Edna Krisgen several times and was talking
to her. Nobody seems to have a kick against us practicing in the conservatory so
I guess we will continue using it. I left school at two-fifteen and went over to
the Goodspeed Co. to work. I entered up their time cards and worked until
five-thirty. Mr. Ramsay drove papa and myself over to Woodward and the Grand
Belt line. We had to wait for a car and didn't get home until six-thirty. I
remained at home this evening and read. As I have been getting to bed late for
the past week, I will turn in now. Ten-thirty.
Friday Feb 22
I reached school at fifteen minutes after eight. I have not rode to
school with Genevieve since we went back after the fuel holidays and did not see
her at all to-day. The Cadets of Company A had a review to-day in the gym. It
was the first time that the band played for marching. I guess that I will resign
from the band as I believe that I will be able to get a better position as
drilling. I did not leave school until three o'clock and Edna Krisgen was on the
same Crosstown and Harper cars as I was on. She was going up to a dentist at Mt.
Elliott Ave. and Grand Blvd. When Genevieve goes to the country, I will have to
become better friends with Edna. Mr. McGraw left this morning for Greenwich and
I hope that he will be able to arrange things so that they will not have to
leave Detroit. I will certainly miss Genevieve when she is gone. Northeastern
played Norsdum this evening at Norsdum out Fort Street almost to Delray. I did
not get out to the game until half past eight. This was due to the Harper cars
as usual. Of course we had to lose but this was on account John Povlitz being
ruled out of the game for fighting. If John had been left in, we would have won.
The score was Norsdum 22, N.E.H.S. 6. I got home about eleven-thirty.
Saturday Feb 23
I got up early and went to work as papa did this morning. We reached the
shop at eight fifteen. I was kept pretty busy all morning but it was not until
in the afternoon that I really worked. Mr. Ramsey gave me a pile of inventory
sheets about noon to typewrite. I started in on them right away but did not get
finished until after four o'clock. Mr. Ramsey and everybody else had gone home
but I stayed and finished them. Mr. Ramsey hadn't said anything about how much
he is going to pay me or how often. Nevertheless, I imagine he will pay me every
Tuesday which is the regular pay day. Just so he pays me enough for spending
money I will be satisfied. I went over to church this evening. Mama and Bud also
went. After church she wanted to go down and see whether McGraw's were coming
over to dinner tomorrow. Mr. Stokey's wife had arrived so it was all off for
them to come over for dinner but Mrs. McGraw said that she would try and get
over in the afternoon and stay for supper. Every time we've invited McGraw's
over for dinner somebody always takes a notion of visiting them. As I intend to
go to early mass in the morning, I had better get to bed. Time is 11:30.
Sunday Feb 24
I went to seven o'clock mass again this morning. Genevieve was also
there. We had dinner about one o'clock and after dinner I took some snapshots.
Mr. McGraw, Genevieve and John were to be over for dinner. However they didn't
show up so I went over there this afternoon. Fritz and Myrtle were there and the
reason they couldn't come over for dinner was because Mr. and Mrs. Stokey were
there. I at last got Genevieve, Fritz and Myrtle to come over for supper and
after supper we played Pedro. (I am getting to be a pretty good Pedro player
now.) About eight o'clock Mrs. McGraw and John came over. Mr. McGraw was with
them as he got back from the country. Well I guess it is all settled about
Genevieve and her mother and John having to move to the country. Mr. McGraw is
going to try to get Mr. and Mrs. Stokey to keep their house and he will board
with them. As long as they don't take their furniture I can live in hopes that
Genevieve will one day return to Detroit. I will miss her friendship and hate
like everything to see her go. McGraw's left for home about ten o'clock and we
went right to bed.
Monday Feb 25
The weather is pretty fair again this morning although not near as nice
as it was yesterday. I took off my fur hat yesterday and hope that I will not
have to put it on again. It looked like rain all morning and in the afternoon
about three o'clock it certainly poured. I went to town from school to get my
film developed and I was caught in it. I never saw it rain so hard in my life.
It kept it up until about six o'clock. When I got home I found that our basement
was flooded and that the sewer was stopped up. Mama and the boys didn't seem to
be able to get it open so I pitched in and finally managed to open it up. There
was about a foot of water in the cellar and the furnace was nearly out. About
six o'clock the wind came up and it got colder. The wind certainly did blow. My,
but how our house did shake. You would think she was going to topple over.
Siegel's window was blown out again this evening. Towards morning the storm let
up but it was quite a bit colder. This entry seems to be all the weather but
there was nothing else to write about and the page had to be filled. In bed at
ten o'clock.
Tuesday Feb 26
I got to school on time this morning but just did make it, the first bell
rang as I came in the door. All of my studies were O.K. I left school at half
past two and went over to the Goodspeed Co. to work. I worked until six o'clock.
To-day was pay day but not for me. I don't know how often I will get paid or how
much Mr. Ramsey is going to be paying to me. After supper, mama, Bud, Joe and
myself went down to McGraw's. Mrs. Barnes, Myrtle and Fritz were also there. We
played Pedro until half past ten and then we sat and talked. It don't seem
possible that McGraw's are going to leave Detroit. They are not going to close
up their house as Mr. and Mrs. Stokey are going to keep house there and Mr.
McGraw is going to board with them. If McGraw can only find another good
position in Detroit there may be some chance of them returning. Detroit
certainly will be lonesome for me when Genevieve leaves and I don't know how
I'll get along without them. We have been such good friends during the past and
I have never had a better friend than Genevieve. I guess I will have to hope and
pray that Mr. McGraw will get a good position here and that Mrs. Wagner will be
able to be moved to Detroit. It is half past eleven now so will turn in.
Wednesday Feb 27
One more day nearer to the time when I must part company with Genevieve;
how I dread to see Saturday morning come. Oh! If they could only bring Mrs.
Wagner here to Detroit. I was late for school this morning and received a
calling down for it. Otherwise, my lessons were all right. I went to town after
school to get some developing paper and also got the films that I took Saturday.
They were all fine, especially one that I took of Genevieve. It is the finest
picture that I have ever seen of her and I am going to have an enlargement made
from it. I am glad the picture is good for I may be able to get to get some
pleasure from looking at her picture after she is gone, but it will never be
like when she lived here. That's always the way in the life, we make friends and
then something turns up to part us. After supper I printed pictures and did not
get finished until after eleven o'clock. I printed over fifty photographs, some
of them I printed for Fritz. While I was downtown this afternoon, I went to
Sanders to get Genevieve a box of candy to give to her Saturday morning as a
parting gift. I would gladly give ten boxes if she will only return again. I got
to bed late again tonight. It is almost twelve o'clock now.
Thursday Feb 28
To-day is papa's birthday. He is forty-five years old to-day. I went to
work this afternoon but I got papa to leave the shop about half past five. We
had invited McGraw's over for supper but he didn't know it. When we got home,
Genevieve was there and her father and mother and John came over about a half
later. Mama had a fine supper and after supper we played Pedro. I claimed
Genevieve as my partner during the entire evening and we managed to best mama
and Mrs. McGraw. We played until eleven o'clock and had a fine time. The
pleasure is all taken away when I think that McGraw's are leaving for Greenwich
Saturday morning, perhaps never to return again. And this may be the last
evening we will ever spend together. I asked Genevieve if she would go down to
Northeastern with me tomorrow evening. Sam Hume is going to present his plays
from the "Little Theatre." At first she did not care to go but I at
last won her consent. Tomorrow evening will be the last chance I will have of
taking Genevieve anywhere so I was anxious for her to go. I don't know how soon
I will again have the chance of taking her out. McGraw's left for home about
half past eleven and it is after twelve now. I certainly am getting to bed late
this week.
Friday Mar 1
The beginning of another month. If it could only be like the past month
but with the coming of March, McGraw's leave for the country. We never know what
the next day will bring. It reminds me of the poem we studied at school. It was
called "Tomorrow." The poem certainly is true to life. I got home from
school about three-thirty to-day. I read for a while and then changed my
clothes. I had an early supper and got down to McGraw's a little before seven
o'clock. Genevieve was at the store but she soon came in. She wanted her father
to let her remain over until Monday but he refused. Fritz came over and
Genevieve did not seem to like to leave when he was there. I at last got her to
go with me. The poor girl had a hard time to keep from crying. She wanted to
remain over and go to Greenwich Monday. I guess she hates to leave Detroit as
bad as I do to see her go. The plays were good but I couldn't enjoy them much
knowing that in the morning Genevieve would leave and that this may be the last
time that I would ever be able to take her out. Fritz was getting ready to leave
when we got home. I guess he would have liked for Genevieve to have remained at
home. He can go to see Myrtle any time but this will be the last time I will
have to spend an evening with the finest friend I have ever known. I got home at
eleven-thirty.
Saturday Mar 2
At last the day has come and now that Genevieve has left I can hardly
write these lines. I got up at six o'clock this morning and went down to
McGraw's. They were ready to leave when I got there so we left for the depot
right away. Mrs. McGraw certainly cried when they left. We had a half hour wait
before the car came in. At last the moment for parting came. It was one of the
saddest moments of my life. I suppose that at least once in everyone's life,
they lose some dear friend. Now I know how it is. A lump rose in my throat when
I took her hand to bid her goodby. I hated to see her leave. If she misses me
half as much as I miss her, she will miss me a good deal. The box of chocolates
I gave her was a small gift but if she could only see my heart, she would know
what went with it. The last I saw of her was when the car crossed Woodward Ave.
This afternoon I stopped off at St. John's and went in to see Sister Sylvia. It
certainly made me homesick now that Genevieve has left there will not be any
attraction for me in this end of town. I wish that we could move back into St.
John's parish. It is a good thing that this page is nearly filled for I don't
believe I could write another line. It is only nine o'clock but I am going to
bed. I tried to read but I always thought of Genevieve so I am going to bed.
Sunday Mar 3
I wanted to get up and go to seven o'clock mass this morning but I felt
too bad. I caught a cold some way and being up late every night last week has
about done me up. I managed to pull out and get to nine o'clock mass but my head
has been hurting all day. I received communion this morning and offered it up
that Mrs. Wagner would recover so they could bring her here and that Genevieve
and her mother would return to Detroit. I offered my mass up for Genevieve for I
don't suppose that she was able to get to church this morning living seven miles
from a town where the church is located. After mass I started to wait outside as
I always did for Genevieve. I had forgotten for the moment that she left
yesterday. I knew that I would miss her when she left but I didn't think that I
would miss her as bad as I do, and that together with my cold and the aching all
through my body I feel pretty rotten. I don't feel like going to a show and I
can't read. Oh, if McGraw's didn't have to leave, or if Mrs. Wagner will only be
able to come here. I spent the afternoon in reading and mounting some pictures.
I have three good pictures of Genevieve mounted and they are sitting before me
now on my washstand. I can get a little consolation by looking at her pictures
but when I look at them, they only make me wish all the more that she was here.
Every bone in my body is aching tonight and I don't know whether I will be able
to go to school tomorrow. In bed at 9:30.
Monday Mar 4
Well I was able to go to school this morning but my cold is still with
me. When I got out of the bed this morning, the first thing that met my eye was
Genevieve's picture hanging on the wall. I wonder what she was doing this
morning and if she misses me as much as I miss her. I got down to school on time
this morning. I didn't get my grammar done but I didn't care much whether I did
or not. The Military drill to-day was rotten. The fellows couldn't even keep in
step. Everything together it was certainly a blue Monday. When I read Booth
Tarkington's book called "Seventeen" and saw it played, I didn't think
a boy could feel so because some dear friend left the city. Now I know how
William Baxter felt. I feel just the same way as he did when Lola Pratt left the
town. Genevieve was the first girl that I ever took out and she was the first
girl that I enjoyed being in her company. I am not so young any more and in
three more years I will be twenty-one. I always said that I would never like to
leave Detroit but if Genevieve lives in Cleveland, I believe I could leave
Detroit and not miss it and live in Cleveland. I worked at the Goodspeed Co.
this afternoon and am getting to bed early again tonight. It is now nine
forty-five.
Tuesday Mar 5
I received a post card from Genevieve to-day. I was expecting one but did
not think I would hear from her so soon. She arrived at Greenwich OK and she
said that her grandmother was a good deal better. Oh, if she would only get well
enough so that they could move her here. I certainly miss Genevieve. She was
about the only friend I had in Detroit that I could really count as a true and
sincere friend. John Povlitz is a good friend of mine, but he is a boy and is
busy working so he does not find much time to go out. When Genevieve was here,
if I didn't have anything else to do, I would go down to her place and would
always have a good time. I am going down to see Mr. McGraw tomorrow evening to
find out what he is going to do. If he would only stay in Detroit there is some
hope of Genevieve returning to live here. We had a test in English to-day. I
don't know yet how I made out in it. I worked this afternoon and drew my first
pay to-day. After supper I got my lessons and wrote to Henry. I will answer
Genevieve's card tomorrow. My cold is still with me but not as bad as it was
Sunday. I have been trying to get to bed early this week but here it is 9:45
already.
Wednesday Mar 6
Another day began by being late for school. There's nothing I hate worst
than being late for school and having to ask Mr. Van Tassel for a tardy excuse.
I generally leave home in plenty of time, but the way these Harper cars run is a
sight. It is wait, wait and wait, and finally when a car does come along you
find that it is a Special and then you have to wait for another. Finally when
you manage to get on one it takes you as far as the barns at Mt. Elliott Ave.
and then the conductor says to take the car ahead. You reach Forest Ave. first,
in time miss a Crosstown car and then you wait again. It's no wonder a person is
late some mornings. It simply can't be helped unless you left the house at half
past seven or earlier and then probably there would be something else to make
you late. I didn't get a chance to answer Genevieve's postal card but I am
thinking of her just the same and wish that she were back here in Detroit again.
I went right home from school and monkeyed around the house. After supper I
prepared my lessons and read until it was time to go to bed. The weather was
pretty fair to-day. It's ten o'clock now so will turn out the light.
Thursday Mar 7
One week has gone by since McGraw's were all over to our house for
supper. One week that Genevieve has been gone. One week ago we were all glad and
having a good time and now she is gone. What a lot can happen in a week. We
never know what the new day will bring forth. This is the night that I always
went calling on Genevieve but not tonight. I hope that she will keep her promise
and write and I look forward to every mail hoping that it will bring a letter
from her. Everything went along all right at school to-day. We had a test or two
in different studies and I don't know what mark I got. They were easy however
and I suppose my mark will not be less than a two. I worked this afternoon from
two-thirty until five-thirty and did not get home until after six o'clock. We
expected Mr. McGraw over after supper, but he didn't get over. The weather was
fine to-day only it was a little cold but not enough to make a person feel it. I
suppose that winter is almost gone, at least I hope so. I know that I will
certainly be glad to see the warm spring days come. We will soon be in our new
home a year. And what a year it has been. Well I suppose I will turn in now. The
watch shows ten o'clock.
Friday Mar 8
I arrived at school on time this morning which I generally do if I get up
early enough. If I don't get up early enough, I arrive late. Mr. Novak with two
principals from two of the other high schools were down to inspect our Cadet
company. We managed to get through the movements without making any very serious
blunders. Which was a wonder. Mr. Willard seemed to be fairly well pleased with
us. I went down to the Adams Theatre this evening to see "Rebecca of
Sunnybrook Farm." The play was fine and Fay Courtenay played the part of
Rebecca better than Mary Pickford. I had to go by myself and it was pretty
lonesome sitting there with no one to talk to. One week ago tonight I took
Genevieve to the entertainment held at Northeastern. All through the performance
this evening I thought of Genevieve and my, but how I did wish that she was
sitting by my side. I had intended to take her with me tonight but I never
thought two weeks ago that they would leave Detroit. Well if Genevieve ever
reads these lines, she will know that I was thinking of her during the
performance and wishing that she were with me. When I got home at twelve
o'clock, papa was looking all over the house trying to find something to stop
the toothache. Well as I must get up for work in the morning, I will have to
turn in.
Saturday Mar 9
One week ago to-day Genevieve left Detroit. I have certainly missed her
and the evenings that I spent at her home or else out in her company. I wonder
what she is doing now. It is ten-thirty here but that it only nine-thirty in
Greenwich where she is. I wonder if she thinks of me as often as I think of her.
I must go down to see how Mr. McGraw is getting along. If he will only make up
his mind to stay in Detroit, they might be able to get Mrs. Wagner here. I guess
Genevieve received the letter that I wrote yesterday. I have only received the
one post card from her and was expecting a letter all week. The Piechovick boy
said that they had received a card and letter from her, I guess I am just as
good a friend if not better than the Piechovick's and I don't see why she can't
write. She has been gone only a week but it seems like a month. I hope that she
will be back before many more weeks. Papa's jaw was all swollen up this morning
from the toothache. I worked until three o'clock this afternoon and then went
through town. It snowed all day and is getting colder. The wind is coming and I
guess it will be good and cold by tomorrow. Well I guess this about fills the
page so will turn out the light. In bed at ten forty five.
Sunday Mar 10
The second Sunday since Genevieve has been gone. No place to go this
afternoon. It is certainly lonesome now that McGraw's are away. I went to nine
o'clock mass this morning and my, but it was cold. The wind certainly did blow
across the commons. I thought of Genevieve as I was going to church and wondered
if she got to mass being so far from church. In case she didn't I offered up
part of my mass for her intention. After dinner I walked down to see Mr. McGraw.
It was nearly three o'clock when I got there but they had not had dinner yet.
Mr. McGraw got a position and now if Mrs. Wagner only gets well enough so that
they can bring her here. I stayed at McGraw's all afternoon. It certainly did
seem lonesome. The piano was closed and it looked as though it had not been
touched since Genevieve left. I don't see how Mr. McGraw is able to stand it. I
know I certainly miss Genevieve. I left for home about half past five and spent
the evening in reading and getting my lessons. The cards will be marked next
week and I wonder if I will be able to get all ones again. I hope so but if I
get twos I will be satisfied. Well here endeth another (perfect?) day. The clock
is striking eleven bells so out goes the light.
Monday Mar 11
Another Monday and I began it by being late for school. I did not have
any classes this morning, but taught the mechanical drawing class. Mr. Gibson
the mechanical drawing teacher for the seventh and eighth grades enlisted last
Saturday and left at once for Texas. This left Northeastern without a teacher
and Mr. Eddy asked me to take charge of the classes. I was excused from my
classes and did so. Some class eh? I will be a professor before I finish high
school. I managed to keep order in the class, which is doing a great deal
sometimes. I stayed after school to-day for military drill and did not get home
until after four o'clock. I expected to find a letter from Genevieve but was
disappointed. I have only received the one postal card from her. Genevieve if
you only knew how much you are missed, you would not wait so long to write. I
hope that I will hear from her tomorrow, and if I don't I am going to write to
Mrs. McGraw and have her get after Genevieve. The weather was still cold to-day
but it looks as though it were going to get warm. At least I hope so. In bed at
nine-thirty.
Tuesday Mar 12
It is just like a spring day out to-day. I was on time for school this
morning and all of my lessons were all right. Mr. Willard gave me charge of a
platoon to-day in military drill. It was the first time I was ever in charge of
a platoon and believe me it is no easy job. You certainly have got to keep your
head or else you will get all mixed up. I managed to get through the hour
without any mistakes. To-day was pay day again for me at the Goodspeed Co. I am
getting so much money and am not able to spend half of it. I wish that Genevieve
were here and believe me we would take in at least one good show every Sunday
afternoon and oftener if she would go. Well I can save the money and if they
come back to Detroit we can have some good times and if they move to Cleveland I
can visit them. We expected Mr. McGraw over after supper but he did not come.
There was no letter from Genevieve to-day. She has certainly received my letter
by this time and I don't see why she can't write. I suppose she's busy having a
good time and has forgotten that she has a friend at Detroit. Nevertheless, I
have not forgotten her and will not. Her picture is standing before me now on
the washstand and I think of the times I have gone out with her.
Wednesday Mar 13
I got down to school good and early this morning. I was able to catch the
Center Line car which was the first time I have caught it for a week or two. I
again had charge of a platoon this afternoon during military drill. It is not so
hard after you get used to it. I sold my bugle to-day to a fellow down at
school. I haven't got the time to take lessons from a teacher and you can't
learn to play it by yourself, so while I had the chance to sell it, I took
advantage of it. Even if I could play a bugle I wouldn't belong to the band
because I am in line for a position in the ranks. I hope to be at least a
Sergeant and am going to try for a Lieutenant's commission. I haven't heard from
Genevieve yet. I can't imagine why she don't write. If she ever reads these
lines, she will know how I missed her and how I longed to hear from her. I
expected to find a letter when I got home this afternoon but was disappointed. I
wrote to her again to-day and also to Mrs. McGraw. Maybe Mrs. McGraw will make
Genevieve write, at least I hope so. It began to rain about three o'clock and
has been raining since then. It is beginning to storm now. Retired at ten
o'clock.
Thursday Mar 14
The weather was fine to-day. Just like another spring day. Mr. Willard,
the mechanical drawing teacher, went over to the Goodspeed Company with me this
afternoon. He went over to see papa's patent but I suppose he told papa an
earful about how I was getting along in Mechanical Drawing. I haven't heard from
Genevieve yet. I can't in the world imagine why she does not write to me. We
always seemed to be good friends and she would always go out to a show with me.
I was bad enough that Genevieve had to leave Detroit and I certainly do miss
her. And now that she is away, she don't even write to me. Just two weeks ago
tonight they were all over to our house for supper. My, but what a good time we
did have. And now she has been gone two weeks and all that I have heard from her
was one postal. Oh, Genevieve if you ever read these lines that I have written
in my diary, you will know how one person felt when you left Detroit and did not
write. I generally went down to see Genevieve on Thursday nights when she lived
here but tonight I can only sit here and look at her picture and wonder what she
is doing. She is the only person I have ever met that I could really and truly
call a friend. And now she don't even write. Well the page is almost filled and
I hope that the next day will bring a letter.
Friday Mar 15
Another day. "A world made new," as the poem says. "Our
yesterdays are of the past. To-day is ours and to-day alone." No letter
came from Genevieve to-day. I did not think that she would do as she is doing
and not write. I know that if it was I that had gone away, I would not leave a
chance go by to write to her. I think of her every day and if she only knew how
much I missed her I'm sure that she would write. Our basketball team played
Monroe tonight and won with a score of 22 against 17. The Cadets were on guard
duty guarding the building and keeping the people from roaming around the
building. I ate a pretty heavy supper and left for school right after I got up
from the table. As usual the Harpers were jumping about and by the time I got
down to school I didn't feel much like going on guard duty. However I managed to
stick it out but I certainly did feel rotten. We had to stay on duty until ten
o'clock and I certainly was tired. Standing on one's feet for over three hours
is no joke especially if you feel bad anyhow. I beat it for the hay just as soon
as I got home and am ready to turn in just as soon as I finish this page. Well
there is one more line left so I will leave it and out goes the light.
Saturday Mar 16
I went to work this morning and it may be the last Saturday that I will
work at the Goodspeed Co. as I had the offer of a job at the Detroit Edison Co.
and it will pay me a good deal more than I'm now getting. It will pay on an
average of $7.50 per week. I am to go down to see the man Monday afternoon.
$7.50 for afternoons and Saturdays is a good salary and if Genevieve were only
here we would certainly have some good times. We got a new record to-day,
another Sousa band piece. After supper I went down to see Mr. McGraw. I met him
as he was going to the barber shop. So I walked down with him. I heard some good
news from him as he said that Mrs. McGraw was thinking about bringing her mother
here at the end of the month. I hope that it is really true for once more I will
be able to see Genevieve. I sent her another post card this evening to try and
find out why she don't write. I think she is real mean to treat a fellow the way
she does. Every boy when he gets to the age of eighteen and nineteen has a
sweetheart and Genevieve McGraw is mine. There is no girl that I have ever met
that I have liked as well as Genevieve McGraw, and as my Aunt Em told me to keep
her friendship for she was a fine girl. I agree with her. When I got home from
church tonight my tooth was hurting so even though it is only nine o'clock I am
going to bed.
Sunday Mar 17
I got up to go to seven-thirty mass this morning but my watch was wrong
so I did not make connections and had to go to nine o'clock. To-day is St.
Patrick's Day and I suppose Genevieve is celebrating. I only wish that she was
here so that I could celebrate with her. She is Irish through and through and
just as pretty as any Irish colleen even though she has never seen the Emerald
Isle. Mr. McGraw was over for a few minutes this afternoon. He shattered my
hopes of yesterday when he said that Mrs. McGraw was undecided whether she would
bring her mother here or move to Greenwich. If Genevieve doesn't return to
Detroit, I feel almost like wanting to go to Greenwich to live myself. St.
John's is going to give an entertainment tonight but I am not going. Mama and I
just got back from the Adams Theatre. "Potash and Perlmutter in
Society" is playing there. It certainly was the best play the Glaser
Players have put on. I never laughed so hard in all my life. The last time mama
and I went to the Adams Theatre, Mrs. McGraw and Genevieve were along. I wonder
what Genevieve is doing tonight in Greenwich. My, but won't I be glad if she
returns to Detroit. I hope that I hear from her tomorrow. It is after twelve now
so me for bed.
Monday Mar 18
I forgot my locker keys this morning and had to borrow I.V.T.'s (Irving
Van Tassel grade principal). However I was in plenty of time for school, and had
some time to spare in which I was able to prepare some of my lessons. I was
elected president of our English club to-day and believe me it is some job.
After having just one meeting I feel like handing in my resignation and I guess
will do it before the term is over. Well I had good news to-day. I got two
letters from McGraw's. One from Mrs. McGraw and the other from Genevieve. My,
but I was glad when I got home from school and found those letters there. It
reminded me of the cartoons in the paper. You wait two or three weeks to hear
from your friend and then one day you finally receive a letter. Oh boy! Ain't it
a grand and glorious feeling! I certainly hard to wait long enough to hear from
Genevieve and I only hope that she don't wait so long the next time before she
answers my letters. Genevieve said that they didn't know what they were going to
do. I hope they decide to return to Detroit. Well here it is after ten o'clock
already so me for bed.
Tuesday Mar 19
I was late for school this morning. It is early one day and late the
next. Well they don't make you stay after school any more for coming late but
being late is one thing that I do hate. I hate to have to go up and ask Mr. Van
Tassel for a tardy excuse. We started to drill outside to-day and believe me it
certainly was fun. I received the permanent position of Sergeant Major to-day
and went down to try and get my chevrons but of course the store had to be out
of them. Regular spring weather and from the way so many were absent from school
to-day you could safely say that spring was here. I guess I will have to get my
wheel down and clean it up for this kind of weather makes a fellow want to get
out in the open and ride his wheel if he has one. When I start to ride my wheel
then it's goodby to the old Harper jumpers. I'll not have to depend on them. I
went to work this afternoon and worked until five-thirty. To-day was also pay
day again. It seems that they come mighty often. I got home from work about six
o'clock. Mr. McGraw was over for a while after supper. In bed at ten-thirty.
Wednesday Mar 20
Early for school again to-day. All of my lessons were all right, as
usual. It was the same old routine. Latin, Algebra, Drawing, then a vacant
period, record, recess, Military Drill, English, General Science. I have the
eighth period vacant and generally go home unless I stay around school. High
School is certainly the life. It is the High School days that you will always
remember. It is in High School that you make friends whom you will always
remember. I believe that I would do anything before I left high school and I
certainly intend to try and finish. I wrote to Genevieve to-day. I hope that she
won't wait a year before she answers the letter. Speaking of high school
friends, Genevieve McGraw is the dearest friend I have ever known. She is the
finest girl I have ever seen and I hope that she will soon return to Detroit. I
have heard mama talk about a boy she used to know when she was sixteen years
old. It is the same with everybody. When you reach the age of seventeen or
eighteen, you are sure to meet a girl whom you think is everything. You are good
friends and then she leaves the city. That is always the way but in stories they
always meet again after ten or eleven years and then of course live happy ever
after. Oh, well, you can never tell what fate has in store for you.
Thursday Mar 21
I was on time for school this morning. And all of my lessons were all
right. We got our first report card to-day but I was not as lucky as last term.
I got one two this time and all of the rest were ones. Nobody in our room had
all ones this time. My two was in mechanical drawing and I don't see how I ever
got it for I am away ahead of the class. Oh well I should worry just as long as
I don't get below two I am all right. I worked this afternoon and did not leave
the shop until after six o'clock. Papa and I went to town and got our supper. We
then went to the Washington Theatre. William Farnum in "Les Miserables"
is playing there, and it is certainly the finest picture I have ever seen. The
old French scenes were wonderful not to say anything about William Farnum's
acting. He played the part of Jean Valjean fine and I have never seen him in a
better role. We didn't get home until nearly eleven o'clock although we only saw
one show. It took over two hours to show the picture. Well I guess I will turn
in. My watch shows eleven-fifteen.
Friday Mar 22
Another Friday. One more school week almost gone. It won't be long until
vacation time arrives. The time certainly does seem to fly. Lieutenant Cooper
has organized a Cadet Signal Corps, and we are learning the two-arm semaphore
system. It is not so very hard and I can now send as far as the letter
"n" but it is a whole lot harder to receive. They are certainly
teaching us everything that is to be learned and by the time a boy is through
High School he will know everything that a regular soldier knows. That is in
Military tactics. Well anyhow it is fine training and I wouldn't give it up for
anything. An auditorium meeting was held this afternoon to get ready for the
Liberty Bond Sale. N.E.H.S. intends to come out at the head in this sale. The
Cadets were on guard duty again this evening. The night school orchestra gave a
concert. It was certainly fine. There are nearly thirty pieces in the orchestra.
However, there was not a very large crowd present. I got home about ten-thirty
and read for a while. It is eleven o'clock now so I guess I will turn in.
Saturday Mar 23
Saturday, that means work all day. I got up and went to work with papa
this morning. We were late, but what does that matter when your father is the
vice-president. What can a mere office manager say to you. I worked until nearly
two o'clock and then went to town. I bummed around town all afternoon and went
into the Library. I was downtown until after five o'clock and then went home. I
had supper and walked over to church. There was a crowd there so did not get
home until rather late. I thought sure that I would hear from Genevieve again
to-day. I don't see why she can't write. She knows that we were such good
friends before she left Detroit and she surely knows that I miss her friendship.
Why it don't seem the same since Genevieve has left. There is always that
feeling that I have lost a good, in fact the best friend I have ever known.
Genevieve, if you could read my thoughts I am sure that you would write and not
keep me waiting. It is getting colder outside and I guess we are in for a cold
Sunday. It's too bad that it can't get warm and stay warm. When I got home from
church I read for a while and then took my bath and then hit the hay.
Sunday Mar 24
The weather was a little colder this morning than it has been. I got up
and went to nine o'clock mass. To-day is Palm Sunday and I thought that mass
would never let out. Fritz was over this afternoon. He took some snapshots.
Fritz and I walked down to McGraw's this afternoon. It was nearly three o'clock
when we got there but still they had not had dinner. Mr. McGraw said that he
expected Mrs. McGraw and Genevieve back some time this week. My, but I hope they
do come back. I will certainly be glad to see Genevieve. It seems as though it
has been a year since I saw her last. Although she has been gone only three
weeks. We stayed at McGraw's until after four o'clock and then came home. Fritz
stayed for supper. After supper we got Fritz started talking about his travels
through Australia and New Zealand. Some of the tales he told would make your
hair stand up on ends. He has certainly seen a lot of the world and had some
terrible experiences. Mama finally got enough of hearing Fritz tell his
experiences and I guess they made her nervous for she made Fritz stop. Fritz
left for home about ten o'clock. It is ten-thirty now so I guess that I will
turn in.
Monday Mar 25
The beginning of Holy Week. Easter will soon be here now. I wonder if we
will get any Easter vacation this year. Some of the students say we won't on
account of the Fuel Holidays last February. I myself don't believe we will have
any. Everything was all right at school this morning. My lessons were all O.K.
We drilled outside again to-day. At noon to-day the Cadets had a flag-raising
ceremony. A new flag was presented to the school and we raised it for the first
time to-day. The entire school turned out to witness the ceremony. I took some
snapshots of the entire doings. I went to town after school to-day to take my
films down for developing. I also went to Sanders Candy Store and bought a
two-pound box of chocolates to send to Genevieve for her birthday. It will show
that I am thinking of her. I wish she would return to Detroit this week. I will
certainly be glad to see her. I spent the evening in reading and although it is
only nine o'clock now I am going to bed. My cold has not left me yet and it
seems to be a little worse tonight. I wish I could get rid of the old thing. I
am taking medicine but it does not seem to be doing any good.
Tuesday Mar 26
I can scarcely write. I feel so good. Genevieve has at last returned to
Detroit. I found it out as soon as I got to school this morning. Gregory
Piechovick, who lives near McGraw's, told me that they had returned last night.
I had to go to work this afternoon and I could scarcely wait until evening so
that I could go down to see her. She had called Fritz up at the shop but Fritz
had to go home sick. Well I got home from work at last, at my supper and got
down to McGraw's. My, but I was glad to see them, especially Genevieve. Mrs.
McGraw seemed glad enough to see me but Genevieve was so different from when she
left Detroit. She acted so distant and had scarcely a word to say. Mr. and Mrs.
Stokey had invited her to go to the show with them so she left soon after I got
there. I stayed and talked with Mrs. McGraw but would have never gone down if I
had known that Genevieve would not be at home. Genevieve and myself were such
good friends before she left for Greenwich and now I can't imagine what is the
matter with her. I hope that she will change and become just as good a friend as
she ever was. I left McGraw's at nine o'clock and went right to bed when I got
home.
Wednesday Mar 27
As usual was in plenty of time for school again this morning. I had all
my lessons all right but there was not much studying done in any of the classes
to-day. There never is when the students know that it is the last day of school.
An auditorium meeting was held during the sixth period this afternoon. Of course
"Old Charlie" (this is the name we call our honorable principal, Mr.
Charles Novak) was master of ceremonies and had to deliver one of his
exceedingly short speeches. At least he says that they are short and that he has
only a few words to say but before he is finished - well, he certainly gives
quite a long oration. We don't mind how long the speeches are, for when we are
in the auditorium we miss our classes. Well Mr. Novak ended up by saying that we
were dismissed until next Monday morning when school will reopen again. As soon
as school was out, I went over to the Goodspeed Company and worked until about
six o'clock. I then went home, had my supper and remained at home the rest of
the evening. The weather was pretty fair to-day and it looks as though we will
have a nice Easter. A year ago at this time Congress was in session and debating
whether we should enter the war. Well, we entered it and if God wills, may we
have victory and leave before the end of another year. Well, it is getting late
so goodnight.
Thursday Mar 28
To-day is Holy Thursday. I went to mass at St. Thomas. It was nothing
like the ceremony at St. John's, and then too nearly all the people are Polish.
Genevieve was at mass with a girl by the name of Cecilia who lives a few doors
below McGraw's. After mass they got out ahead of me. When I got out of church, I
started to catch up with them. I called to Genevieve twice but she would not
answer me either time. Finally I caught up with her and walked as far as Van
Dyke with them. Genevieve did not have much to say and kept talking to Cecilia
all the time. I don't know what I could have done to make her mad at me. She
certainly acted as though she were mad at me. Genevieve is not like the girl who
left Detroit for Greenwich. I was glad when I found out that she had come back
to Detroit and then to find that she had changed this way. I went to work at
noon to-day and when I got home to-day mama said that Genevieve and Mrs. Stokey
had been here. She said that Genevieve was mad because her father had caused her
to lose two of her best friends. I wonder who they were and what is the matter
with Genevieve since she got back from the country. She certainly has changed
but I wish she were the Genevieve that I used to know.
Friday Mar 29
Good Friday. Last year on Good Friday the United States declared war. My,
but what a lot has happened since then. Just think of all the men we have sent
over to France already. I went to mass at St. Thomas this morning. Genevieve was
there but she left before mass was over. I went down to their house after mass
for a while. Genevieve seemed to be more like her old self. I left for town
about ten o'clock and bought myself a new hat. I went to the library and
remained there until nearly twelve o'clock. I then walked up to the Jesuit
Church and had intended to go in for the Tre Ore or Three Hours Agony, but the
people were lined up outside and no chance to get in unless you had a ticket. I
have been wanting to be present at these services for the last few years but
have never been able to get in. I got home from town about half past one. Mama
was getting ready to leave for St. John's, so I stayed home and all afternoon. I
got interested in a book and also read all evening. Quite a few of the stores
were closed from 12:00 until 3:00 to-day in honor of the Passion. It was the
first time anything like this was ever done in Detroit. Well it is ten-thirty
now so I am going to turn in.
Saturday Mar 30
To-day is Holy Saturday. I didn't get to go to mass this morning on
account of having to work. I worked until twelve o'clock. I then drove home with
papa in the jitney. We had our dinner and then I left for town. I met Fritz
downtown and we went over to the Temple Theatre and bought some tickets for
tomorrow's matinee. Fritz and Myrtle, Genevieve and myself are going tomorrow
afternoon. To-day was Genevieve's birthday. She is fifteen years old. I took her
a two pound box of chocolates this evening. She had to go up on Harper Ave. to
get herself a new hat so I went with her. She was just like the girl I knew
before she had gone to the country. My, but I am glad that she is like her old
self. I hope that now we will be able to be as good friends as we ever were. In
bed at eleven o'clock.
We had an early dinner to-day and right after dinner I left for McGraw's.
Genevieve and myself met Fritz and Myrtle downtown and we all went to the Temple
Theatre. I gave Genevieve another box of chocolates at the matinee this
afternoon. We had a fine time at least I did for I am certainly glad that
Genevieve's back again and that I can take her out. I took Genevieve home after
the show but did not take supper at McGraw's.
Sunday Mar 31
I have not had a chance to write in here for several days and am writing
this on Tuesday but it is what happened on Sunday. In writing yesterday's entry
I made a mistake and everything below the line I have drawn on page 89 should be
in to-day's entry. I did not stay at McGraw's very long last night but hurried
home. To-day is Easter Sunday. A Happy Easter to everybody. I went to eight
o'clock mass at St. John's this morning. And as I said in yesterday's entry we
had an early dinner to-day. I took Genevieve to the Temple Theatre. We met Fritz
and Myrtle there. Last Sunday at this time I did not think that Genevieve would
be in Detroit for Easter. I am certainly glad that she is back. She told me this
afternoon that she was going down to Newcomb-Endicott in the morning to try and
get a position. She wants to go to work. I bet after she tries work for a while
she will be glad enough to get back to school. Well anyway, Genevieve is the
finest girl I have ever met or known. I only hope that we continue to be as good
friends as we have been. I spent the evening in reading and retired at
ten-forty-five.
Monday Apr 1
April first. April fool's day. I was not fooled very many times to-day.
School reopened again to-day but there were a good many absent. I had all my
lessons all right as usual. We did not drill outside to-day, in fact we did not
have much drill at all, there were so many absent and then Captain Willard had a
good many reports to give. The Cadets are to go to the Majestic Theatre in the
morning to hear a talk on the Liberty Bond and the part we will take in selling
them. It will be a right nice little march from the school to the theatre. Mr.
Willard told me that my position as Sergeant Major would be the highest position
in the school until the Lieutenants are appointed which will not take place
until the last month of school. The Cadet review will take place May 1st
or some time near there. Every high school in the city will be represented in
the review which will take place on Woodward Ave. I hope that Northeastern will
make a good showing. I left school at three o'clock to-day and went right home.
I read after supper until it was time to go to bed and here I am ready to turn
in.
Tuesday Apr 2
All the Cadets were all dressed up in their uniforms this morning
thinking that we were to go over to the Majestic Theatre, but for some reason or
other they changed their minds and we are not to go until tomorrow morning. One
year ago to-day we moved into our new home. My, it don't seem that a year has
gone by. Time certainly flies. Why, we'll soon be in this war a year. All of my
lessons were all right, even though I had not prepared my English as I thought
that we were going over to the Majestic and that I would miss my English class.
However I managed to get through the recitation all right. The weather was fine
to-day. And just the kind of day you would want for marching outdoors. I hope
that tomorrow will be the same kind of day. I went over to the Goodspeed Company
after school this afternoon and worked until five-thirty. I then went home and
had supper. After supper I got my lessons (I am not going to take any chances of
us not going tomorrow so will not count on missing any of my classes. I prepared
all of my lessons.) After I finished with my lessons I read until it was time to
go to bed. In bed at ten o'clock.
Wednesday Apr 3
Well, went over to the Majestic Theatre this morning. But oh! Such a day
for marching. It was raining and snowing nearly all the time. However, we
marched through the rain and snow like regular troops. There was certainly a
crowd of Cadets at the theatre and believe me if they all turn out for the big
review next month it is going to be some parade. When we got to the theatre we
found nearly every seat occupied, so we had to sit or stand in the aisles. They
showed a bunch of current weekly pictures and several good comedies. The
cheerleaders from the different high schools led their school yells and believe
me it was some noise. After about an hour of pictures Dr. Chadsey,
superintendent of schools, came out and gave an address on the part that the
high schools had to do in the Liberty Loan Campaign. The meeting lasted until
after twelve o'clock and it was nearly two o'clock when we got back to school.
We all marched into the gym and Mr. Willard stood up on a chair so that
everybody could see him. He then gave us a talking and My, but he did call us
down. I thought that we marched over and back all right but I guess we didn't.
He said there was continued talking in the ranks and that we didn't know how to
mark at attention. It certainly was some scolding and I guess the cadets will do
better after this.
Thursday Apr 4
As usual here lately I was in plenty of time of school. And again as
usual all my lessons were all right. I went over to the Goodspeed Company and
worked until five-thirty. After supper I went down to McGraw's. Mr. McGraw was
packing up and getting ready to leave for Cleveland. He received a telegram this
afternoon saying that his mother was pretty low and that they did not think she
would live long. Mr. McGraw caught the night train for Cleveland. McGraw's
certainly seem to have an awful lot of troubles. There always seems to be
something the matter in their family. They just got Mrs. Wagner here and now
something is the matter with Mr. McGraw's mother. I stayed down at McGraw's
until nearly ten o'clock. The weather was fine to-day. Just like another spring
day. Well, perhaps we will begin to have nice weather now. At least I hope so.
But I guess we won't, it is about time we had another rain and cold spell. Well
here it is eleven o'clock so I guess I will hit the little old bed.
Friday Apr 5
I was in plenty of time for school this morning. Mr. Lane, our Algebra
teacher, did not come into his class until nearly the end of the period. So we
did not have much of our Algebra class. I guess that next week there will not be
much doing in any of the classes, on account of the Liberty Loan Campaign. Papa
did not go to work to-day. He was sick. I went over to the Goodspeed Co. after
school to-day to work. School was out at half past one so I got quite a few
hours of work in. I have worked every day this week with the exception of Monday
and will have quite a pay day next Tuesday. I worked until five-forty-five and
then left for home. Papa had gone to town this afternoon and was not back yet
when I got home. After supper I read the Argosy until it was time to go to bed.
The weather has been kind of chilly this week. Some mornings it has been real
cold. We received a picture of Theodore from Aunt Sophie to-day. She said that
he had arrived in France. Theodore certainly looks fine in his uniform. Well the
page is nearly full and I haven't any more to write so good night.
Saturday Apr 6
I got up early this morning, it was half past six when I pulled out. I
left the house with papa at half past seven. I worked until noon at the
Goodspeed Co. Papa took the jitney home to-day. We got stalled going home and I
had to chase all over looking for a place where I could borrow a pair of pliers.
At last I got a pair and we finally got the old bus to run. After dinner papa
took all us boys out Van Dyke to Lynch Road to see the new Dodge and Packard
plants. My, but they have certainly got some plants. The Packard Co. built a
large garage for storing their trucks. Also a row of aeroplane hangars and I
expect that there will be quite a bit of flying done out there. One year ago the
United States entered this terrible war and just look at all the things the
government has done since war was declared. I wonder what the next year will
bring forth. About four o'clock this afternoon I began to write a play for our
English class. I just got finished with it and it is ten o'clock now. I only
stopped for supper so that makes five and a half hours. Mama says the play is
fine.
Sunday Apr 7
I went to seven-thirty mass. Genevieve was not there. In fact she wasn't
at any of the masses, she had gone to the Church of the Nativity. I spent the
morning in rewriting my play. We didn't have dinner until two o'clock. I then
finished recopying my story. I went down to McGraw's at about seven o'clock.
Fritz and Myrtle were there. Genevieve was away, but she returned a little while
after I got there. Mr. and Mrs. Stokey also came over. Mrs. McGraw had received
a telegram from Mr. McGraw saying that his mother was pretty low. I had a fine
time but somehow Genevieve does not seem to treat me the same as she did before
she went to Greenwich. I wish that I could find out what was the matter with
her. If I was to lose Genevieve as a friend, I don't know what I would so. Why
before she left for Greenwich we were the best friends and had some of the
finest times together. Last Sunday when we were returning home from the Temple
she didn't have hardly a word to say all the way home. I wish I could find out
what is the matter with her. I got home from McGraw's at ten o'clock.
Monday Apr 8
I was in plenty of time for school this morning. The Liberty Bond
Campaign is in full swing. Detroit's total up to tonight was $15,000,000 nearly
half of the thirty-six million which is her quota. I took my play to school this
morning and handed it in to Miss Leck, the head of the English department. It
certainly was some job writing the play. It took me six hours of steady writing
to write it. I have to deliver an address before our English class tomorrow. It
is on the Liberty Loans, and Belgium stopped the advance of the Germans across
her land. I am thinking about buying a Liberty Bond myself but have not decided
as yet what I will do. I believe that I will be able to pay for a fifty-dollar
bond. School will soon be out and I will be working this summer. The weather has
been awful cold to-day. It is just like a winter day outside. We generally have
lots of rain at this time of the year. I did not see Genevieve to-day nor did I
go to work. I went downtown after school. In bed at ten o'clock.
Tuesday Apr 9
Arrived at school on time. All of my lessons were all right. I turned in
my first Liberty Bond that I sold. It was for one hundred dollars and I sold it
to papa. There was a mass meeting in the auditorium this noon. Lieutenant Murphy
from Camp Custer addressed us. He is a young Irishman about twenty-five years
old and certainly a fine talker. He delivered one of the finest patriotic
addresses I have ever heard. He certainly made you wake up and want to do
something for our country. I went to work this afternoon. To-day was pay day
again. Well I bought a Liberty Bond to-day. It is a fifty-dollar bond. I guess I
can do without a few amusements and save a dollar a week and help win the war at
the same time. I can at least do this much and who can tell but what the time
will come when I will be called upon to do more. I am eighteen now and if the
war continues another two years perhaps I will be over there. Detroit's total of
bond sales up to this evening was $23,929,000, over half of her quota. She is
raising every day. In bed at ten-fifteen.
Wednesday Apr 10
I was on time for school this morning. Mr. Lane our algebra teacher was
busy with Liberty Bond business as he gave me charge of the class. School left
out at noon to-day on account of the big military parade downtown this
afternoon. Twelve of us cadets walked downtown from school. We offered our
services to one of the scoutmasters and were placed in charge of a corner a
block above Grand Circus Park. We helped to hold the crowd back. The parade was
fine and was certainly military. It was made up of different companies from Camp
Custer. The men certainly have received fine training during the few months they
have been at camp. I took my camera down and intended to take a roll of
pictures. I was only able to get two snapshots. It was so cold and my hands were
nearly frozen that I couldn't turn the pictures. After the parade I went out to
the Goodspeed Company to work. I worked until five-thirty. After supper mama and
I walked down to McGraw's. It was some night out. Snowing and sleeting and even
raining sometimes. We went just the same and got back all right. In bed at
ten-forty-five.
Thursday Apr 11
This has been a great day for me. I met Genevieve on the car going to
school this morning. All of my lessons were all right. I went to work this
afternoon. This evening's paper said that Douglas Fairbanks would be in town
this evening and that he would speak at the Armory. I hurried home from work,
ate my supper and got downtown at seven o'clock. Even that early the crowd had
commenced to line up. I got a good place in line and finally got inside the
Armory and got a seat. There was a cheerleader there who led the cheers and
songs. A song book was given to each one and everybody cheered and sang. Moving
pictures of the parade were shown besides a Fairbanks film. Finally Fairbanks
arrived and the people nearly went crazy. He is just like the way he is in
pictures. Jumping over tables and climbing all over the building. He sold
Liberty Bonds and signed each receipt himself. He left the Armory about ten
o'clock and had to fight his way through the crowd. Everybody wanted to shake
hands with him. I managed to shake hands with him. All together I had one of the
finest times I have ever had. It certainly was a patriotic rally. In bed at
eleven o'clock.
Friday Apr 12
Detroit has nearly reached her quota to-day in the Liberty Bond Campaign.
I guess by tomorrow she will pass her quota and will be able to fly the Liberty
Bond flag over the city. Everything was all right at school to-day. A mass
meeting was held in the auditorium. Mr. Novak, the principal, spoke on the
Liberty Loan. After school a dance was held in the gymnasium but I didn't stay
for it. Papa and I went over to the Majestic Theatre after supper. "The
Unbeliever" is playing its fifth and last week. People were lined up
waiting to go in. However we got in for the first show and nearly everybody left
at the end of it. A line was waiting outside to fill the house for the second
show. "The Unbeliever" certainly is a fine picture and it makes you
proud that you are an American. The battle scenes certainly are real and I never
saw anything like the part of the picture where the men go over the top. The
orchestra played a fine overture and the stage setting was a New York harbor
with an American transport leaving for France. The soldiers march aboard and the
ship then pulls out. We got home about ten-thirty and I went right to bed.
Saturday Apr 13
I got up early this morning and went to work. Papa and I went to town at
noon. Sousa's band and the Liberty Band was playing in Cadillac Square. Marie
Dressler the movie actress, was also there. She certainly can make you laugh.
She was selling Liberty Bonds and kissed everyone who bought a bond. Papa said
he wished he had waited and not bought his bond from me. Sousa has divided his
band up. Only fifty Jackies were here this time. I bought Genevieve two pieces
of music this afternoon. The one was the new Liberty Bond song and the other
"Keep the Home Fires Burning." I met Fritz downtown and went out to
his place to look at his typewriter. I may buy it from him. I then went back to
town and went to St. Aloysius Church. It was nearly seven o'clock when I got
home but I was still in time for supper. After supper I read until nine o'clock
and then took a plunge in the bathtub. In other words I took a bath. It's
ten-thirty now and as I intend to go to early mass in the morning, I guess I had
better turn in.
Sunday Apr 14
The weather was fine to-day. It was one of the finest and warmest days we
have had this spring. I got up and went to early mass. Genevieve was there but
she hurried away right after mass and I didn't get a chance to say much to her.
I spent the morning in getting my lessons and trying to write a piece of poetry
on the Liberty Loan. Miss Leck, our English teacher, assigned that to us as our
lesson. I can write stories and themes, also plays or dramas, but nix on the
poetry. I was not born to be a poet and I'm afraid that Longfellow would turn
over in his grave if he could read my attempts at writing a poem. I went down to
McGraw's about one o'clock but also Genevieve was not there. She had gone to the
show with Cecilia. I had intending taking Genevieve out myself. I stayed at
McGraw's till after three o'clock and then went downtown. I took in the Palace
and the Adams Theatres. Douglas Fairbanks was at the Adams in "Mr. Fix
It." He sure does fix it and I don't blame his wife from getting jealous of
him. I got home about eight o'clock and read until it was time to turn in.
Monday Apr 15
I got up at seven o'clock and got down to school in plenty of time. All
my classes were all right except English. To-day was the day we were to have had
handed our book reports in but I forgot all about it and am just reading the
book now. There were only two who had the reports ready. We drilled outside
to-day and My, but it was hot. The sweat just rolled from us. It was the hottest
day we have had this spring. The band tried to play for us but they were rotten
and forced us to continue to jump from one step to another. They were always too
fast or too slow. Six aeroplanes from Selfridge Field passed over the school
this noon. We could easily see them as they were not very high. After school I
went to town and bought a new pair of leggings. I then went out to the Goodspeed
Co. and worked until five-thirty. I got home about six o'clock and spent the
evening in getting my lessons and reading. I've got to get my book report in as
soon as possible and I am trying to read "Mysterious Island" by Verne.
It is a fine book but slow reading. Well it is after ten o'clock so I guess I'll
turn the light out and hit the hay.
Tuesday Apr 16
I was in plenty of time for school this morning. I don't know why it is
but I seem to be getting earlier this week. It commenced to rain this afternoon
and I guess we are in for a spell of bad weather. I didn't get my book report in
to-day. I guess I will have to report on "The Adventures of Tom
Sawyer." I have read this book already and can therefore write up a report
on it. Northeastern is still trying to get first place in the Liberty Bond
Campaign. She will have to go some as the campaign closes Thursday and at
present she is next to the last with eight or nine schools above her. Detroit
has raised forty-two million so far. That is six million over her quota. The new
quota is sixty million and it will be raised too. I went over to the Goodspeed
Co. to work this afternoon. To-day was pay day again. I bought myself a new pair
of Cadet leggings to-day and I hope to soon get a new uniform. I don't like the
idea of paying twenty or thirty dollars for one though. That seems to be the
cheapest you can get a wool or serge uniform for. Well I guess I will say good
night.
Wednesday April 17
Another bad rainy day. It is just like last year at this time. Rain every
day. I was in time for school again this morning and all of my lessons were all
right. I left school at one o'clock and went to town. I went around to see if I
could pick up a typewriter. I couldn't find anything less than twenty dollars so
I don't know what I will do about buying one. I also went up to the clothing
department of Crowley-Milner to find out their prices on Army uniforms. They
want thirteen dollars for a uniform made out of khaki. It is made to order
however. I bummed around town until five-thirty and met Genevieve as she was
coming from work. I rode home with her on the car. She had a new hat on and
looked good in it (she looks good in anything however). You can tell that she is
working or else she wouldn't have the two new hats within a month. Genevieve is
certainly growing and is getting stouter. Work must agree with her. I must ask
her to go out with me next Sunday before she makes arrangements. I got home
about six o'clock and spent the evening in reading. It's ten o'clock now so I
will turn in.
Thursday Apr 18
The weather has been rather fair to-day except that it was awful cold. It
started to snow a little this evening but did not last long. The Liberty Bond
contest was to have closed to-day but the campaign is to be carried on until May
4th. The paper said that only half of the three billion dollars had
been raised throughout the country. I don't know what Detroit's total for to-day
was, but I suppose it is getting pretty near to the sixty million mark. I went
over to the Goodspeed Company to work this afternoon. I left the shop about
five-fifteen. Papa is working overtime. He and Fritz are setting up a new
machine. I went down to McGraw's after supper. Mr. and Mrs. Stokey were also
there. Genevieve played the two pieces I gave her last Sunday. She certainly can
play fine and, if she would have only kept her music up, she would be a fine
musician. I asked her to go to the show with me next Sunday. She said that her
father didn't like for her to go out every Sunday. I intend to call her up
Saturday and try to get her to go anyhow. I got home about ten-thirty. Papa was
home so I went right to bed.
Friday Apr 19
My, you would think winter had returned. It certainly is cold outside.
Bernard is a year old to-day. My, but I was sick a year ago to-day. I certainly
have a lot to be thankful for. Last year at this time I couldn't lay down, my
sides would hurt so from the pleurisy pains. I went to town this afternoon after
school. I tried to rent a typewriter but couldn't. Typewriters are certainly
scarce these days. I then went out to the Goodspeed Company. Papa told me that
Fritz is going to leave there tomorrow. He doesn't like the way things are run
and says that everybody is working against papa. Some day there is going to be a
big blow up among the Goodspeed crowd and nobody will know where they are. Fritz
agreed to sell me his typewriter and will let me try it for a week. So after
work papa and I took the jitney and went over to Fritz's room after it. It's a
good machine but is rather an old make and hasn't the latest improvements. I may
be able to trade it in for a later machine. After supper, papa took the auto
back and went to the show I guess, for he wasn't home yet. It is ten-thirty now
so I guess I will turn out the light and hit the hay. So good night.
Saturday Apr 20
The weather was pretty fair to-day except that it commenced to rain this
evening. I went to work this morning and worked until two o'clock. I then left
for the Iris Theatre. All of the Cadets were to have been there but only about
thirty showed up. We formed in front of the theatre and then marched in. The
Free Press movie photographer took pictures of us as we marched in. The play was
fine especially as it did not cost us anything. "The Cross Bearer" or
"Cardinal Mercier, The Hero of Belgium" was the name of the play. It
was strictly a Catholic play throughout. Some of the scenes were laid in the
Vatican at Rome. The man who impersonated Pope Benedict played the part well. I
started to walk home and as I passed John Povlitz's place he called me in. I was
there for over an hour and did not get home until after seven. After supper I
went down to Genevieve's. I wanted her to go to the show with me tomorrow. Her
father had told her last Sunday that she would have to stay at home tomorrow.
However she promised to go with me if I could get her father's consent. Here's
hoping that Mr. McGraw will be in a good humor tomorrow. In bed at 11:30.
Sunday Apr 21
As usual I went to seven-thirty mass. Genevieve was there but she hurried
away after mass and I did not get a chance to speak to her. We had an early
dinner and I went down to McGraw's. Mr. McGraw was away but he soon came home. I
asked him if Genevieve could go to the show. He said yes but Genevieve said she
didn't want to go. Last night she promised me that she would go if her father
would let her. Cecilia had asked Genevieve to go auto riding but Mr. McGraw
would not let her go. Genevieve said she was too tired to go to the show with me
but still she begged her father to let her go with Cecilia. Oh Genevieve, Sweet
Genevieve, why can't we be the friends we used to be. Genevieve McGraw is the
first girl friend I have had whom I cared to take out and now since she came
back from the country, she acts so different. Genevieve if you ever read these
pages you will know how I feel. A boy has his first sweetheart and Genevieve
dear you are mine. Since Genevieve wouldn't go to the show with me, I asked
mama. We went to the Broadway Strand after supper. Billie Burke in "Eve's
Daughter" is playing there. The play was fine but it would have been finer
if Genevieve was by my side. We got home about ten-thirty.
Monday Apr 22
Well I guess we are going to have another warm spell. The weather was
fine to-day. I was in plenty of time for school this morning. We got back to our
old schedule again. The Liberty Bond teams do not meet anymore. I guess the
campaign is about over with here. Detroit's total to date is
fifty-two-million-some dollars. Over sixteen above her quota. I went to town
after school but did not stay down long. The streetcar men are threatening to go
out on a strike. They want an increase in wages. Our last streetcar strike was
in 1915 and it lasted for thirty-six hours. Well in case a strike should be
called I guess I can walk to school. Mrs. McGraw was over this afternoon. She
invited mama, Lawrence and myself down to her place for next Thursday night.
Thursday is Mrs. Wagner's birthday. She will be eighty-two years old. I got home
from town about half past four. Mrs. Stokes was at our place. I spent the
evening in getting my lessons and reading. The weather was pretty fair to-day. I
hope that it will get warmer and stay warm. We drill outside when the weather
permits and it is certainly a whole lot nicer to drill outside than it is to
drill indoors. Well, it is ten-thirty so me for the hay.
Tuesday Apr 23
To-day is another pay day. My job working at the Goodspeed Company
certainly comes in handy. I earn more than enough spending money and have got
quite a bit saved up besides. I don't know what I would be doing without my job.
I was in plenty of time for school to-day. All my lessons were all right. Miss
Green, my last term English teacher, asked me to typewrite two letters for her.
Yesterday I wrote two for Mr. Lane, my Algebra teacher. I am getting to be a
ready stenographer and I guess I'll hang my sign out. I might be able to get
some business. As I said before, I went over to the Goodspeed Co. and worked
until half past five. I then went home. After supper I got my lessons and did
some typewriting. The streetcar men are going to call the strike at midnight
tonight unless the D.U.R. agrees to the wage increase. I guess there is no hope
of the D.U.R. doing this so I suppose I will have to walk to school in the
morning. The old D.U.R. is not going to pay higher wages if they can help it.
The car men want forty-five cents an hour and they should get it. The D.U.R. is
making plenty of money and it wouldn't hurt them to give some of it up. Well I
should worry if I have to walk to school in the morning, I will just walk. It is
ten o'clock now. So good night.
Wednesday Apr 24
Well, the streetcar strike began this morning. I got up, had my breakfast
and walked over to Harper Ave. but there were no cars running. The strike was
called at midnight last night and up to tonight the cars have not been running.
I met a man in an automobile on Harper Avenue and he rode me as far as Mt.
Elliott Ave. I then walked down to the Boulevard and another fellow rode me from
there to Forest Ave. and I then had to walk across to school. It is only about
six blocks from Forest and Mt. Elliott Aves. to school and as I met Mr. Willard
it did not seem so far. I got to school on time. I thought that perhaps some of
the teachers would not be able to get to school but we did not have any such
good luck. They were all there. Some own automobiles and they went after those
that did not have cars. Papa had to walk over to the shop but they rode him in
the jitney. I walked home from school this afternoon. It does not seem likely
that the strike will be settled tonight so I guess I will have to walk in the
morning or else bum a ride from somebody. Well I should worry. It won't hurt me
to walk. It is ten-fifteen now so good night.
Thursday Apr 25
I had to walk all the way to school this morning. However, the strike is
settled now. The men went back to work at two o'clock this afternoon. The
Government stepped in and asked the men to go back to work at the old rate and
the Government would settle their dispute by June 1st. The men
agreed. The strike was holding up the Government contracts in the plants as the
workmen could not get to work. I went over to the Goodspeed Co. and worked until
five o'clock. Mrs. Leck, my English teacher, told me to-day that I would have to
have my play typewritten by tomorrow if I wished it to go to the Board of
Commerce. I had not started to typewrite it yet. Papa and I went to town and got
a new ribbon for the typewriter and I typewrote it this evening. I was invited
down to McGraw's this evening for Mrs. Wagner's birthday party but could not go!
I hated to miss it but duty before pleasure. I started in at seven o'clock to
typewrite and just now left the machine. It is twelve-thirty now and My, but I
am tired. Five and a half hours of steady typewriting and then I'm not through.
I will have to get up early in the morning and finish it. It certainly is some
job but it is work well spent. Now for some sleep and then to work again in the
morning.
Friday Apr 26
I got up at five o'clock this morning and finished typewriting my play. I
handed it in to Miss Leck to check over and she only found three mistakes. I had
left an "I" out in one place and an "e" and an "m"
in another. Miss Leck told me to-day that the time had been extended until
Monday, and to think I sat up half the night and missed McGraw's party when I
could have done the typewriting Saturday and Sunday. Oh well, such is life. I
know that it is finished now. My, but won't I feel proud if they present the
play in our auditorium. I can just see the curtains go up and hear the applause
at the end of the last scene. And oh yes, there will be cries of
"Author" and I will have to go up on the stage and make a speech.
Pinch me quickly so I wake up. Such a dream but perhaps it will come true. Papa
and I went down to the Washington this evening. Former Ambassador Gerard's book,
"My Four Years in Germany" is playing there in moving pictures. It is
the finest play I have ever seen and it certainly gives a history of this war
and shows what we are fighting against. It makes a person proud that he is an
American and lives in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. There's
only one Country, one Flag, and that Flag is the Stars & Stripes.
Saturday Apr 27
I went to work this morning and worked until one o'clock. Papa and I then
went to town. We went to several different stores to look at their serge Army
uniforms. Papa wants me to have a new suit before the Cadet Review. The best and
cheapest uniform we could find was one for thirty dollars at Armstrong's &
Atkinson's. That is an awful sum of money but the uniform is worth it. From the
way papa talked I guess he is going to get it for me next week. Michigan is
going dry May 1st and this is the last wet Saturday. There were
certainly crowds downtown buying up their supply of booze. Even women were going
in the saloons and buying it. I got home about three o'clock and printed some
photographs. After supper I walked down to McGraw's. Genevieve was there but was
going over to church. I told her that I was going but she would not go with me
but went with that Cecilia. I don't know what I could have done to Genevieve to
make her treat me as she does. For the last three weeks every time I have gone
down to see her she has been away, and when she is home she hasn't hardly a word
to say. I have asked her twice to go to the show with me, but she would not.
Although last Sunday she would have gone out with Cecilia if Mr. McGraw would
have let her.
Sunday Apr 28
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning. Genevieve was not there but Mr.
& Mrs. McGraw were. I got my lessons this morning. We had dinner about
twelve-thirty and right after dinner I went down to McGraw's. Genevieve knew
that I was coming down this afternoon but yet she did not stay at home. She had
gone to the show with Cecilia. I stayed down there all afternoon and Genevieve
got home about five o'clock. She would hardly talk to me. I just wish I knew
what was the matter. I certainly miss Genevieve's friendship. Genevieve, if you
should read these pages you will know how I feel. I have always enjoyed being in
your company and here you won't hardly speak to me. Oh, Genevieve why can't we
be the same good friends we used to be. After supper I went down to the Broadway
Strand Theatre. Marguerite Clark in "Rich Man Poor Man" is playing
there. The play was good but I had to go by myself. It is rotten lonesome not
having anyone to talk to. I got home about eleven o'clock and went right to bed.
Monday Apr 29
The beginning of another new week. The weather this morning looked as
though it would be fine but it had to go and rain before the day was over. I
rode to school this morning on the same car with Genevieve and I sat right in
front of her. She couldn't help but recognize me yet she didn't speak to me.
Genevieve, Genevieve, tell me what I have done to make you mad at me. I wish
that you would be the same dear friend that you used to be. You're the first and
only real true girl friend I have ever had and here you go and act this way. All
of my studies were all right to-day. My play was sent down to the Chamber of
Commerce for the exhibit. I stayed at school until after three o'clock and then
went right home. I read until supper time and after supper, Mr. and Mrs. McGraw
came over. I wonder when Genevieve's ever coming over. She has only been over
once since she came back from the country. Mr. and Mrs. McGraw stayed until ten
o'clock. I then got my lessons and here it is eleven o'clock so me for the hay.
Tuesday Apr 30
I rode to school again this morning with Genevieve. She just said good
morning to me and that was all. Still mad at me I suppose. Everything was all
right at school to-day. I went over to the Goodspeed Company this afternoon and
worked until five-thirty; to-day was pay day again. It certainly was hot to-day
especially when we were drilling this noon. We marched for forty minutes without
stopping and believe me but we were hot. I haven't heard any more about the
Cadet review but I guess it will come off sometime next week. Several men have
told us that Northeastern stands a pretty good chance for getting first. My, but
I wish we could get first place. Mama was down to see Mrs. McGraw this
afternoon. Mrs. McGraw told her that the Piechovitz boy and Cecilia were telling
her that I was showing Genevieve's picture around school and making fun of it.
It's all lies and they only want to make Genevieve mad at me. Why I would never
think of doing such a thing. I have too much respect for Genevieve and shall
always try to keep her as my friend. In fact I would never do such a thing with
any girl's picture much less Genevieve's.
Wednesday May 1
The beginning of another month. It should also be the beginning of
spring. May 1st and only about six more weeks of school and then
vacation. Oh, boy, ain't it a grand and glorious thought. I went over to the
Goodspeed Company after school and intended to work as I am going doing after my
new uniform tomorrow afternoon. However I only worked until four o'clock and
went down after my uniform to-day. I certainly got a dandy but, oh! the price.
Twenty bucks! I paid half of it and papa put up the other half. It certainly is
a fine uniform though. All wool too. I'll be some soldier. Sometimes the feeling
comes to me that I would like to be serving my country and perhaps if the war is
still going on next fall I may not reenter school but enlist. I will be nineteen
next fall and even now I could join the Navy. I waited downtown till five-thirty
so that I could ride home with Genevieve. I asked her to go to the show with me
Sunday but she said that Isabel was coming over to spend the weekend and that
she could not go away and leave her. However she promised to let me know by
Saturday night what she would do. Here's hoping that Isabel won't be over. This
will make the fourth time I have asked her to go out with me and she has always
disappointed me.
Thursday May 2
Arrived at school late this morning. The first morning I have been late
for some time. I asked Mr. Van Tassel to be excused at the end of the third hour
as I had to meet papa downtown at noon. My uniform trousers have to be altered.
He gave me an excuse but when the third hour came I couldn't get away as the
Chamber Music Society gave a concert which lasted until nearly twelve o'clock.
And then Mr. Novak, the principal, had to give one of his speeches. It was about
Thrift Stamps. Consequently I didn't get to town until nearly one o'clock. Papa
had left the store but I tried my trousers on and after I had been measured, I
started up to the restaurant to get some dinner. Who should I meet coming out of
the restaurant but papa. I went in and got my lunch while he went over to the
bank and then we both went out to the shop. I worked until five-thirty and then
went home. I thought of going down to McGraw's after supper but did not. I
stayed home and read until it was time to go to bed. The warm weather is
continuing. To-day was a fine day. I hope that on the day of the Cadet review we
will have weather like we have been having this week.
Friday May 3
As usual I was on time for school this morning. All of my lessons were
all right to-day. The Chamber Music Society gave a concert during the fourth
hour this morning. The concert was all right and the music was fine but I would
rather have my fourth hour vacant. There was a big review of the entire Cadet
Battalion this noon. We certainly make a fine showing when we all turn out. My I
wish they would hurry on and hold the Grand Review. I guess all the fellows are
anxious for the Review to come off. And I bet that when the Review does come
off, we will make a fine showing and that Old Northeastern will be proud of her
Cadets. We will put N.E.H.S. on the map and believe me, everyone will then know
that she is on the map. I left school at the end of the seventh hour and went
over to the Goodspeed Company and worked. I worked until six-thirty and then
went home. After supper I rode over to the library on my bicycle. I stayed at
the library for about an hour and then went home. I read until it was time to go
to bed. The weather was fine to-day and it looks as though summer is really with
us. At least I hope so.
Saturday May 4
Saturday means work. And to work I went this morning. It will only be a
few more Saturdays and then I will be working every day. School will soon be out
and that means I will have to look for a job. Well, I guess it won't be hard to
find one. All of the factories seem to be needing help. Well as I said before, I
went to work this morning and worked until about two o'clock. I then went to
town and went up to Greenwood Armstrong and Atkinson and got my Cadet trousers.
I then went home. When I got home I put my new uniform on and took some
snapshots. After supper I went down to McGraw's. Isabel was there and she,
Genevieve, and John were getting ready to go to the carnival up on Van Dyke
Ave., so I volunteered to go with them. I took them all into the circus. I had
to meet mama at St. Thomas at nine o'clock but we didn't get out of the circus
until a quarter after nine. I had to leave them and go to meet mama. She had
just got to church so I had not kept her waiting. Mama said that papa had not
come home from town yet when she left the house, and when we got home we found
that he had just come. He had been at the Madison Theatre to see Charlie Chaplin
in "A Dog's Life." Genevieve promised me she would go to the theater
with me tomorrow night.
Sunday May 5
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning. When I got home, I read and
prepared my lessons for tomorrow. We had dinner about twelve o'clock. And after
dinner I read and played the phonograph. My, but it was hot to-day. It was the
hottest day we have had this summer. Fritz came over about half past three. He
and Myrtle had been down at McGraw's. I had Fritz stay for supper and after
supper I walked down to the McGraw's with him. It was about six o'clock and we
met Genevieve taking Isabel home. She promised that she would hurry back and she
got back about seven o'clock. Fritz and Myrtle decided that they would go to the
show with us. We left the house about seven-thirty and walked down to Gratiot
Ave. and then took the Gratiot car to town. We decided to go to the Madison
Theatre. Mable Normand in "Joan of Plattsburg" is playing there. Also
Charlie Chaplin in "It's a Dog's Life." When we got at the theatre,
Fritz said that he only had a twenty-dollar bill and asked me if I would buy the
tickets. Of course I did and I wonder if he will remember to return the sixty
cents to me. Fritz and Myrtle left before the performance was over but Genevieve
and I stayed until the end. It was after eleven o'clock when we got home.
Monday May 6
I got down to school before eight o'clock. We got home so late last night
that I thought I would not want to get up this morning, but this was not the
case as I woke up good and early. It looked like rain this morning and did
sprinkle a little but it had all cleared up by noon. I had all my lessons all
right and left school at two-thirty. I took some film downtown to be developed
and bummed around town for a while. I got home about three-thirty or four
o'clock and read until supper. After supper I walked over to St. Thomas' with
mama so she could register for the Women's Council of National Defense. On our
way back we stopped at the Healy School. A patriotic meeting was held there for
the selling of War Savings Stamps. There was hardly no one there and it was one
of the tamest patriotic meetings I have ever seen. It was more like a funeral or
Quaker meeting. We got home about nine-thirty and I read until it was time to go
to bed. I hit the hay at eleven o'clock.
Tuesday May 7
I was on time for school this morning. I have been trying to get the same
car that Genevieve takes of a morning but I always miss it. All of my lessons
were all right to-day. All of the Cadets that have uniforms drilled this noon.
There are quite a few in uniform now and it certainly makes a fine showing. I
went over to the Goodspeed Company this afternoon and worked until five o'clock.
To-day was a pay day again. I left the shop at five o'clock and went downtown
after some negatives that were ready for me. I thought I would get to ride home
with Genevieve but I had to wait quite a while at the store. I just missed the
car Genevieve was on. I saw her get on the car but it pulled away before I got a
chance to get on. I have been printing pictures ever since supper and just now
got finished. Several of the last pictures I took were fine. The weather was
awful warm to-day especially at noon, while we were drilling. It looks as though
we are going to have an early and warm summer. Well, I hope so anyhow. It is
about time we were having nice days. In bed at ten-thirty.
Wednesday May 8
On time for school again this morning. In fact I got to school about a
quarter to eight. I have been trying to meet Genevieve every morning this week
but I always seem to miss her. All of my studies were all right to-day as usual.
I left school at two-thirty to-day and went straight home. I mounted some
photographs and read until it was time for supper. After supper, mama and I
walked down to McGraw's. Genevieve had just gone out. She had to go over on
Canton Ave. to pay their rent and of course she had to stop in to see the
Stokey's. She did not get back until we were ready to leave. I missed her and
had counted on her being home this evening. I don't know what I will do next
Sunday. I asked Genevieve to go out with me but she said she had a date and
would not be home at all during the day or evening. However she promised me that
she would go out a week from Sunday and believe me I am going to see that she
keeps her promise. We stayed at McGraw's until after half past nine and when we
got home, I read for a while but it is after ten o'clock now and I guess it is
about time for me to turn in. So good night.
Thursday May 9
To-day is the Feast of the Ascension and of course a Holy Day. I got up
and went to eight o'clock mass at St. John's. As I got off the Harper car at Mt.
Elliott Ave., I saw Genevieve on the car following the one I was on. I sat in
the same seat with Uhwelda Theobald, one of the girls from my graduating class.
It was the first time I had seen her since last summer. She left before mass was
over so I did not get a chance to speak to her. I guess I will have to give a
reunion party and get all of the graduates together. Edna Krisgen and John
Povlitz are the only ones I see every day. Several of them I have not seen since
the graduation night and that will soon be two years ago. My, but how the time
does fly. It seems but that it was only yesterday that we were all going to
school together. Those were the good old days. I'm sure that we would all enjoy
a reunion and I must try and see if all can't get together. I missed my first
hour class this morning but I should worry. After school I went to the Goodspeed
Co. and worked until five-thirty. Papa and I then walked down to the Majestic
Theatre. Taylor Holmes in "A Pair of Sixes" is playing there. The play
was good but as good as it was when the Glaser Players played it on the stage.
We got home about ten o'clock and I went right to bed.
Friday May 10
The end of another school week. Only about five more weeks and then the
final exams and then vacation or rather work. The time certainly flies. I was on
time for school this morning and as usual all of my lessons were all right.
Victor Adler, the president of our grade room, and myself went out this
afternoon to sell thrift stamps. I sold a dollar's worth of thrift stamps and
one war savings stamp. When I got over to the Goodspeed office this afternoon,
Mr. Ramsey bought two dollars worth of thrift stamps from me. That makes a total
of nearly eight dollars for one day. Each student's quota is five dollars so I
am away over mine. I worked until nearly seven o'clock this afternoon. The
Goodspeed Co. is certainly busy these days. I guess I will work the bigger part
of tomorrow afternoon and I will have some pay day next Tuesday. Well it will
all come in handy. The circus is coming a week from Monday and I want to try and
get Genevieve to go to see it with me. When I got home from work this evening, I
found a letter from Harriet Owen. She said that they were thinking of moving
back to Detroit. I wish they would. My, but wouldn't we have some good times
together. Well here endeth the page so I must stop.
Saturday May 11
I got up bright and early - or wait was it early? Come to think of it I
believe it was rather late when I got up and in consequence I was late for work.
However papa was also late so I didn't keep him waiting. It was certainly a busy
day. Papa left the shop at noon but Miss Lodge and myself worked until four
o'clock. I then went home and took a bath and put my uniform on. The cadets had
to report at school this evening. A big patriotic meeting was held at
Northeastern to sell thrift stamps. We guarded the building until just before
the meeting started. We then assembled and marched in to the tune of our new
drum and bugle corps. Three shots were fired, the bugler sounded assembly and
then the orchestra burst forth into the Star Spangled Banner. It certainly was
some meeting, but there was only one thing to spoil it all and that was Boris
Elisen, the acting lieutenant for the evening. He got every Cadet on duty sore
at himself for the way Elisen acted. I guess there will be trouble Monday for
the fellows say they are going to report Elisen to Capt. Willard. Elisen is too
much of a show-off and the fellows say they'll refuse to go on duty when he is
in command. I got home at ten-thirty and read the paper for a while and went to
bed.
Sunday May 12
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning at St. Thomas. None of the
McGraw's were there. We had an early dinner to-day (that is always the way, when
I don't want to go anywhere we have an early dinner but just as sure as I am
writing this, if I am going away on a Sunday afternoon, we have a late dinner.)
Genevieve told me that Sunday that she would be away all day to-day, so I knew
there was no need of me going down unless it were to Mr. or Mrs. McGraw. I
stayed home all afternoon and read. It rained most of the time and was not a
very nice day to be out in. After supper I went down to the Madison Theatre.
Jack Pickford and Louise Huff are playing there is "His Majesty Bunker
Bean." I enjoyed the play but I wished that I had company along with me.
"Bunker Bean" is the greatest comedy I have ever seen but while, it
teaches you a lesson. Bunker Bean believed in the saying: "As a man
thinketh he is in his heart, so he is." When Bunker believed himself to be
small and timid, he really was small and did not amount to much. However when he
believed himself to be Napoleon and a king, he succeeded and became rich. Let me
see, who should I believe myself to be: Rockefeller or George Washington??? I
got home at ten o'clock and went right to bed.
Monday May 13
I was on time for school this morning. I had all of my lessons. We went
for a hike during the fifth hour to-day. We marched over to Mt. Elliott Ave. and
then back and all the way we kept in platoon front. Mr. Willard is certainly
training us so that we will be able to make a good showing in the review. I
wonder when the review will be held? Some say that it will be held during the
big parade next Sunday but I don't believe it will! However, we may march in the
parade next Sunday. From the reports in the paper it sure is going to be some
parade. Sousa and his band will be here again and will take part in the parade.
I went over to the Goodspeed Company and worked this afternoon. I worked until
six-thirty. After supper I went down to McGraw's. Mrs. Barnes was there. To-day
is her birthday. I asked Genevieve to go to the circus with me a week from
to-day. She said she would if I would ask her father. So I guess she will go as
Mr. McGraw has never refused me his permission so far. I stayed at McGraw's
until after ten o'clock. I read for a while when I got home and I guess it is
about time I was turning in. The weather was fine to-day and I hope it will stay
nice.
Tuesday May 14
I got up at the usual time this morning and as usual was on time for
school. It is about the same old thing at school these days. There is nothing
much doing. We are busy selling War Savings and Thrift Stamps but the students
are not putting much effort in the campaign. I have sold eight dollars worth of
stamps. Each student is expected to buy or sell at least ten dollars worth of
stamps so I have still got two more dollars worth to sell. We are putting lots
of time in military drill as we expect that the review will soon be held and
when it is held, we want to show that Northeastern is awake and alive and to put
her on the map. So far Northeastern has not received much credit in the
different contests she has entered, but believe me we will show them that we
have a fine bunch of Cadets. The rest of the high schools will sit up and take
notice when they see our three companies marching down Woodward Ave. I went over
to the shop after school and worked until seven o'clock; after supper I rode my
wheel down to the library. Well it is ten o'clock now so me for bed.
Wednesday May 15
As usual I was on time for school this morning. I tried to catch the car
that Genevieve generally takes but I missed it. All of my lessons were all right
to-day. Well, we have at last received notice that the Cadet Review is to be
held. It will be held next Friday. The line of march will be down Woodward Ave.
starting at High Street. The reviewing stand will be in front of the City Hall,
we will turn west on Fort Street to Shelby Street, north on Shelby to Michigan
Ave. to Washington Blvd. and then north on Washington Blvd. to the Washington
Theatre. We will be the guests of the Washington Theatre and will witness a
showing of "My Four Years in Germany." I have already seen the picture
but I guess I will see it again. I am certainly glad that we are going to hold
the review and I only hope that we will make a good showing. I also hope that I
will be given charge of one of the divisions. I went over to the Goodspeed
company this afternoon after school and worked until six-thirty. The office is
certainly busy but I should worry, for the busier they are the more they will
need me, and the more I work means a bigger pay day. I stayed at home and read
after supper. In bed at ten-thirty.
Thursday May 16
One more day nearer to the big parade. I was on time for school this
morning. During recess to-day we had our last review before the Grand Review
tomorrow. All the Cadets were out and we made a fine showing. Almost the entire
school was out to watch us. The weather was fine to-day and I only hope it will
be as nice tomorrow. I went over to the Goodspeed Company and worked until
nearly six o'clock. Genevieve and Mrs. McGraw came over. Genevieve was mad.
Somebody had told the Board of Education that she was only fifteen years old and
not sixteen, therefore she would not be able to work. Somehow Genevieve got it
in her pretty head that I was the one who told. Genevieve, Genevieve when are
you ever going to learn to trust your friends. Why I would never think of doing
anything that would cause you to lose your position. It was very likely some of
those German friends of yours who told your age. We all played several games of
Pedro and had a fine time. This was the second time Genevieve has been over
since she came back from the country. Before she went to the country there was
hardly a week went by without she being over.
Friday May 17
The great day has at last arrived. Friday is said to be an unlucky day
but I don't believe it to be true. We made a fine showing in the review and
parade to-day. We left school at about ten o'clock and marched over to Woodward
Ave. and High Street. We had three full companies to turn out and I was acting
first lieutenant of Company A. The fellows certainly made a fine showing and one
that Northeastern can be proud of. We received our new battalion flag at
Woodward Ave. and High Street. It is made of green silk with a wide yellow or
gold stripe down the center and with Northeastern High School printed in large
golden letters on both sides. It certainly is a fine flag and well worth the
twenty-two dollars we paid for it. There were over five thousand Cadets in the
parade. The parade began at High St. and then down Woodward Ave. to Fort Street,
up Fort Street West to Shelby Street, up Shelby St. to Michigan Ave., across
Michigan Ave. to Washington Blvd., up Washington Blvd. to the Washington Theatre
where we witnessed a showing of "My Four Years in Germany." After the
show we assembled and were then dismissed. We are to be in the big Patriotic
Parade next Sunday. After supper, I went out to the carnival in Hamtramck.
Saturday May 18
My, but how I did hate to get up this morning. Tired? I should say I was
tired. I was never so tired in my life and to think that tomorrow there will be
a longer march. Well I managed to get up and go to work. Mr. Ramsey had me make
two trips to town for the shop. The first time I went, Sousa's band was playing
in front of the City Hall. It certainly was hard to pass by and not stop to
listen to the band. I only worked to one o'clock and then Papa and I went
downtown. We got down in time to hear the end of the concert in Cadillac Square.
It's certainly some band, that Sousa has. There are three hundred pieces in it.
After the concert papa went home but I went up to the Broadway Strand Theatre.
Mary Pickford in "M'Liss" is playing there. After the theatre I went
over to St. Aloysius Church on Washington Blvd. I then went home and got there
about six o'clock. Papa and Joe went down to hear Sousa after supper. Papa
wanted me to go along but there was nothing doing. I've got too big a march to
make tomorrow and I'll want to hit the hay good and early. So here I am ready to
jump in and then tomorrow. Tomorrow is the big day. It will be the biggest
parade that has ever been held in Detroit, and believe me Detroit has seen some
big ones.
Sunday May 19
Well at last the great day has arrived. I put my Cadet uniform on this
morning and wore it to eight o'clock mass at St. Thomas. The weather was fine
all morning but about two o'clock the sky darkened and it soon commended to
pour. However, the parade started promptly at three o'clock. We marched in the
second division, so that when we disbanded we got to see the rest of the parade.
Even the rain could not keep the people from watching the parade. Their
patriotism could not be dampened. Sousa and his three-hundred-piece band led the
parade and the entire eight divisions were one surprise after another. I can't
find the words with which to describe the parade. And I can only say that it was
the finest sight I have ever seen. It took three hours for it to pass and during
it all the people stood patiently even when it rained. Mr. Kaiser, you had
better beware! Such patriotism as was shown to-day cannot be defeated. My, but
how proud I felt to be permitted to march in the parade. Only two of our
platoons turned out. So I did not get a chance to command a platoon. However I
was permitted to act as color guard to that grand old flag, the Star Spangled
Banner. Oh long may it wave o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
And may the day soon come when the world will be free and the flag may once more
float peacefully in the breeze.
Monday May 20
I was on time for school this morning. All of my lessons were all right.
I certainly didn't feel like getting up this morning. I had a headache and every
bone in my body ached. It certainly was some march yesterday. Genevieve promised
me she would go to the circus with me tonight. I felt so tired that I came
pretty near sending word to Genevieve and asking her to postpone it and go
tomorrow night. I didn't like to disappoint her, although she has disappointed
me several times. I went down to her place after supper and we left for the
circus grounds. The high cost of living has hit the circus as they have raised
their price to seventy-five cents. It nearly broke me to get the two tickets. I
had intended getting reserve seats but they cost another seventy-five cents. The
circus was fine and I don't mind paying the dollar and half admission especially
when I can have so fair a friend as Genevieve McGraw along with me. Genevieve
said she had a fine time. We walked up four blocks and took the Sherman car
home. I enjoyed the walk as much as I did the circus. Well I have taken a girl
to the circus for the first time and the girl I took is the finest I have ever
known.
Tuesday May 21
I was on time for school again this morning. I left school at ten-thirty
and went downtown. I went up to Grand Circus Park and saw Sousa's band assemble.
I then followed them down to Cadillac Square. Sousa gave a fine concert in the
square and it lasted until one o'clock. After the concert I went out to the shop
and worked until seven o'clock. I then went home, had my supper and then papa,
Lawrence and I went downtown. Sousa and his band left the city tonight and at
seven o'clock they gave a concert in Cadillac Square. We got downtown just as
the concert ended and Sousa was marching up to Grand Circus Park. The streets
around Grand Circus were just black with people. Sousa gave a concert in the
park and then marched over to the D.A.C. where he gave another concert. He then
marched with his band down Gratiot Ave. to Woodward, down Woodward to Jefferson,
and down Jefferson to the dock at Wayne St. They then boarded the D&C boat
for Cleveland. There were thousands of people following the band around. It
certainly is the finest band in the country. The boat left at eleven o'clock and
it was nearly midnight when we got home. I might be called a nut for following
the band, but believe me I was not the only nut.
Wednesday May 22
Well, even though I did not get home until nearly midnight last night, I
got up early this morning and therefore was on time for school. I guess the city
can settle down again now that Sousa and his band has left. Sousa will bring his
band back here again next August. They will be here for ten days then. Mr. Van
Tassel, our grade principal, gave me an absence excuse for the classes I missed
yesterday afternoon. He did not even ask me any questions as to where I had been
yesterday. That's what comes from having a stand-in with the "old man"
(meaning Mr. Van Tassel). He can't very well say anything to a person who has
had all ones on his report card. The seniors of Northeastern are going to give a
play next Friday night. It is a comic opera called "The Captain of the
Plymouth." It is the first play ever given at Northeastern. I suppose the
Cadets will have to go on guard duty but if we do, I hope that Lieut. Elisen
will not be placed in charge. I went over to the Goodspeed Company and worked
until five-thirty this afternoon. After supper I read until bedtime. The weather
was fine to-day and I hope it will keep it up.
Thursday May 23
I was in plenty of time for school this morning. All of my lessons were
OK except that I got one wrong in Algebra. This morning when we went into our
Algebra room we found a notice on the board saying that Mr. Lane would not meet
his classes and for us to return to our grade rooms. Four other fellows and
myself all returned to our grade rooms and I thought the rest did likewise. This
noon we found out that some boys had written that notice on the board and that
Mr. Lane did meet his classes. I guess we will catch it in the morning but I
don't see how we are in wrong. The worst of it is that was only the Cadets who
returned to their grade rooms. Well that shows how well-trained we are. We obey
all orders and never ask why. I went over to the Goodspeed Co. and worked until
six o'clock. After supper I went over to the Majestic Theatre. Sgt. Emfrey in
his book "Over the Top" is playing there in moving pictures. They also
had pictures of Sunday's parade. Cass High marched in front of us Sunday and
they showed pictures of the Cass Cadets and right when I was getting ready to
see our Company, they switched over to the Naval Cadets who were in back of us
and did not show our company. Some luck wasn't it.
Friday May 24
Well there was certainly enough doing in Algebra class this morning. Mr.
Lane made us go to our grade principal for an excuse. I was the only one from
Angell House and Mr. Van Tassel excused me but Mr. Graham would not excuse the
other fellows. Mr. Lane said they would have to stay next Monday for the 9th
hour. It made the fellows sore because I was excused. So I volunteered to stay
also. A musical comedy "The Captain of the Plymouth" was given by the
seniors this evening. The Cadets were on guard duty and Lieut. Elisen was in
charge. There was h--l to pay all evening. Elisen went around bawling everyone
out. He placed me on guard duty at the door thereby not recognizing my position
as Sergeant Major. Things reached a climax when the performance in the
auditorium had begun. The Cadets go on guard duty with the understanding that
they could witness the performance as soon as it began. Lieut. Elisen came and
gave me orders that I should appoint someone to remain on duty at the door
during the performance. I refused to do this and told him that the boys went on
guard duty with the understanding they could witness the performance. This made
him mad and we had words. Finally I turned away and went into the auditorium. I
don't believe he will report me to Willard but I intend for Mr. Willard to hear
about it.
Saturday May 25
Work again this morning. I arrived at the Goodspeed Company at a quarter
past eight and worked until one-thirty this afternoon. A man collecting for the
Patriotic Fund was at the shop this morning and got me to sign up for twelve
dollars. That will mean a dollar a month. Detroit had seven million dollars to
raise during this past week and according to the newspaper reports it will be
away over that amount. This money will be divided among the Red Cross, Y.M.C.A.,
Knights of Columbus, and other war charities and will last for a year. Papa and
I left the shop at one-thirty. We took the jitney and drove downtown. We then
went home and had dinner. After dinner we drove over to the ice house after some
ice. We then took Fritz's camera and typewriter home. On our way back to the
shop, papa let me try to drive the car. Somehow or other I always seemed to kill
the motor. However I believe that I could soon learn how to drive the car. After
supper this evening I read and did not go out. It is ten-thirty now so I guess
it is about time to turn in.
Sunday May 26
I went to nine o'clock mass this morning. Genevieve was at mass but she
did not have hardly anything to say. She went out to the island this afternoon
with some of those girl friends of hers. I had asked her to go out with me but
of course her other friends came first and I don't count anything. I wish
McGraw's would move to another part of the city and then perhaps when Genevieve
is away from those Dutch friends of hers she will care more to go out with me.
We had dinner about twelve o'clock and after dinner I went down to the Adams
Theatre. "Tarzan of the Apes" is playing there. It is an interesting
story but is certainly crazy. It is about a baby whose English mother died in
the jungle and his father was killed by the apes. The baby was then kidnaped by
the apes and raised by them. When the child becomes a man, he believes himself
to be a monkey until he meets a beautiful white girl who was lost in the jungle.
Of course he loves her and finally they live happily ever after. After the Adams
was out, I went down to the Palace Theatre and saw both of the afternoon and
night performances. I got home about seven o'clock and read the rest of the
evening.
Monday May 27
Well here is Monday again. I have mechanical drawing during the third
hour and I expected that Mr. Willard would say something to me about the trouble
between Lieut. Elisen and myself last Friday night, but he did not. So at the
end of the third hour I asked Mr. Willard if Lieut. Elisen made any charges
against me. Mr. Willard said that he had not. I told him all about the trouble
Friday night. Mr. Willard said I was entirely in the right in refusing to
appoint someone to remain at the door after the performance had started. Sgt.
Rhodes told me this morning that Lieut. Elisen told him Friday night after the
trouble that I was going to hell. I reported this to Mr. Willard and he got
Capt. Cooper, Lieut. Elisen together with myself. Elisen denied this charge and
said that what he meant was that the Company would ride on h--l Monday on
account of my being mad. Meaning that Mr. Willard would get after all of us.
That was not the way Sgt. Rhodes understood the remark and Major Willard forced
Elisen to apologize to me. My, but it did go against his grain to apologize. Mr.
Willard has had all the officers on the carpet and everybody is complaining
against the way Elisen is acting. I wouldn't be surprised but what there will be
more trouble before long.
Tuesday May 28
I got to school this morning in plenty of time. I had all of my lessons
except my Algebra but as Mr. Lane did not ask for the papers, I got through the
registration all right. Our Grade Room held the nominations for our next term's
President. About ten were nominated but no one nominated me. I am glad that I
was not nominated because there is too much work connected with the President's
position. I have a plenty to do now and am not looking for any more. The Cadets
are practicing Signaling but I have not studied much about it. Lieut. Cooper
says it is necessary for us to learn it but I don't care much about it. However
I guess I will have to get busy and learn it. If the privates know it, the
officers will have to know it. I went over to the Goodspeed Company after school
this afternoon and worked until six o'clock. To-day was pay day again. The day I
like to see roll around. After supper I read the Argosy until bedtime. My! But
it was hot to-day. I hope that the warm weather will continue and if it is like
this a week from Friday, we will have a fine day for our school picnic.
Wednesday May 29
As usual I was on time for school this morning. All of my lessons were
all right. The Cadets received orders to report at the Michigan Central Depot at
seven o'clock in the morning. This will be for the purpose of meeting Theodore
Roosevelt who will arrive at eight o'clock in the morning. We will escort him
down Michigan Ave. and then up Woodward Ave. to Grand Circus Park where he will
review us as we march by. Major Willard said he had to leave the city tonight so
therefore can't be with us tomorrow. He placed Lieutenant Ciesliga in charge. I
am glad that Ciesliga and not Elisen will be in charge. I left school at the end
of the seventh hour and went over to the Goodspeed Company and worked until six
o'clock. The shop is not going to work tomorrow. After work I went to the barber
shop for a haircut and then home. After supper I rode over to the library and to
St. John's. Sr. Sylvia wants me to drill the boys for the military play they are
going to give at the close of school! I told her I would drill them. And believe
me they'll get some training. When I got home, I read until it was time for bed.
Thursday May 30
"In Memoriam." To-day is Memorial Day. And if ever Memorial day
was celebrated, it should be celebrated to-day. There are thousands of brave
boys who have given up their lives during the past year. The Cadets met Col.
Roosevelt at the M.C. Depot this morning and escorted him downtown. He is
certainly old looking but has the same old smile. I got home about eleven
o'clock and rode down to McGraw's. I wanted Genevieve to go out with me this
afternoon, but she said she was going out with those girlfriends of hers. I
would have asked her earlier in the week but I thought we would have to march
this p.m. Anyhow it looks like she could keep an afternoon open for me once in a
while. After dinner I went downtown to see the parade. The parade started at
2:15 and took two hours to pass by. Col. Roosevelt rode at the head of it. The
parade was larger than the patriotic parade but I don't believe it was as good.
There certainly was a mob down to see it. It began to rain just as the parade
started but it did not cause the people to leave, however it soon cleared up.
After the parade was over, I got my supper downtown and then went to see
"Empty Pockets" at the Washington. I got home about eight o'clock and
found that mama was down at McGraw's. However, she soon came home.
Friday May 31
I got to school just as the bell was ringing this morning. This was due
to the strap on my leggings breaking before I left home this morning. I had to
look all over the house for something with which I could fix it. The Cadets had
a grand review this noon. We were reviewed by Captain Cunningham, one of our
corporal's uncles, who is a captain in the regular army. After the review some
snapshots were taken of the battalion. Major Willard told us this afternoon
during drill that he was going to leave us tonight. He and Mr. Remington, the
physical director, are going to a training camp at Lake Geneva, Wis. They will
receive two weeks of training there so that they will be better able to teach
military training next fall. Lieut. Cooper will be in charge while Major Willard
is away. All of us fellows hate to see Mr. Willard leave even though we know he
will be back. School will be out three weeks from to-day so I don't suppose
there will be much doing in drill the rest of this term. I got excused from my
sixth and seventh period classes this afternoon and went over to the Goodspeed
Company to work. I got over there about one o'clock and worked until six. I was
therefore able to put in five hours. After supper I read until ten o'clock and
now I am ready to turn in.
Saturday June 1
June 1st. Another new month. I got over to the Goodspeed
Company at 8:15. Papa and Mr. Ramsey left the shop at noon. They are having a
meeting at Carey, the lawyer's office to sign the papers for the new steering
gear company. Miss Lodge also left the shop at noon and Miss Lee left about one
o'clock. I worked until after two o'clock and then went to town. I was going to
go to St. Aloysius church downtown and then wait until five-thirty and ride home
with Genevieve. I wanted to ask her to go out with me tomorrow. Now that she is
working at the telephone company, tomorrow will be the last Sunday she will have
free as she will have to work on Sundays. However I was tired and decided to go
on home. When I got home, I took a bath and read until suppertime. After supper,
I went over to St. Thomas. After church I walked down to the carnival on Van
Dyke Ave. I thought that perhaps I would meet Genevieve there but I did not. It
is not much of a carnival and I only spent ten cents while there. I just took a
ride on the merry-go-round and got an ice cream cone. I left the carnival at
nine o'clock and walked down Van Dyke to Duncan Ave. There were none of McGraw's
out on the porch and as it was pretty late I did not go down to their place.
Sunday June 2
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning. Genevieve was also there. After
mass I hurried out and waited in the front of the church so that I would be sure
to see Genevieve. Mama was also at this mass and came out right behind
Genevieve. Mama said that Genevieve looked out of the window and when she saw me
standing there she turned and went out the other door. Her Dutch friend or
German spy, Cecilia, was with her. They both walked up the street at the side of
the church. There are no houses for blocks on this street so they could not have
been going anywhere and it is entirely out of their way to go home. Now what I
want to know is this: Did Genevieve deliberately go out another door and go out
of her way in going home so that she would not have to speak to me? I am going
down to see her the first chance I get and I am going to have an understanding.
I would hate to lose Genevieve's friendship and I have forgiven her a good many
things but here is one thing I won't stand. She will never know how she has hurt
me. This afternoon I took Lawrence out to the Boardwalk. We went through the
Coliseum and had a picnic. It certainly is fun in the Coliseum. We got home
about seven o'clock. After supper I read.
Monday June 3
As usual I began the day by being on time for school. All of my lessons
were all right. I met Edna Krisgen this noon at school. We walked out though the
front and had a right nice talk together. She is a fine girl and I wish that we
lived nearer to them and that I could get to know her better. Mr. Chapel, our
General Science teacher, was not at school to-day. Therefore, we did not have
any seventh hour class. Everybody is getting ready for the big picnic next
Friday. It certainly is going to be some day. I intend to invite Edna Krisgen to
go over to the Boardwalk next Friday evening. I guess there will be a good many
of them go over there from the Island. The Cadets are going to give a sham
battle and hold competitive drills between the different platoons. I left school
at the end of the sixth hour to-day and went over to the Goodspeed Company to
work. I stayed at the shop until seven o'clock. I have not seen anything of the
McGraw's to-day. I looked for Mrs. McGraw over this evening but she did not
come. If I don't work late tomorrow night, I will finally go down to see
Genevieve tomorrow night and get that settled about yesterday morning.
Tuesday June 4
I was in plenty of time for school to-day. All of my lessons were all
right as usual. Mr. Lane, my Algebra teacher, had me take a letter around to the
different teachers during the fourth period. It seems as though he was asked to
donate to some patriotic fund and he refused. In the letter he declared that his
family expenses were so great that he could not spare the money, but that this
did not keep him from being a "true American." Some of the teachers
will not have anything to do with Mr. Lane. I myself believe that he is just as
true as I am. He may have some good reason for not donating. He asked one of the
boys to bring a flag in the morning and he is going to hang it in his room. Mr.
Chapel, the General Science teacher, has been away all week so we are not having
any seventh hour classes. I left school at the end of the sixth period and went
to work. Miss Lodge, the bookkeeper, was sick to-day. A new man began work
to-day. He is to help Miss Lodge with her bookkeeping. Owing to Miss Lodge not
being there I will have to wait until tomorrow for my pay. After supper I read
all evening and prepared my lessons for tomorrow.
Wednesday June 5
I was late for school this morning as I did not get up until
seven-thirty. All of my lessons were all right. Mr. Chapel was not here again
to-day so I left school at the end of the sixth hour and went to work. Miss
Lodge was not there again to-day but she came over about five o'clock. She is
going to leave the Goodspeed Co. next Saturday. I worked until six o'clock and
then went home. Mrs. McGraw walked over about eight o'clock. She said that
Genevieve had gone over to St. Anthony's with Cecilia. Mrs. McGraw stayed until
after nine o'clock. I walked home with her. Genevieve had not got home yet but
as I was leaving, I saw her coming up the street. However, I did not get to
speak to her. Next Saturday I am going up to the Telephone Exchange and wait for
her. I am going to invite her to go to the show with me next Sunday night and I
am going to tell her that it will be to her good that she keeps the appointment.
I am going to ask her then why she acted as she did last Sunday. If she will let
that Cecilia influence herself against me, I want to know it and if she
considers a German's friendship above mine, why I guess we will have to break
our friendship. Although I would rather anything else but that to happen.
Thursday June 6
I was late for school again this morning. That makes two days in
succession. All of my lessons were all right to-day. They have cut all
mechanical drawing classes until Mr. Willard gets back. So I now have the third
and fourth periods vacant every morning. I got excused this morning at the end
of the second period and went up to the bank to make a payment on my Liberty
Bond. I got back to school before the third hour was over. Mr. Chapel, the
general science teacher, was here to-day so we had a seventh hour class. In
charge of Company A during the fifth hour to-day and gave all the commands for
drilling them. Lieut. Ciesliga left for the farm yesterday and as I am next in
command in A Company, Capt. Cooper appointed me as acting First Lieutenant for
tomorrow. The 9A's had a class meeting after school to-day so I did not get over
to work. I called them up however. It was some class meeting we had. There were
about thirty girls there and only five boys, so we did not accomplish much by
the meeting. It rained and stormed this evening but has stopped now. I hope that
it will be a pretty day tomorrow. For tomorrow is the great day and at last I
will have command of Company A N.E.H.S. Cadets.
Friday June 7
Well, the great day has at last arrived. I got down to school at a
quarter of eight. All of the students who have the fourth period vacant left for
Belle Isle at the end of the third hour. As I have the fourth period vacant, I
left at this time. The rest of the students left at the end of the fourth. I
certainly had a fine time, but I am good and tired. The Cadets were to assemble
at the Athletic Field for drill at 1:40 but we could only get one Company
together. We went through a few movements but it did not amount to much. The
faculty played the Varsity Baseball team and beat them by a score of 6 to 3.
Principal Novak, a former Olivet College star, pitched the entire game. I met
Edna Krisgen at the Island and took several snapshots of her. At three o'clock
Harry Muinsigner, a friend of mine, and myself rented a canoe. We stayed on the
canals and rowed up to the head of the island. We were in the boat for three
hours. I left for home about seven o'clock. When I got home, I found out that
there was a lost child at our place. It was a three-year-old girl and mama found
her sitting on our porch step. We located her mother later in the evening. Mrs.
McGraw was at our place when I got home but she left shortly after I got home.
Well, it is half past ten and, as I am tired, I guess I will hit the hay.
Saturday June 8
I got over to the Goodspeed Co. at eight o'clock and worked until four
o'clock. Papa left the shop at noon but I ran into him later in the afternoon as
I was waiting for a car. Miss Lodge left the Goodspeed Co. to-day and there is a
man to take her place. I went to town after work to get my negatives. I also
went over to the church on Washington Blvd. There was a partial eclipse of the
sun from 5:30 to 7:30; you could see it with a smoked glass. Mama told me this
morning that she was talking to Mrs. McGraw about Genevieve. She said that
Genevieve acted the way she did last Sunday so that she would not have to speak
to me. She said that Mrs. McGraw also said that she had to make Genevieve go to
the circus with me. And that when Genevieve got home that night, she said that
it was the last time she was ever going out with me. If I had known that
Genevieve felt that way, I would have never asked her to go out with me. I would
have much rather for her to come right out and say that she did not care to go
out with me. Well, I suppose she is good and mad at me but I don't see what in
the world I have done to make her so. The only reason that I can see that it is
that Cecilia who has been trying to get Genevieve to stop going with me. I am
not blaming Genevieve and will always call her my dearest friend. But one thing,
that Cecilia is going too far and if she don't look out, she'll be placed where
all the d--n Germans belong.
Saturday June 9
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning as usual. None of the McGraw's
were at mass. I spent the morning in mounting some pictures. The one that I took
of Edna Krisgen was pretty fair, although not very clear. I am going to try to
get her to let me take another picture of her some noon at school. We had dinner
about twelve-thirty. I had promised Mrs. McGraw that I would be down to take her
mother's picture. So I fulfilled my promise. Genevieve and her German friend,
Cecilia, were sitting in the parlor but when they saw me coming, they got up and
went out the back door. I heard Mrs. McGraw tell Genevieve that it was not a
nice way to act. So Genevieve and Cecilia came walking around the house just as
if they had been in the backyard all morning. Genevieve did not have much to
say. I am not angry at Genevieve at all and would give anything if she would
make up with me. She is the first girl I have ever cared to take out. I did not
stay at McGraw's long. It stormed after supper but mama and I went to the
Madison. Wallace Reid in "Believe Mr. Zantiffe" is playing there. I
would have given anything if it were Genevieve who was with me instead of mama.
Monday June 10
I got up extra early this morning. It was ten minutes to eight when I got
over on the avenue. The car that I got on was the same one Genevieve was on. I
said good morning and she answered me. I thought that several times she was
going to say something, but she didn't. Oh! Genevieve! Sweet Genevieve! Why do
you treat me so? If we could only be the same friends we used to be, how happy I
would be. She transferred at the Grand Belt Line. I saw papa talking to her but
I don't know what they were saying. This is the beginning of the last week of
school. The final exams start next Monday but I don't believe I will have to
take any as I think I will be recommended in everything. I gave Edna Krisgen
several copies of the pictures I took last Friday. I handed them to her as we
were passing between classes, so I did not get to talk to her much. Military
training is on the slump. The fellows don't seem to obey Capt. Cooper. He gave
them a good talking to, but it didn't do any good. I went over to work at the
end of the seventh period. It was nearly seven o'clock when papa and I left the
shop and half past seven when we got home. I have just finished eating at ten
o'clock so me for bed.
Tuesday June 11
I got down to school at ten minutes to eight this morning. I was waiting
for a Harper car this morning when a man in a large touring car drove by. He
slacked up and asked me if I was going as far as Forest and Mt. Elliott. When I
told him that I was, he told me to jump in. He rode me all the way to school.
All of my lessons were all right to-day. I had intended to take Edna Krisgen's
picture this noon at recess, but did not get time to do so. Since Victor Adler,
our grade room president, left for the farm, I have been appointed to take his
place on the Student Council. This council is made up of two members from each
grade room. They meet every Tuesday noon to discuss ways for improving the
school. The meeting lasted throughout the entire recess. I went over to the
Goodspeed Company at the end of the seventh period and worked until nearly seven
o'clock. To-day was pay day again. I see by tonight's papers that the American
Marines are getting in the thick of the fighting in France. Oh, but I wish I
were several years older. I would not hesitate a minute to enlist. If this war
is still going on next fall, I don't believe I will be able to resist the call
to enlist. A person just wants to get into the fight.
Wednesday June 12
Early for school again this morning. There was no one with an automobile
to invite me to ride to school so I had to take one of the Harper jumpers. We
had a test in Algebra this morning but it was not much of a test. The Chamber
Music Society gave a concert at the end of the fourth period this morning. As
usual after the concert, Mr. Novak, our principal, started to deliver one of his
speeches. He outlined the program for next week. He then started to talk about
it being the duty of every boy to return to school next fall. He said that it
was the government's wish that the young men finish their education. Really this
speech should have been delivered on the last day of school. Sometimes I feel
that I ought to finish my schooling and again there is that feeling that I
should enlist. I suppose every true American boy has that spark of patriotism in
his heart. That longing to get right into the thick of the fight. But still
there is that other duty. The duty of preparing one's self for his life work -
the duty of finishing school. The longer we are in this war, the more harder it
seems to keep from enlisting. I went over to the shop and worked until six
o'clock. After supper, I read till bedtime.
Thursday June 13
As usual, I was on time for school again this morning. Genevieve was on
the streetcar that I got on. We said good morning to each other and that was
about all. I was recommended in all my studies except Latin and Mr. Porter, the
Latin teacher, will give out the names of those recommended in this study
tomorrow morning. I waited at school until three o'clock. I wanted to see Edna
Krisgen but her English class went to Belle Isle this afternoon, so I did not
get to see her. I then went over to the Goodspeed Company and worked until six
o'clock. After supper, I went down to the Adams Theatre. J. Warren Kerrigan in
"A Man's Man" is playing there. It certainly was some dandy play. As I
was walking up Broadway to the theatre this evening, I saw a crowd of high
school students and Cadets assembled in front of the Board of Education building
on Broadway. Tonight is the night when the school board is to meet to decide
whether Dr. Bishop is to be fired as the principal of Eastern High School. The
students and Cadets were all from Eastern High School and they were assembled to
petition the board to keep Dr. Bishop as their principal. The meeting was still
in session at eleven o'clock when I returned from the theatre.
Friday June 14
To-day is Flag Day. I was in plenty of time for school this morning. I
was recommended in my Latin class, so I will not have to take any examinations.
We had some flag day exercises during our Algebra class this morning. I had to
deliver a paper on the origin of the Star Spangled Banner and the life of
Francis Scott Key. I got through with it all right. All of the classes were
dismissed at the end of the fourth period. However we had to go to the
auditorium for flag day exercises. Mr. Sherman, a former member of the Board of
Education, spoke. He delivered a fine address on the American flag. Mr. Novak,
as usual, closed the ceremony or exercises by saying only a few words, but it
turned out, like it always does, that he delivered quite an address. The rest of
the afternoon was given over to exams and those who had none were dismissed. I
went down to the Washington Theatre to see "The Fall of the Romanoffs."
It was fine. After supper mama, Lawrence and myself went down to McGraw's.
Genevieve did not have much to say. I believe that it would be proper to close
with the flag salute, "Iuro fidelitatem in vexillum meum et in rem publicam
qua in republica stat; una patria individus cum libertate et fustitia
omnibus."
Saturday June 15
I got to work promptly at eight o'clock this morning and worked until
three o'clock. Papa and I took the jitney home. After supper, we drove out to
the circus grounds. Hazenbeck & Wallace's circus is in town to-day. We got
home about half past nine. Mr. Keith, the man from whom we are buying our house,
lives up at Union Lake, a summer resort the other side of Pontiac. We are
planning to drive up in the Ford car and go fishing tomorrow. At first we were
going alone but when we got home from the circus grounds, papa decided that he
would take Mr. McGraw along. So even thought it was half past ten, I rode down
to see if he would go. I suppose they thought I was crazy when they saw me
coming and especially when I asked Mr. McGraw if he would go to Pontiac (the
insane asylum is located at Pontiac) with us. He said that he would like to go,
but he has to work tomorrow. Genevieve had on her new skirt and I guess she had
just washed her hair for it was all down on her shoulders. My, but she did look
pretty. Oh! If she only knew how I feel since she is mad at me. I would give
anything if she would only call me her friend again. I know a good many girls,
but Genevieve is the only one I ever cared to take out. It was eleven o'clock
when I got home and after twelve when I got in bed. I will have to get up early
in the morning, so good night.
Sunday June 16
Well this is the day we are going to Pontiac. I got up at six o'clock and
went over to the seven o'clock mass at St. John's. Papa and the boys went to
eight at St. Thomas. We left home at nine o'clock and went out Van Dyke Ave. to
the Seven Mile Road, over it to Woodward and out Woodward to Pontiac. It is
twenty-five miles to Pontiac and Union Lake is five miles the other side of
Pontiac. We arrived at Union Lake at twelve o'clock. Believe me it is the finest
place I have ever seen. After lunch papa got a rowboat and we rowed around the
lake all afternoon. Papa and Lawrence tried fishing but had no luck. There is no
danger at all on the lake; if your boat should tip over, you could get out and
walk ashore. There are only several places where it is over your head. We passed
about twenty of these lakes out here but none of them are deep. Papa said he is
going out to Union Lake to camp out several weeks during July. We left for home
about four-thirty. Everything was all right until we had gone about a mile when
suddenly the rear tire went "bang." We had a blow out. We had to drive
four miles to Pontiac on the rim. We got the tire fixed and started for home. We
got to within nine miles of the city when the other tire went flat. However we
fixed this one ourselves and we finally got home at nine. We certainly had a
fine time, but believe me I am tired.
Monday June 17
Tired! I should say I am. I don't believe I was ever so tired in my life.
And my arms! My! But they did hurt. They felt as if I had scalded them. Oh well,
I should worry. I had a good time yesterday. Not having to take any exams, I
wouldn't have to go to school to-day or tomorrow. However, I had a drawing that
I wanted to finish, so I got up and went down to school. Everybody was worrying
about their exams but I should worry. That's what comes from studying during the
year. I spent all the morning in drawing and by noon I had my drawing finished.
Mr. Willard got back from the training camp about ten o'clock this morning. He
certainly looks fine after his two weeks of military training. I wish that I
could go to some military camp for a couple of weeks this summer. I got my
dinner at school and left at one o'clock. I went over to the Goodspeed Company
to work. At five o'clock, Mr. Ramsey asked me if I would mind working until he
got back from supper. He said that Miss Lodge, the old bookkeeper, was coming
out to help him balance up the books. I told him that I didn't mind and I waited
until half past seven until he got back. It was eight o'clock when I got home. I
had supper and after supper, I read until it was time to go to bed. I got to bed
about half past nine for, believe me, it sure was some trip we took yesterday
and I sure am tired.
Tuesday June 18
Well, I didn't go to school to-day but got up early and went over to the
Goodspeed Company and worked all day. I asked Mr. Ramsey this evening if he
would give me a letter of introduction to the chief engineer of Packard's, as I
want to try and get in there during vacation as a tracer or draughtsman. Mr.
Ramsey said that if I would come over in the morning, he would give me a letter.
Now that school is almost over with, I'll have to face the same old problem of
looking for a position during the summer months. However, I don't believe it
will be very hard to find a position for this summer, there are so many
positions open on account of so many young men being drafted. I don't want to do
office work this summer if I can help it, but would rather get into the
mechanical line. I worked until seven o'clock this evening. Fritz came over to
the shop about six-thirty and papa took the jitney and Fritz rode home with us.
Fritz took supper with us. After supper, papa decided that he was going back to
the shop, so Fritz and I decided that we would go to the Majestic. So we had
papa drive us over. George M. Cohan in his great success "Hit the Trail
Holiday" is playing there. It was pretty fair, but nothing extra. I got
home at about eleven-thirty.
Wednesday June 19
I didn't get up until after eight o'clock. Class exercises were held at
school at nine-thirty this morning but I didn't attend them. I went over to the
Goodspeed Company to get the letter of introduction to Packard's from Mr.
Ramsey. Mr. Ramsey didn't get a chance to write it until nearly eleven o'clock.
It was twelve o'clock when I got over to Packard's, and then I had to wait an
hour. However, there was nothing doing there. I then went home and had dinner.
After dinner, I went downtown. I went up to Detroit Edison Co. in the David
Whitney Building to try and get a position in their engineering department. They
took my name and address and said they would let me know in a day or two. My, I
hope I get a position by next Monday. After leaving the Edison Co. I went over
to the Washington Theatre. Marguerite Clark in "Runnella," also Jack
Pickford and Louise Huff in "Wait a Minute Kendell" are playing there.
They were both fine. After supper, I attended the commencement exercises at
Northeastern. Seven girls and one boy graduated. This is Northeastern's second
graduating class.
Thursday June 20
I had to report at school this morning to get my promotion slips. I
passed in all of my studies with a grade of one. Now that school is really
closed I hate to have vacation come. I have made so many friends and the past
term has been so interesting that I would like for school to continue. Well
anyhow, now that vacation is really here it is up to me to get a position
somewhere. If I can't get in anywhere else, I will go out in the factory at the
Goodspeed Company. I will have to start work at six-thirty but it is better than
being idle. School was out at ten-thirty and I went downtown with Jack Wilder.
He has been out on a farm and got back to the city for three days vacation. He
is out at the boys reserve farm at Armada, Mich., the other side of Mt. Clemens.
He says the farm life is fine. We stayed downtown until eleven o'clock. I then
went home and had dinner. Our class together with the 9B's had their picnic at
Bob Lo this afternoon. Papa rode me down to the wharf in the jitney and we left
on the one-thirty boat. I had a pretty nice time but would have enjoyed myself
better if I had a girl along. Some of the fellows went out with girls from our
class but I don't care anything about them. There is only one girl that I ever
cared to take out and that is Genevieve McGraw. We got back to the city at eight
o'clock and I got home about eight-thirty.
Friday June 21
Well, no more school until next September. But school or no school I have
to get up early just the same if not a little earlier. I got over to the
Goodspeed Company at eight o'clock and worked all day. Papa and I drove over to
Woodward Ave. at noon to get our dinner. Mr. Ramsey hasn't said anything to me
yet about staying with the Goodspeed Company all during the summer. If he
doesn't say anything tomorrow, I am going up to see the superintendent about
getting a position out in the factory. I left the"at five o'clock and went
down to Blacks after some negatives I had left there to be developed. As I
passed Cadillac Square, I saw the British Tank "Britannia." This tank
took part in the battles of the Armes and at the Marne. It certainly is some big
clumsy thing. It arrived in the city last Wednesday and will remain here during
the War Savings Stamp campaign. Next Sunday it is going to demolish three of the
old houses around the M.C. Depot. I got home about six o'clock and had my
supper. After supper, I printed some pictures from the negatives I took last
Sunday at Union Lake. They were all pretty fair. Well it is ten-thirty now so I
guess I had better go to bed. It rained a little this afternoon but otherwise
the day was fine.
Saturday June 22
Papa had to go to town to see about Lawrence's graduating suit this
morning so I had to go over to the shop alone. I got there promptly at eight
o'clock. Mr. Ramsey told me this morning that he thought that I had better stay
there all summer. He said that he could use me in his office and also that part
of the time, I could work with papa and do some drafting. He was called to the
telephone before he got to say what my salary would be. I won't work for less
than fifteen dollars a week and next Monday morning, I will see what he intends
to give me. Papa got out to the shop about two o'clock. I left at three o'clock
and went downtown. I bought myself a photograph album. It is about time that I
got one as I have over a hundred and fifty snapshots. I got home from town about
four-thirty and I pitched right in and started to mount my snapshots in the
album. Believe me, it is some job when you let the snapshots accumulate and then
mount them all at once. I had supper about six o'clock. After supper, I worked
on the pictures until eight-fifteen. I then got ready and went over to St.
Thomas. After church, I thought that I would walk down to McGraw's but Genevieve
treats me so cool that I don't care to go down. So I went home and worked on my
album until eleven o'clock when I went to bed.
Sunday June 23
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning at St. Thomas. None of the
McGraw's were there. When I got home from mass, I started in to finish my
photograph album. I got it finished at about one o'clock and believe me, it was
some job to mount all of my snapshots. However, now that it is finished, I have
an album that I wouldn't take anything for. There are some pictures in it that I
wouldn't give up for anything, especially those of Genevieve. I stayed at home
all afternoon and read. The graduating exercises were held at St. John's this
evening. Lawrence graduates this year. Mrs. McGraw went over to St. John's with
mama and me. She came over to our place about six-thirty. Fritz and Myrtle had
been over to her place and they came over with Mrs. McGraw but left for town
when we did. Mrs. McGraw said that Genevieve had to work until eight o'clock
this evening. The commencement exercises at St. John's were fine, but I did not
enjoy them very much. I had to sit there and see the rest of the fellows come in
with a girl and there I was, sitting with my mother and Mrs. McGraw. Oh, I would
give anything if Genevieve would only make up with me. She doesn't know how bad
I have felt during the last two weeks. Oh Genevieve! Sweet Genevieve! Why can't
we be friends? I took Mrs. McGraw home. My, but how I wished that it was
Genevieve I was taking home. It got home at 12 o'clock.
Monday June 24
Another Monday and this Monday means work. I got up pretty early (seven
o'clock) and got over to the Goodspeed Company about eight. I am supposed to be
there at eight but the bookkeeper and stenographer did not show up until about a
quarter past eight, so I guess it was not so bad that I didn't get there until
five past eight. Mr. Ramsey hasn't told me yet what salary he would pay me
during the summer. After school he had been paying me twenty cents an hour,
which is on the average of twelve dollars a week. I asked him this evening what
my salary would be. He told me to remind him of it in the morning and he would
fix it up. I believe that I am worth at least fifteen dollars a week considering
that he has been paying me twelve for just after school. Believe me, I will
remind him of it in the morning and if he doesn't come across, "yours
truly" will look for another job. Papa and I did not leave the shop until
six-thirty and it was seven before we got home. Believe me, but mama was mad
that she had to keep supper waiting. However she soon got over it. Well, I guess
this endeth the page, so good night.
Tuesday June 25
I got over to the Goodspeed Company on time this morning. Papa and I left
the shop at noon to-day and went home for dinner. We took the jitney home and
when we got ready to go back, papa told me I should try and drive the car. Well
I started out. We went around the boulevard and when we got to the bridge over
the railroad tracks, I wanted papa to take the car as I was afraid that I would
stop the motor in going up the bridge and that we would start to back up. Papa
told me I should drive it and "bless Pat" if I didn't get up and down
the blooming bridge without anything going wrong. Well I got back to the shop
all right and had only "killed" or stopped the motor once, and that
once was through papa's fault. Some chauffeur I'm getting to be. To-day was pay
day. Well, I settled the salary question with Mr. Ramsey. He offered me twelve
dollars a week straight time. That is the same rate he is paying me now for
after school. I told him that I would consider it and let him know in the
morning. But now that I have thought it over, I believe that I am worth at least
fifteen dollars and if he doesn't come across with the fifteen, I guess I will
leave the old Goodspeed Co. and seek for another job. Yours truly is not going
to work for less than fifteen dollars a week. I read all evening and did not go
out.
Wednesday June 26
Hurrah! Oh boy! But I'm feeling happy! Oh so happy! The chief reason for
my happiness if that I believe Genevieve was made up with me. The other cause
is: I have got another job and it pays fifteen bones per. I went over to the
Goodspeed Co. and told Mr. Ramsey that I thought I was worth more than twelve
dollars a week. I told him that Lawrence started in at the American Radiator Co.
this morning at ten dollars a week. And if he can get ten on his first job, I
ought to be worth fifteen. Well, Mr. Ramsey said that he didn't think he could
pay more than twelve dollars per week. So that being the case, "yours
truly" handed in his resignation to take effect immediately, and believe me
it did. Well I hustled around and will start in at the Det. Pressed Steel in the
morning in the drafting room at fifteen per. After supper I walked down to
McGraw's. Genevieve was home but was begging her father to let her go out with
her girl friends. Her father refused, and I expected that Genevieve would be mad
all evening. She was not however. She said she was going to walk up to the drug
store so I went with her. When we got back, I asked her to go over to the show
with me but she said it was too late. This is the first evening I have enjoyed
at McGraw's for some time. Genevieve treated me as she always used to. And My,
but I am glad. Genevieve, I would do anything to keep your friendship. I got
home about ten-fifteen.
Thursday June 27
Well, after the enjoyable evening I spent in Genevieve's company last
night, I felt like getting up and start in at my new job. The Detroit Pressed
Steel is only a ten-minute walk from our place, so I guess I will walk to and
from work every day. We have forty-five minutes for dinner so I can also get
home to dinner. Well, I got to work in plenty of time this morning. I certainly
have got a dandy position. It is in the Engineering Department and I have to
look after all of the drawings and records. I suppose that before the summer is
over I will get a chance at doing some drafting or tracing. At least I hope so.
I walked home to dinner and papa rode me back in the jitney. I quit work at five
o'clock and since it takes only ten minutes to walk home, I have plenty of time
in the evening. To-day was mama's birthday. She is ____ years old. I certainly
hope that she will live to see again as many birthdays. I had intended to get
her something for her birthday but did not get a chance to get downtown. So I
will have to wait until Saturday. We had an awful electric storm this evening.
But I guess it is all over with now. It nearly tore our tree down and did break
several branches.
Friday June 28
Well this is my second day at the Detroit Pressed Steel Company. I like
my job fine and it is just the kind of work I have been wanting. The Pressed
Steel seems to be an awful nice company to work for. I walked home to dinner
to-day; papa was also home in the jitney so he rode me back as far at Mt.
Elliott and Milwaukee Aves. There is no working overtime at the Detroit Pressed
Steel. We quit work the minute the hand reaches five o'clock. I decided to go
down to the Adams Theatre after supper, so when I got home I got ready. I got
down there just in time for the seven o'clock show. Douglas Fairbanks is playing
there in "Say, Young Chap." It sure is some play, action from the
start to the finish. I left the theatre about ten o'clock and started to walk
down Broadway to Gratiot Ave. to catch a Harper car. As I passed the Broadway
Dancing School, I saw them dancing and stopped to watch them for a while. Well I
got to thinking and finally made up my mind that I would enroll for the new term
which starts next Tuesday. I am tired of standing by the wall while everyone
else is dancing. I am not going to tell Genevieve anything about my taking
lessons, but just as soon as I have learned to dance, I am going to invite her
to go on an excursion with me, and when we are on the boat, I will ask to dance.
I bet she will be surprised.
Saturday June 29
I was in time for work again this morning and I guess I will continue to
be in time for work every morning. The Detroit Pressed Steel only works until
twelve o'clock on Saturdays. To-day being the last day of the month, was pay
day. I drew seven dollars and fifty cents for two and a half days work. They pay
in checks but one of the fellows in the office takes all of the checks over to
the bank, and cashes them for us, thereby saving us the trouble of looking up
some place to have them cashed. I went over to the Goodspeed Company this
afternoon and worked until nearly five o'clock. Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper, also
worked all afternoon. When I left the Goodspeed Company last Thursday, I told
Mr. Ramsey that I would come over several evenings a week until they got someone
to take my place. But believe me it will be for a week, for I've got enough to
do just working at the Pressed Steel. After work I went to town and got myself a
new tie and a pair of white slippers. I also had my straw hat cleaned. Last
summer papa got himself a light summer suit but he only wore it several times.
He said it was too young for him. Last Saturday I took it over to the tailor to
have it made over for me. I got it home to-day. The coat fits me fine now but oh
those pants, a mile too big. So I had to send them back. I spent the evening in
reading and here it is eleven-thirty, so me for bed.
Sunday June 30
I went to seven-thirty mass at St. Thomas this morning. Mrs. McGraw and
Genevieve were also there. After mass we all walked down to Duncan Ave.
together. When I got home papa decided that he was going out to see Mr.
McLauglin who lives on Boston Blvd. Papa has known him for some years and he is
in the real estate. My, but he has certainly got a fine place on Boston Blvd. It
is a large, three-story brick house. He took us out Woodward Ave. in his car to
look at some property. Papa wants him to try and get us a house in trade for
ours. On our way back we stopped off for eleven-thirty mass at the Blessed
Sacrament Church. So this was the second mass I had heard to-day. After mass,
Mr. McLauglin drove us over to the Goodspeed Co. and then home. This afternoon I
went down to the Broadway Strand. Mary Pickford in "How Could You,
Jean?" is playing there. After that I went in to the Opera House.
"Life's Crucible" is playing in moving pictures. It was pretty fair. I
got home about eight o'clock and managed to get a bite of supper. After supper,
I read until a few minutes ago. It is ten-thirty now so me for bed.
Monday July 1
Work again this morning. I got over to the shop about ten minutes to
eight. I have not had a chance yet at doing any drafting. So far all of my work
has been along the clerical line, filing, billing and etc. However I like my
position real well and I am getting more experience every day along the
engineering lines. I went home to dinner to-day and I guess I will continue to
go home for dinner but believe me, it takes some hustling. We only have
forty-five minutes, and it takes nearly fifteen minutes to walk home and another
fifteen minutes to walk back. That leaves only fifteen minutes in which I can
get my dinner. Some days papa comes home in the jitney and when he does I can
ride back with him, so that'll save some time. I went over to the Goodspeed Co.
as soon as I quit work this evening. When I left there last week, I told Mr.
Ramsey that I would come over and help them out till they got some one to take
my place, but it doesn't look as though he was going to get someone. I worked
until nine o'clock, but this week will be all I am going to help them, for it is
too hard after working all day and then work half the night at the Goodspeed Co.
I got home about nine-thirty.
Tuesday July 2
I was in plenty of time for work again this morning. I did not go over to
the Goodspeed Co. this evening, but went right home from work. I stopped at the
tailors and got my pants. They fit me a whole lot better now and believe me, I
have got some fine suit. Well, I have decided at last to take dancing lessons.
The Majestic Dancing School opens a new term tonight so I decided to enroll. I
dressed all up in my new suit and white shoes and mama said I was "some
sport." I had plenty of time and as I wanted to see Genevieve to ask her to
go to the show with me next Thursday night, so I walked down to their place and
took the car at Van Dyke. Believe me, they sure were surprised to see me all
togged out in my light suit and shoes. Mrs. McGraw asked me if I was going to
see my girl. The only girl I ever cared to go see was sitting right in front of
me, Genevieve McGraw. I did not tell them I was going to take dancing lessons as
I wish to surprise Genevieve. Genevieve said that if I would call her up
tomorrow evening, she would let me know about going out Thursday night. Well, I
got to the dancing school and enrolled and then the run commenced. I guess I was
a holy sight on that ballroom floor. And slippery, say you can take my word for
it that an eel hasn't anything on that floor. Well, this fills the page but I am
not yet finished so will continue on the next.
Tuesday Wednesday July 3 2 continued.
The first thing they tried to teach me was the waltz and I guess we did
some waltz. However I had a good time and I guess I'll learn some day and my,
but won't Genevieve be surprised when I ask her to go to a dance with me. The
class lasted until eleven o'clock. It had commenced to storm about nine o'clock
and was still pouring at eleven. Something was wrong with the Woodward cars and
there was I, standing in the rain - new suit, straw hat and white shoes. Believe
me, it sure was pouring. Finally some fellow came along in a Ford and said he
could take three up Woodward Ave. It was the Ford to the rescue and believe me,
I accepted his offer and rose as far as the Grand Belt Line where I had the luck
to catch a car without waiting. But as usual, I had to wait for a Harper car.
Well I finally got home about twelve-thirty but I was nearly drowned. And white
shoes - oh, boy, you should have seen my white shoes! Well here I am all ready
for bed, so goodnight.
WEDNESDAY - JULY - 3rd.My, but I did hate to get up this morning after my experience last night. Everything went about the same to-day. I worked at the Goodspeed this evening. I called Genevieve up and she said that she would like to go with me but that Margaret, one of her friends, had asked her to go with her. So I told Genevieve to bring her along and I would take Bud as her escort. I worked until nine o'clock and hit the hay as soon as I got home.
Thursday July 4
Fourth of July! Independence Day! Oh! But how much cause we have for
observing this day this year. Now we are fighting for what our fathers gave us,
away back in '76, for the independence and freedom that we hold so dear. My
sincere wish is that the entire world will have this freedom by our next Fourth
of July. The day was particularly quiet, at least around our place. The people
did not buy many fireworks but saved the gunpowder for our boys "over
there." I did not get up until after nine o'clock. Lawrence and Joseph went
out to Belle Isle this afternoon but I stayed around home all day. Well this
evening Lawrence and I filled our appointment with the young ladies. My, but
Genevieve certainly looked beautiful. Believe me, I never saw a girl like her.
But what do you think she went and done. When we started out she said that since
I knew Margaret better than Bud did, I had better walk with her. What could I do
but do as Genevieve said. The show was fine and especially one of the songs that
was sung. It was called "I Love You More for Loving You Awhile." It
was just what I thought about Genevieve since we have made up again. Well I
certainly had an enjoyable evening.
Friday July 5
I just did get to work on time this morning. The clock was just striking
eight. I rode my wheel or else I would have been late. It takes me just about
five minutes to get to work by riding my wheel, so I guess that hereafter I
shall ride my wheel, especially when I oversleep and am late. I did not get home
from work until nearly six o'clock. There was a rush of work about a quarter of
five and we did not get finished until a quarter to six. Well tonight is another
class night at the Majestic Dancing School. I went home from work, had my
supper, and cleaned up. But believe me there was no white shoes tonight. Take it
from me, dancing school is no place to wear white shoes. It may be all right to
wear them if you know how to dance, but if you are only learning, well you had
better take a fool's advice and leave them at home. Experience is a dear teacher
and if anyone knows, I do. I wore white shoes last Tuesday night and they
certainly were a sight when I got home. Well, things went a little easier
tonight. I seemed to get around the floor better. So I suppose there is some
hope of me learning. There are certainly some children at the school. One I
danced with did not look over sixteen. She certainly was a peach and some dancer
too. I got home about eleven-thirty.
Saturday July 6
I was in plenty of time for work this morning. But I certainly did hate
to get up. Believe me it is some physical exercise to learn to dance and I
certainly was tired this morning. Besides I didn't feel so awful well. I caught
a good cold last Tuesday night when I got wet. I worked at the Pressed Steel
until noon and then I went over to the Goodspeed Co. and worked until five
o'clock. Well I finished balancing up their last month's cost records and that
is all I am going to do. It is too hard on me to work all day and then go over
to the Goodspeed Co. several nights a week. I got home from the shop about six
o'clock and after supper, I walked over to St. John's. I stopped at John
Povlitz's on my way over but he was not at home. Edna Krisgen was at church with
Chas. Hine. I guess she is going with him steady now. I was talking to Fathers
Crowley and Graeber for a while. They said that the parish was not going to give
a picnic this year and that the C.M.B. was giving the picnic next Wednesday.
That being the case, I don't care to go on it for not many of the young folks
will go. However if Genevieve wants to go I will certainly take her. Just wait
until I learn to dance and then, Oh boy! But won't we go on the picnics and
moonlights. I got home from St. John's about nine-thirty and read for a while
and then to bed I went.
Sunday July 7
I slept late this morning and did not get up until after eight o'clock. I
went over to St. John's to nine o'clock mass. My, but it did seem like home
there. I certainly miss St. John's Church. I met several of my old friends after
mass. Among them John Povlitz. I walked down to John's place with him after
mass. It was the first time I have seen him for several weeks. I stayed at
John's about an hour and then walked home. I did not go out this afternoon but
stayed at home and read all afternoon. I tried to get mama to go to the show
with papa but she wouldn't. Since they didn't go out this evening I went down to
McGraw's. Mr. and Mrs. McGraw had gone to the show and Genevieve had to work
to-day and was not home yet. However Mr. Wagner, Mrs. McGraw's brother, was
there. He just got back from California about a week ago. I had known him before
he left for the West, so there was no need for us to be introduced. Genevieve
soon came home from work, but of course she couldn't spend the evening alone
with me; she had to go and get one of her girl friends to come in. I left for
home about ten o'clock and when I go home, I read until twelve.
Monday July 8
Well, even though it was pretty late when I got to bed last night, I was
in time for work this morning. Everything is about the same at the shop. I came
home to dinner at noon and got back to the shop in plenty of time. This evening
as I was coming home from work, I saw papa coming up the street in the jitney.
He was bringing a crate of raspberries home for mama to can. Last week he
brought home a crate and this morning mama got a half a crate of currants.
Believe me she believes in "Can all you can, while you can and help to can
the Kaiser." Well, this evening I went over to the dancing school. On
Mondays and Saturdays the hall is open to the public. I have decided to take
private lessons as I believe a person can learn better by taking them. I took my
first private lesson and believe me I did learn. I can dance the waltz pretty
fair and can make a try at the Fox Trot. I left for home about ten o'clock and
met on the car returning from the shop. When I got home, mama said that Mr.
Wagner and Mrs. McGraw had been over. She said that Mrs. McGraw wanted to know
where I was and that she told her I was out in society. Mrs. McGraw said,
"What! Society!" Believe me they will be surprised when they find I
can dance.
Tuesday July 9
The clock first struck midnight and I just got in about ten minutes ago.
I took my second dancing lesson tonight and I wouldn't be afraid to go out to
the Pier tomorrow night. I can do the Waltz fine and also the one-step. I can
get the Fox Trot pretty fair. I had nearly three hours of dancing tonight and
now that I can dance, I see the enjoyment people get out of dancing. Believe me,
it is certainly great. And, oh boy! but won't Genevieve and I have some great
times together. I've got it all played out how I'm going to surprise her! And I
bet she will be surprised. Well I got over to the shop on time this morning and
everything went along as usual. It is the same old routine day in and day out.
Every day they raffle off twenty separate thrift stamps at five cents a chance.
Yesterday I won a stamp and to-day I won another. I got home from work this
evening about five-thirty . I changed my clothes, ate my supper, and got over to
the dancing school about seven. As I intend to go to work in the morning (or
rather it is morning now, for it is past midnight) I guess I had better hit the
hay.
Wednesday July 10
I certainly did hate to get up this morning and believe me but the bed
did feel good. Well, I managed at last to pull out, but it was half past seven
before I was ready for breakfast. I hustled through the meal and managed to get
over to the shop just two minutes before eight. Two minutes may not seen very
much but believe me, there are times when it seems a lot. And one of those times
was this morning. I got home from work this evening about five o'clock, dressed,
ate my supper and went over to the Goodspeed Co. I have some pay coming from
last week and I went over to collect it tonight. It was seven o'clock before I
got over to the shop and Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper, had gone home, so I couldn't
collect my money. I started for home but decided I would ride on down to
McGraw's. I had only been at McGraw's about half an hour when mama and Lawrence
came down. Margaret came over so we played Pedro. And what does Genevieve do but
take Lawrence for her partner and shifted Margaret to me. Well, we had a pretty
good time and left for home about ten o'clock. I have asked Genevieve to go to
the Opera House with me Sunday night but I don't know whether she will accept. I
hope that she will.
Thursday July 11
It was the same old routine all day. I arrived at the shop on time and as
usual spent a pretty busy day there all day. I guess we are going to begin to
have some steady warm weather for a while. Well, I at least hope we will have a
spell of it for a change. To-day's papers had a report that the American troops
were taking part in a large battle in France. Well, we who are here at home can
only hope and pray that our brave boys will prove victorious and that as few as
possible be killed. When a person stops to think about the war, it doesn't seem
possible that we have so many of our soldiers "over there." I went
over to the Goodspeed Co. and collected the five dollars that was due me. I was
supposed to take a dancing lesson but I called up and had it postponed until
tomorrow evening. I then took papa down to the Madison Theatre. Wallace Reid and
Anna Little are playing there in the "Firefly of France." The play was
pretty good but I have seen better. They had some fine war pictures taken in
France. They were the official Government War Pictures and were fine.
Friday July 12
The clock just struck midnight and I just got in. My, but I am tired. I
have been dancing since seven o'clock this evening. I took my lesson from seven
until seven-thirty and then I was dancing the bigger part of the rest of the
evening. I can do the Waltz and One-Step fine, but oh that Fox Trot. Believe me
but it is hard. There are so many changes of step in it and I always seen to get
them mixed up. I try to walk when I should two-step, and two-step when I should
glide. Well, I suppose I will learn it some day. I can to the Waltz fine and I
don't see where they can say it is the hardest dance to learn. They certainly
have got some swell-looking teachers there and they all look as though they were
about eighteen or nineteen; several don't even look that old but you can never
judge a woman's age by her looks. Maybe in the long ago you could but not now.
Nowadays you can't tell who is the daughter or the mother. The rest of the day
went along as per schedule. I was on time for work and everything else was the
same. Well as it is long past midnight I guess it was about time for me to turn
in, and the page is about filled anyway, so I guess I will bid you goodnight,
dear diary.
Saturday July 13
Saturday again. And Saturday means another half holiday. I was in plenty
of time for work this morning. Everything went along in the usual manner at the
office this morning. So far I have not got a chance to do any mechanical
drafting yet. However I am not worrying about it for even if I don't get to do
drafting this summer, I am receiving a fine training along the engineering line.
I handle blueprints every day and have become familiar with a good many
engineering phrases and terms. There is still a plenty of time for me to get
practice at mechanical drawing and tracing. I got home from work about
twelve-thirty. I had dinner about one o'clock and after dinner, I read for a
while. About two-thirty I go ready and went downtown. I walked around the town a
while and finally went home. After supper I read until it was time to go to bed,
which was about ten-thirty. I took a bath before retiring and here it is almost
midnight. So if I intend to get up and go to early mass, I had better turn out
the gas and hit me little bed. The page is almost filled and I guess this will
fill it. So good-night.
Sunday July 14
I did not get up until eight o'clock this morning, so consequently I had
to go to nine o'clock mass. Mr. & Mrs. McGraw were also at that mass.
Genevieve did not have to work to-day and I had asked her to go out with me but
she said that she had an appointment with Margaret. It seems as though she has
always got appointments with Margaret. I don't see what I could have done that
made Genevieve change so. Last winter she would accept every invitation I
extended to her and now she will never go out with me. This afternoon I went
down to the Broadway Strand Theatre. Charles Ray in "My Old My Home
Town" is playing there. After that was out I went to the Family and saw
Earl Williams in "The Girl in His House." It was a detective story and
was fine. Genevieve and Margaret got on the Harper; I was on at the Crosstown
transfer. They were returning from the Boardwalk. I rode on up to Genevieve's
home with her and asked Genevieve to go to the Majestic dancing party tomorrow
and also to the Opera House next Sunday. She said that she would go tomorrow
night and also Sunday if she didn't have to work too late. Mr. & Mrs. McGraw
had gone out so I invited Genevieve and Margaret to come over and play Pedro
after supper. What was my astonishment later in the evening when they did come
over and we had a fine evening.
Monday July 15
Another Monday and the beginning of a new week. I go up early this
morning and got to work in plenty of time. I had my first full pay day to-day.
It was the largest check I have ever received, thirty dollars. Mama gave me ten
dollars of it for spending money. Half or more than half of this will go in the
bank for I could never spend ten dollars every two weeks for pleasure. She also
put ten dollars in the bank for me and she kept the other ten. Well, this was
the evening that Genevieve was going to the Majestic dancing school with me. My
ankle was hurting me all day and when I got home from work and took off my
slipper, I found that there was a large water blister on my ankle. Well I got my
shoe back on and went down to McGraw's. My, but it was hot. It was the warmest
evening we've had. When I got down to McGraw's, Genevieve said that she didn't
feel well and did not care to go. Well I was kind of glad myself that she
wouldn't. So I thought that I would stay and visit with her all evening but she
had to have that Cecilia over and that there was no pleasure for me. I believe
Genevieve felt all right but she just didn't want to go. Well I have asked her
to go to the Opera House Sunday and if she disappoints me then, it'll be the
last time.
Tuesday July 16
My, but my ankle was sore this morning. I could hardly get my slipper on.
I had to ride my wheel to work as I could never have walked that far. Everything
was the same at the shop. When I got home this evening, I took my slipper off
and opened the blister. I then bandaged it up and managed to get my slipper back
on. I did not hurt so much after I put the bandage on. Well tonight was my
dancing lesson and though I had a lame foot, I went over the took the lesson. I
can dance pretty good now and the next thing will be to get someone that I can
take out to dances. I don't believe Genevieve cares to go with me and if she
breaks her engagement with me for next Sunday evening, it will be the last time
I will ever ask her to go out with me. The dancing lesson tonight about finished
my foot up. I got through the lesson all right, but afterwards I was limping
something terrible. My lesson was over at seven-thirty and I then went down to
the Adams Theatre. J. Warren Kerrigan is playing there in "The Turn of A
Card." The play was fine and was a good light comedy drama. I got home
about eleven-thirty and fixed my foot and then hit the hay.
Wednesday July 17
I hit the office exactly at eight o'clock this morning. If I had been a
few seconds later my time card would have been punched at eight one. The Detroit
Pressed Steel Company has a rule that if you are one minute late or more than a
minute, you have to work until five-thirty. So far I have been on time every
morning and I hope to continue doing so. The day is long enough without having
to work until five-thirty. I was home to dinner and found a letter from Harriet
Owens. I wrote to her about two weeks ago but I just received an answer to-day.
She sent some snapshots of herself and the rest of the family. I did not get a
chance to read the letter until I got back to the office. Forty-five minutes for
dinner keeps me hustling and I just do manage to get back to the office in time.
Well I decided that I would remain at home this evening and read. It was the
first evening I had spent at home for some time. I like to get out and have a
good time but every night is too much and too often and I am beginning to feel
tired. I read for a while this evening but fell asleep in the chair so I decided
that I would hit the hay.
Thursday July 18
Well as usual I was on time for work again this morning. Everything went
along as usual. It is the same old thing day in and day out. My, but it was hot
at noon to-day. I believe it was the hottest day we have had this summer. Oh
yes, I said summer. I guess we are having summer at last, at least it seems we
are for the days have been warm enough. This kind of weather makes a fellow hate
work. I feel like I would be satisfied if I could only get on the river
somewhere or else in somebody's place and take a book and do nothing else but
just read. My, but the city is certainly a hot place during the summer. I had
intended to remain at home again this evening but papa asked me if I wanted to
go to the Madison Theatre. Seeing that I took him to the Madison a week ago and
paid all expenses, I accepted his offer this evening and we got down in time for
the nine o'clock show. "Old Wings for New" is playing there. The play
is on the divorce question and rather upholds it. However there were some
excellent actors in the play and as an added attraction, they had a roaring
comedy. It was called "Knocking the Germs out of Germany" and believe
me they did not knock it out. We got home about eleven-thirty.
Friday July 19
To-day was another hot day. And believe me it certainly was warm. I got
over to the office in plenty of time this morning. Everything was about the
same. I walked home to dinner at noon. Starting next Monday, I am going to ride
my wheel to work every day. I have found a place where I can keep it at the
office and by riding my wheel to work, it will save a good deal of time. It will
also give me more time in which to eat my dinner at noon. When I walk home to
dinner I only have about fifteen minutes in which to eat and believe me it
certainly keeps me bustling to get finished in that length of time. I got home
from work about five-fifteen this evening. Changed my clothes, had supper and
got over to the Majestic Dancing School about seven o'clock. There was a new
teacher at school tonight and Mr. Lee gave her to me for my instructor tonight.
She didn't look to be over eighteen years and she certainly was some dancer. She
was some swell chicken too. I danced with her nearly all evening as I waited
until the class was over. The class is over about nine-thirty and then you can
dance until eleven o'clock. I was nearly midnight when I got home and it is
after midnight now.
Saturday July 20
Saturday. The end of another week. I was in plenty of time for work this
morning. The office shut down at noon to-day and I got home about twelve-thirty.
I fooled around the house until nearly three o'clock and then I got ready and
went downtown. I went to church downtown so that I would not have to bother with
going over to St. Thomas's tonight. I fooled around downtown until nearly five
o'clock and then came home. After supper I walked down to McGraw's. Genevieve
was home but of course she had to call Margaret over. I tried all evening to get
a chance to speak to Genevieve alone but she always kept that Margaret with her.
Mrs. McGraw had to go over to the grocery and we all walked over with her. When
we got back it was nearly ten o'clock. Genevieve went into the house and I
followed her in. She said last Sunday that she would go to the Opera House with
me tomorrow night if she did not get home from work too late. I reminded her of
her promise this evening and she said she had not promised any such thing.
However she said that if she did not get home too late tomorrow night she would
go. She only has to work until six o'clock so I don't see why she can't go.
Sunday July 21
I went to seven-thirty mass this morning at St. Thomas. My, but it was
hot all day to-day. I have never seen such a hot day in Detroit and now at
eleven o'clock it is so warm that I can hardly breathe. I stayed at home all
afternoon and read. Well, I had an appointment with Genevieve to go to the
Detroit Opera House to see the "Hearts of World." Genevieve promised
me last night that she would go if she did not get home too late. Well I got
down there at seven o'clock. Mr. Wagner was the only one home as Mr. & Mrs.
McGraw had gone out. Genevieve got home about seven-fifteen and she said she was
too tired to go. But still she wasn't too tired to sit and talk with Margaret
all evening. Dear diary, do you remember several days ago that I said that if
Genevieve disappointed tonight, I would never ask her to go out with me again.
Such a thing is impossible. Genevieve is a girl that you can't help but liking
and no matter how often she disappoints you will always ask her again.
Genevieve, why can't we be the same old friends we used to be. You don't know
how you hurt me when you break your engagements. Genevieve you are the only girl
I asked to go out with me.
Monday July 22
Monday: The beginning of another new week. As usual I was in plenty of
time for work. I started to ride my wheel to work this morning and I guess I
will continue to do so every day. It will give me a good deal more time for
dinner. Everything is about the same at the office. We are fairly busy on
Government work. We are now making some of the sheet steel plates for the Ford
Eagles; besides that we are making some parts for Government tanks and tractors.
Four aeroplanes flew over our house early this morning. It was about six-thirty
for I had not got up yet. For the last few days we have been seeing two or three
machines every day. They are commencing to assemble the machines out at the new
Fisher Body Plant on Dix & Livernois Aves. I guess we will see several
machines every day. I got home from work about five-fifteen. After supper,
Lawrence and I went down to the Madison Theatre. Dorothy Dalton in "The
Kaiser's Shadow" is playing there. The play was about the German Spies in
this country and was fine. Papa had to attend a meeting at the Goodspeed Co.
this evening. He said that they were to decide whether or not he was to get an
experimental car. It is eleven o'clock now but he is not home yet. So I guess I
will have to wait till tomorrow to see if we get a car.
Tuesday July 23
Hurrah! Hurrah! Three cheers! We are going to get a car. And it is going
to be a real car at that. No little old Ford or any other kind of jitney for us.
They held the meeting at the shop last night and Mr. Hall decided that papa
should at last get his experimental car. However the Steering Gear Co. is not
going to buy the car for papa but they are going to give him part of the Foreign
Patent money that is due papa so that he will be able to get a car to use for
experimental purposes and to try out the gears. However I don't believe there
will be very much experimenting down on the car and I guess, papa will always
manage to have a running gear on the car. Oh boy! But won't we have some fine
times when pop gets the car. And he says he is going to have it for next Sunday.
Believe me, I'm going to learn how to drive the old bus and won't I have some
fine times. Just leave it to me kid. Well everything went along about the same
to-day except for the news that we are going to get a car. I went over to the
Majestic Dancing School after supper and did not get home until after eleven.
To-day has been another hot day.
Wednesday July 24
To-day was another hot day. My, but it certainly was hot. I rode my wheel
to work again this morning and as usual I was in plenty of time. Everything was
about the same at the office to-day. Now since I am riding my wheel to work, I
have more time for dinner. It only takes me about six or seven minutes to get
home on my wheel; that leaves about a half an hour in which to eat dinner. Papa
is still looking at automobiles, one minute he is going to get a Saxon and the
next minute it is a Hudson or Dodge. I don't care what kind of a car he gets,
just so he gets one. Even a Ford would suit me. Oh, boy! but won't we have some
fine times when he does get a car. Mama and papa went down to the Madison
Theatre this evening and I stayed home and took care of the kids. Mrs. McGraw
walked over about eight o'clock and stayed for about an hour. They are still
looking for a house out Jefferson Ave. and I suppose they will move before the
first of the month. Mama and papa just got home and as it is nearly midnight I
guess it is about time for me to turn in. So good night.
Thursday July 25
I am mad, sore and everything else. Mama and I walked down to McGraw's
this evening. At the time we got there, Genevieve was away but she soon came
home. She did not have much to say to me all evening. Agnes Teschendorf came
over and Genevieve talked to her all evening. When we got ready to go home, Mrs.
McGraw said that she would walk back part of the way with us, she asked
Genevieve to go with her but she didn't seem to care to go. However she finally
went and of course she had to bring Agnes along. And all she did was but to talk
about telephone operating all the time. They walked back two blocks with us and
then Mrs. McGraw stood and talked with mama. What does Genevieve do but
deliberately turn and start back leaving Mrs. McGraw to go home alone and not
showing any respect at all to her visitors. This is the second time she has done
something like that. I forgave her the way she did that Sunday at church. For
the past week or two every time I would go down to see her she would always have
to call some of those friends of hers over and completely ignore me. I have
asked her four times to go to the Detroit Opera House, twice she promised and
twice she broke her promise. Genevieve, you have been my first sweetheart but if
you prefer some d--n German's company to mine, well you have your mind but you
will never know how you have hurt me.
Friday July 26
As usual I was in time for work this morning. Everything went about the
same at the office. This evening I went over to the Majestic Dancing School. I
seem to get all of the dances all right but the Fox Trot. This evening I asked
to have a Mr. Payne for my teacher. He is the finest dancer at the school. When
I was introduced to him I found out that he used to work at the Goodspeed Co.
and that he knew me. I got along fine with him all evening, and before my lesson
was over he invited me to attend a party he was giving next Sunday evening. He
told me to bring my girl friend along. I said that I would try and accept the
invitation. I thought that perhaps I would ask Genevieve to go but I have
decided that I will not let her have the pleasure of refusing to go with me. The
chances are she would say she would go but when Sunday evening came she would
break her promise. I left school right after my lesson and went down to the
Washington Theatre. "Uncle Tom's Cabin" in moving pictures is playing
there. Marguerite Clark plays the roles of Little Eva and Topsy. The playing of
both roles is made possible by means of double exposure. The play was pretty
good but could have been better. It was changed so as to star Marguerite Clark
and did not show much outside of what occurred at the St. Clare's plantation.
Saturday July 27
Saturday, the end of another week and almost the end of the month. How
the time does fly. Just a month from to-day I will leave the Detroit Pressed
Steel Co. and get ready to go back to school. The office as usual only worked
until twelve o'clock to-day and I got home about a quarter past twelve. I went
downtown about two o'clock and bummed around. I got home from town about half
past five. After supper I thought I would walk down to McGraw's to see Genevieve
and ask her to go to the dance with me tomorrow night. I finally decided to
remain at home. Genevieve has disappointed me so many times about going out with
me, some times even after she had said that she would go. I am not going to ask
her to go out with me anymore. It hurts me to keep from asking her to go out
with me but I have finally come to the conclusion that she does not care for my
company anymore. So the best thing for me to do is to remain away and not go to
see her. I don't know whether I can keep from calling on her but I shall try.
There is something about Genevieve that just seems to keep calling me.
Sunday July 28
I went to seven-thirty mass at St. Thomas this morning. None of the
McGraw's were there. When I got home from church I started to read but fell
asleep while doing so. I have been up so late during the past several weeks that
I can't hardly keep awake. I went upstairs and laid down until dinner. After
dinner I went down to the Detroit Opera House to see D. W. Griffith's
"Hearts of the World." I have asked Genevieve three different times to
go with me. She always refused so I decided to-day that I would go without her.
The play was the most wonderful thing I have ever seen. It certainly makes you
hate the Germans. The show was out about five o'clock. I then went over to the
Miles Theatre. A moving picture play "No Man's Land" is playing there.
I read the story and also wanted to see the picture. They also had several good
vaudeville acts. I got on the Harper car back of Crowley-Milner's and when the
car got down to Cadillac Square, I saw Genevieve and Margaret waiting for a car.
They were about to get on the car when Genevieve looked up and saw me. She at
once drew Margaret back and they waited for the next car. I didn't know that my
company was so distasteful to you, Miss McGraw, that you couldn't even ride on
the same car with me. Just keep it up, Genevieve, perhaps some day you will wake
up and find out who are your really true friends.
Monday July 29
I was on time for work this morning, as usual. Everything went along
about the same at the office. We had a little rainstorm this afternoon and the
air is a good deal cooler this evening. I got home from work about five-fifteen
this evening. After supper I walked up to the American State Bank on Harper and
Van Dyke Aves. I was gone for about half an house and when I got back mama was
sitting on the porch. When she saw me she said, "Why, are you back already?
I thought that perhaps you would go over to McGraw's." I told her that I
said I was only going to the bank. I have not told her what Genevieve did Sunday
and I guess she is wondering what is the matter. Fritz came over later in the
evening. He has invented some kind of a valve and the factory where he is
working wants to claim it. He wanted papa's advice on the matter. He stayed
about an hour and when he left he said he was going down to McGraw's. He asked
me if I was going down to see them. I told him I guessed not. Since Genevieve
doesn't care for my company I will remain at home. Genevieve, you don't know how
it hurts me to keep from going to see you. But I don't care to give you a chance
to insult me any more. Perhaps some day we can make up again and whenever that
day comes, it will be the happiest day in my life.
Tuesday July 30
As usual, I was in - Hold on! Wait a minute! I guess not this time. I
have gotten into the habit of opening my entry in this manner that I forgot that
I might be late some days. Well I was one minute late this morning and
consequently I had to work until five-thirty this evening. It was the first time
I have been late since I started to work at the Detroit Pressed Steel and I have
been there over a month. The air was real chilly this morning and it remained
cool all evening. It is more like a fall evening outside instead of a summer
evening. The temperature certainly does change quickly up here. At noon to-day
papa said that he would soon find out if he is to get his car. At least I hope
that he soon finds out. I had intended to go out to Northwestern Field to hear
Sousa's band but the air was too chilly. I did not feel like taking a dancing
lesson this evening and I called up and canceled my lesson. After supper I had
my wheel out in front and rode Paul and Francis around the block several times.
About eight o'clock I decided that I would go over to the Frontenac Theatre. So
I took Paul and Francis with me. "An Honest Man" was showing there and
was pretty fine. We got home about nine-thirty and now at ten o'clock I am ready
for bed.
Wednesday July 31
The end of the month - and pay day. I draw my third paycheck to-day but
it was only the second full paycheck, as I did not start at the Detroit Pressed
Steel until five days before pay day. If I work until the end of next month I
will draw two more full checks. It all depends on when school opens. I am going
to try and quit work a week before school opens so as to take a little vacation.
I got back into my old habit again this morning - the habit of being on time.
Everything was about the same at the office to-day. I got home from work about
five-fifteen this evening. After supper papa went over to Pingree Park to hear
Sousa's band. He wanted me to go but I did not care to. The Bonstelle Stock Co.
has been playing at the Garrick Theatre for the past nine weeks and I have been
wanting to see them so I went to see "Seven Chances" tonight. The play
certainly was fine. It was about a fellow who hated the sight of a girl and said
he would never marry. His uncle dies and leaves him 12 million dollars provided
he marries before his thirtieth birthday which is only seven hours off. He
proposes to seven different girls and finally he meets the only one and they
live happy ever after. It certainly was the best comedy I have seen. Well it is
midnight, so good night.
Thursday Aug 1
Aug. 1st - the beginning of the last month of the summer
vacation. My, but how the time does fly. Why it seems as though it were only a
few days ago when school was; and here it is the first of August already and
half of the vacation gone. Well, it won't be long before the old school bell
will start to ring again and we will have to get back to our studies. Everything
went along about the same to-day. In plenty of time for work this morning; home
for dinner; back to work and home again at five-fifteen. I did not go to Belle
Isle this evening to hear Sousa's band. I remained at home all evening except
for a half hour when I rode over to the library. A real estate man came over
after supper and papa went out Jefferson Ave. with him to look at a ten-room
house. He only wants forty-five hundred and papa seems to like it. Mrs. McGraw
came over about nine o'clock and stayed until after ten. They are not going to
Muskegon but are going to remain in Detroit. When Mrs. McGraw left, mama walked
back part of the way with her. As they were leaving I told Mrs. McGraw to tell
Genevieve that I was sorry she had to wait Sunday evening. Mrs. McGraw asked me
what was the matter but I told her to just give my message to Genevieve and she
would know what I meant. I don't know whether she will deliver the message. I
hope she will.
Friday Aug 2
As usual it is the same old beginning, "I was in plenty of time for
work." Everything was the same at the office, the same old routine. I left
the office at about five-fifteen this evening. Went home, changed my clothes,
had supper and got over to the Majestic Dancing School at seven o'clock. I had a
peach of a teacher this evening. And she certainly was some dancer. I can get
all of the dances now and don't have any more trouble with the Fox Trot. Now
that I can dance I haven't any girl that I can invite out to a dance or a trip
on the boat. A month ago I thought that when I learned how to dance, Genevieve
and I could have some fine times together on the boats; but here she has gone
and fallen out with me. Somebody is always taking the joy out of life. I only
wish we could make up. But I have decided that I will not invite her to go out
with me any more and I will not call on her until she invites me herself. I left
the dancing school right after my lesson and went down to the Miles Theatre. The
vaudeville show there this week is extra fine and the picture play is pretty
good also. Theda Bara in "The Clemereau Case" is the name of the
picture. It is taken from the story written by Dumas. A vaudeville show is a
change after seeing so many movies and I had a fine time. I got home at eleven
o'clock.
Saturday Aug 3
Saturday again. The time certainly does fly. Here is the end of another
week. I was in plenty of time for work again this morning. I left the shop at
about a quarter after twelve. After dinner, I decided that I would go out to
Belle Isle to hear Sousa's Band. They have been in the city all week and the
band has been giving concerts on the island every afternoon and evening. Sousa
has his original seventy-piece concert band with him this time. The Navy gave
Sousa a furlough and he collected his band together and is going around the
country giving concerts. This band is pretty good but not near as good as the
three-hundred piece Jackie band. Papa went with me out to the Island and he
wanted me to stay for the evening concert but I came on home while he remained.
After supper I went over to St. Thomas to church. I got home about eight o'clock
and here it is eleven o'clock now. Papa just came home from the evening concert.
The concert was over at nine o'clock but he was in a street car accident. A
Grand Belt car ran into the Harper car that papa was on. The Grand Belt car was
coming down Gratiot and hit the Harper as it was crossing. Both cars were going
slow or else some of the passengers might have been hurt seriously. It was lucky
that papa was not hurt. Only a few of the passengers were cut by flying glass.
Sunday Aug 4
I went to seven-thirty mass at St. Thomas this morning. None of the
McGraw's were there. We had dinner about twelve-thirty and after dinner, I went
out to Belle Isle. The afternoon was fine except for one or two little showers.
Sousa's concert was fine also. They played the "Stars and Stripes Forever
March" and it was the finest piece of music I have ever heard. The concert
was over at five o'clock and I then walked across the bridge to the Boardwalk. I
fooled around there until about six-thirty and then went down to the Madison
Theatre. "We Can't Have Everything" is playing there. The play is
something like the one I saw several weeks ago, "Old Wives for New."
The same actors played in both of the pictures, only there were several new ones
also in this picture. I got down in time for the first show, so I got home about
nine-thirty. Mama was down to McGraw's when I got home. Mrs. McGraw walked down
this evening and mama walked back with her. When mama got home she said that
Genevieve had to work until ten o'clock this evening. It has been over a week
since I was down to McGraw's and it will be a good many more before I do go
down. I would gladly make up with Genevieve but she has shown me clearly that
she does not care for my company. She does not know how it hurts me to keep away
from seeing her but I will never call on her again unless she invites me.
Monday Aug 5
As I usually do, I began the day by being in plenty of time for work. I
have not had a chance to do any draughting since I started to work at the
Detroit Pressed Steel Co. However I have been getting a lot of practical
experience along the engineering line, which will someday come in handy. This
evening's papers said that Congress was going to change the draft age from 21 to
31, and instead make it from 18 to 45. If this law is passed it will get me in
the draft. Just as soon as it looks as though the law will be passed I am going
to try and enlist in the Navy. I would much rather serve in the Navy than the
Army. And after you have been drafted, you haven't any choice as to what branch
of the service you wish to serve in. When the time comes for me to go I will be
ready. Papa is just forty-five and will not be forty-six until next February. If
this new law is passed, he will have to register. I don't believe they would
draft him for fighting but they might take him as an inspector in some munition
plant. I stayed at home all evening. From the way the weather is tonight, I
believe tomorrow will be a hot day.
Tuesday Aug 6
On time for work this morning as usual. Everything went along about the
same. From the way the weather looked this morning, I thought that it would be
good and hot to-day. Believe me, "hot" is no word for the way the
weather was to-day. It was terrible. The highest the thermometer reached to-day
was 116° this afternoon. The thermometer was never lower than a hundred all day
and this evening and all night it remained at 95°. The wind was just like a hot
blast from a furnace. It was the hottest weather we have had in forty-eight
years. Even though it was so hot I went to the Majestic Dancing School this
evening. This lesson tonight was my ninth lesson and I have only one more lesson
to take. I can dance fine now. Believe me but it certainly was hot in that dance
hall. My shirt was wringing wet from sweat. You can bet your life that I didn't
stay any longer than my lesson and the minute my lesson was over, I beat it. The
streets were too hot so I went to a little theater on Woodward Ave. Madge
Kennedy in "The Fair Pretender" was showing there. It was cooler in
the theatre than outside. I got home about eleven o'clock but sat out on the
front porch until one o'clock. The heat has not let up any and I guess I won't
get much sleep tonight.
Wednesday Aug 7
As usual I was in plenty of time for work this morning. The heat did not
let up none during the night and this morning the air was terribly hot. At noon
it was suffocating. The hottest the thermometer reached to-day was a hundred and
fourteen. The official temperature given out by the Detroit Weather Bureau was
109°. Everything went along as usual at the shop. The D.U.R. says they are
going to raise the street car fare to six cents and ten tickets for 55¢. The
city says the D.U.R. can't do it so I guess there is trouble ahead. The new rate
of fare goes into effect at midnight tonight. It's a shame the way the city lets
the D.U.R. do as they please. James Couzens (former police commissioner and
millionaire stockholder of Ford Motor Co.) says that he is going to get on the
car in the morning and offer the conductor a nickel. He wants the D.U.R. to put
him off the car so that he can start a damage suit against them. I got home from
work about five-fifteen this evening. it was so warm that I did not feel like
going out. So I remained at home all evening. About eight o'clock a strong wind
came up and it soon cooled off the air. So I guess I will close this day for it
is a fine night to sleep.
Thursday Aug 8
I was on time for work this morning and every thing went along as usual
until I go home from work this evening at five-thirty. And then I certainly had
a surprise. Mama had received a postal from Aunt Em saying that she would arrive
this evening from Chicago. Well I bustled down and called up the depot and found
that the train comes in at 6:55. I hustled out to the depot but did not get
there until a quarter past six. I got off at Michigan Ave. and started to walk
over to the depot, when I saw a car coming and I thought I would wait and see if
Aunt Em was on it. Bless Pat, if she wasn't and I hurried and caught the car.
Believe me but she was surprised as she thought that there was no one to meet
her. As we were eating supper, Mrs. McGraw and Genevieve passed by our house.
Mrs. McGraw stopped in on her way back but Genevieve went on home. I walked back
as far as the Healy School with her. There was a band concert there tonight but
it was over when I got there. So I went down to the Frontier. I hadn't been
there long when the McGraw family came and sat right behind me. I said hello to
Genevieve and that was all. When we were going out after the supper, Mr. McGraw
asked me when I was coming down to see them. I told him that whenever I got
time. I guess they are wondering why I don't visit them anymore. Well I won't
until I get an invitation from Genevieve. Well I've got to let Aunt Em take my
room and I'll sleep in the back room. Believe me, it is some hot room.
Friday Aug 9
I certainly was in plenty of time for work this morning. I got over to
the shop about seven-thirty, if not earlier. As I said last night, I was going
to let Aunt Em take my bedroom and I would sleep on the cot in the back room. We
haven't used the back room as a bedroom on account of it not being light enough.
Well believe me it certainly was hot enough in that room last night. I managed
to stick it out until about twelve-thirty and then I picked up my pillow and
several comforts and hiked downstairs. I camped on the floor the rest of the
night. My, but it certainly was hot last night. It cooled off a little this
evening but it is still warm enough. And oh, but that bed on the floor. Oh boy!
but wasn't it hard. I wished this morning that I would have stayed up all night.
I believe that I would have felt better this morning. I got home from work about
five-fifteen and after supper, Aunt Em, mama and myself all went over to the
little theatre around the corner, the Frontenac. William S. Hart was playing
there in the "Desert Man." I never cared much for Hart's pictures but
this one this evening was pretty good. We got home from the theatre (if you can
call the Frontenac a theatre) about ten o'clock and then we sat up and talked
until eleven. It is cooler tonight so I guess I'll be able to sleep in the back
room all night tonight.
Saturday Aug 10
Detroit is certainly seeing some hot times during the last few days. The
D.U.R. raised the fare to 6¢ last Wednesday night. Thursday morning Couzens
boarded a Fort car and refused to pay the six cents. He was promptly put off the
car. Friday night the council held a meeting and declared that the legal rate of
fare was 5¢ or six tickets for a quarter. The also declared that D.U.R.
official who gave orders to the conductors to charge more than this legal rate
would be liable for arrest and three hundred dollars fine. This morning the
D.U.R. gave orders to the car crews not to move their cars unless the 6¢ fare
was paid. At eleven-thirty to-day a crowd of workmen boarded a Grand Belt car at
Mt. Elliott Ave. and only paid five cents. The car was stopped and traffic was
held up until four-thirty this afternoon. On the Baker line a mob destroyed two
cars. The downtown streets were packed with mobs bent on rioting. This evening
Aunt Em, Lawrence and myself went out to the Boardwalk. We left there at 11
o'clock but were almost two hours getting home. There were no cars at all
running on the Grand Belt and Baker lines all evening. The police were arresting
the motormen for holding up traffic. The downtown streets were in an uproar all
evening. The laws passed by the council will not go into effect until Monday
night. In the meantime the police asked the people to pay the six cents fare but
they refused. I guess tomorrow will be worse yet. Uncle Frank, Aunt Grace and
Regina came down from Flint this evening.
Sunday Aug 11
Even though we did not get home until after midnight last night, Aunt Em
and I got up and went to seven o'clock mass at St. Thomas. The entire McGraw
family was there and after mass, we all walked down as far as Duncan together. I
did not say a word to Genevieve except good-morning. We all had counted on going
to Belle Isle to-day but we backed out and stayed at home all afternoon. We had
a terrible electric and rainstorm this afternoon. The lightning struck the
chimney on the house across the street from us. This evening pop, Uncle Frank
and Lawrence went to the Detroit Opera House; Aunt Grace and Aunt Em took the
little kids to the Frontenac and I went down to the Madison. Wallace Reid in
"Less Than Kin" is playing there. The show was fine. The street car
trouble continued to-day. There were no Grand Belt cars running all evening.
They didn't run all night last night. The rioting continued to a certain extent
but was not so bad as last night. The police arrested several motormen for
stopping their cars and refusing to move when a passenger would only pay five
cents fare. You wouldn't think possible that such rioting could be carried on in
a large and civilized? city like Detroit.
Monday Aug 12
As usual I was in plenty of time for work this morning. Everything was
about the same at the office to-day. The street car question is not settled yet.
The Grand Belt Line did not run all night last night and was shut down until
about three o'clock this afternoon. The Woodward did not run all morning and the
other lines were held up off and on. The rioting continued this morning and one
motorman is dying in the hospital. The police arrested the motormen when they
refused to move their cars and finally the D.U.R. was forced to run the cars for
a 5¢ fare or else suspend service altogether. The D.U.R. finally gave orders to
the car crews to accept either the 5¢ or 6¢ fare. The new laws passed by the
council go into effect at midnight together. These laws place the legal rate of
fare at five cents and make it unlawful for anyone to charge more. The reason
the city passed these laws was to throw the fare question into the courts and in
the meantime, while they are fighting it out in court, the people will only be
paying a five-cent fare. I stayed at home all evening except for a trip to the
drugstore. I stopped off at McGraw's and said hello but was only there about ten
minutes.
Tuesday Aug 13
Well, this was the day that Aunt Em, Lawrence and myself went down to
Put-In-Bay. I got up about half past five and went to seven o'clock mass at St.
John's with Aunt Em. When I got on the car this morning I gave the conductor a
quarter, he gave me two dimes and a nickel. I dropped a dime in the box and he
didn't say anything. When I got downtown and saw a paper, I found that an
injunction had been granted the City against the D.U.R. The court upheld the
laws passed by the council and at present the fare is 5¢ or six tickets for a
quarter. The steamer left at nine o'clock and arrived at Put-In-Bay at one
o'clock. The boat trip to Put-In-Bay is the finest trip on the water here. The
boat gets out of sight of land while on Lake Erie. The chief thing of interest
on the Island is the Caves. We went through Perry's Cave. This cave is about
thirty feet underground. When you reach the bottom, you almost shiver from the
cold. The temperature in there is 48° while up on the earth it was ninety-some.
There is a large well (it is so large it is almost a lake). The water is so
clear in the well that you can't see it without stirring it up. This well is
called Wishing Well and they say that if you wish while drinking, your wish will
come true. I wished that Genevieve and I would be friends again. The boat left
the island at 4:30 and we got back to the city at 8:30. We went up to Miles
Theatre from the boat and did not get home until half past eleven.
Wednesday Aug 14
I had a fine night's sleep last night after my trip to Put-In-Bay and I
felt fine this morning. As usual I was in plenty of time for work. The weather
has been fine all day. A cool breeze was blowing all the time and it is real
chilly this evening. Mama and papa went down to the Rialto Theatre this evening
after supper. Aunt Em and we boys kept house. About a quarter to nine I heard a
knock at the front door. I answered the door and who should be there but
Genevieve McGraw. She had come over to tell mama good news. Mrs. McGraw is going
to make her first communion tomorrow morning at the six o'clock mass at St.
John's. She was baptized this evening by Father Crowley. She has been taking
instructions from him during the past year. Father Crowley leaves as a Chaplain
next week and Mrs. McGraw wanted to join the church before he left. I certainly
was surprised to hear that Mrs. McGraw had joined the church. And I bet
Genevieve is glad. I walked back home with Genevieve. We just talked as though
there was no trouble between us. Oh, but what wouldn't I give if Genevieve and I
could be good friends again. She certainly was beautiful this evening.
Genevieve, I would do anything if we were the friends now that we were a year
ago.
Thursday Aug 15
To-day was pay day again. Well, I will only have one more pay day before
school opens. My, but how the time does fly. Everything was as usual at the
office. This afternoon mama, Aunt Em and Mrs. McGraw went to the Detroit Opera
House to see "Hearts of the World." Mrs. McGraw received her First
Communion at the six o'clock mass at St. John's this morning. Mama and I went
over to St. John's and we all rode home together. This afternoon after the show
Aunt Em went down to Mrs. McGraw's for supper. After supper I walked down and I
had a fine evening. It was the first evening I have been down to McGraw's in
some time. Genevieve certainly looked pretty. She is the finest girl I have ever
met. The entire McGraw family have been the only people we have met since we
moved up here, that we could really call our true friends. Aunt Em, mama and
myself were going to the Garrick tomorrow night and I asked Genevieve to go
along. At first she said she had to take Isabel Raymonds home but finally she
accepted the invitation. My how glad I am. I really believe we are going to be
friends again. And oh Genevieve, how I have missed you during the past two
weeks. Genevieve, perhaps the day will come when I can tell you that I love you.
Friday Aug 16
I am so happy I can hardly write this entry. I guess the wish I made last
Tuesday at the "Wishing Well" has come true. Genevieve and I have made
up. Mama was too tired to go to the Garrick Theatre this evening, so Aunt Em,
Genevieve and myself went. Potash and Perlmutter is playing there with the
Bonstelle Stock Co. The play was one laugh after another. I bought a box of
chocolates and gave it to Genevieve, also I bought two copies of a song they
were selling for the benefit of the Stage Women's War Relief Society. We all
certainly had an enjoyable time. We all got off at Helen Ave. and walked up to
our place. Genevieve and I then walked down to her home. I am certainly glad
that we have made up and I am going to try and keep her friendship this time.
Genevieve promised that she would go to the Garrick again next Thursday night.
She certainly is the finest girl I have ever met. And I hope the day will come
when I can tell her how I love her. Genevieve, if you ever read these pages, you
will know how I feel toward you in my heart. (The shop does not work tomorrow as
they are giving an excursion to Put-In-Bay. I will have the whole day to loaf
around in as I am not going on the excursion.)
Saturday Aug 17
The shop did not work to-day as they gave an excursion to Put-In-Bay. I
was just down to Put-In-Bay last Tuesday so I did not go to-day. I did not get
up until nine-thirty this morning. It was the first morning I could sleep late
since I don't know when. I went to town about eleven o'clock. I got two seats
for the Garrick next Thursday night. I walked around downtown a while and then
went over to the Broadway Strand Theatre. "To Hell with The Kaiser" is
playing there. The play would be fine if it were only true; there is too much
fiction and imagination in the picture. I got home from town about four o'clock.
Mrs. McGraw was over a while this afternoon; she said that Genevieve enjoyed the
show fine. I am glad that she did and I hope we will have many more good times
together. After supper, I went over to St. John's. I was talking to Father
Crowley for a long time. He leaves this week as a Chaplain. He told me that he
asked to be taken away from St. John's. Everything is too German there to suit
him. I also saw Sister Sylvia. She still sticks up for the Kaiser. The entire
McGraw family and Fritz Monty were at church. We all rode home together. Well,
it is twelve o'clock now so I guess I had better turn in as I intend to go to
early mass in the morning.
Sunday Aug 18
To-day is the day that we all went out to Belle Isle. I got up early and
went to seven o'clock mass at St. John's. I don't know what was the matter with
me to-day, but I felt mad all day. In the first place I didn't care to go to
Belle Isle but I finally went to please mama. Papa had the jitney and he took
Aunt Em and the boys out first. Joe is still at Flint; he went up there last
Friday. After papa got Aunt Em out, he came back after mama and myself. We were
all out there by noon. It was awful windy on the Island. I didn't have a bit of
pleasure all afternoon and was glad when we started for home at seven o'clock.
There is only one-way traffic on the Island so we had to go clear up around the
head of the Island in order to get across the bridge. When we got up, we found a
string of autos three abreast waiting to go across the bridge. It took us from
seven-thirty until nine o'clock to get to within about five blocks of the bridge
and then more trouble - our gasoline gave out. Papa had to walk across the
bridge to get more gasoline and carry it back to the car. Well, we are finally
home but it was ten-thirty when we got here. Never again, will I go to Belle
Isle in the jitney. Just as soon as I got home I came up to my room and am now
ready for bed.
Monday Aug 19
Well, I got up all right this morning and got over to the shop in time
for work. My legs and arms ached this morning and outside of being pretty tired,
I felt all right after the trip yesterday. However I am still going to stick to
what I said last night that "I would never again go to Belle Isle in the
jitney." I've had enough of such trips to last me for a good long time.
Everything was the same at the shop to-day except we got another woman
draughtsman or draughtswoman. That makes three that we have in the office. I
guess they are going to get more women to take the men's places. I got home from
work about five-fifteen this evening. I stayed at home all evening. After
supper, I tried to show Aunt Em how to dance the Fox Trot. I managed to show her
a little of it. Aunt Em is going home on the noon train tomorrow. This may be
the last time I will see her for a long time. For if this new draft bill is
passed, there'll be nine chances out of ten that I will have to go to war. Well,
if Uncle Sam needs me I will be just as willing to go as anybody else. All he
has to do is just call me and I'll answer his call. It is only nine-thirty but I
am going to bed early tonight.
Tuesday Aug 20
As usual I was on time for work again this morning. Everything was the
same at the office to-day except that the boy who works with me handed in his
notice that he was going to quit Saturday. I have given them notice that I would
leave a week from Saturday. I don't know exactly when school will open but I
don't believe it will be until about the ninth of September. So by quitting a
week from Saturday (which is the thirty-first) I will have a week's vacation
before going back to school. It seemed kind of lonesome around home this
evening. Aunt Em went back to Indianapolis. She went back by way of Chicago and
intends to stop off overnight at Chicago. Her train left at 12:30 this noon and
mama went to the depot with her. They left here at eleven-thirty and should have
got out to the depot in plenty of time. But as usual the Harper cars were tied
up and they missed the train. Aunt Em had to wait and take the 1:05 train. This
may be the last time she will get to come up for if the war continues next year
I don't believe she can get a pass. I took papa to the Madison this evening. J.
Warren Kerrigan in "A Dollar Bid." is playing there. It was fine. It
is ten-thirty and we just got home.
Wednesday Aug 21
As usual on time for work again this morning. Really, I don't believe
there is no need of me writing this line every night, but I guess I will
continue to do so. It helps to fill up the space. I got home from work about
five-fifteen. Last Sunday we lended the people next door to us some of our
records. So last night they sent some of theirs over. Papa and I went to the
show last night so we didn't get to hear them. We still had the records this
evening. So just as soon as I got home I started to play them. I guess there
were about twenty of them and when supper was ready I was not finished yet.
After supper I finished playing them and about seven-thirty I rode down to
McGraw's. Mr. McGraw was home alone. Mrs. McGraw had gone up to the store.
However she soon came home. Agnes Teschendorf also came over. Mrs. McGraw had
about ten of her sister's records, so she played them. I certainly have heard a
bunch of new pieces this evening. I asked Genevieve is she would still go to the
Garrick with me tomorrow evening. She said she would. It rained about
nine-o'clock but let up before I started for home at ten o'clock. It is
ten-thirty now so good night.
Thursday Aug 22
Here I go again. The same old story:- On time for work again this
morning, and everything was the same at the office to-day. In the business world
there is not much variety. It is the same old routine day in the day out. It was
awful warm all day to-day and even this evening it is pretty close. I got home
from work about five-fifteen and jumped right in the bathtub. I got down to
McGraw's about a quarter after seven. Genevieve was ready so we left at once for
the Garrick Theatre. This is the last week of the Bonstelle Stock Co. and they
certainly have put on a fine play this week. "Romance" is the name of
the play and it is really an Americanized form of Hall Caine's "The
Christian." The two plays are almost alike. However it certainly was fine.
I gave Genevieve another box of chocolates. She acted kind of strange all
evening and didn't have much to say. I hope that she isn't going to get mad at
me again. I tried all evening to get her to promise to go to Sugar Island with
me next Sunday but she wouldn't. I wish I knew what makes Genevieve act this
way. I certainly enjoy taking her out but she might show her appreciation more.
And when I do take her out there is nothing too good for her. I certainly want
her to have a good time. Well, it is midnight. So good night.
Friday Aug 23
Friday again. And as usual on time for work. To-day was a real busy day
at the office. And one of the fellows was home. He was sick at least that was
what he said when he called up this morning. I go home from work about a quarter
after five. I got the films last night that I took Sunday, so this evening after
supper I stayed at home and printed them. The two pictures of Aunt Em were fine
and the rest were pretty fair. However I didn't have much success in printing
them. I guess I have gotten out of practice. It has been some time since I
printed some pictures. The papers this evening were full of the new draft laws.
The bill to draft from 18 to 45 is before Congress and they are having a hot
time. The amendment, to place the 18 and 19-year-old boys in a separate class
and draft the older men first, will go to a vote at six o'clock this evening. I
don't believe the amendment will be passed. I believe that they will pass the
law to draft from 18 to 45 and not have any separate classes. Well, if Uncle Sam
wants me, I am ready. I won't be a slacker. When the time comes for me to go, I
will go. We must win this war and if I can help, I shall certainly do so.
Saturday Aug 24
Saturday. Just one more Saturday and then I will be quitting the Detroit
Pressed Steel Co. I am going to leave a week from to-day and I had counted on
having a week's vacation before school opened. I didn't think school would open
until September 9th. But to-day's paper said that the schools would
open September 3rd. So there goes my vacation. Oh! well, I should
worry. The schools are opening a week earlier this year on account of the time
that will be lost during the Fourth Liberty Loan Campaign which opens September
20th. I got home from work about twelve-thirty. After dinner I went
downtown. I bought an enlarging camera to-day but am going to take it back as I
don't like it. I couldn't get any good prints by the thing. This evening's paper
said that the amendment to the draft bill has been defeated and that the
original bill to make the age 18 to 45 would go to a vote next Monday. Papa
brought the jitney home this afternoon and this evening we drove out Jefferson
Ave. We got back at nine o'clock. I then read for a while and now at eleven
o'clock am ready for bed.
Sunday Aug 25
I got up early (seven o'clock) and went to eight-thirty mass at St.
Thomas. Mrs. McGraw and Genevieve were at mass. After mass I waited until they
came out and said good-morning. Genevieve had on her new silk dress and if ever
she looked beautiful she certainly did. She certainly will be a beautiful woman
someday. "Someday" - oh! if we only knew what that "Someday"
had in store for us. If we could only look into the future. Right now I think
Miss Genevieve McGraw is the "Only Girl" and "Only" spelt
with a capital letter. She certainly is a girl to be proud of to have as your
friend and I only hope we will remain friends until that day comes when I can
ask her to be more than a friend to me. I have heard mama say that she was in
love when she was only fifteen. Well, I believe I am in love right now. And I am
going on to nineteen. Love is like the measles. The longer you keep from getting
an attack of it, the worst it hits you when it once does get a hold of your
heart. This evening I took mama to the Adams to see Annette Kellerman in
"Queen of the Sea." The play is a fine fairy play and I enjoyed it
right well. But oh! how I would have enjoyed it if Genevieve had been sitting
beside me. McGraw's are going to get company this week so I suppose I won't see
much of Genevieve for a while.
Monday Aug 26
Well, this is one Monday morning that I can't say I got to work on time.
In fact I didn't get there at all. I decided yesterday that I would not go to
work to-day and so I abided by my decision and stayed at home. I am going to
quit next Saturday anyway, so I don't care what they say at the office. However,
I got up at my usual time this morning. I started for town about half past
eight. I took the enlarging camera, that I bought Saturday, back to Black's.
After that I went up to the Edison Illumination Co. to file an application for a
position after school. I intended to go to the Navy recruiting office to find
out what the chances there are of enlisting. The recruiting offices have been
closed since they refused to take any more enlistments. At ten-thirty, I went
into the Palace Theatre. Every Monday morning they have a big double bill. And
believe me it was some show. The show started at 10:30 and was not out till two
o'clock. I saw ten vaudeville acts and six reels of pictures. The feature
picture, Bryant Washburn in "Kiddo & Me" was fine. And all of this
only cost 10¢. After supper mama and papa went out to look at house and I went
down to McGraw's. They have some visitors from Cleveland and I felt as though I
had butted in.
Tuesday Aug 27
Tuesday. This time next week I will be in school or rather I shall have
finished my first day in school. However this morning I got over to the Pressed
Steel in plenty of time and found the office still there. I also found two new
boys in the blueprint department. I was busy all day breaking these fellows and
I am certainly hoarse this evening. I had to do so much talking all day. About
ten o'clock this morning Mr. Jerome, the head of the Engineering Department,
called me over to his desk and asked me where I was yesterday. I told him that I
just took a vacation yesterday. He didn't say anything but asked me if I was
still going to leave Saturday. I said I was. He said that he was sorry to lose
me but if I had the chance to go to school, why to make the most of it and not
let the chance slip by. As long as I am able I am going to try and at least
finish my high school course. To-day's papers said the new draft laws had been
passed and are ready for Wilson to sign. Well, I guess I shall have to register
within the next few weeks. As yet the registering day has not been appointed. I
did not go out this evening but remained at home. I was sleepy and couldn't keep
awake. So even though it is only eight-thirty now I am ready for bed.
Wednesday Aug 28
Again as usual I was in plenty of time for work this morning. We were
pretty busy at the office all day. Believe me, breaking in new fellows is no
easy job. Especially when the fellows don't seem to know much of anything. I
certainly will be glad when Saturday comes. However, even with all of the work I
managed to leave the office at five o'clock. A furniture auction sale was held
at the house across the street from us this morning. Papa and mama went over but
did not buy anything. Mrs. McGraw was also over. She told mama that they all
went on a moonlight last night. She said Genevieve could dance so pretty. I
certainly have asked Genevieve often enough to go out on an excursion with me.
But she has always refused. The only reason that I ever took dancing lessons was
because Genevieve could dance and I thought that if I learned how to dance, we
could have some fine times together. But now it has been over a month and we
haven't gone to a single dance together. After supper I went down to the
Washington Theatre. Rex Beach's "Heart of the Sunset" is playing
there. It was fine. I just got home and it is eleven-thirty now so, good night.
Thursday Aug 29
Well it certainly looks as though we were going to move. Mama and papa
went out to look at the house on Pennsylvania Ave. This is the one they were
looking at the other night. It certainly is a fine house but oh, the price;
$7,500.00. The man who owns it will give us $3,700 for ours if we leave our
instantaneous water heater in. He will also give us our thousand dollar equity
which we have in our present place. The house is only two blocks from church and
about nine from McGraw's new place. Mama says she likes the place all right but
thinks we should get more for our place, especially if we leave the heater. If
we move out there, we will still be near McGraw's. After supper this evening
mama, papa and myself walked down to McGraw's to see what they think about us
taking the place. When we got down to their place we saw a big fine touring car
in front of the house and Mr. & Mrs. McGraw, their relatives from Cleveland,
and some men who drove the car were just leaving. They were going to the
theatre. My! how swell they are getting; going to the theatre in a big fine
touring car. I was in time for work this a.m. and everything went along as
usual. I remained at home the rest of the evening after we got back from
McGraw's.
Friday Aug 30
It still looks as though we were going to move. Papa went down to see the
agent this morning and told him that if we could take the water heater with us
and still get $3,700 for our place, he would consider the trade. The agent
agreed to these terms and papa and mama are to go down in the morning and sign
the papers. I have not seen the house as yet but from the way mama and papa
talk, it must be a fine place. And then too it is in such a fine locality; just
two blocks from Water Works Park and right off Jefferson Ave. And then too I am
so glad that we will still be near McGraw's. I still want to keep Genevieve as
my friend and if we were to be so far apart, the chorus and I wouldn't get to
see her very often. But out there we won't be much further apart than we now
are. I was in time for work this morning, although I thought I would be late. I
was still busy to-day breaking in the two new fellows. Believe me it is some job
to show these new fellows everything connected with the department. Tomorrow
will be my last day at the office. I was tired when I got home this evening so
did not go out after supper. I read all evening. In bed at ten-thirty.
Saturday Aug 31
Well, I guess it is all settled. We are going to move next Thursday. Mama
and papa went down and signed the papers this morning and now we have got the
key. I was over to see the house this afternoon and believe me it is some house.
And it is only two blocks from church and we will only be eight blocks from
McGraw's. It seems as though fate has something to do with us getting so close
to McGraw's. Believe me I am glad that we will be near McGraw's for I should
certainly hate to lose Genevieve as my friend. Well I left the Detroit Pressed
Steel Co. to-day. They all wished me success and hated to see me go. They said
that if I wanted a job next summer, to drop around and let them know. I kind of
hated to leave but still I will be glad to get back to school. President Wilson
signed the draft bill to-day and set aside Sept. 12th as registering
day. I will have to register then. After supper I walked down to McGraw's. Mrs.
McGraw was the only one home but Genevieve and John came home while I was there.
They were surprised to hear we were going to move. From there I went over to St.
John's and met mama. We went to see Sister Sylvia. She hates to see us go.
Genevieve & Mrs. McGraw came in church while we were there. They went to the
Iris Theatre after church while mama and I came on home.
Sunday Sept 1
The first of September already. Winter will soon be here and with the
coming of September means going back to school. In one way, I am glad to see
school reopen and again I'm not. In these times a person can't hardly tell what
the next day will bring. Now since the draft law has been passed, I may be
called to the colors. Well, Uncle Sam, I am ready anytime you want me. I went to
seven-thirty mass at St. Thomas. I guess it was the last time I will ever attend
mass there. We are sure going to move this week. There were none of the McGraw's
at that mass. About ten o'clock papa sent me down to McGraw's to see if Mr.
McGraw would be at the foundry anytime tomorrow. Genevieve was not at home, so I
delivered papa's message and came right back. This afternoon I went down to the
Adams Theatre. "Inside the Lines,' a spy story laid on the Rock of
Gibraltar. I read the story several years ago and enjoyed the picture to-day.
The show was out about four-thirty. I then went up to the National Theatre. A
stock musical comedy company is playing there. I like to see a good musical
comedy but the one I saw to-day was too cheap. It is too much burlesque and I
don't see where a person gets any enjoyment out of a burlesque show.
Monday Sept 2
Labor Day; Moving day for the Carrico family. At least it is the start of
our moving. I did not get up until nine o'clock this morning. I had no more than
gotten up when I had to take a message down to Mr. McGraw for papa. I only
stayed a few minutes. Papa was out to Mr. McGraw's foundry until noon. As soon
as he got home, we started to pack up. I painted two beds this afternoon and
about five o'clock, we loaded up the old jitney and took the first load over to
our new house. We had the tool box, work bench, chicken brooder, tools, a basket
full of odds & ends besides a lot of lumber. Believe me it was some load;
but the little old Ford rambled right along. We drove up the alley to our new
place and took the stuff in the back way. The alley is paved and is finer than
Miles Ave. (the present street we are living on). Believe me it is some place we
are moving to. After supper papa, Lawrence and myself drove over to the Regent
Theatre. It has been fixed up and now has a thirty-piece orchestra. The music
was wonderful and the play was the finest war play I have seen outside of
"Hearts of the World." Dorothy Gish and the Griffith Players is
showing there in "The Hun Within," a spy story. Well, tomorrow school
reopens and I will have to go down and enroll. It is eleven-thirty, so me for
bed.
Tuesday Sept 3
Tuesday; the school bells are ringing. The time has come to take up our
books and get back to work. I went down to school to enroll this morning. It was
the same dear, old, Northeastern. The building certainly looked good. Quite a
few of the old fellows are back but still there are a lot missing. However I
suppose a good many of them are waiting and will start in next Monday. I am not
going down any more until next Monday. There is too much to do around the house.
I don't believe there will be much school this week anyhow. So I guess I won't
miss much. We are still packing up and believe me, our house is certainly in one
grand mess and mix up. It looks like a cyclone struck it. But it can't be helped
when a person is moving. We have decided to wait until Thursday to move but we
will take quite a bit of the small things over in the jitney tomorrow. By doing
this the moving van will only have to make one trip. I got home from school
about eleven o'clock and then pitched in and helped pack up. I got the toothache
about three o'clock and had to lay. I didn't get up until six o'clock. My tooth
still aches a little so I guess I will turn in. Goodnight.
Wednesday Sept 4
To-day has certainly been a terrible day. I got up about six o'clock and
right after breakfast I started to help pack up. About ten o'clock this morning
it started to sprinkle. Papa said that he would be at the shop nearly all
afternoon so there was not much to do around home. We are pretty well packed up.
Since there was not much to do, I decided that I would go to the State Fair. It
has been going on since last Friday. Well I got ready and left the house about
ten o'clock. It was sprinkling then but I thought it would soon clear off. I got
out to the fair grounds about eleven o'clock. The fair is certainly on the bum
this year. By twelve o'clock I had seen everything worth seeing. There are
hardly no exhibits. In the automobile building there was only one pleasure car
exhibit and about half a dozen truck exhibits. There was hardly nothing in the
main building. The war has certainly hit the fair this year. It rained all
afternoon and there was no pleasure at all in remaining at the fair. There were
hardly no people there to-day. The races were called off on account of the rain.
So as there was nothing else to see I started back to the city about half after
two. It was about three-fifteen when I got downtown, so I went in to the Madison
Theatre. Elsie Ferguson is playing there in "The Heart of the Wild."
The play was fine. When I came out of the show, it was still raining and I was
soaked when I got home. Tomorrow is moving so I guess I'll turn in.
Thursday Sept 5
Well, we are in our new house at last. And believe me, it is some house.
And we are in one swell church and neighborhood. Believe me, but I'm tired
tonight. I have been up since five o'clock this morning and have been busy every
minute of the day. We made about ten trips with the jitney, carrying small
articles and on the last two trips we carried quite a few pieces of furniture.
You can take my word that we booked the old jitney to full capacity. By using
the jitney we only had to have one moving van load of furniture. A little old
Ford comes in handy at some times and we certainly made full use of the shop's
to-day. Well, I guess this house will be our home for a good many years. We are
on two good car lines, the Sherman & Jefferson. We are in a good American
neighborhood and in a good parish. The Annunciation Church & school is just
two blocks from us. There are hardly no foreigners in this parish, nearly
everyone is Irish. I guess we can stand the Irish. My best and dearest friend is
Irish. It was after five o'clock when the moving men were finished unloading and
after that we made two more trips with the jitney. Mrs. McGraw stopped off at
our new place this afternoon. She said they may not get to move for another
month yet. Well, it is after ten o'clock and as I am tired to almost death I
guess I'll turn in.
Friday Sept 6
Believe me, but I certainly did sleep last night. My, but I was tired.
After I hit the hay last night I didn't remember anything until ten o'clock this
morning when I woke up. To-day has been another busy day. We are busy now with
straightening things up. From the way our house looked this morning, I didn't
believe we would ever get settled. But now we have got things pretty well in
shape. As soon as I had my breakfast this morning I pitched in and washed all of
the windows, inside and out. I never saw so many windows in my life, as we have
got in our house. Why, I thought I'd never get finished washing them. Believe me
it was the biggest job of window washing I have ever done. After this
experience, I guess I could qualify for a position as window washer. Well, after
I got finished with the windows I helped to fix up the downstairs. We have got
the entire downstairs in ship shape, all but hanging the lace curtains and I've
already put the poles for them up. Believe me but we are going to have one swell
place when we get everything in place. Well, I got some more good news to-day.
When papa came home from work he said I could have my old job back at the
Goodspeed Co. so I will start in next Monday after school. I ought to earn on an
average of five dollars per week which is a plenty for spending money.
Saturday Sept 7
Saturday; and another day for cleaning up. I got up about nine o'clock,
had breakfast and then pitched in on the upstairs. We got the upstairs all
finished to-day. I certainly have got a fine cozy room. There is a large bay
window with three windows looking out to an upstairs porch. I've got it pretty
well fixed up and when I get finished I will have one fine room. Papa came home
in the jitney and I had to go back to town with him. We were downtown about two
hours and got home about six o'clock. Papa took the jitney back to the shop and
I brought mama's lace curtains. Mr. & Mrs. McGraw came over about seven
o'clock. We hadn't had our supper yet when they came. In fact we didn't get our
supper until after eight o'clock. Mr. & Mrs. McGraw and mama walked over to
church after supper. Mr. McGraw has to work tomorrow so Mrs. McGraw is coming
over to spend the day. Genevieve and John are in Cleveland, Ohio. I had intended
going over to McGraw's tomorrow but I guess I'll stay at home. Well, the engine
house just rang twelve bells so I guess it is about time for me to turn in. So
good night.
Sunday Sept 8
Our first Sunday in our new home. I got up at seven-thirty, hustled and
got over to church in time for the eight o'clock mass. We have certainly moved
into a fine parish. The church is a fine big brick building and the inside is
decorated all in white with a marble communion railing. There was hardly
standing room at the eight o'clock mass and all the rest of the masses were
crowded the same way. Mrs. McGraw came over about ten o'clock. We had dinner
about one-thirty. I did not go away after dinner but remained at home all
afternoon, except for walking over to the church. I took several snapshots of
our new home and also several of the church and school. Mama, Mrs. McGraw and
myself walked over to see the sisters about starting the boys into school in the
morning. Mrs. McGraw did not go in with us but went on home. It was about five
o'clock when we got home. We had supper about six-thirty. After supper I went
down to the Washington Theatre to see D. W. Griffith's "The Great
Love." The picture certainly is wonderful and Griffith is certainly a
wonderful producer. Nearly all of the actors who were in the "Birth of A
Nation" were in this picture. Well, I'll start in to school in the morning
so I guess I'll turn in.
Monday Sept 9
To-day was really my first day in school. I enrolled at Northeastern last
Tuesday but to-day was the first day I attended school. Vacation is all right,
but all the same the old building looked mighty good this morning. It is the
same old building; the same old Northeastern. Days may come and days may go but
I will always remember my high school days. And you, dear diary, shall help me
to remember some of these days. To you I am confiding some things that I would
never tell anyone else. The vacation has seemed to pass awful quick but now I am
glad to get back in school. However who knows how long I may get to remain
there. I will have to register next Thursday and the rest rests with Uncle Sam.
Well, if he wants me I will be ready at any time to go. Most the same teachers
are back this fall and also most of the old students. I left school at
one-thirty and was supposed to go to work at the Goodspeed Co. I called papa up
and told him I could not get over as I had to go to town after some books. While
at town I went to the Madison Theatre. Wallace Reid in "The Souse" is
playing here. I got home from town at six o'clock. After supper I remained at
home and read.
Tuesday Sept 10
I began the day at six forty-five. It only takes me twenty-five minutes
to get to school from our new place. I can leave the house at seven-thirty and
get to school by eight o'clock. I have a fine program of studies this semester.
I have the first six hours filled and the remaining two vacant. This allows me
to leave school at one-thirty. I dropped Latin this semester and have started
taking French. French seems to be the leading language now and it may come in
handy some day. It seems to be rather easy to learn. My other studies are
Geometry (1), History (3), Mechanical Drawing (5), English (3) and not to forget
Military Training. I wouldn't miss taking Military Training for anything. It is
something every boy should take. I left school at one-thirty and went over to
the Goodspeed Co. I worked from two until six o'clock. Papa says they will pay
me thirty cents an hour. If they do, I will earn on an average of at least six
dollars a week. That's pretty good pay for afternoons after school, and it's not
hard work either. After supper this evening I printed the pictures I took last
Sunday. They were all good and the electric light gives a better print than the
gas light.
Wednesday Sept 11
It has been one of those cold, damp and rainy days. It rained nearly all
day. I got up about six forty-five and got over to school five minutes to eight.
Everything is running pretty smoothly at school now with only a few changes in
the classes being made. So far I have not had to make any changes in my program
of studies. I haven't got all of my books as yet so can't do much studying. I
have tried to get the books but there seems to be a shortage of school books
this year and I have not been able to get my French book and my History book. I
left school at one-thirty and went over to the Goodspeed Co. and worked until
six o'clock. Papa and I drove home in the jitney. We came around by our old
house. I stopped at the house and found some mail in the box for us. There was a
postal card from Harriet Owen. She wanted to know why I didn't answer her
letter. Well, I just mailed her a letter this morning. We got home about
six-thirty. Believe me, but you sure save time by driving home in the
automobile. I did not go out after supper. It was raining too bad. It is ten
o'clock so "Good night." In the morning I will have to register for
the draft so I guess I will get up early and register before the crowd.
Thursday Sept 12
Last night, I said I was going to get up early this morning. Well, it was
after seven when I got up. To-day is registration day for every man between the
ages of 18 and forty-five. The booths opened at seven o'clock and will remain
open until nine o'clock or longer. Papa won't be forty-six until next February
so he and I both had to register to-day. The nearest place to register for us
was just at the corner of our street. I got over there about eight-thirty and
only had wait in line about two minutes. However at some of the booths there
were lines three and four blocks long waiting to register. With papa and I both
having to register, brings the war pretty near to our homes. I don't believe
there is much danger of papa having to go, but I may have to. War is a terrible
thing but it is necessary some times. And I am no better than anyone else. I
believe that if this country is worth living in, she is worth fighting for. So,
Uncle Sam, if you need me, I am ready. I went to town about nine-o'clock and got
back home about noon. There was school this morning but I took a holiday. Papa
came home to dinner and I went back to the shop with him and worked until four
o'clock. We drove home in the jitney again. It has rained all day. I remained at
home all evening.
Friday Sept 13
I got up at seven o'clock this morning. Papa kept the jitney home all
night last night so he drove me to school this morning. My, but it was cold
driving. I nearly froze before we got to school. The mornings and evenings have
been awful cold and damp during the past week. I got to school at eight o'clock.
All of my lessons were all right. I did not have my geometry when I got to
school this morning but I did it during my Mechanical Drawing class. My bench is
the last one in the room so I have plenty of chance of doing my lessons during
this class. However I don't intend to make a practice of doing other lessons
when I should be drafting. I left school at one-thirty to-day and got over to
the Goodspeed Co. at two o'clock. I worked until six o'clock, so I got in
another four hours of work. Papa says they are going to pay me thirty-three
cents an hour instead of thirty. Well that is all the better for me. Papa did
not take the jitney home this evening so we came home on the streetcar. I
remained at home all evening. The boys saw Genevieve & John at the
Annunciation school to-day. They have not moved yet but Genevieve & John
entered school this week so as not to get behind. It has been several weeks
since I have seen Genevieve and I must sure go out to see her next Sunday. I
hope I will find her at home. In bed at nine-thirty.
Saturday Sept 14
Saturday. Well I got up at about half past six. Papa was still in bed
when I got up so when I was ready to leave for the shop I did not wait for him
but went on to work. I got to the shop just as the clock struck eight. I have to
punch a time card now since I am working at the Goodspeed Co. So I want to be
sure and be on time. Papa came rolling in about eight-thirty. I worked in the
office all day, helping Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper. Papa went home about one
o'clock but I stayed at the office and worked until three-thirty. When a person
gets paid by the hour he wants to get in all the time he possibly can. From the
shop I went downtown. I had to go to the post office and get a haircut. A moving
picture play, "A Pair of Silk Stockings" was showing at the Liberty
Theatre. I saw the comedy drama on the stage a year ago last winter. So I went
in to see the picture. It was fine. When I got home, it was after six o'clock.
After supper I fixed a mirror for the bathroom. I hung it up but it fell down. I
guess to-day is my lucky day for the thing didn't break. About nine o'clock I
went over to church. Well it is after eleven now so I guess I'll turn in.
Sunday Sept 15
I got up and went to eight o'clock mass this morning. We are certainly in
a large parish for there was hardly standing room at the eight o'clock mass.
When I got home from mass I read the paper and prepared my lessons for tomorrow.
This morning's paper said our troops were gaining victories every day and that
they are only 48 miles from the Rhine. Well, it is good night Germany. Believe
me, but our boys are showing them what the Americans can do. We had dinner about
one o'clock. Right after dinner I went out to McGraw's. I found them busy
packing up and getting ready to move tomorrow. They have at last got possession
of their new house. Genevieve seemed real glad to see me and believe me but I
was glad to see her. It has been several weeks since I saw her last. I had a
fine visit all afternoon and evening with them. About six o'clock Genevieve and
I walked down to their landlady's to notify them about moving. We stopped at the
ice cream parlor. I asked Genevieve to go to the show with me tonight; she said
she would if her mother would let her, but when we got home found Mr. & Mrs.
Teschendorf & Fritz there, so we couldn't. Teschendorf's soon went home but
Fritz & I stayed for supper. Now that McGraw's are going to move I hope
Genevieve will go out with me oftener. It was after ten o'clock when I got home.
Monday Sept 16
I got up rather late this morning and consequently did not get to school
until a quarter past eight. However as school does not start until eight-thirty,
I was still in time. All of my lessons were all right to-day. Yesterday I told
Genevieve I thought French was easy. She said to wait a few weeks and I would
find out if it was. Believe me I am beginning to agree with her after my lesson
this morning. Such sounds as some of the words do have. Half time you have to
talk through your nose. I don't see why they all can't have languages like ours
but I suppose ours seems just as to crazy to them. However I intend to keep on
taking French throughout the rest of my high school course. It is a language
that is well worth knowing. I left school at one-thirty and got over the to
Goodspeed Co. about two o'clock. I made a drawing for papa and then I went in
and helped Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper. It was almost six o'clock when papa and I
left the office. It had started to rain this afternoon and was a terrible
evening. Papa and I went down through town and I stopped at the library. We had
intended going to the show but it was too bad a night and we went on home. I
found Genevieve and John at the house. However they left soon after I got home.
My, but it's a terrible night out, cold and raining.
Tuesday Sept 17
Tuesday and pay day. My pay days won't stop even though I have gone back
to school. I drew eight-fifty for just four days after school and I worked until
three-thirty last Saturday. This is almost as much as I made two years ago while
working at the Radiator Co. and now I am going to school at the same time. I am
carrying six extra hours while in school, so I can consider pretty lucky in
getting this place for after school. I intend to pay my own lunch and ticket
money while going to school this year and even then I will have on an average of
six dollars a week left. I have got the Liberty Bond, which I bought last
spring, all most paid for. I intend to buy one of the Fourth issue when the
campaign opens Sept. 28. I left the house at seven-thirty this morning and got
to school at eight o'clock. I have not been wearing my Cadet uniform as yet this
year but I guess I'll have to start in next Monday. Maj. Willard read an order
to-day which commanded all Cadets to wear their uniforms while in school. I got
over to the office about two bells. Papa had gone home at noon. He got 2 bushels
of green beans for canning. I only worked until five-thirty myself. I remained
at home all evening. It did not rain to-day but has been pretty cold and chilly.
Wednesday Sept 18
I arrived at school at eight o'clock this morning. All of my lessons were
O.K. all day. I got through the French recitation all right. One of the fellows
at school is the chief usher at the new Detroit Opera House. Every Wednesday
afternoon he takes a crowd of the fellows down to usher. They usher until 2:15
and when the curtain goes up they can sit down and see the show. This noon he
asked me if I wanted to go down. I told him all right so I called up the office
and told them I would not be over. I left school at 1:30 and got down to the
theatre at two. The new Detroit Opera House (which was the Lyceum) is certainly
fixed up fine. There was not much of a crowd and just as soon as the curtain
went up I sat down and got to see the entire show. "The Country
Cousins" written by Booth Tarkington is playing there this week. It is on
the same order as his other play "Seventeen." It is about a country
girl and a boy in love with her. It is a pure and simple play of the love. All
of Tarkington's plays are on the same order. They are all about a little country
town and the boys and girls who have just finished high school. They are true to
life. I am going to try and see if I can't usher at least once every week. This
evening I went down to McGraw's. Mrs. McGraw took me thru their new house. They
have a sleeping porch and Genevieve has a bed out there. I bet her a dollar she
wouldn't be sleeping there by the 1st of November. My, but it was
cold out there. I would lose a dollar every day wishing that it was Genevieve
who won the bet. To me she is just like the girl in the play I saw this
afternoon and I only wish our life would turn out like the ending in the story.
Thursday Sept 19
It was after seven o'clock when I got up this morning. However I managed
to get to school in plenty of time. All of my lessons were all right, especially
my English recitation. We had to prepare an oral biography of someone we were
personally acquainted with. The English course which I am taking this year is
about newspaper writing. I was the only boy who was prepared to give the
biography. There were just three girls who had theirs. I wrote up the biography
of papa's life. Of course it was not a complete biography and a good deal was
fiction, but the teacher didn't know the difference and I managed to get by. If
you can't give the facts, I believe in resorting to fiction. This has helped me
a good many times. I left school at one-thirty and got over to the office at
two. It was cold and raining outside and as they haven't started the heat yet at
the office, it was awfully cold. I left the office at six o'clock and went
downtown. I got a lunch and then went to the Madison Theatre. J. Warren Kerrigan
is playing there in "A Burglar for A Night." The play was fine. It
certainly was a terrible night out. I didn't have my overcoat with me and I felt
real cold coming home. To top that, my tooth had to start aching. By the time I
got home I was about all in. It is ten o'clock now and from the way I feel I
don't know whether I will go to school in the morning or remain at home.
Friday Sept 20
Well, I managed to get up this morning and felt pretty fair except for my
tooth aching. I arrived at school just a few minutes before the last bell rang.
I skipped my military drill class this afternoon. I have drill during the fifth
period and English during the sixth. We had one of those crazy poems to learn
for English class to-day. And it was for the purpose of learning this poem that
I skipped my fifth hour class. Well, I managed to learn the poem all right and
got by with the English recitation. As I was walking through the corridor just
before I left the building this afternoon, the teacher of public speaking came
up to me and asked me if I was John Carrico. When I told her I was, she said she
had the Liberty Loan play I wrote last spring. And that if I didn't have any
objections they would like to give it in our auditorium during the Fourth
Liberty Loan drive. Of course I haven't any objections. It would certainly be a
happy day for me to see my play given in the school auditorium. I have to go in
to see her Monday and talk it over with her. I guess I'm not so bad as an author
after all. I got over to the office at two and worked until five-thirty. My jaw
began to swell up this afternoon and now it is puffed away out. However the
tooth does not ache so bad. Well it is after ten so me for bed.
Saturday Sept 21
Saturday, and of course work all day. Papa and I arrived at the shop at
eight-fifteen. About twelve o'clock we took the jitney and drove uptown. I got a
new pair of shoes and trousers. My, but shoes are certainly high. I don't mean
high shoes, but high in the price. We were downtown until about one o'clock. We
then went back to the shop. Papa went on home but I stayed and worked with Mr.
Drew, the bookkeeper, until half past four. I got to put in eight and a half
hours to-day. That will amount to about three and a half dollars and together
with the money from the other four days I put in this last week, I will have
quite a pay day next Tuesday. I had to go down through town after work to get my
pants. I went over to Sander's and bought a box of caramels for the sweetest
girl in Detroit. At least in my estimation she is the sweetest and dearest girl
in all the city. I suppose, dear diary, you know whom I mean. I intend to ask
her to go to the theatre with me tomorrow night. It was after six o'clock when I
got home from town. After supper I walked over to church. When I got home I read
until ten o'clock and then took a bath. Now I am ready for bed. My jaw is
certainly a healthy sight. It is swollen so bad that I can hardly talk. However
it doesn't hurt.
Sunday Sept 22
I got up and went to eight o'clock mass. I thought that perhaps I might
meet Genevieve at church, but she evidently went to a later mass. When I got
home from church I started right in to rewrite my play. I made it a good deal
longer and put in a stronger appeal for Liberty Bonds. I also added a little
touch of a love story. Believe me it is some play now. I did not get finished
rewriting it until after four o'clock. I then ate a lunch and walked down to
McGraw's. Mrs. McCloskey, an old neighbor of theirs, had been there all day.
Genevieve had gone to the show with a Mr. Whitney, an old friend of the
McGraw's, but she was back when I got down to their place. She didn't care to go
out again this evening so we stayed at home. I gave her the box of caramels. Now
that I am working I must think to give her a box of candy more often. I left
their place about eight-thirty. Before I left Genevieve said she would go to the
theatre with me Friday night. When I left McGraw's I took the Jefferson car and
went down to the Washington theatre. There was an awful crowd waiting to get in
but I managed to get in for the second show. Zane Grey's novel "Riders of
the Purple Sage" is showing there with William Farnum playing the leading
part. The play is about the Mormons during the middle of the 19th
century and is the greatest dramatic play I have ever seen. It was midnight when
I got home.
Monday Sept 23
Started the week by being on time for school. The bed certainly did feel
good this morning. It was after midnight when I pulled in last night. However
duty called and there was nothing else to do but get up. I arrived at school at
eight-fifteen. I had all of my lessons O.K. Last Friday Maj. Willard read an
order which said that all Cadets who had uniforms should wear them starting with
to-day. Well, I am having my trousers altered so I couldn't very well wear my
uniform. However there were quite a few who did not appear in uniform. I handed
my play in to the public speaking teacher to-day. She said she would read it and
she thought that perhaps they could use it. My, but I hope they will use it. It
certainly will be quite an honor to have a play given in our school auditorium.
I left school at one-thirty and got over to the Goodspeed Co. by two o'clock. We
were pretty busy all afternoon at the office and it was after six-thirty when I
finally started for home. It was after seven when I got home and everybody was
finished with supper. I was pretty tired this evening and therefore hit the hay
pretty early. It is just nine o'clock now and I am ready to turn out the light
and turn in. So I guess it is "good night."
Tuesday Sept 24
Again I arrived in time for school. Every thing went along in the same
old way at school. Had all of my lessons and left school at the end of the sixth
hour, or one-thirty. All I have been hearing all day is "Congratulations,
you certainly are some author." The public speaking department has decided
to present my play, "The Awakening." Oh, boy! but I certainly am
happy. Believe me but it is some honor to have one of your plays presented while
in high school. The play will be given some time during the Liberty Bond
campaign which opens next Saturday, September 28th and will last
until October 19th. As I said before I left school at one-thirty and
arrived at the office about two o'clock. To-day was pay day so I helped to put
up the pay roll. Over a thousand dollars passed through my hands. To-day was
also pay day for me. I drew almost eight dollars for just four days work after
school and all day Saturday. Believe me but it certainly comes in handy and the
best part of it all is that I am able to go to school at the same time. I worked
until six o'clock tonight and got home in time for supper. I did not go out
after supper but remained at home and read. I am hitting the hay early again
tonight. Somehow or other it doesn't seem as though I can catch up on my sleep.
In bed at nine-fifteen.
Wednesday Sept 25
I am still receiving congratulations from everybody at school on the play
I wrote. The parts were given out to-day and I guess the public speaking class
will start to rehearse tomorrow. I can't say to-day that all of my lessons were
O.K. I did not have my French lesson prepared. I had counted on preparing it
before school this morning but of course on this particular morning I had to
arrive at school just a few seconds before the final bell rang and therefore did
not have time to prepare the lesson. I wore my Cadet uniform to-day. My uniform
fits me a good deal better since I have had it altered. The Chamber Music
Society gave a concert at school this morning. It started right after the
beginning of the fourth period and lasted all through recess until after twelve
o'clock. I have History during the fourth period and consequently we did not
have a recitation. The concert threw the entire program schedule out and it was
two o'clock before I got to leave school and two-thirty when I got over to the
office. I worked until six o'clock. It was almost seven o'clock when I got home.
Genevieve wanted me to come down to her place and play Pedro but by the time I
got through with my lessons it was too late. I received a letter from Harriet
Owens to-day. Well it is going on to eleven o'clock so I guess it is "good
night."
Thursday Sept 26
As usual in time for school this morning. All of my lessons were O.K.
Somebody picked up the wrong English book at the close of Military Drill to-day,
so I am shy my English book. However I guess I'll get it back all right. All of
the hours went along the regular schedule to-day. I left school at the usual
time, one-thirty, and got over to the office by two o'clock. I only worked until
five-forty-five tonight as I was in a hurry to get home. I arrived home about
six-thirty, hustled through my supper, dressed, and got down to the Opera House
at seven-fifteen. I ushered until the curtain went up and then I sat down and
saw the show. George Arlis, a famous actor of historical parts, is playing there
in a play called "Hamilton." It is about Alexander Hamilton, the first
secretary of the treasury under Washington. The entire play is true to history
and is filled with historical characters! Such as: Gen. Schulyer, Thomas
Jefferson and James Monroe. It certainly was a fine play and I enjoyed it;
especially since it did not cost me anything. I will get to take in all the big
shows this winter by ushering in this way. When you go down to usher two nights
a week, you get a pass for the Garrick. I guess I will go down next Saturday
night and then go over to the Garrick. Well, it is almost midnight so I guess I
had better turn in for the night.
Friday Sept 27
I just did get to school in time this morning. I was supposed to have
gotten down to school early and put some geometric figures on the blackboard for
our geometry recitation. However I didn't get to do it. We don't have any
military training on Fridays and as I only have English outside of military
training in the afternoon, I jumped my English class and went over to the
Goodspeed Co. and worked. It was just a quarter after twelve when I got over
there and I got to put in a good afternoon. It was six o'clock when I left the
shop and six-thirty when I got home. I had an appointment with Genevieve McGraw
for seven o'clock. Believe me but it took some hustling to get ready and eat my
supper and still be on time for my appointment. Well, it was just seven-fifteen
when I got down to McGraw's and even then Genevieve wasn't ready. She had to
stay home from school this afternoon on account of a sore foot and this evening
she could hardly walk. However she said that she would go up to a theater on
Jefferson Ave. with me, but that she did not feel able to go downtown. So, we
went to a little movie house near their home. We saw a pretty good show but when
Genevieve is with me I don't mind about the show. Just so she is satisfied. We
got home about nine-thirty and I stayed and talked for a while. It was
ten-thirty when I got home and I hit the hay right away.
Saturday Sept 28
I arrived at the office five minutes past eight. I certainly was busy all
day but I should worry about the busy part so long as I am being paid for being
busy. It was half past four when I left the office. I went down through town and
bought Genevieve three new pieces of music. The Fourth Liberty Loan campaign
opened to-day but Detroit will not start to raise her quota until next Monday.
Detroit's quota this time is seventy-three million and some dollars. They are
erecting a large Statue of Liberty in Cadillac. The statue is sixty feet high
and is surrounded by a large court. It is all made of some kind of plaster and
cement mixture. It is an exact model of the original statue in New York Harbor.
Although this can't hardly be called a model, it is so large. They say that they
intend to leave the statue and forum there until the end of the war. After
supper I went down to the opera house and ushered. When the curtain went up, I
go a pass and went over to the Garrick Theatre. "The Kiss Burglar," a
musical comedy, is playing there. It was fine. I just brought a morning's paper
home with me. It says that the Bulgarians may agree to unconditional surrender
to the allies. Northeastern lost her first football game this season. We played
Eastern and lost 14 to 7. Well it is twelve-thirty so good night.
Sunday Sept 29
I got up and went to the eight o'clock mass this morning. After mass I
read the newspaper. The Michigan State Troops gave a sham battle yesterday
afternoon and night and they repeated it this afternoon and night. Another
fellow and myself went out to see it this afternoon. We left the city at twelve
o'clock and got out to the fair grounds about twelve-thirty. It took us just one
hour to get inside the race track, there was such a mob of people. I just saw a
morning paper and they say there was seventy thousand people out there this
afternoon and I believe it. The battle started at two-thirty and lasted until
four-thirty. It certainly was some sight and it was so real that you would think
you were in Europe. The original battle of Viemy Ridge took place in April 1917.
The race track at the fair grounds was laid out in two miles of Canadian and
German trenches. Three thousand of the State Troops took part in the battle.
They had every modern implement of warfare including two tanks, aeroplanes,
field artillery, travel cannon, engineer and signal corps and everything they
have in regular warfare. I had a fine position, just back of the German
trenches. My ears are ringing yet from all the noise. It was six o'clock when I
got home. After supper I sent papa and mama downtown to the theatre. They just
got home and brought a paper with them. It says that Bulgaria will allow the
allies to pass through her land. It means we have a back door into Germany.
Monday Sept 30
Monday, the Liberty Loan Campaign is on in earnest. As usual, old Detroit
is right in on the beginning. Her quota for this loan is, seventy-three, three
hundred eighty-seven thousand, five hundred and some odd dollars. This is just
double her quota for the last Loan. However the last time we oversubscribed our
quota and raised fifty-three million. The Statue of Liberty was unveiled this
noon and the Liberty Forum opened. This statue and forum certainly is the finest
thing Detroit has done in connection with the different Loan campaigns. It
certainly is a magnificent sight. Old Northeastern is busy selling Bonds again.
From the way she has started out I guess we will make a pretty good showing. I
bought a fifty dollar bond during the Third Liberty Loan and I have got that
over one half paid for. Since I have got such a good position for after school,
I decided that I would buy another fifty dollar bond of this issue. So I filled
out my application blank this morning. Everything was the same at school to-day,
except that our English class did not meet. I got home from work about six
o'clock. After supper I walked down to McGraw's. I took Genevieve three new
pieces of music. We played Pedro all evening and I had a fine time. Detroit
raised ten thousand dollars towards her quota to-day. Pretty good start for the
first day. No doubt but what we will raise our quota.
Tuesday Oct 1
Arrived at school in plenty of time this morning. During the third hour
the two gongs rang, which meant an auditorium meeting. There were several
singers and a speaker there who talked on the Liberty Loan. The meeting lasted
until after twelve o'clock. Detroit is still busy at raising her quota. They
raised six million to-day, making the total so far sixteen million. The
Goodspeed Company was canvassed this morning and they raised five thousand
dollars, which is pretty good for such a small place. I arrived at the office at
two o'clock and worked until five forty-five. It was nearly six o'clock when I
got home. I hustled and changed my clothes, ate my supper and got down to the
new Detroit Opera House by seven-thirty. I ushered again this evening until the
curtain went up and then sat down and saw the show. And believe me, it is some
show. Raymond Hitchcock in "Hicky Do of 1918." It is a musical comedy
in twenty scenes and two acts. I never laughed so hard in my life as I did
tonight. Believe me but Raymond Hitchcock is some comedian. Almost every seat
was filled and the new Opera House is some large place. After the show I walked
down to Cadillac Square to see the Statue of Liberty. It was all lighted up with
electric lights and several searchlights were turned on it. A burning torch was
in her hand. It was drizzling a little and believe me but it was a sight to put
patriotism in anybody.
Wednesday Oct 2
Arrived at school in plenty of time again this morning. Mr. Willard, the
mechanical drawing teacher, was not at school to-day and his classes did not
meet. However I never have drawing on Wednesday anyhow, so it did not affect me.
I was nominated vice-president of our grade room but was defeated in the
election. The public speaking class is still rehearsing my play. They intend to
give it some afternoon next week. They are not sure yet whether they will give
an evening performance of it. However I will be satisfied if they just give the
afternoon performance. I left school at one-thirty and got over to the Goodspeed
Company by two o'clock. We were pretty busy this afternoon and it was after six
when papa and I left the office. The street car service was on the bum, so it
was after seven before we finally got home. After supper papa and I went down to
the Gladwin Theatre at Jefferson Ave. and Pennsylvania. Theda Bara in "The
Soul of Buddha" was showing there. It was pretty good but nothing extra.
Charlie Chaplin's Liberty Bond picture, "The Bond," was also shown.
Detroit is still getting nearer to her quota. She raised eleven million and some
dollars to-day. Making a grand total of twenty-six some millions. Well it is
eleven o'clock so good night.
Thursday Oct 3
As usual I arrived at school in plenty of time this morning. Mr. Willard,
the mechanical drawing teacher, was not here again this morning so our
mechanical drawing classes did not meet. All of the rest of my lessons were O.K.
Miss Robinson, the public speaking teacher, said that they had decided to give
my play next Tuesday afternoon. A dress rehearsal will be held next Monday after
school, so I guess I'll go in to see them. Well the French books have arrived at
last. We have been waiting five weeks on them. On account of the great number
taking French this year, the books were out of print. Now that we have got our
books we can get down to business. I met Edna Krisgen in my corridor during
recess this noon. I gave her a copy of my play to read. I left school at
one-thirty and got over to the Goodspeed Co. at two o'clock. Believe me, but I
am certainly kept busy at the office. But I should worry as long as the old pay
days come around. I left the office at six and got home at six-thirty. Papa and
I drove home in the jitney. I decided that it was about time for me to remain
home for an evening so I did not go out after supper. Old Detroit is still
getting nearer to her Liberty Loan quota.
Friday Oct 4
I got to school just as the last bell was ringing this morning. Mr.
Willard is still home sick and this morning Mr. Chase, the History teacher, was
also sick. However there was a woman at school to take his place and our class
met as usual. My, but the history class was "dry and dead" this
morning. There was no life in it. Mr. Chase is the fellow to teach history. He
makes it so interesting that you can't help but learn your lesson. I would much
rather have a man teacher any day, except in one case, and that is the French
teacher, Miss Colborne. She is "some teacher." Northeastern played
Cass this afternoon but I did not get out to see the game. Cass has a pretty
fair football team and of course we had to lose again 19 to 0. I got over to the
office at one-thirty to-day and worked until five-thirty. Papa and I drove home
in the jitney again this evening. After supper, I went down to the Detroit and
ushered until the curtain went up. I then got a pass and went over to the
Garrick. "The Man Who Came Back" is playing there. It was the finest
dramatic play I have seen in some time. I don't care much for the movies
anymore. Not when I can see two good dramas every week. Well, it is midnight so
I guess I'll have to sign off for the night.
Saturday Oct 5
Saturday and I have done a good day's work to-day. I arrived at the
office at eight o'clock and worked until five-thirty. Nine and a half hours and
for six hours of that time, I got paid time and a half, forty-five cents per
hour. Oh boy, but I will have "some little pay day" next Tuesday.
Well, I was pretty tired when I got home this evening and did not feel like
dressing up and going out. However I walked over to church but that was the only
place I did go. I thought I would go down to McGraw's but was too tired. After I
got home from work I read for a while and then went upstairs and took a bath. I
thought I would get to bed early tonight but here it is almost eleven o'clock. I
don't know what it is to go to bed early any more. Detroit has raised
thirty-eight million so far towards her quota. This is over half and she expects
to have the quota over subscribed before the end of next week and we'll do it
too. The weather was fine all day to-day but tonight it commenced to get good
and I suppose tomorrow will be a cold damp day. There is an awful Spanish
influenza around this part of the country. Seventy died in one day at Camp
Custer. I have a cold and I guess I'll have to be getting after it. Now that I
am working I can't afford to be sick. Well, I guess it's good night now.
Sunday Oct 6
I got up and went to eight o'clock mass this morning. Fritz Monty came
over after the nine o'clock mass. He and Myrtle Barnes had been over at McGraw's
all night last night and he came over to our place from there. He stayed for
dinner and after dinner I went down to McGraw's with him. Genevieve and Myrtle
had just gone up to the theatre on Jefferson Ave. Fritz and I walked down to the
river and as we came back we stopped in the show. We sat just a few rows in
front of the girls. After the show, Fritz wanted to walk on and not wait for the
girls. I told him he could go on but I was going to wait for Genevieve.
Genevieve is having an awful time with her foot. She almost had blood poison.
The doctor has to operate on it next Wednesday. We got back to McGraw's about
five o'clock. Fritz and Myrtle left for home right away. After they had gone,
Mrs. McGraw said that Fritz wanted Myrtle to marry him next spring. But she says
Myrtle has does not care anything about Fritz and only goes with him because her
father makes her. Well, I know the girl that I will pick for my wife when the
time comes that I decide to marry. Some folks say that she is lazy and a dozen
other things. But to me she is the sweetest girl I have ever met. I got home
from McGraw's about six-thirty. Ate my supper and then took papa down to the
Madison. Will Rogers is playing there in Rex Beach's story "Laughing Bill
Hyde." It was fine.
Monday Oct 7
I arrived at school about eight o'clock this morning. To-day has been one
busy day for I did not go over to the shop this afternoon. It was nearly five
o'clock when I left school. My play is going to be presented tomorrow afternoon
and I stayed for the dress rehearsal this evening after school. At the end of
the sixth hour or about one-thirty, I got John Povlitz and he and I went up to
his place and got their Ford car. We then went around to several different
places and got furniture and other stuff for the play. We got back to school
about three-thirty and then I was supposed to have gone to town to get a
messenger uniform from the telegraph company. John and I started out but we had
only gone two blocks when we got two punctures, and went back to school. It was
then too late to go to town so I remained at school for the rehearsal. Believe
me but they have certainly got some actors for the parts. They certainly put
life into the play. Victor Adler and Albert Eikel, both from the same grade room
as I am in, play the two leading parts. If everything goes along as well
tomorrow as the rehearsal did to-day, it will be some play. Even if I do say so
myself. It was almost six o'clock when I got home. I did not go out after supper
but remained at home all evening and read. It is eleven o'clock now so good
night.
Tuesday Oct 8
Well, this has been the great day. I got down to school bright and early
this morning. I could hardly wait for the eighth hour to come, I was so anxious
to see how my play would be received by the teachers and students. I was in the
auditorium during the seventh hour, helping the fellows to make up. Well,
finally the hour arrived and the curtain went up. And talk about a play being a
success. "The Awakening" was certainly a success. It held everybody's
interest from the start to the finish. And the actors were just wonderful. I
have never seen such fine acting in amateurs. I sat up in the balcony and it
could hardly seem possible that the drama being enacted on the stage could have
been written by me, John Carrico. After the performance the applause was so
great that I finally had to go out on the stage. I did not have any speech
prepared but managed to say a few words. Every one of the teachers had to
congratulate me and they all said that it was the finest patriotic sketch they
have seen. I took some snapshots of the entire cast after the performance. Mama
was down to school to see the play this afternoon. This evening I went down to
usher at the Detroit. "Turn to the Right" is playing there this week.
It was great. I got mama a seat and after the curtain went up I sat down and saw
the entire show with her. We just got home and it is midnight. Well this is the
end of a perfect day. I have the honor of writing the first play to be presented
at Northeastern. They presented an opera last fall but my play was the first
drama written by a student to be presented.
Wednesday Oct 9
It has been nothing but receive congratulations from the time I arrived
at school this morning until I left this afternoon. I guess I surprised a good
many of the teachers. My English teacher said that it was the finest piece of
work she had ever seen that was written by a student. She said that there was
not a dull moment during the entire play and that it kept a person's interest
from start to finish. All of the teachers say that it should be presented again
and have it open to the public. Or else take it around and present it at some of
the High Schools. I don't know yet what they will do about it. Well it certainly
was a hard piece of work to write the play but now that it has been presented, I
feel amply repaid for the labor and time I spent on it. Up to yesterday I was
known by just a few at school but now there is not a single one in the entire
school but what knows who John Carrico is. I knew quite a few of the teachers
but now they all know me and I guess I will always be remembered as the boy who
wrote "The Awakening." I got over to the shop at two o'clock this
afternoon and worked until seven o'clock. I remained at home all evening.
Detroit is still trying hard to raise her Liberty Loan quota. The total up to
tonight is fifty-eight million and some dollars. Tomorrow is the last day of the
campaign and there is still sixteen more to raise. Tonight's paper says the
campaign will be extended.
Thursday Oct 10
Arrived at school in plenty of time this morning. All of my lessons were
O.K. I left the school at one-thirty and got over to the Goodspeed Company at
two o'clock and worked to five o'clock. While papa and I were waiting at Forest
and Brush Street for a Crosstown Car a man came along in a Ford touring car. He
stopped and asked us how far over we were going. When we told him, he said that
he was going out Kercheval past Pennsylvania Ave. So we jumped in and he rode us
all the way home. Well, old Detroit did not fall down on her Liberty Loan quota.
She went over the top at noon to-day. The Ford interests took five million more
and this raised the total over her quota of seventy-three million and some
dollars. When Detroit sets out to do a thing, she always does it. We were the
first big city to raise their quota and we have not only raised the quota but
have oversubscribed it by several thousands. This evening I went down to the
Opera House and ushered. When the curtain went up I got a pass and went over to
Garrick. "Rock-A-Bye Baby," a musical comedy is playing there. They
had a fine chorus but the show was nothing extra. I saw the same plot sometime
in a moving picture play called "Baby Mine." The story was exactly the
same and the only difference was that it was made into a musical comedy.
Friday Oct 11
Arrived at school in plenty of time again this morning. Miss Colbourne,
the French teacher, has got the Spanish influenza. There are a good many cases
in Detroit at the present time. If it doesn't get better the Board of Health
will close the churches and theatres. Lawrence has been sick for the last few
days. We had the doctor this morning and he said that he had the Spanish
influenza. However he has not got a very bad attack, so I guess there is not
much danger. It is terrible the way this disease is spreading throughout the
country. In some cities along the Atlantic coast the had to put the city under
martial law to prevent it from being carried to other cities. We had an
auditorium meeting this morning during the fourth period. Northeastern was just
a few hundred dollars behind her Liberty Loan quota. After the meeting all those
who thought they could go out and sell a bond were permitted to do so. Even
thought Detroit has raised her quota, the campaign will continue until tomorrow
noon. I left school at one-thirty to-day and got over to the office at two
o'clock. It was after seven o'clock when I got home. After I ate my supper, I
read until about half past nine and here I am all ready to turn out the light
and turn in. So Good-night and pleasant dreams.
Saturday Oct 12
Saturday and work all day. Papa has a terrible cold so he stayed home
yesterday and did not go to the office to-day. He said he was going to stay in
bed and not run any chances with getting the "Spanish flu." Lawrence
had pretty high fever all day to-day but it went down a little this evening. I
arrived at the shop at eight o'clock this morning and was busy every minute of
the time until I went home at four-thirty. Believe me, but there is an awful lot
of work in that little office. However, I should worry and I hope the work will
last. The more work, the more time I will have put in and the more time I put
in, the bigger pay day I will have. After I left the shop I went downtown and
got some developing supplies. Oh yes, I also got "my lady fair" a box
of Sander's caramels. It was six o'clock when I got home. After supper I walked
down to McGraw's. Mr. McGraw was out of the city but his brother and Mrs.
McGraw's sister were visiting them. Mrs. McGraw and her brother-in-law went down
to church and right when Genevieve and I were going to have a cozy little chat,
Old Mr. Fritz Monty had to come in. I don't see why he isn't satisfied with
Myrtle. It seems as though every time I am at McGraw's, he is always there.
Well, Genevieve promised she would go to the theatre with me tomorrow night. I
got home about ten o'clock and found Uncle Frank there. He came down from Flint
and will stay over tomorrow.
Sunday Oct 13
I got up and went to eight o'clock mass this morning. The entire McGraw
family was at that mass. This morning's paper had a report that Germany agreed
to all of President Wilson's demands. That would be fine if the report is true,
but the chances are that there is some Hun trick back of it. The only thing we
want is unconditional surrender. I printed some pictures from the negatives I
took down at school after the performance of my play. The pictures were all
good. I also printed an extra picture from the negatives. I wanted a copy of
each negative to show in mirror scope. I was busy all afternoon printing and
developing these pictures. There were over a hundred and fifty and then I didn't
print all of them. I left the house at six-thirty this evening and went down to
McGraw's. Genevieve and I left the house about seven-thirty and got downtown
about eight o'clock. We decided we would go to the Miles Theatre but when we got
there we found a line about a block long waiting to go in. We then went over to
the Temple but there was standing room only. We finally got in the Madison.
Wallace Reid and Ann Little in "The Man from Funeral Range" is showing
there this week. It was half past eleven when we got home. Genevieve promised
she would go to the Temple with me some night this week or next Sunday. It was
after midnight when I got home, but I should worry when I have been out with
Genevieve. Uncle Frank went home this evening.
Monday Oct 14
Arrived at school at eight-fifteen this morning. Mr. Chase, the history
teacher, was back this morning after being away all last week. I received a
service strip for having completed two terms of military training. For every two
terms you get a strip of braid to wear on the left sleeve of your cadet coat.
Our grade room, the James B. Angell house, sold the greatest amount of Liberty
Bonds during this last campaign. We hold first place at Northeastern. During the
Third Loan Campaign we also beat all the other grade rooms at Northeastern. Some
grade room I am in. We always take first place when anything is doing down at
school. I left school at one-thirty and got over to the office at two o'clock.
It was six-thirty when we left the office. I met Mr. Van Tassel (the principal
of our grade room) on the car. He was going over to school to teach in night
school. There was an "extra" out this evening, giving Wilson's answer
to the German note. It was some reply. Nothing but unconditional surrender goes.
We can give three cheers for Wilson! Believe me, but he has been some President.
When I got home this evening I found a letter from Harriet Owens, of Bedford,
Ind. She says that all the school and everything there are closed on account of
the "Spanish flu." Lawrence is a good deal better to-day. The number
of cases throughout the city is still increasing. Turned in at ten-thirty.
Tuesday Oct 15
As usual I arrived at school in plenty of time to-day. All of my lessons
were O.K. We received our report cards for the first time this semester. I only
received one "1." All the rest were "2's." Last year I only
received one "2" during the entire year. Oh well, a "2" is a
good mark, it is above ninety per cent. Now that I work every day I can't expect
to make such good grades. However if I make a grade of "2" throughout
my entire high school course I will be satisfied. I left school at noon to-day
and went downtown. Lieut. John Sousa is here to-day with his three-hundred piece
Jackie band. They gave a good concert this noon and another this evening. I
heard the noon concert. Believe me but it is certainly some band. I met papa
downtown and rode out to the shop with him. I worked until six o'clock and then
went downtown and got my supper. It was only about six-thirty then, so I went
into the Columbia Theatre until a quarter of eight. I then went over to the
Detroit Opera House and ushered. "A Tailor Made Man" is playing there
this week. It is an all around good American comedy drama. There was a laugh
every minute. At the same time the play was instructive. Well, it is after
midnight so I guess I had better turn and get a few hours sleep. So it is good
night. Oh no, I beg your pardon, it should be good morning. Well I got home
early this evening or morning.
Wednesday Oct 16
As usual - Hold on. I have got so in the habit of starting out this way
but I can't start this entry in this manner. I did not get up until almost eight
o'clock this morning and consequently I was about a half hour late for school.
Except for this fact my school day went along in the same old routine. I left
school at one-thirty and went over to the Goodspeed Co. and worked until six
o'clock. When I got home I had intended to remain at home all evening but mama
asked me if I would walk down to McGraw's with her. Of course, I accepted the
invitation. We found Fritz Monty there and Genevieve and John had gone up to the
show. We had not been there very long when Joe came down and said that we had
company at home. So mama had to leave but I stayed. Fritz has had a falling out
with Myrtle. He says that the Detroit girls are no good. Well, he seems to
forget that he is a foreigner and a good American girl can find plenty of
American boys. He may say that the Detroit girls are no good but I don't agree
with him. I know one girl that I think is everything a girl should be. To me she
is the sweetest girl in all the world and her name is Genevieve McGraw. Fritz
may say what he please but Genevieve is the girl for me. She promised to go to
the Temple Theatre with me Friday night. Mrs. McGraw is going to the country
tomorrow to get her mother. I got home at ten o'clock and went straight to bed.
Thursday Oct 17
Well I can get back to the usual opening again this morning. I arrived at
school at eight o'clock. Miss Colbourne, the French teacher, did not arrive at
school until almost the end of the first hour. So we did not have much of a
French class this morning. All of the rest of my lessons were O.K. and I left
school at the usual time, one-thirty. I worked at the office until five-thirty
and then down through town. I went in to Sanders Candy Store and got a pound box
of caramels for tomorrow night. I got two dandy balcony seats. There is nothing
too good that I can't do for Genevieve when I take her out. Believe me but she
is "one girl." I got home about seven o'clock and remained at home all
evening. I am going to start to write another play. Last winter Genevieve
started a fine story but never finished it. I have the unfinished story and
after reading it over, I find that with some changing the plot could be worked
out into a dandy play. So tomorrow night I am going to try and get Genevieve to
finish the story and then let me put it into a play. It's an Irish story and
believe me, Genevieve McGraw is right there when it comes to writing anything
Irish. I believe that I can write a fine play from the story. Since "The
Awakening" has been produced it is my one ambition to write a longer and
more dramatic play. And I believe that I can do it.
Friday Oct 18
Arrived at school in plenty of time again this morning. All of my lessons
were O.K. There was no military drill to-day and I was glad. Military training
is rotten this semester and if it does not get better by next semester, I am
going to drop it. I will join the Michigan State Troops and believe me, that is
when you get your military training. I left school at one-thirty and got over to
the Goodspeed Company and worked until about five-forty-five. On account of
having to wait for cars, we did not get home until almost seven o'clock. Believe
me, but it did take some hustling to get dressed and eat my supper and still get
down to McGraw's in time to keep my engagement with Genevieve. Well, I managed
to get down there by seven o'clock and then I had to wait about twenty minutes
for Genevieve. Mrs. McGraw left for the country yesterday and will bring her
mother back with her. Genevieve and I got down to the Temple just a few minutes
before the curtain went up. We had two fine seats in the balcony and the show
was extra good. Especially a musical comedy act called "The Only
Girl." Well, I am like the fellows in the show. I have found "The Only
Girl." I enjoyed the evening, especially because Genevieve was with me. She
also seemed to enjoy herself. But I don't know whether she enjoys my company the
way I do hers. We got home about eleven-thirty and it was after twelve when I
finally got home. The influenza is still spreading around the city and there is
some talk of closing the churches and the theatres and other public places.
Saturday Oct 19
Saturday and work all day. I managed to get over to the office by eight
o'clock. We were pretty busy all day and it was after five o'clock when I left
the office this afternoon. I then went downtown and bought a new dance record. I
intend to give a dance and party October 31st and I intend to get
several new dance records every week until then. I went through Crowley-Milner
& Co. and saw Myrtle Barnes. I don't believe she saw me and I was in too big
a hurry to stop and speak to her. I got home about seven o'clock and remained
home the rest of the evening. Well, I don't know what the people of Detroit will
do tomorrow. Word has been received from Gov. Sleeper and the State Board of
Health that, after midnight tonight, no church, theatre or other public place
will be allowed to open until further notice. This is done in order to prevent
the spread of the Spanish Influenza. It is beginning to get a pretty good hold
on Detroit and is beginning to get real serious. There won't be any mass
tomorrow morning and this will be the first time in years that mass was not said
on Sunday. They have lifted the gas-less Sunday ban but even then Detroit is
going to be a dead place tomorrow. Well they haven't passed a law as yet to keep
you from calling on your lady friend so I guess I will go down tomorrow night
and spend the evening in her company. Lawrence is up and around now after his
attack of influenza. I hope that none of the rest of us will catch it. In bed at
ten-thirty.
Sunday Oct 20
This has been some day. It opened with excitement. About five o'clock
this morning we heard the fire bell ring. We jumped up and ran outside and saw
that the fire was at Water Works Park. When we got down there we found that the
coal bunkers were burning. The firemen had a hard time to keep the flames from
reaching the engine and boiler room. If the flames had reached the boiler room,
it would have been "goodnight" for Detroit's water supply. They had
the fire pretty well under control by seven o'clock. When the wall fell it
buried two firemen, one was killed and the other is not expected to live. I went
home about seven-thirty and went back to bed and slept until eleven o'clock. The
engines were still working on the fire then and did not leave until three
o'clock. To-day has certainly been a dead day. No place to go to. There was no
mass this morning and not an amusement place open in the city. I spent the
afternoon in sending out the invitations to my party and in writing to Harriet.
Believe me, but I don't know what we would do if there were no movie shows or
theatres. Well, after supper I walked down to see Genevieve. Mr. McGraw went to
the country this morning. Their aunt is keeping house. Myrtle Barnes was also
there. I took our new record with me and Genevieve asked me to show Myrtle how
to fox trot. Well, we started dancing and kept it up until ten o'clock. This was
the first time I had ever danced with Genevieve. Myrtle can dance pretty fine.
Believe me, but Fritz doesn't know what a fine girl he has got, but just the
same I like Genevieve better. I had a fine evening and did not get home until
ten-thirty.
Monday Oct 21
Monday. School again. It seems as though they have closed about
everything else but the schools. Well, if the "Spanish flu" keeps
spreading the way it is, I don't believe it will be long before they close the
schools also. This epidemic is beginning to hit Detroit pretty hard and there
doesn't seem to be anything to prevent it from spreading. The doctors haven't so
far been able to find any serum with which to combat the disease. Paul took down
sick last night. His fever was 104° all day to-day. He has got a pretty bad
attack. I only hope and pray that none of the rest of us will take it. I arrived
at school in plenty of time this morning. There are a good many absent on
account of the Spanish "flu." I had all of my lessons O.K. and left at
the usual time, one-thirty and went over to the Goodspeed Company. I worked
until six o'clock and then went home. Since everything is shut up there was
nothing to do after supper but to remain at home. And this I did. I had a
drawing to make for mechanical drawing. So I made it and prepared my lessons for
tomorrow. If everything remains closed up all week I guess I will catch up some
of my sleep. For the last few weeks I have been out late almost every night but
now there is no place to go. And from the way the "flu" is spreading I
guess everything will remain closed for some time yet.
Tuesday Oct 22
I arrived at school in plenty of time this morning. All of my lessons
were O.K. This morning's paper said that all of the schools would close next
Thursday on account of the Spanish influenza. The number of cases is still
increasing every day. The reason they are going to close the schools is not
because they fear that by having the schools open it will spread the epidemic,
but the reason is that they need the teachers for nurses. There is an awful
shortage of nurses and the Board of Health intends to organize the public school
teachers into different groups. Each group to have a certain part of the city to
look after. In this way they hope to put a stop to the spread of the epidemic.
So far none of the rest of us have taken the disease and Paul is beginning to
feel better. His fever was pretty well down to-day. Well if they close the
schools now I suppose it will mean that we won't have any Christmas vacation. I
would much rather the schools remained open now and have our regular vacation at
Christmas. However we can't be choosers and have to take what is handed to us. I
left school at the usual time and got over to the office at two o'clock. I
worked until five-thirty and then went home. Since everything is closed up in
the city there was nothing else to do but stay at home all evening.
Wednesday Oct 23
I just did get to school on time this morning. The bell rang just as I
entered the door. We were to have had a review in our Geometry class this
morning. The test was to cover everything we have had since the first of the
year. Of course we were all worrying how we would come through the test but as
we entered the class, the two gongs rang, which meant an auditorium meeting.
Were we happy? Say, I don't believe the allies will be any happier when they
enter Berlin. Ensign Wilson, one of the teacher's husbands spoke. He is in the
Navy and talked about a sailor's life. He had some interesting facts but he was
a rotten speaker. But we could have listened to anybody talk, just so we could
get out of doing that geometry exam. The meeting lasted throughout the third
hour and almost all of the fourth. After the meeting we had a long recess and
then the day went on as usual. We had to write a theme for English to-day and
mine was chosen as the best. I have been trying and trying to think up a plot
for a Christmas play but so far I have been unable to manufacture one. I arrived
at the office at the usual time and worked until six o'clock. I spent another
evening at home. It is the only thing a fellow can do. There is no place you can
go to and you can't call on your girl every night. Well, I am hitting the hay
early tonight. It is only nine-thirty and I am ready to turn in.
Thursday Oct 24
Well, the schools were closed to-day and will remain closed indefinitely.
So we may have a long vacation ahead of us. But it will be a vacation that I
shall not enjoy. Paul is beginning to feel better but mama took down with the
influenza to-day. She has a pretty bad attack. Believe me, but things are pretty
bad when your mother is laid up. When she is well, you may at times think that
you could get along all right in case she was sick, but you soon find out who
your best friend is when she really does take sick and can't do for you. When I
got home from work tonight there was no supper ready and I had to pitch in and
prepare it and then in the morning there will not be any one to have breakfast
ready. Well we can put up with such inconvenience just so she gets well again. I
suppose we will all have an attack of the influenza. We have all been exposed to
it. The number of cases in Detroit is still increasing. I got over to the office
at the usual time and worked until five-thirty. Genevieve and Myrtle were coming
over tomorrow night but I went down to McGraw's after supper and told them not
to come on account of the influenza. Mrs. McGraw's mother was there and Mr.
McGraw has gone to Vermont to work. He left last Tuesday. Well, I hope he
doesn't decide to send for his family. I don't know what I should do if
Genevieve was to leave the city. Well I guess I will close this
"imperfect" day and here's hoping that tomorrow will be brighter.
Friday Oct 25
Just another day like yesterday. I had to get up at six-thirty and got
breakfast ready. Oh boy, but I did hate to get up. My, but the old bed certainly
did feel mighty good. I had intended to go to work this morning and work all
day, but fate took a hand in the game and said otherwise. Papa went to work this
morning while I stayed at home and kept house. Believe me, but keeping house is
no easy job. Papa came home at noon and I then went over to the office. I worked
until six o'clock and then went home. We managed to scare up some supper. But oh
boy, it was some supper. We fried some potatoes and forgot to put salt or pepper
on them. Well I guess we won't starve. Tonight was the night that Genevieve and
Myrtle were coming over. We were going to take up the rug and have a little
dance. Well, this is certainly a strange old world. You never know from the one
day to the next what is going to happen. There was no dancing at our house this
evening. Mama was feeling about the same this evening. So far none of the rest
of us have caught the "flu." My head is aching this evening and I feel
rotten all over. Therefore I am hitting the bed early. I just wonder if I am
catching the "flu." I hope not. Well, I'm not going to worry. If I'm
going to get it, I'm going to get it and that's all there is to it. But I would
rather not get it.
Saturday Oct 26
Saturday. I got up at six-thirty again this morning and between all of us
we managed to get some breakfast. I guess I'm not going to take the
"flu" yet for awhile. I was able to get up this morning and except for
a slight headache, I felt all right. The number of cases in the city are still
decreasing and Board of Health believes that the worst has past. However the
papers said that the churches and theatres would not be allowed to open until
about the middle of November. If the number of cases still decreases next week,
the schools will probably reopen some time next week. Papa had the jitney home
all night so we both drove to work this morning. Papa went home about ten
o'clock but I worked all day. At noon, Mr. Moulton, the superintendent, drove me
uptown in his automobile. I got my dinner downtown and remained down until
almost three o'clock. I went in to the Library to get several books. I also went
into Sanders and got a pound box of candy for the "sweetest girl in
Detroit." Now that the theatres are closed I can't invite her to go out
with me so I have to get her something to keep her from forgetting me. I got
back to the office a little after three and worked until four. I then went home
and remained home the rest of the evening, except for a trip to the drug store.
Mama is feeling a little better this evening and her temperature has dropped to
a 101°.
Sunday Oct 27
No church again this morning My, but it certainly does seem mighty funny
not to go to church on Sunday morning. The number of influenza cases are still
decreasing but the health officers say that the ban on public places will not be
lifted until at least the middle of November. Goodnight! Two whole more weeks
with everything closed. I got up about half past nine this morning. Mama is
still beginning to feel better, however she still has some fever. We had dinner
about half past two. I remained at home all afternoon but this evening I went
down to McGraw's. I took Genevieve the box of candy that I bought yesterday.
"A box of sweets for the sweetest girl in Detroit." Fritz and Myrtle
were also there. I guess Fritz is going to marry Myrtle. At least they talk as
though they were going to "hitch up." After I had been there about an
hour, we all walked up to the candy store. It was a dandy night for walking,
especially when you have such a fine companion with you. When we got back the
entire evening was spoilt by a remark that Genevieve made. Genevieve is Irish
and she made a remark in fun, that Mrs. McGraw did not like. I don't blame
Genevieve at all. Her mother can't take a joke. Mrs. McGraw said that she and
Mr. McGraw had decided that they would only keep Genevieve until she was 18 and
then she would have to shift for herself. There was no harm in what Genevieve
said but her mother is too serious. Well, if they won't keep Genevieve after she
is 18. Well, I will be twenty-one by that time and shall be looking for some one
who will take me for better or for worse and perhaps - ? Well, who can tell what
is in store for us?
Monday Oct 28
I got up at six-thirty and got my own breakfast. I got over to the office
about eight-thirty. Believe me but I certainly consider myself lucky to have a
job at which I can work during the time that the schools are closed. This
morning's paper said that the epidemic was still decreasing and if it kept on
decreasing the teachers would be disbanded and the schools reopened next
Wednesday. The teachers have been a great help in combating the epidemic. I was
busy at the office all day. At noon papa rode me over to Woodward Ave. and Grand
Blvd. I got my dinner there and then walked by to the office. Papa went on home
and remained at home until about three o'clock. When he got back he called up
the Red Cross headquarters and told them to send a nurse out to our house
tomorrow morning. He certainly is scared of the Spanish influenza. I never saw
anyone so scared as he is. If fright will make you sick, well I do believe he
will catch the "flu" as sure as anything. There is no sense in anyone
getting so scared. There is not much danger to the "flu" if a person
takes care of himself. I remained at the office until six o'clock and then went
home and helped get the supper. After supper I read for awhile and now am ready
to hit the hay. And I certainly do hope that the rest of us will escape the
"flu" or that the "flu" will escape us.
Tuesday Oct 29
All of us overslept this morning and did not get up until seven o'clock.
I hustled and got my breakfast and managed to get over to the office a little
after eight o'clock. Papa did not go to the office until noon to-day. Believe
me, but there is a plenty of work at the office to keep me busy. And Oh boy! but
I will have some pay day next week. I intend to work every day this week unless
something unforeseen turns up. By working all day I will earn on an average of
three dollars a day. Well, it will all come in handy. To-day was pay day at the
office and we were busier than usual. I did not leave the office until after six
o'clock. When I got home I helped to prepare supper. Believe me but we are
becoming pretty expert cooks. Well, this training may come in handy later. I
don't know what kind of a cook Genevieve is and if - ? Oh, well, any girl can
learn how to cook if she has to. The Red Cross sent a nurse out for three hours
this morning. Mama did not have any fever at all to-day so I guess she is
getting along all right. Papa is still worrying about catching the
"flu." I guess if he keeps on worrying, he will be sure to catch it. I
remained at home all evening and now at eleven o'clock I am ready for bed. So
good-night and pleasant dreams.
Wednesday Oct 30
Another day gone by. I certainly did hate to get up this morning. I was
up several times last night and did not get a good night's sleep. In fact I
haven't had a good night's sleep for a week. Since mama has been sick, I have
had to get up several times during the night and fix medicine. Believe me, but
it is no joke to have to get up during the middle of the night and try to fix
some medicine while you are half asleep. Well, I finally did manage to pull out
of bed at seven o'clock and hustled and got my own breakfast and managed to get
over to the office a little after eight o'clock. I certainly was busy all day at
the office. Papa wasn't feeling very good this afternoon so he went on home
about three o'clock. He is scared to death he is going to get the
"flu." I stayed at the office and worked until seven o'clock. I rode
home with Mr. Moulton, the factory superintendent, who lives a few blocks out
past our home. It certainly was a fine evening for driving in an automobile.
Well, when I got home I found more trouble. Papa was laid up in bed and has a
temperature of 101°. However I believe his fever is from nervousness. He has
been awful scared of the "flu" and I just believe he has worried and
it has caused a slight fever. Goodnight! if papa is laid up. We have trouble
enough as it is without any more patients being added to our sick list.
Thursday Oct 31
What a strange person, Fate is. We never know what she has in store of
us. Here it is Hallowe'en. A week ago I was planning to have a party and dance
tonight. And tonight -? We never know what is in store for us. Oh, well, such is
life. Here we are instead of having a party tonight, we have a house full of
sickness. Papa's temperature was still a hundred and one this morning and he did
not attempt to get up and go to work. I got up at seven o'clock this morning and
of course I got my own breakfast again. (I am getting pretty handy at getting my
own breakfast.) I got over to the office at about eight-fifteen. It was another
busy day and it was six o'clock before I started for home this evening. I rode
home with Mr. Moulton again. It is pretty handy to have someone to drive you
home and not have to wait on the streetcars. After supper I had to go over to
the drugstore and call up the doctor. I stole a few minutes of time and ran down
to McGraw's to let them know how we are. I would have liked to have spent the
entire evening with Genevieve but there was too much work at home. About two
months ago I made a bet with Genevieve that she would not be sleeping out on
their sleeping porch by Nov. 1st. Well, if she sleeps out there
tonight I lose my dollar. But what's a dollar when you give it to so "fair
a person." Well, here's the end of 1918 Hallowe'en. We had a grand
party. Oh yes! Very good! It was wonderful!
Friday, Nov 1
All Saints Day. There was no mass in any of the churches this morning.
Even though the number of influenza cases is still decreasing, the Board of
Health will not lift the ban. And Gov. Sleeper says that it will not be lifted
until a week from Sunday. However, the schools will reopen next Monday. I went
through the same old routine again this morning. Up at seven, got my own
breakfast and then to work. Papa's temperature was down to ninety-nine this
morning. He hasn't got the "flu." He has just got a bad cold, and
nervousness caused his temperature to rise. He was up reading when I got home
from work this evening. Mama also got up for the first time to-day. So I guess
everything will settle down again. I worked until after seven o'clock this
evening and it was after eight when I got home. Believe me but I am tired this
evening but I will have "some little pay day" next Tuesday. I will
draw pretty near to twenty dollars for this weeks work, so I guess it is worth
it. I certainly am mighty thankful that I have a position at which to work. The
money certainly comes in handy. When I got home this evening... a long newsy
letter from Harriet Owens. She certainly writes the most interesting letters and
in this one she got real formal. Well it is almost midnight so I guess I'll end
the day. It is getting real cold outside but inside things are beginning to look
brighter now that mama is able to be up.
Saturday, Nov 2
Saturday again. Which means work all day. Well, I am a good deal better
off this Saturday than I was a week ago to-day. A week ago to-day I had to get
up and get my own breakfast, this morning my breakfast was all ready for me when
I got down. I got over to the office exactly at eight o'clock. Papa did not go
to work again this morning. He is trying awfully hard to get sick. However he
was well enough to go downtown this afternoon. I worked at the office all day,
and did not leave until half past four. I have finished a good weeks work and
will have a pretty nice little pay day next Tuesday. From the office I went
downtown. I got a haircut and went into Grinnell Bros. and sent Harriet Owens
some music. I also got Genevieve a piece. I got home from town about half past,
ate my supper, cleaned up and went down to McGraw's. Genevieve was not home when
I got there but she came in shortly. Fritz and Myrtle said they would be there
tonight but they didn't show up. While I was there Genevieve's aunt, who is
visiting them, threw her arm out of place. However we fixed it up all right
without having to call the doctor. I left for home about ten o'clock. Well, I
guess there'll not be any church tomorrow. The ban is still on.
Sunday, Nov 3
Sunday. The third Sunday without church. My, if the churches don't soon
open, I'll be a regular heathen. I did not get up until ten-thirty this morning.
I read and worked at some of my lessons all morning (that is what was left of
the morning after I got up). The schools will reopen tomorrow morning and I have
got a bunch of work to do that the teachers assigned for us to do during the
"vacation." I have left my work go until now. Oh, well, I should
worry. They shouldn't expect us to study when there is no school. We had dinner
about two o'clock and after dinner I walked down to McGraw's. I met Genevieve,
John, their aunt, and Mr. Whitney, a friend of theirs, on their way to Water
Works Park. I just walked on down through the park with them and then went on
home with them. I stayed and had supper with them and after supper Genevieve and
I came over to our place. Fritz and Myrtle were to have come over but they
didn't show up. We played Pedro all evening and I had Genevieve for a partner. I
took Genevieve home about ten o'clock. She has got a new coat and she certainly
does look fine in it. She is the one girl in Detroit and the "only
Girl." I hope that she will never again get angry at me and that we will
always be friends until some day a few years from now. Genevieve promised that I
could have next Sunday evening and if the theatres are open, we are going to
celebrate. It has rained nearly all day. But I have seen sunshine all day.
Monday, Nov 4
The schools are open again. However I did not go to school this morning.
I had to go downtown and get my shoes half soled. I also had to see about my
Liberty Bond. I got downtown about a quarter to nine. While downtown I went into
Sander's to get a box of caramels; no not for lady-fair this time, but for my
other sweetheart, my mother. It has been some time since I got her a box.
However I must get Genevieve a box of chocolate. She has slept out on her
sleeping porch ever since we made the bet, so I have lost my bet. Genevieve
would not take the dollar and I told her I would get her a box of chocolates. As
I was coming out of Sander's, I met Myrtle Barnes. She said her mother would not
let her come over last night because she thought papa had the "flu."
Myrtle showed me a ring she was wearing. Fritz gave it to her so it looks as
though they were serious. Myrtle is only seventeen and awful young to get
married. I believe she ought to wait a few years. I got over to the Goodspeed
Co. about ten o'clock and worked until six-thirty. When I got home I found a
postal from John Povlitz. He enlisted in the Marines last summer but they placed
him on a waiting list on account of being only 16. The last time I saw John was
before the schools closed and I did not know he had to go until I got the card.
I certainly was surprised and would have liked to see John before he left. Well,
I received my draft questionnaire to-day but we will have to wait until tomorrow
as this page is almost filled. In bed at eleven-thirty.
Tuesday, Nov 5
Well, I started back to school again this morning. Everything is about
the same except that there are a few more faces missing. There have been about
five fellows to enlist within the last two weeks. John's card was a real
surprise to me. We have known each other for about eight years and I hate it so
bad that he did not have time to see me before he left. My, but I wish I were
with him. Well, perhaps I will be before long. As I said yesterday I received my
questionnaire. It is Serial No. 620 Order No. 3107. I intend to waiver all
exemption claims and to file an affidavit stating that I will be and am ready to
leave at any time. So far I have not been able to decide the question whether to
enlist or remain in school. By waiving all exemption claims I will put it up to
Uncle Sam, if he wants me I will go. And I wish they would take me. I would give
anything to go. I left school at one-thirty and got over to the Goodspeed Co. by
two o'clock. To-day was pay day. I drew over eighteen dollars for last week's
work. A pretty good pay day. I left the shop at five-thirty and rode home in Mr.
Moulton, the superintendent's, automobile. I remained at home all evening.
To-day was election day. And a pretty hot political fight has been going on.
Couzens, one of Detroit's millionaires, and Connolly are running for mayor. Ford
and Newberry are fighting for Senator. I guess Ford will get it, but you can
never tell until after the election. Well it is eleven o'clock so me for slumber
land. Good-night.
Wednesday, Nov 6
I arrived at school about eight o'clock this morning. Everything went
along in the same old way. Major Willard told me that he was soon going to
appoint another lieutenant for the cadet corps and said that I stood a pretty
fair chance of getting it. Oh boy, but don't I wish and hope I would get the
appointment. It's something I've been waiting for, for a long time. Believe me,
but won't 'yours truly' work hard. I'll show them something about military
training. I left school at the usual time one-thirty to-day and got over to the
office about two o'clock. I did not start for home until a quarter to seven and
it was almost eight when I got home. I was pretty tired when I got home so
remained in all evening. To-day, the ban on public places was lifted. All of the
theatres opened and believe me but there were some crowds waiting in front of
all of them. I had intended to go to one myself but was too tired. They have
been shut for over three weeks. It certainly is a long time to go without a show
of some kind. Well, I suppose we are just as well off but just the same I
wouldn't want them to close for all the time. I spent the evening in preparing
my lessons and reading. And now at nine-thirty I am ready for bed.
Thursday, Nov 7
Oh, boy! But this has been a wonderful day. I arrived at school about
eight o'clock and everything went along as usual until about one o'clock when
all of a sudden all the factory whistles started to blow and the church bells to
ring. We couldn't imagine what was the matter until one of the teachers came
racing through the corridors shouting that an armistice had been signed and that
the Germans agreed to all the Allies' terms. I hustled downtown and My, but what
a mob. Words can't describe the sight. It was H--L let loose! The streets were
packed with people. The air was filled with confetti. Everybody was shouting and
blowing horns or making some kind of noise. And everybody had but the one
thought: Peace had again been restored to earth after four years of war. Believe
me but it was a sight. I went home about four o'clock. After supper I went down
to McGraw's. I paid the debt that I owed Genevieve by taking her a box of
chocolates. I wanted her to go downtown with me but she was afraid of the crowd.
We walked over to a place near Mack Ave. for Mrs. McGraw. We then went out to
the Regent Theatre. "His County First" is playing there. As we were
coming out of the theatre, I got a morning paper. It said the report about peace
was not official and was false. What a blow! When we got downtown, the crowd was
beginning to break up. Well, the people have had their celebration. When I got
home I found papa waiting for me. He saw an ad in the evening paper about a new
training camp being opened in California and he said that if I wanted to go I
could. Oh boy! but I am happy now I can enlist. I hope that I will be able to
pass the exams.
Friday Nov 8
Well, Old Detroit has settled down again. It certainly was a sight to let
a report get out like the one yesterday and then to say it was false. Well,
there is some hope. This morning's paper said a revolution had broken out in
Germany and that the people had given the Kaiser until Saturday night to resign.
The Allies have given him until six o'clock Monday morning to sign the armistice
terms of the Allies. I did not go to school to-day but went downtown to see
about that ad I saw in last night's paper. It said that the first of December a
new training camp would be opened in California. Any man between 18 to 46 could
enter and with two months' training he would receive a second lieutenant's
commission, providing of course that he can pass all the exams. It is a dandy
opportunity for a young fellow like me. Well, I got up good and early and took
my questionnaire over to the draft board. I then went down to tell McGraw's that
I was going to try and enlist and then I hit the recruiting office. The
lieutenant in charge told me I would have to get three letters from three
reliable persons and after I got the letters to come back Monday morning. Well,
I went out to school and got Mr. Novak and Mr. Willard had to give me a letter.
I then went downtown and got my dinner and then went out to the office. When I
told Mr. Ramsey, the general manager of the office, that I wanted him to give me
a letter and upon me telling him the lieutenant's name, I found that Mr. Ramsey
and the lieutenant were personal friends. So if pull has anything to do I ought
to get in if I can pass the exams. After supper this evening I went down to the
Opera House to usher. "Twin Beds," a comedy, is playing there. It was
fine.
Saturday Nov 9
Saturday, and work all day again. I overslept this morning and did not
get to the office until half past eight. Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper, only worked
until noon so I only worked until about half past three. I then went downtown.
Genevieve promised that she would go to the theatre with me tomorrow night. So
of course I had to get a box of chocolates for "lady fair." They are
beginning to know me in Sanders. I go in there so often to buy candy. And the
expense - Oh well, I should worry about the expense. Look who the girl is that I
buy chocolates for. There is nothing too much that I can do or get for her. She
is "the one girl" in all Detroit. I wonder what Genevieve will do when
she finds out that I am going to try and enlist. I wonder who will then buy her
candy and take her to the theatre. Well, our country comes first, last and
always and if they will take me, I am going to go. I had intended to go to
church downtown this afternoon but there was too big a crowd in the church so I
came on home. I got home about five o'clock. After supper, I went over to the
Annunciation. My, but there was a crowd there. I left the church about eight
o'clock and went home. Fritz and Myrtle said they were coming over this evening
but again they did not keep their appointment and did not show up. Well, it is
after ten o'clock so I guess I'll turn in.
Sunday Nov 10
Sunday, and we had church again this morning. Just think, we went three
Sundays without any church, and of course without the theatre also. I got up and
went to the eight o'clock mass. None of the McGraw's were at that mass. When I
got home from church I cleaned up the downstairs for mama and then read until
dinner. This morning's paper reported that the Kaiser and his royal family had
abdicated and that the Kaiser was in Holland. Well, in the morning we will find
out if they are going to agree to the Allies' terms. The time is up at six in
the morning. After dinner I went down to McGraw's. I took my camera and took
some pictures. Mrs. McGraw and her sister went over to our place and Genevieve
and I kept house. I stayed for supper and about seven o'clock Fritz and Myrtle
came over. Genevieve went upstairs to dress about six o'clock. When she came
down Fritz was there. When he saw Gen. he said he didn't blame me for going with
her. Such a girl! She was just wonderful. She was dressed in a blue silk dress
and had on her new coat. She wore her mother's hat and would have easily passed
for eighteen or nineteen. Well, I can't find the words to describe her. It was
enough to start anybody's heart to thumping. We went to the Miles Theatre and
got a box. The show was not extra and do I care about the show when there is
such a fair queen sitting beside me. O! Genevieve, you are the only girl and
it's not my fault that I have gone crazy over you.
Monday Nov 11
Peace on earth, Good will towards all men.
Once more these lines are true.
Blessed Peace has come. Thank God.
Nov. 11 - 1918 - The most wonderful day the earth has beheld for a good many ages. A day that will go down in history. At about three o'clock this morning we were all still in the land of nod when suddenly the silence was broken by the blowing of whistles and the ringing of bells. It could mean only one thing - Peace - and Peace it did mean. And it is true this time; it is officially announced that the Germans signed the armistice at 2:45 this morning, our time 11:00 o'clock French time and the fighting ceased at six o'clock, our time. The Germans agreed to all the Allies' terms. The Kaiser has fled to Holland and a revolution has broken out in all parts of Germany. And after four years of warfare the earth will again have Peace. The celebration last Thursday was tame compared to the one of to-day. As soon as the word was received, people commenced to pour into the heart of the city. The mayor at once declared the day a holiday. All the factories and everything closed. I got to town about half past eight and found the downtown district packed. And such noise! I went over to Windsor, Canada and it was just as bad there. Here at home it seemed as though everybody had gone downtown. I went home for dinner at noon and after dinner Lawrence and I went back to town. A big peace parade was to be held at three o'clock. Lawrence and I got a place up in Grand Circus Park. We were just across from the New Fyfe & Co.'s new building. On one corner is the Fyfe Building, across from it the M.E. Church, then on the same side as the church only on the other corner is the Madison Theatre building, across from the Madison is the David Whitney Bldg. Grand Circus Park is located between the four corners. About half past two someone shouted "There come the aeroplanes." We all looked up and there were four little specks in the sky. They kept getting nearer and finally we could see the men in the machines, they were so near. The four machines kept circling above our heads, diving and spinning and doing all the different tricks. There was one machine that was more daring than all the rest. This fellow would start away up high and start spinning to the earth and when he got as low as the tree tops he would shoot up again. It was terrible the way he acted. Everybody was holding their breath. He would come shooting down Woodward Ave. as low as the telegraph wires, and would dodge in and out between the buildings. At this time the mounted police, leading the parade, had reached Grand Circus. Nobody was watching the parade, all eyes were on this daring aviator who was playing with fate. So daring did he become that the parade when it reached Grand Circus, came to a standstill and all eyes were turned upwards. Everybody was cheering and yelling. The observer of the machine leaned over the side of the machine and waved his hand to the multitude. It seems as though the aviator could not be satisfied with the stunts he was doing but had to keep doing more daring ones. Everybody's heart was in their mouth for fear that the next second, he would come crashing to the earth amid the wreak of his machine. The aviator came racing down Woodward Ave., as low as the tree tops. He just missed striking the steeple of the M.E. Church, he shot across Grand Circus Park up and over the Madison theatre building and around the David Whitney, again across the park, all this time the people were cheering and the observer was leaning over the side of the machine, waving his hand. The aviator intended to over up and over the Fyfe building. It seemed as though he would make it all right, when all of sudden there was a crash. The people turned away in horror, they knew what was coming. It was terrible. My God! I hope I shall never again see such a sight. It just made me sick. Everybody so happy and cheering and then that crash. The left wing of the machine had struck a rope fastened to the flagpole on the new Fyfe building. The machine wavered in mid-air for a few seconds and it seemed as though everything was all right. Then it turned and started on its wild dive to the earth. The aviator shut off his engine and the machine flew two blocks up Woodward and was over to the next street. Then it plunged through a two-story brick house. The house had a flat roof and the machine shot through to the second floor. The motor fell all the way to the basement. I was one of the first to get to the house, but thousands soon collected. They had to call the fire dept. to get the men out. The pilot, Lieut. Morrow was unconscious but he died a few minutes after being removed from the wreckage. The observer, a civilian by the name of Brown, was not killed and it is believed he will live. It was twenty minutes before they could get the men to remove them. The Lieut. having shut off his motor prevented the engine from exploding and setting fire to the machine and house. It certainly was the most terrible thing I have ever seen and ever want to see. Lawrence and I left the house after the men had been removed and went back up town. The parade was all over so we went into the Miles Theatre. The show was fine, but always there was before me the sight of that machine plunging to the earth. Believe me, but it certainly was terrible. After the show Lawrence and I walked around the town. About nine o'clock we were up near Gratiot and Broadway, when who should we see but Myrtle Barnes. Oh no, Fritz wasn't with her. She had another beau. And her beau was a soldier. We saw them as they were crossing the street to go into a restaurant. Lawrence and I waited outside until they came and then as we did not have anything else to do, we followed them around town. I believe they knew that they were being followed because they acted as though they were trying to shake us. They finally got on a Hamilton car and I suppose they went home. I am sure it was Myrtle Barnes and the soldier was a fine-looking fellow. I wonder where Fritz was all evening. He had better look out or is he going to lose her. It was about ten o'clock when Myrtle got on the car, after that Lawrence and I went back up to the center of the city. Such a crowd! People were dancing in the center of the street and celebrating in every possible manner. The Liberty Band had just finished playing and then they went over to Canada. Lawrence and I started for home about half past ten and at that time there was no sign of the crowds breaking up. I suppose they will celebrate all night. Well, it certainly has been a day for celebrating. After four years of war and then peace. Again, Liberty, Freedom and Democracy triumphs. Old glory has gone through another war without meeting defeat and may she, with God's help, never meet defeat. May she always stand for what is right and for the principles of Freedom and Liberty. We can take our hats off to our President, Mr. Woodrow Wilson. Mr. Wilson, you kept us out of war as long as you could and when the time finally did come for us to defend our rights, you did not hesitate. To you, we owe our thanks. Under your guidance we have made the 'World Safe for Democracy.' The American people owe you one thing in thanks for the way you have protected our principles and that thing is 'Put Him In Again.' You deserve the honor of serving another and third term and if it is God's will, I hope you will get. Well, I must close this wonderful and glorious day. And thanks be to God for sending us Peace again and may the sword never again be lifted unless it is in another right cause and there may we obtain victory in Liberty's name.
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The Fyfe & Co. Building in February, 2001. The lower level is now Sibley's Shoes.
Tuesday Nov 12
Oh, but how I did hate to get up this morning. I was laying there in bed
so nice and cozy when all of a sudden there came mother's voice saying,
"You Gotta Get Up, You Gotta Get Up his Morning." (Apologies to Irving
Berlin, the song writer, for using his bugle call song.) So up I got but my, but
how my head did ache. I guess I felt just like a person would "The Morning
After!" Well, I did not go to school to-day but went downtown this morning.
Everything was all cleaned up downtown and a person would never know that
Detroit had gone wild yesterday. To-day's papers say that the revolutionists are
beginning to get control in Germany. The old Kaiser really is in Holland.
However the Dutch don't want him so I guess he'll have to get out or else
Holland will intern him as an enemy alien. He'll be the man without a country. I
went out to the shop from town and started work at twelve o'clock. To-day was
pay day again, the day I like to see come around. I got home about seven o'clock
this evening and remained at home the rest of the evening. I received a letter
from Harriet Owen and also one from John Povlitz. John says he likes a Marine's
life fine. Well, I guess I won't get to go to California. Since peace has been
declared the government is not going to hold the camp in California. In fact,
they are not going to hold any of the training camps.
Wednesday Nov 13
Well, I got back to school again this morning after my little vacation.
Everything is the same. I don't know whether I will finish High School or not.
At times I feel as though I would give anything to be out working all the time.
Oh, well I guess I will finish this term anyhow. Lawrence has been wanting to
quit all along and doesn't seem to like school. So finally this morning he did
go up to the Charlemers Co. and got a job. I guess I will go on with my
schooling as long as I can work after school. But if anything was to happen to
prevent me from working after school, I believe I would leave school and go to
work. If a fellow wants to take a girl out, he needs money and there are a
thousand and one other things that take money. Believe me, they say the city
schools are free. Well they are free but there are a whole lot of side things
that cost. I put in the usual hours at the office and after supper I went down
to McGraw's. Mrs. McGraw's mother is out to Barnes' and Mrs. McGraw, her sister
and John were getting ready to go to see "The Birth of A Nation."
Genevieve and I saw the picture last winter so she stayed at home and was glad I
came over to keep her company. We went down to the Gladwin Park Theatre to see
Doug Fairbanks in "Bound in Morocco." We got home about ten-thirty.
The folks were not home yet so I sat down with Genevieve to wait. I began to see
that Genevieve was getting sleepy so I left for home about eleven-thirty.
Thursday Nov 14
I was late for school this morning. However it was not so very late and
as I am not in the habit of being late, Mr. Van Tassel, the grade principal, did
not say anything when he gave me a tardy excuse. Everything was the same at
school. I had all my lessons all right. From the way Major Willard has been
talking, I feel pretty confident that I will be the next lieutenant appointed. I
left school at the usual time, one-thirty, and got over to the shop about two
o'clock. I did not go home to supper but worked until seven o'clock and then
went down to get my supper. I went over to the box office of the Garrick to get
two tickets for Fritz and also two for myself for Sunday night. The sweetest
girl in town has promised that I may have the honor of taking her to the theatre
and believe me, but I consider it some honor. I then went over to usher at the
Opera House. And by doing so I saved the evening. For some reason or other only
three ushers had shown up and they were needed downstairs so that left the chief
usher to handle to entire balcony. He certainly was glad to see me show up. And
believe me but we were on the jump the entire evening. Chauncy Alcott in
"The Voice of McConnell" by Geo. M. Cohan is playing there. It
certainly is one dandy Irish comedy. Well it is after midnight so Bonne nuit.
Friday Nov 15
Well I was in plenty of time for school this morning. It was about eight
o'clock when I arrived at school. I had all of my lessons all right and
everything went along in the same old way. Friday is off day for military
training so we did not have any drill to-day. I left school at one-thirty and
got over to the Goodspeed Co. at two o'clock. I left the office about
five-thirty and made good connections in going home and got home about
six-thirty. Fritz and Myrtle and Genevieve said they would be over this evening,
so right after supper I took up the rug in the parlor and waxed the floor for
dancing. Genevieve came over about seven o'clock and Fritz about seven-thirty
but there was no Myrtle with him. He said that when he had gone out to get
Myrtle this evening, he found that she had gone out with someone else. I suppose
it was the same soldier who was with her the other night. I am disappointed that
Myrtle did not come but we hade a fine time anyhow. Genevieve and I were the
only ones who could dance and we tried to teach Lawrence and Fritz. Genevieve is
certainly some girl to dance with. After dancing we played Pedro and then danced
again. The party broke up about ten-thirty and I escorted Genevieve home. I
wonder if Myrtle will keep her date for Sunday night and go to the theatre with
us. Well, it is almost midnight so good night.
Saturday Nov 16
Saturday - which as usual means work all day. Well, I got up pretty early
this morning, considering at what time I got to bed last night. It was somewhere
near seven o'clock when I got up and I managed to get over to the office a
little before eight o'clock. Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper, went home at noon but I
remained and put in a good afternoon's work. It was a quarter of five when I
rang out. I took the street car and went downtown. I went in to Sander's Candy
Store and got a box of candy for tomorrow night. Believe me, with the seats and
candy it will cost me something for tomorrow night. But I should worry, look who
the girl is. I would do anything just so Genevieve will have a good time when I
ask her out, no matter how much it will cost me. I don't believe in being stingy
when you ask a girl out. I also bought several pieces of music to send to
Harriet Owen. Bedford is so slow that they don't get the late pieces until about
three months after we do, so I intend to send Harriet the late pieces. I got
home from town about six-thirty. I did not go out after supper but remained at
home and printed the pictures I took at McGraw's last Sunday. Four of the
negatives were good, especially one of them with Genevieve. The picture of
Genevieve was fine and I must take one of her alone. It has been some time since
I got a picture of Genevieve.
Sunday Nov 17
I was lazy this morning and did not get up until almost ten o'clock. I
then took a bath. I had to go to the twelve o'clock mass this morning and I
believe it is the first time I have ever gone to this mass. I remained at home
all afternoon reading and writing. I wrote to John Povlitz and Harriet Owen. It
rained all day and was an awful day out. Bishop Gallagher, the successor to
Bishop Foley who died last spring, came to the city this afternoon. In spite of
the rain a large parade and reception was held in his honor. However I did not
attend it. I went down to McGraw's about six-thirty and arrived at the theatre
just as the curtain was going up. Fritz and Myrtle were all ready there.
Genevieve looked so stunning and beautiful as ever. I don't know how she enjoyed
the play but from the way she laughed, I imagined that she did. At the end of
the first act my handkerchief was wet, I laughed so hard it caused tears. The
pay was the third in the Potash & Perlmutter series. "Business Before
Pleasure" is the name. In this play the two partners have left the cloak
business and gone into the film-producing or movie industry. I have seen the
first two plays of this series but this latest one has the other two beat. I've
never seen such comedy. The house was in a roar all the time. The play was out
at eleven o'clock and I got Genevieve home about half past eleven; however it
was midnight before I got home, and there goes the engine house bell striking
one o'clock so I must turn in.
Monday Nov 18
The beginning of another new week. And it is the twelfth week of school.
This term is over half gone all ready. The cards will be marked for the second
marking on Wednesday and Thursday. I wonder how I will come out this time. I
must admit that I have not been devoting as much time to my lessons as I should.
I just don't have the time to devote to them. With working every day after
school and then a fellow in the evening wants a little recreation, all of my
time is taken up. However I will be satisfied if I receive an average of two's,
which means above ninety in all my subjects. A one is above ninety-five. I
arrived at school in plenty of time this morning. Everything was as usual and I
left at the usual time and got over to the office by two o'clock. I worked until
about five forty-five. After supper I remained at home this evening. I started a
new play. It is a Xmas play in a Prologue, Two Scenes and an Epilogue. The
prologue and epilogue are laid here in America on Xmas eve 1917. I have the
prologue and one scene finished. The public speaking class is looking for
another play to present and when I get mine finished, I intend to hand it in to
them and perhaps they will present it. In bed at eleven o'clock.
Tuesday Nov 19
Well, I was in plenty of time for school again this morning. When I went
into my Geometry class this morning, I had not prepared my lesson. However I
managed to get through the recitation all right. A fellow can do a great deal by
bluffing, especially when he has always had his lesson and has a stand in with
the teacher. I gave my play - that is the part I have finished - to Miss Lusky,
my English teacher, to correct. Oh boy! but wouldn't it be fine if they present
this play of mine. Two plays in one term. Say! but that's going some. And some
honor, take it from me! Major Willard called a meeting of the sergeants during
the fifth period, we talked over matters for the betterment of the battalion. I
left school at one-thirty this afternoon and got over to the office by two.
To-day was pay day and I had pretty near ten dollars coming, pretty good
considering that I was off last Monday. Papa and I left the office about six
o'clock and got home about six forty-five. I remained at home after supper,
preparing my lessons and writing. It has been raining all day and is turning
colder. I guess we will soon be having some snow. Dans le lit à dix heures et
demi. Bientot bonne nuit.
Wednesday Nov 20
Bonjour, mes amis! Un jour noveau! Again in plenty of time for school.
Everything went along in the same old way. Major Willard said that he expected
the Cadets would march in the big peace parade to be held Thanksgiving Day. We
went out on a practice hike this noon. If we do march and everybody turns out we
will have three good companies consisting of two platoons to each company and
about three squads to a platoon. This will make a fine showing for Northeastern.
I got over to the office about the same time and worked until six. Mama,
Lawrence, Joseph and myself were invited to McGraw's. We got there about eight
o'clock. Fritz and Myrtle also were there. We played Pedro and then took up the
rug in the parlor and danced. I certainly enjoyed the evening. C'est la vie!
Genevieve is some girl to dance with. Combien! Je aime lui elle est la fille
pour moi. Elle est la serile fille! Genevieve, moi aimez-vous! Well, we
certainly had a fine time. Mrs. McGraw made some candy and it was fine. We left
for home about eleven o'clock and there goes the old engine house striking
twelve bells, si me pour mom petit lit vieux. Bonne nuit. C'est le bout d'un
parfair jour. Si bonne nuit! mes amis!
Thursday Nov 21
In time for school this morning. In fact I got down before any of the
teachers. I got up early this morning so that I could get my lessons. I got my
lessons all right and also got to school good and early. Yesterday I ran a good
deal of French into my entry but to-day it shall be strictly English 'et non
Francais.' Oh rats! There I go again. Another French expression. Here of late I
can't seem to steer clear of them. Every little once in a while some little
French expression insists on bobbing up and so it is. Before I think I have it
written. Everything went along in the same old way at school. We received word
to-day that the Cadets are to march a week from to-day, Thanksgiving, in the big
Peace Celebration Parade. Believe me but it is going to be some parade. One
hundred thousand and in line, seventy-five bands and two hundred and five
floats. Believe me, but it will be some parade and old Northeastern will have a
fine showing. I got over to the office at the usual time, two o'clock. I worked
until about six o'clock and then went straight home. I did not go out after
supper but remained at home. I had a good deal of writing to do besides
preparing my lessons. I am still working on my Christmas play and expect to have
it finished by next week. Well, it is after eleven o'clock so I guess I had
better turn in.
Friday Nov 22
As usual, in plenty of time for school this morning. Everything went
along in the same old way. Major Willard had me write a challenge to Central
High School, challenging them to a competitive drill to be held December 3rd.
If they accept the challenge, I suppose we will be beat so bad we'll be ashamed
to show our faces. I think that we are crazy to even try and compete with one of
the Central Companies. Why, the way our fellows are, they can't even execute the
easiest commands in close order work without getting all mixed. Well, if they
accept our challenge (which they very likely will) here's hoping for the best.
There was no military drill to-day and as English is the only other class I have
in the afternoon, I left school at about eleven-thirty and went over to the
office and began work at twelve o'clock. I did not go home for supper but worked
right through until six-thirty and then went downtown and got my supper. I then
went over to the Detroit Opera House and ushered. David Belasco's comedy,
"Polly With a Past" is playing there. It was fine. George Williams,
the boy from school who is the chief usher, is going to quit next Tuesday night.
I don't know how that will hit the rest of us. I suppose the new chief usher
will bring his friends down to usher and we'll have to get out.
Saturday Nov 23
Well, for once I arrived at the shop before eight o'clock. I don't know
how it happened but I got there before eight just the same. For one thing, we
made good connections on the streetcars. Everybody but myself went home at noon
and I remained and worked, or at least I remained at the office. The shop worked
until three o'clock and then I too went home, or not home, but downtown. I
bummed around town, going through the five-and-ten cent stores. I went over to
the Temple Theatre and bought two seats for next Thursday night. I haven't asked
Genevieve yet if she will go with me but I feel pretty certain that she will. If
she don't I will take mama or else return the tickets. I also went into Sanders
and got 'Lady Fair' a box of caramels. I've bought so much candy there here of
late that the clerk is beginning to know me. I got home from town about six
o'clock. I got a new record downtown, the Marseillaise, and when I got home papa
did not like it very well so I got on the car and took it back and got another.
I was home again at seven-thirty, had my supper and then went over to church. I
went down to the Gladwin Theatre for the second show. Jack Pickford's last
picture before he enlisted was playing there. "Sandy" is the name and
Louise Duff played opposite Jack Pickford. Well, it is after midnight so good
night.
Sunday Nov 24
Well, I broke all records this morning and get up and went to six o'clock
mass. My, but how good that bed did feel and how I did hate to get up but I did
it and went to early mass with mama. We met Mrs. McGraw after mass, she also had
gone to early mass. When I got home from church I had my breakfast and then
started to write some more on my play. We had an early dinner, about half past
twelve. I went down to McGraw's about two o'clock. They were just getting ready
to sit down to the table. Mr. Whitney was there again for dinner. After they had
finished dinner, I took a snapshot of John. I also took one of Genevieve alone.
It is the first one I've taken of her alone since last spring. I hope it will be
good. I wanted Genevieve to go downtown to the theatre but she did not want to
leave for fear Fritz and Myrtle would come over while we were gone. However
about four o'clock I managed to get her to go to the theatre up on the Avenue. A
crazy picture, Edith Storey in "The Silent Woman," was playing there.
I did not care anything for the picture but I was satisfied as long as Genevieve
was with me. When I asked her if she would go to the Temple Thursday night, she
said she would if her mother did not go out. I left for home about six-thirty. I
did not go out anymore this evening but remained at home preparing my lessons
and writing on my Christmas play. Well, it is going on to twelve-thirty so bonne
nuit.
Monday Nov 25
Monday, the beginning of another school week. I arrived at school in
plenty of time. Everything went along in the usual manner. We received official
word to-day that the cadets will march in the parade next Thursday. Believe me,
but it is going to be some parade. There'll be all the way from seventy-five
thousand to a hundred thousand who will march; seventy-five bands and two
hundred and fifty floats. It will take all the way from four to six hours for
the parade to pass one point. I left school at the usual time to-day and worked
at the office until five-thirty. I then went home, had supper and went down to
the Opera House to usher. Just as soon as the curtain went up, I went over to
the old Detroit Opera House. I got a pass for a seat in the fifth row
downstairs. The great English military melodrama, "Seven Days Leave,"
is playing there. It is the greatest dramatic play I've ever seen. It all
happens while a young Irish American serving in the English army is in London on
Seven Days Leave. He invents a submarine destroyer and two German spies try to
steal the invention. The third act takes place on board an American warship
while she is attacking a submarine. For about ten minutes the noise from the
cannon is deafening and then it shows the open channel and the submarine blows
up and sinks. The play certainly was exciting and keeps you sitting on the edge
of your seat throughout the entire performance. I got home about eleven-thirty
and now at twelve am ready for bed.
Tuesday Nov 26
I got up about seven o'clock this morning but did not go to school. I
have been wanting to get to town to get some kind of a military overcoat or
mackinaw before the parade on Thursday. From the way the weather is I imagine it
will be good and cold Thursday and I don't want to wear my regular overcoat over
my uniform, so I decided that I would go downtown and get some kind of military
coat. I left the house about half past nine and went over to the bank. I then
took the car and went downtown. I guess I went into almost every store before I
finally landed one at Clayton's for ten dollars. It was one of those sheepskin
mackinaws like the state troops wear. Well I bought one and went out to the
office. When I showed it to papa, he did not seem to like it very well. I
thought about it all afternoon and when quitting time came, I decided I would
take it back. So papa and I went down through town and I returned the coat. I'll
wait until about Christmas and then get a regular military overcoat. We got home
from town about six-thirty. I spent another evening at home. I am still writing
on my play and have everything but the epilogue written and even if I do say so
myself, it's some play and good successor to my first attempt, "The
Awakening." As yet I have not decided on a name for this one.
Wednesday Nov 27
I was late for school this morning. Mr. Van Tassel, the grade principal,
is always talking about the tardiness. I guess he got out of the wrong side of
bed this morning, for he certainly was crabby. At record he read off the names
of all who had been tardy this morning and said that they would have to stay
after school to-day. After record I went to him and told him that this was only
about the second time I had been tardy this term and also that I worked after
school. At first he still said I would have to stay with the rest. I just told
him that I absolutely refused to stay and he could do what he pleased about it.
He finally said I need not stay. They won't catch me remaining after school and
missing my work. Well, I was promoted to a lieutenant to-day. I've kind of been
expecting it all along. Tomorrow I will have charge of "C Company." We
are to be in the seventeenth division and will not start until one o'clock. This
is the last division so we will not get to see any of the rest of the parade. I
got over to the office at the usual time and worked until five-thirty. Papa took
the jitney home so I rode home with him. After supper I went down to McGraw's.
Genevieve was just trying on her Red Cross uniform that she is wearing in the
parade tomorrow. Oh boy, but she certainly did look pretty in the uniform. I
wouldn't mind having her for a nurse. Mr. Whitney came while I was there. He,
Mrs. McGraw and John went to the show. I left for home about nine o'clock. It is
getting warmer out and I hope it will be a pretty day tomorrow.
Thursday Nov 28
Thanksgiving Day. We have certainly got a plenty to be thankful for this
year. Especially for Peace. To-day was to have been the day for the big Victory
Parade. I got up about nine o'clock and found it pouring down rain. We were to
assemble at school at eleven-thirty and from there march over to Cass and
Canfield Aves. Well, I got down to school about twelve o'clock. We had a pretty
good turnout. When Major Willard arrived he said that he had heard that the
parade had been called off. However he said he had no official word so we would
march over. It was pouring down rain. When we arrived at the assembly place we
found that the parade had been called off on account of the rain so we
disbanded. Two other fellows and myself walked on downtown and got our dinner.
We then went to the Orpheum Theatre. Mary Pickford in "Johanna
Enlists" and vaudeville is playing there. I got home about six-thirty,
changed my clothes, had supper and got down to McGraw's by seven o'clock. Fritz
and Myrtle were there. However as I had already bought tickets for the Temple,
Genevieve and I left them and went on to the theatre at seven-thirty. I stopped
to get Genevieve a box of candy on our way down. There is an awful good show at
the Temple this week. I enjoyed it and I guess Genevieve did too. We got home
about eleven-thirty. But it was twelve before I got home. The old wind is
blowing to beat the band and I guess it will be good and cold in the morning. I
will close with giving thanks for everything I have received during the past
year.
Friday Nov 29
I was good and late for work this morning, arriving at the office at
eight-thirty. Papa was sick yesterday and did not go out this morning. Mama also
was not feeling very good this morning. Everything went along as usual at the
office. At noon I went downtown and got my dinner. Last night when I arrived at
McGraw's, Genevieve and Fritz were talking about people combing their hair
pompedor (I guess that's spelled right, I haven't time to look it up.) Genevieve
said that she likes to see a person comb his hair that way and that she also
liked those little English mustaches that so many crazy boobs are wearing. As I
came in, Mrs. McGraw said that Genevieve had just said that she wished I would
comb my hair that way but that she did not have the nerve to ask me. Of course,
Genevieve denied this but I'm going to have a good joke on her. This afternoon
when I was downtown I bought a little false mustache and also a monocle. Sunday
afternoon when I go down I intend to comb my hair pompedor and stick on the
mustache, also wear the monocle. I'll tell her that she needs to only command
and, if it's in my power, I'll do it. I stayed at the office until seven o'clock
and typed some of my play. I got home about a quarter of eight. Mama was in bed,
had been there the greater part of the day. I just finished eating almost a
whole berry pie, several dill pickles and drinking a glass of cider. Some
pre-bed lunch, eh? Well, I am tired and for a change, I am hitting the bed
early. It is only a little past nine o'clock. This is early for me.
Saturday Nov 30
Well, this morning I was in plenty of time for work. Mama was able to get
up and papa was able to go to work. I arrived at the office about a quarter of
eight. My, but it was cold this morning and about half past seven it started to
snow a little. However it only lasted for a few minutes. Everything was the same
at the office. At noon I walked over to Woodward Ave. and got my dinner. The
shop shut down this afternoon but Mr. Moulton, the superintendent, worked all
afternoon until about five o'clock. I stayed at the office until after six
o'clock, typing my play. I have it all typed but the epilogue and I have not
written that out yet. However that will be short and will not take very long to
type. Thursday night while at McGraw's, Genevieve had me read the first scene of
a play she is writing. Of course I told her it was fine but my private opinion
is that it is junk. There is nothing so far to hold your interest. Everything is
too commonplace. However I let on that it was fine and great. I got home about
seven o'clock and had my supper. I did not go out after supper but remained at
home and read and did some writing. I just looked out the window and found that
it has been snowing. The ground is almost covered. Well, I guess old winter is
with us at last. This is our first snowfall. This evening's paper said that the
Victory Parade would not be held Sunday but that it was canceled. Well, it is
only ten o'clock but I am ready to turn in.
Sunday Dec 1
I got up about eight-thirty this morning and went to nine o'clock mass.
The eight o'clock mass was not over yet when I got to church. Genevieve was at
that mass and I met her after church. I prepared my lessons before dinner and
after dinner, about two o'clock, I went down to McGraw's. I had my hair combed
pompadour and wore the monocle and false mustache. I believe Genevieve likes me
better with my hair combed as it is. I took some snapshots of her dressed in her
Red Cross uniform. It was gloomy out and I'm afraid the pictures won't be any
good. I hope they are good. Genevieve certainly is beautiful, especially when
she is dressed in the white uniform. She is the "one girl" in all
Detroit. And Genevieve, how I love you. To-day is the first Sunday of Advent.
About three o'clock I asked Genevieve if she would go up to the theatre with me.
She said that she wasn't going to any shows during Advent. Then Mrs. McGraw said
that Genevieve had said this morning, that if I was going to be so good and not
go to shows during Advent and did not ask her to go, that she was going to get
another fellow who would take her. Of course, she denies having said this. I
guess she does care a little for me after all. Genevieve, if you cared one half
as much for me as I do for you, you would be caring a whole lots. We went
downtown to the Miles Theatre. The vaudeville was good and also the picture,
"The Caillaux Case." The picture was the true story about the former
French Premier. We got home about nine o'clock and found that Fritz and Myrtle
had been there and had just left before we got home. I did not remain at
McGraw's but went right home.
Monday Dec 2
I arrived at school in plenty of time this morning. I had all my lessons
all right. Last week one day we had a test in French and this morning we got our
papers back. I received eight-eight percent. I lost my first place in class but
I should worry. I don't know but I don't seem to care for school anymore. I just
can't seem to study anymore. I don't know what is the matter with me. Sometimes
I wish I was out working all day and then again I'm glad that I'm in school. I
know that it is for my own good to remain in school but still there is that
spirit of dissatisfaction. Well, I left school at the usual time and got over to
the office by two o'clock. I worked until about half past five and then went
home. After supper I walked over to the bank and made a deposit and payment on
my Fourth Liberty Bond. I have my Third Liberty Bond pretty nearly all paid for.
A few payments and that one will be cleaned up. Lawrence went over to the bank
with me and after I had finished my business there, we went into the new DeLuxe
Theatre. This theatre just a block from us opened up last week. It is one of the
largest theatres in the city and has a pretty fair orchestra. Doug. Fairbanks in
"He Comes Up Smiling" is showing there tonight. It is the greatest
Fairbanks picture I have ever seen and I have seen pretty near all of his
pictures. We got home about nine-thirty, just a few minutes ago and now at ten
bells, I am ready for bed, so bonne nuit.
Tuesday Dec 3
Tuesday again - which to me means pay day again. I got up about seven
this morning and arrived at school a little after eight o'clock. I was therefore
in plenty of time for school. I had all my lessons all right and everything went
along in the usual manner. The Northeastern Dramatic Club is going to give two
one-act plays next Friday evening. The tickets were placed on sale to-day. The
competition between Company A and one of the Central High School companies was
to have been held this afternoon. There was something doing at Central this
afternoon so they had to call it off and the competition will be held next
Friday afternoon in Goldberg Field. I left school at the usual time and got over
to the office at the usual time. About half past two I had to go uptown for the
office. I got back about four o'clock. Papa went home about six o'clock but I
remained with Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper and worked until almost seven-thirty. Mr.
Drew and myself rearranged all the desks in the office so as to be able to have
more room. It was almost eight-thirty when I got home and was nine o'clock when
I had finished my supper. I then prepared my lessons and wrote to Harriet Owen.
I should have answered her letter Sunday but was too busy. Well, it is going on
to eleven o'clock so I guess I had better turn in. Bonne nuit.
Wednesday Dec 4
Was in plenty of time for school this morning. To-day was certainly a
busy day for me. At record Mr. Van Tassel told me that he wanted me to serve on
a committee to see about sending Christmas presents to the boys of our grade
room who have enlisted. This committee met at recess to-day. Also I was due to
attend a meeting of the Cadet Officers. Right after the committee meeting, I
hustled to the officers meeting. A complaint has been made against one of the
lieutenants for disorderly conduct. We held the meeting to decide what action to
take in the matter. It will go pretty hard with the lieutenant and will probably
cost him his commission. Believe me but I am going to look out for my
commission. I was also was due to attend a dancing class this noon but had to
miss that. I had to go without my dinner on account of not having the time to
eat. I got over to the Goodspeed Company at the usual time and worked until a
quarter past six. I then went home. After supper I went down to call on
Genevieve. Mrs. McGraw's sister and two other ladies came over a few minutes
after I got there. I left for home about half past nine. We had some more snow
to-day and it is snowing now. If it keeps this up we will have a big snow for
Christmas. To-day's paper said that President Wilson had sailed yesterday
afternoon for France to attend the Peace Convention. Here is wishing him a safe
voyage and return. In bed at ten-thirty.
Thursday Dec 5
Was in plenty of time for school again this morning. And as usual had all
my lessons, or no that's not correct. I had all my lessons except my English. We
were supposed to have handed in a theme to-day but I did not get to write mine
last night so consequently could not hand it in to-day. However as I generally
have my themes in on time, Miss Lusky said it would be all right to hand mine in
tomorrow. They have organized a dancing class to meet every record and recess
every day. I went down this noon. Last summer when I took dancing lessons I
never seemed to be able to catch on to the Fox Trot. However I believe that now
I will get on to it all right. I left school at the usual time to-day and got
over to the Goodspeed Company at two o'clock. I worked until about five-thirty
and then went home and had my supper. After supper I went down to the Opera
House to usher. George Williams, the Northeastern boy who was the chief usher,
quit last week but I guess I will still be able to usher as he did not say
anything tonight and I went on up to the balcony and ushered. The show there
this weeks is certainly rotten. It is "A Marriage of Convenience." The
time is 1750 in France. There is no plot to the play and all the four acts are
laid in the same room. There were only a few in the audience and good many of
these left after the first act. It is going on midnight so I guess I had better
hit the old hay. Bonne nuit.
Friday Dec 6
I got down to school before eight o'clock this morning. I had a bunch of
history stuff to look up in the Library before the fourth period and as all my
periods are filled, I had to get the stuff prepared before school. Well I got it
all prepared and during the fourth period, I had to get up before the class and
give a lecture on the dope I had dug out. I guess I did pretty well for Mr.
Chose, the history teacher, complimented me on the way I gave the talk. There
was no drill to-day, on account of it being Friday. I wrote the theme I was
supposed to have written yesterday. I left school at the usual time and got over
to the office at two. The dramatic club gave two one-act plays this evening.
Major Willard placed me in charge of the Cadets on guard duty and ushering. As I
could not go home and get down to school in time, I did not go home for supper
but got my supper on Woodward Ave. and got down to school about seven-fifteen.
Work! Say I don't believe I ever worked so hard in my life. It seemed as though
there were a million things for me to do. Mama and Joe came down to school.
There was an awful large crowd. Every seat was taken and a good many had to
stand up. The plays were nothing extra. After the shows I could not leave until
everybody else was out of the building. For being the officer in charge it was
up to me to leave the building with everything all right. It is after eleven
o'clock and I just got home a few minutes ago. Tomorrow is work again so I guess
I'll turn in.
Saturday Dec 7
I arrived at the office just as the clock was striking noon. Everything
went along as usual. The shop did not work this afternoon and all the office
force but myself went home at noon. Papa took the jitney home at noon so I rode
over as far as Woodward Ave. with him and got my dinner. I then went back to the
office and worked until three o'clock. I tried all afternoon to get Fritz Monty
on the telephone but his landlady said he was working this afternoon. After
leaving the office I went downtown. I went up to the Recreation Bldg. thinking I
might see Fritz there, but I did not. I also went into Sanders and got Genevieve
a box of candy. I got home about five-thirty. After supper I walked down to
McGraw's. I thought that perhaps I would find Fritz there but he did not show
up. McGraw's had a fire to-day. Mrs. McGraw blew out her flue with some kerosene
oil rags and some of the sparks fell on their roof. This caused it to smoke and
they turned in a fire alarm. The engines arrived and put out the fire. There was
no damage done. I had to go to church tonight so about a quarter of nine I asked
Genevieve if she would walk down to church with me. She decided she would go and
John also wanted to go. So the three of us went down to church. Charlie
Chaplin's second release since he organized his own company is at the Gladwin
Theatre this evening. We got out of church about nine-thirty and then went in to
see "Shoulder Arms." Charlie was in the army and I never laughed so
hard in my life. I got home about eleven o'clock and found that Fritz had been
over to see me. I just got through taking a bath and as it is nearly one
o'clock, good night.
Sunday Dec 8
I got up and went to eight o'clock mass this morning. Mrs. McGraw was
there. When I got home I ate my breakfast and read the paper and did some
writing until dinner time. We had dinner about one o'clock. I have not been over
to St. John's since we moved so this afternoon I decided I would go and pay a
visit to the sisters. St. John's is holding Forty Hours Devotion to-day. It was
the same old church. I talked with Sister Sylvia a while and then went in to see
Father Graeber. After that I walked up in Hamtramck to Whitney Ave. It was on
Whitney Ave. that we lived when we first came to Detroit. We lived there for
about six years. It certainly made me homesick. I don't mean that I would like
to move back but just the same it caused me to feel homesick. When I was there
in church and thought of the number of times I had knelt there, and of the days
I spent in school, and then walking up Whitney Ave., well, it would cause any
one to feel homesick. Hamtramck has certainly changed since we moved, everything
is all built up with factories now. After I had finished my little trip of
revisiting the days of my childhood, I went downtown to the Miles Theatre. The
picture attraction there this week is William Farnum in 'Rainbow Trail,' Zane
Grey's sequel to 'The Riders of the Purple Sage.' I saw this picture some time
ago and the sequel is just as good. The vaudeville bill was also good. I got
home about eight o'clock. Well this is the first Sunday in some time that I have
not spent in "milady's company." However I guess she doesn't mind. I
gave her the box of candy last night and also took her to the theatre. I felt
that it was about time for me to go see the sisters.
Monday Dec 9
Well, I was late for school this morning. I arrived at school just two
minutes after the second bell rung. I would have been on time only they rung the
bell two minutes too early. Two minutes is not very much but still at some times
it is a good deal. However when I left home this morning I expected to be late
but when I got to school and found that the bell had been rung too early, I was
provided with a good alibi for being late. Everything went along in the usual
manner. We had a test in Geometry this morning but it was about the easiest test
I have ever received. I was all finished in about fifteen minutes. I attended
the dancing class this noon. It was fine to-day. The teachers let about a dozen
girls come in to help teach us boys. I had a peach for a partner but just same
who could not compare with Genevieve. To-day was our last chance to drill before
we compete with one of the Central High School Cadet companies. The competition
comes off tomorrow afternoon. We were rotten to-day and I don't believe we have
a show against Central. I and the rest of the officers believe that Major
Willard is crazy to try and beat Central. Well, I won't be there for the
competition tomorrow. I won't lay off work, it is too near Christmas and I want
to get in all the time I can before the holidays. Arrived at the office at the
usual time and worked until six o'clock. Remained at home all evening. It is
only nine o'clock but I am ready to turn in.
Tuesday Dec 10
I was in time for school this morning. But none too early. The bell rang
just as I came through the door. Everything went along in the same old way. The
competition between our A Company and one of Central High School Cadet companies
was to come off this afternoon. I got excused from taking part in the contest on
account of having to go to work. I don't believe our company has a chance
against Central. I left school at the usual time and got over to the office at
two o'clock. I worked until seven o'clock and then went downtown and got my
supper and went over to the Opera House to usher. It commenced to rain and storm
about six-thirty and it was pouring when I left the office. I was soaking wet
when I arrived at the theatre. Well, I have seen the greatest and most wonderful
play ever produced, "Ziegfield's Follies." There are no words that can
describe the beauty and the splendor of the production. From the time the
curtain goes up until it goes down, the audience is carried away to another
world. I intend to go down and see the play again so will only speak about the
players here. Almost all the actors have been in the movies. There's Will
Rogers, Billie Ritchie, Ann Penington, the Fairbanks twins and Marilyn Miller,
the star. I saw her two years ago when she was the star of "The Show of
Wonders." She is only 17 and certainly is beautiful. There is a chorus of
about a hundred. The show was not out until almost 11:30 and then I went around
to the stage door to see the actors and actresses come out. It certainly is the
most wonderful play I have ever seen. It was after one when I got home so I
guess I'll turn in.
Wednesday Dec 11
Well, I managed to get all right this morning, even though I did not get
in until early this morning. And I also arrived at school on time again but it
was like yesterday morning, I just did make it. The first thing that greeted me
when I arrived at school this morning was that we had defeated Central
yesterday. The score was N.E.H.S. 27 and Central 40. This score is not like
football or other scores. The figures in a military contest represent the number
of faults or mistakes a company makes so therefore the one with the lowest wins.
I never thought we could beat Central who is said to be the second best in the
city, Northwestern holding first place. The Cadets have been able to do what the
football squad could not do - defeat Central. Within a week or two we intend to
challenge Northwestern and then maybe we will be the city champions in Cadet
work. Everything else went along in the usual manner at school. I arrived at
work at two o'clock and worked until six forty-five. I then went home. I did not
go out after supper to-day but remained in. Christmas is just two weeks from
to-day - hmm, it will soon be here. I guess I'll do some of my Christmas
shopping Saturday. I have a boil starting on the back of my neck and it is sorer
than the devil. I just got through putting a poultice on it. Well, there goes
the old fire bell striking eleven o'clock so bonne nuit.
Thursday Dec 12
Was on time for school this morning. But like the two previous mornings I
did not have any time to spare. I guess I'll have to get up earlier of a morning
for I don't like this business of arriving at school just as the bell rings. One
of these mornings I am going to be late. Everything was the same at school. They
have decided to publish a semi-monthly newspaper at school. I served on the
staff of the 'Crucible' which was published last winter. Some of the staff of
this new newspaper have been appointed but so far I have received no notice that
I am to be one of the staff. I arrived at the office at the usual time and
worked until six o'clock. Papa went home at five but I had to go to town from
the shop. We are supposed to read a book and turn in a report on the book for
our English class. Well, to-day Miss Lusky, our English teacher, said that our
reports would be due next Monday. I have not read my book yet so this evening I
had to go down to the library and get a book to read. I got 'Richard Carvel' by
Churchill. It will keep me humping to have it read by Monday but I guess I'll
find time to do it. I got home about seven-thirty and remained home the rest of
the evening. I should have gone down to see Genevieve this evening but will have
to wait until Saturday night as I had too much to do this evening. I have not
been down to McGraw's since last Saturday. I guess they are wondering what is
the matter with me. I generally got down to see them at least twice a week. But
this week I have been too busy with school work and other work.
Friday Dec 13
I was in plenty of time for school this morning. Everything went along as
usual. There was no Cadet drill to-day, it being Friday and the off day. I have
been attending the dancing class every noon. We have a fine time and I have
really learned the Fox Trot. I danced with Adele DeGraw and Zetta Coombs to-day,
both fine girls. All the "Graw's" are fine especially a certain one
who has "Mc" before her name. This is Advent and a good many people
don't believe in dancing during Advent. Well, this is a class I am attending and
therefore it is different. I'm not attending for the pleasure??? but for the
purpose of learning. I left school at the usual time and got over to the
Goodspeed Company about two o'clock. I worked until about six o'clock and then
went home. It was raining all evening but I went down to the Gladwin Park
Theater. Hall Caine's story "The Marx Man" was showing there. It was
good like all the rest of Hall Caine's stories. I took an umbrella with me and
after the show I came out without it. When I went back I could not find it. The
usher told me to come back tomorrow night and see if some one had turned it in
to the office. I suppose it is gone for good. The weather has certainly been
rotten here of late. Rain almost every day. It rained all day to-day and is
still raining now. Here it is almost Christmas and look at the kind of weather
we are having. Pres. Wilson arrived safely at the port of Brest, France to-day.
He goes to Paris tomorrow.
Saturday Dec 14
December 15 - It was nineteen years ago to-day that I first saw the light
of day. It doesn't seem possible that I am nineteen years old. Time certainly
does fly. When I stop and think of it, I feel as though I was getting to be old.
A few more birthdays and then - who knows what will happen? I intend to
celebrate my birthday tomorrow and have Genevieve, Fritz Monty and Myrtle Barnes
over for supper. I have got tickets for the Temple tomorrow night and after
supper we will go to the theatre. I got up early this morning and arrived at the
office at eight o'clock. Mr. Drew, the bookkeeper, worked all afternoon but I
left about three-thirty and went downtown. I did a little of my Christmas
shopping to-day. I got papa a fountain pen as he has been wanting one for some
time. I also bought a two pound box of Sander's chocolates to send to Harriet
Owen at Bedford, Indiana. I must not let Genevieve hear of this or she will be
jealous. This was all the shopping I did. I will finish getting my parents next
Saturday. I don't know what I will get for "lady fair." It is the
hardest thing to decide what to give. I got home from town about six o'clock.
After supper I went down to call on Genevieve. Last Saturday was the last time I
was down there. Bob Ryan was also at McGraw's. I started for home about ten
o'clock. Well, it is pretty late and as I want to go to early mass tomorrow
morning I guess I had better turn in. Bonne nuit.
Sunday Dec 15
Last night I said I wanted to go to early mass this morning, Well, as a
matter of fact, I managed to hit the twelve o'clock mass. And I had to stand up
during this mass. I got up too late for the nine o'clock mass and ten-thirty is
a high mass. As I don't like to attend the high mass, I had to go to the twelve
o'clock mass. When I got home from church I read until dinner. We had dinner
about two o'clock and after dinner I prepared my lessons and read. I finished
reading my book for my book report which is due to my English teacher tomorrow.
I read "Richard Carvel" by Churchill. It certainly is a fine story.
Genevieve came over about five o'clock. She had on her blue silk dress and if
there ever was a beautiful girl, well she is Genevieve McGraw. I've never seen a
girl like her. She was enough to make anyone's heart start trumping. O
Genevieve, you don't know how I love you. Six o'clock came but no Fritz or
Myrtle showed up. We began to think they were going to disappoint us. Mama
wanted us to stay at home after supper so I got on the car and took the Temple
seats back. When I got home I found Fritz and Myrtle there. After supper we
played Pedro. I certainly had a fine time and I guess everybody else did. The
party broke up about ten o'clock and I had the honor of escorting Genevieve
home. Well, this is the end of a perfect day. I have had a wonderful evening
but, oh my stomach. Too much sweet stuff, all the way from Sweet Genevieve to
the sweet candy and ice cream. From the way I feel now I don't believe I shall
be able to go to school in the morning.
Monday Dec 16
Well, I finally did manage to reach school. It was about seven-thirty
when I got up. I felt pretty fair outside of my head aching a little. I left the
house about eight-thirty. We had a touch of London, England weather this
morning. There was such a heavy fog that a person could not see across the
street. It was the worse fog I've ever seen. The streetcars and automobiles had
to move along like snails. It took me over an hour and a half to get to school
this morning when it generally only takes me about thirty minutes. We had
several narrow escapes from accidents. Once I thought sure that our streetcar
would crash into the car ahead of us. However I managed to reach school without
mishap. Mr. Van Tassel, the grade principal, did not say anything to me on
account of being late. He was late himself this morning so he couldn't very well
preach and not practice what he preached. Everything went along as usual at
school and I left at the usual time. I left the shop promptly at five o'clock.
There was a meeting of the Cadet officers at school this evening and I had to go
home after some papers. At the meeting we decided that right after the first of
the year the Cadets would give an entertainment to raise some money to equip a
band. My play will be on the program. The meeting adjourned at nine o'clock and
I went to the Iris Theatre. "Tell It to the Marines" with the Lee
children was playing there. Well, it is pretty near midnight so good-night.
Tuesday Dec 17
I was in time for school this morning. The air was clear and no fog at
all. Everything is about the same at school. We received our reports again
to-day. I received "ones" in everything but Geometry. I think that
this is pretty good considering all the outside work I do and out almost every
night. I must admit that I don't get as much time on my lessons as I should but
I haven't got any more time to put on them. However I believe I am getting along
all right. Almost perfect in all my studies and not below eighty-five in
Geometry, the only study in which I received a "two." I asked papa
last night if I could have my New Year's party. He said to go ahead so I sent
out the invitations to-day. I have invited six couples. Believe me but I am
going to have some party. It is going to be a masquerade. I haven't decided yet
what I will wear. I was thinking about either a colonial or a patriotic costume
of some kind. I left school at the usual time and got over to the office about
two o'clock and worked until about six. I then went straight home. I did not go
out after supper but remained at home all evening, writing and reading. It
rained all day to-day and is a nasty evening out. We are having terrible weather
for this time of the year, rain almost every day. If it doesn't hurry and get
cold I don't believe we will have any snow for Christmas. Well, it is getting
pretty late and guess I'll hit my little old bed. Bonne nuit.
Wednesday Dec 18
Well, I was late for school this morning. However I was not so very late.
The bell had just rung as I came in the door and I.V.T. didn't say anything to
me for being late. It's the same old thing at school, hardly anything new. It
was announced to-day that the first copy of the "Northeastern Review"
(a newspaper that Northeastern is going to publish) would be out next Friday. It
will be a penny a copy and come out semi-monthly. I served on the staff of the
"Crucible," the paper we published last year but am not on the staff
of the "Review." The dancing class was fine this noon. I had several
fine partners to dance with. I have learned more in this dancing class than I
did at the "Majestic" last summer. - I left school about one-thirty
and got over to the office at two. I left the shop at about six-thirty, went
downtown and had my supper. I then went over to the Washington Theatre.
"The Mysterious Mr. Browning," a film made here in the city, is
showing there this week. There is quite a large studio located here in the city
now and I guess we will see a good many made-in-Detroit films. The one I saw
tonight was fine and showed quite a few familiar scenes around the city. This
movie company is also producing a comedy, "The Cub Reporter" at the
Washington. They take about six scenes at every performance and the stage is
fixed up like a regular movie studio. Well, it is almost eleven o'clock so
good-night.
Thursday Dec 19
Arrived at school in time this morning. I seem to be on a kind of
alternate system. One morning early, and the next morning late. Well, we'll see
how I get to school tomorrow morning. Yesterday Miss Stelinger, grade principal
of the House of Portia, asked me if I would lend them my Cadet uniform for
to-day. So this morning I took the uniform to school. At noon to-day Major
Willard told me that there would be a lieutenant at school to review our company
to-day. So I went up and got my uniform and changed into it for drill and then
after drill I got back into my "civ" clothes. Outside of this review,
everything was the same at school. I got over to the shop about two o'clock and
worked until six. I had an awful row with papa this evening. I intend to buy
myself a new suit of clothes before Christmas. All along papa has been telling
me not to buy it at Crowley-Milner's but to go somewhere else as he didn't think
Crowley's clothes were any good. Well, tonight he said I should go to
Crowley-Milner's for my suit. I am buying this suit with my own money and I
intend to go where I please. We had words and I finally put on my hat and left
the house. I went down to McGraw's. They expect Mr. McGraw home Sunday. I left
for home about ten o'clock. But it is almost one o'clock now. I have been busy
writing letters since I got home. I wrote to Harriet and have a two-pound box of
chocolates ready to mail to her in the morning. There goes the clock striking
one o'clock so good night.
Friday Dec 20
Papa was still mad this morning. I'm not mad but just intend to buy my
suit wherever I want to. It's my money this time that is going to pay for the
suit. Well, I was not late this morning but arrived at school in plenty of time.
The periods were all cut short to-day and school was out at about one-thirty. I
did not leave school early but stayed for the auditorium meeting which began at
one-thirty. We had an extra long recess to-day and believe me but we sure did
have a good time in our dancing class. It was more like a party instead of a
class. The program for the auditorium meeting consisted of several selections by
our school orchestra, several speeches and songs. It was over by about half past
two and I got over to the office about three o'clock. I worked until six o'clock
and then went over to the Avenues and got my supper. Myrtle Barnes invited
Genevieve and I out to her place this evening. I was to go on out and meet
Genevieve there. I got to Barnes' about seven-thirty and Genevieve got over
about eight. Myrtle and Mrs. Barnes are working at Heyn's Bazaar. They had to
work until nine o'clock so it was late when they got home. Genevieve and I left
Barnes' about eleven o'clock. We stopped in a candy store and got some ice cream
on our way home. It was pretty near midnight when I got Genevieve home and it is
going on to one o'clock so I must ring off for this day.
Saturday Dec 21
Saturday and work. I got up good and early and got over to the shop a
quarter of eight. I was downtown almost all morning on the company's business. I
only worked until about one o'clock and then went home. Mama, Lawrence and I
went downtown this afternoon. I bought my suit this afternoon. And after all the
racket we had the other night, I bought the suit at Crowley & Milner's. Mama
left for home right after I bought my suit but Lawrence and I remained downtown
to do our Christmas shopping. I didn't know what to buy. The stores haven't
hardly anything this year. Well, I finally managed to get pretty near all my
shopping done. Lawrence and I combined forces and instead of each of us getting
several cheap things for the boys, we put our money together and bought
something good. When it came to choose something for Genevieve, I didn't know
what to get her. I don't want to give her just a box of candy. Candy won't last
and I want to give her something by which she will remember me. I finally
decided on ice skates. I bought her a dandy pair of hockey skates. I'm not going
to write the price here for perhaps some day Genevieve might read this book. You
can take my word for it that they set me back enough. But there is nothing too
good for you, Genevieve. I got home about seven-thirty and did not go out after
supper. It has rained all day and is pouring now. This is rotten weather for
this time of the year.
Sunday Dec 22
I went to eight o'clock mass this morning. If any of the McGraw's were at
that mass I didn't see them. When I got home from church I read until dinner. We
had dinner about one o'clock. Right after dinner I took my camera and went down
to McGraw's. I had promised Genevieve that I would take a picture of her with
her Red Cross uniform on. When I arrived at McGraw's I found that Genevieve had
not washed her uniform and as it was dirty, I couldn't take her picture. However
I took one of her without the uniform. They expected Mr. McGraw home sometime
to-day. I could not stay at McGraw's but had to hurry right away. I had to
attend a meeting of the cadet officers this afternoon. The meeting was held in
one of the officer's homes. We decided this afternoon that the cadets will
present my play and also a little sketch written by Lieut. Elisen. This play
will be given the first of next term. The meeting adjourned about five o'clock.
I got home about six o'clock. Mama had been down to McGraw's this afternoon and
she said that Mr. McGraw had got back. I was going down to see him this evening
but I thought that perhaps they would be going out. I wanted to go downtown to
the theatre but papa wanted me to go over to the DeLuxe with him. He offered to
pay my way so I went with him. Norma Talmadge in "The Forbidden City"
was showing there. It was pretty good. Well, it is going on to eleven o'clock so
I guess I'll turn in. Bonne nuit.
Monday Dec 23
I got up good and early this morning and got over to the office at eight
o'clock. I was out nearly all morning on company business and at noon I had to
go downtown. I went up to Crowley-Milner & Company and tried on my new suit.
They made the pants too tight so I had to leave my suit until tonight. I got
back to the office about two-thirty and worked until five-thirty. Papa had left
the office about three o'clock to go downtown to meet mama. When I left the
office I went downtown to get my suit and to meet Bud. While in Crowley-Milner's
I met mama and papa. My suit was all right this time and after I tried it on
mama and papa went on home while Bud and I finished our shopping. We got pretty
well through about eight-thirty. At that time, I took a Jefferson car and rode
out to McGraw's while Bud remained downtown. Mr. and Mrs. McGraw had been up on
the Ave. shopping and I met them as I got off the car. Mr. McGraw is looking
fine. Genevieve and John were up at the show but they got home before I left.
Mr. McGraw gave Genevieve fifty dollars as a Christmas present so that she could
buy a typewriter. She bought a Corona machine. I have never thought much of the
Corona machine but I guess they are all right. I left for home about ten-thirty.
While downtown this afternoon, I bought four seats for the Temple Theatre for
next Thursday night. I intend to give two to Mr. and Mrs. McGraw and the other
two to mama and papa. I also got two seats for Genevieve and myself for next
Saturday night at the Garrick Theatre.
Tuesday Dec 24
I arrived at the office about eight-fifteen - or somewhere's around that
time. I did not spend much time at the office to-day as I was out on business
trying to find some brass gaskets for the shop. The entire plant shut down at
about three o'clock. I got back to the office about three o'clock and found a
surprise waiting me. When I came in Mr. Ramsey handed me an envelope and when I
opened it I found a five dollar bill for a Christmas present. It certainly was
some surprise. Papa and I left the office about four o'clock and went down to
finish buying our Christmas presents. We also bought two new records. We got
home about seven o'clock. It has been an awful day. Pouring down raining all day
long and still raining now. About half past nine this evening I went over to
church. There was a crowd there and as Mr. and Mrs. McGraw were just coming out,
I walked down to their place with them. Genevieve was in bed already. I did not
stay long but went back to church. It was about eleven o'clock when I got home
and then I started in to decorate the rooms and Christmas tree. It is
eleven-thirty now and I am not half finished downstairs. I won't be able to get
into bed for several hours yet, if at all. Everybody else but Joe has turned in.
He is helping me. Since I'll not get to bed before midnight, I can't say this
ends my day. And now to close and get back downstairs to work. Santa Claus is
awful busy this year and I have to help him. Not goodnight but -- I don't know
what to say.
Wednesday Dec 25
"Ring out ye merry Christmas bells! Peace on earth! Good will
towards all men!" How beautiful these words sound this year when
"peace" means so much to us. A Merry Christmas to Everybody! - Well, I
did not get to bed last night. It was two o'clock this a.m. when I finished
downstairs and then I came up and took a bath. It was three-thirty when I
finally turned in. But then only for about an hour. I was up again at five this
morning and went to early mass. The music and singing was fine. A harp played
along with the organ. All the McGraw's were at this mass also. I went back to
the nine o'clock mass. Genevieve sang in the choir at this mass. After mass I
went down to McGraw's and took the presents I got for them. Genevieve had to
stay for the 10:30 mass but I waited until she got home. She was surprised to
get the skates. She gave me a fine leather collar case. I went home about twelve
o'clock. After dinner I took the kids up to the theatre. This evening the
McGraw's and Fritz came over. They stayed until about ten-thirty. Mr. McGraw
said he had to go to Toledo tomorrow and would not get back in time to use the
theatre tickets I had given them as a Christmas present. We talked it over and
finally decided that I would go down to McGraw's with them this evening, get the
tickets and tomorrow exchange them for next Monday. I therefore walked home with
them. Well, it is almost one o'clock and as I did not get much sleep last night,
I believe I'll turn in. I have really and truly had a wonderful Christmas and
here's hoping that we will all be here next year and have just as wonderful
Christmas. And again: Ring out ye merry Christmas bells. Peace on earth. Good
will towards all men. A Merry Christmas to all!
Thursday Dec 26
Oh boy! But how I did hate to get up this morning. But there was mother's
voice a calling: You gotta get up, John, you gotta get up this morning!
(Apologies to Irving Berlin) Well, I finally did get up but it was ten o'clock
when I did. Believe me but the bed did feel good. And after I was up, Oh! My
head! How it ached. I felt like a fellow on the morning after the night before.
Well, after I had satisfied my hunger with a slight breakfast - (or hold on a
minute) - I guess I had better call it dinner - I went downtown. I bought some
photograph supplies, made a payment on my Liberty Bond and went over to the
Temple Theatre to exchange the four tickets I had for tonight. I got four dandy
seats in the front row balcony for next Monday night. I finally left town and
got out to the office about twelve-thirty. Everybody was there but they were all
feeling pretty bum. And there was a general demand for aspirin tablets for
headaches. It was unanimously agreed that the day following Christmas should be
a legal holiday. However our resolution did not go into effect and we worked.
Believe me, I (as well as everybody else) was ready to leave promptly at five
o'clock. I did not go out after supper, but spent the evening developing
pictures. After I got finished with them mama and I sat and talked over the
details for the party next Tuesday night. And there goes the old clock striking
twelve o'clock. Up late last night and the night before and now tonight again.
Well here is where the lights go out and me for the hay.
Friday Dec 27
Well, I done a little better this morning. I arrived at the office at
eight-thirty. (I'm supposed to be there at eight o'clock.) Everything went along
about the same. Papa went home about five o'clock but I stayed and worked until
six o'clock. I then went downtown and bought my supper and then went to the
Madison Theatre. Marguerite Clark in "Little Miss Hoover" is playing
at the Madison this week. The play is about food conservation and it was fine. I
believe Marguerite Clark has Mary Pickford beat by a mile. They both act about
the same type of character. The music at the Madison also was good this week. It
is mostly Christmas music. I got there in time for the seven o'clock show so it
was not late when I got home, only about half past nine or quarter of ten. Mama
wasn't in bed yet so we got to talking until finally the first thing we knew it
was striking eleven o'clock. We decided that it was time to interrupt our
tête-à-tête and hit the hay. It started to snow early this evening and now
the ground is pretty well covered. This is the kind of weather I like to see.
That cold damp and rainy weather is not good for anybody. This cold, brisk
wintery weather is fine and gives a fellow lots of "pep." Well, it is
almost midnight so I believe I'll call it a day and turn in. Bonne nuit.
Saturday Dec 28
Well, I did still better this morning. It was only eight-fifteen when I
arrived at the office. I don't spend much time at the office these days. There
is always some place that I have to go. This suits me all right. I don't mind
the chasing about on the streetcars. The entire plant shut down at noon and the
office force went home about one-thirty. When I got home I had my dinner and
then went downtown with mama and Bud. I helped mama to pick out her new hat and
we went up to a costume place and picked out our costumes for next Tuesday
night. I am going to dress like a coon or nigger and Lawrence like a cowboy. I
looked around town to try and get some little favors for the party but could not
find any to suit me. I shall have to go down again Monday or Tuesday. I bought a
new dance record also. We left town about six o'clock and it was after
six-thirty when we got home. I had to hustle and get dressed as I had a date to
take Genevieve to the Garrick to see "The Wanderer." We got to the
theatre in time and the play was the most wonderful thing I have ever seen. It
is taken from the Parable of the Prodigal Son in the Bible. There are no words
that can describe the scenic beauty of the play. It has Ben Hur beat all to
pieces. We got home about eleven-thirty and I have never had a more enjoyable
evening as this. And I believe Genevieve enjoyed it as much as I did.
Sunday Dec 29
The last Sunday of 1918. - The old year will soon be to an end and what a
wonderful year it has been. I got up about eight o'clock and went to nine
o'clock mass. The singing and music is wonderful at this mass. The children's or
high school choir sings. Genevieve belongs to this choir and of course she sings
every Sunday. I met Genevieve and Mr. McGraw after mass. - We had dinner about
one-thirty and after dinner I rearranged our phonograph records and made an
alphabetical list of them. Mrs. McGraw came over about three o'clock. Mama
wanted to see her about the party next Tuesday night. Mrs. McGraw stayed until
about half past five or six o'clock and then I walked home with her. When we
entered the house Genevieve asked why we did not bring Bud along so that we
could have a game of Pedro. So we sent John after Lawrence and when they got
back we started to play. Mrs. McGraw claimed Lawrence for a partner which left
Genevieve and I as partners. Oh yes, of course this suited me fine. Well
Genevieve and I carried away the honor of the evening by winning three out of
five games. Mrs. McGraw declared that we cheated but there was only once that we
did. And even that time we didn't gain anything by it. It was eleven o'clock
when we left McGraw's and it is half past twelve now so I guess I had better
turn in. Bonne nuit.
Monday Dec 30
I arrived at the office at eighty-thirty (thirty minutes late) this
morning. I was at the office all day. Papa went home about four o'clock but I
did not leave until six. I had some typewriting to do so I did after five
o'clock. It was pretty near seven o'clock when I got home. Mama and papa and Mr.
and Mrs. McGraw went to the Temple Theatre on the tickets I gave them for
Christmas. Papa has a letter that he wanted typewritten so I went down to
McGraw's and I used Genevieve's machine. When I got down to McGraw's I found
that I had left home without the letter. So I just had to turn around and go
back after it. When I got back to McGraw's I found that Fritz Monty was there. I
didn't spend any time in visiting but got busy right away on the letter. Fritz
said that he didn't believe that he and Myrtle would be at the party tomorrow
night. Well, I don't care so awful much whether they do come. I would like for
Myrtle to come but I believe that Fritz is too old for the crowd that I have
invited. And then too he doesn't believe in dancing and doesn't want Myrtle to
learn. I guess he's afraid that if she learns to dance some fellow that can
dance might take her away from him. I got home about a quarter of ten and then
put the kids to bed. Well, dear diary, there remains but one more entry and what
a wonderful entry tomorrow's will be. I can hardly wait for tomorrow night to
come. Oh boy, but won't we have a wonderful time. A wonderful time.
Tuesday Dec 31
I can truly say that to-day has been the most wonderful day of the entire
year so far as I am concerned. Not the day so much but this evening, New Year's
eve. So much has happened and there is so much to write that I hardly know where
to start in at. Well, I guess I shall begin at the beginning:- I arrived at the
office at about eight-fifteen this morning. I had intended leaving the office at
two o'clock, as I had to go to town. However I had to take some papers downtown
and wait for Mr. Ramsey. It was three o'clock before I finally met Mr. Ramsey.
After I delivered the papers I just stayed downtown and did my shopping. I had
an awful hard time trying to get some favors for the party tonight. I finally
had to take some little fancy candy boxes full of candy. I got back out at the
shop at five o'clock, collected my pay and hustled back to town after my
masquerade suit. It was six o'clock when I got home and I found that mama had
just started on cleaning up the upstairs and had not done anything to the
downstairs yet. Well, I didn't take time to eat any supper but pitched right in
to fix up the downstairs. We took up the rugs and oiled and waxed the floors
good. The floors of the living room and parlor were so slippery you could hardly
stand on them. We finally had everything in shape and then Bud and I put out
suits on. I had a coon suit and blacked my face up with burnt cork. Bud wore a
western cowboy suit. I had invited ten besides myself and Bud but only seven
showed up. Harold Willard and Francis Rhoades arrived first, neither or them
wore a masquerade suit. I don't know why as I told them it was going to be a
masquerade party. Genevieve and Isabell came next but at the time I did not
recognize them. Genevieve was dressed as a country girl and Isabell as a Red
Cross nurse. Adele DeGraw was dressed as an Indian and Zetta Coombs in a red
costume. I don't know what she represented. Victor Adler did not arrive until
after nine o'clock. He brought a farmer costume along but on account of arriving
so late he did not put it on. I don't know how to describe the good time we all
had this evening. We danced and we danced and then we danced some more. And - oh
yes! I don't want to forget the most important part of the evening. We had
plenty of mistletoe on each chandelier. And we all knew the rhyme:- "At
Christmas time 'neath mistletoe and holly, a fair maid might be kissed - When
otherwise 't would be folly." I caught Adele under the mistletoe and Zetta
twice and then the sweetest kiss of all was when I guided Genevieve while
dancing beneath the emblem of the Christmas season. And then my lips met her
fair face and I had kissed the sweetest face of the sweetest 'only' girl in all
Detroit. I was only lucky enough to catch her beneath the mistletoe once. But oh
that once! And here's hoping that it will not be the last time I shall kiss her.
I did not get a chance to kiss Isabell but I should worry, just as long as I did
not miss Genevieve. It was her kiss that I was looking for and she can no longer
say that she has never been kissed by a boy. We sat down to supper about eleven
o'clock. Mama served French brick ice cream, chocolate, coconut and marshmallow
cake and some of the finest grape juice punch. I sat between Genevieve and
Adele. We got up from the table about ten minutes of twelve and then we started
to dance again and we danced the old year and the new year in. And then we
continued to dance until the clock struck two and not until then did the party
break up. It has certainly been the most wonderful evening and I guess we all
had the time of our life - at least I know I did. I walked home with Mrs.
McGraw, Isabell and Genevieve. It was an awful evening outside, raining all the
time. But we did not mind the weather. There was song and gladness in our
hearts. This was the first party I have ever given and it has certainly been a
success. It came off so well that I intend to give another one soon. But I don't
believe I can ever give one that will even equal the one of this evening. This
evening December 31st, 1918 - New Year's eve. A most wonderful
evening.
Memoranda
And now, dear diary, comes the final chapter. The time of parting has
arrived. In fact this book should have been closed three hours ago. It is three
a.m. now on January 1st, 1919. By now you should have been far away
from here, 1918 is gone, is gone forever, never to return. But three hours ago
our party was at its height of hilarious fun and therefore I must now close
these pages.
Dear diary, to you I have trusted my secrets of the past year; to you I have
spoken freely. This year has been a most wonderful year. Now the world is at
peace again, a peace that we all hope and pray shall last for all the years to
come. 1918 is gone, with its glad days and its sad days. You, dear diary, know
which have been my glad days and sad days. To you I have confided everything.
And now just a few words to those who perhaps some day shall read these pages.
You, my friends, who might read these pages, bear this one thought in mind; - a
diary is nothing but the expression of one's thoughts. Have this thought in mind
and I'm sure you'll not be too hard when you judge me. A man's thoughts belong
to no one but himself. A person may think what he chooses. These pages contain
my thoughts. If I have said or written anything that might offend you, just
remember that I thought this. And if my thoughts offend you, please forgive me
for I am truly sorry. If you (the reader) are old and have lived your life, just
remember that you too were young and foolish at one time. If you are young -
well - you will better understand these pages. You too then are in that
wonderful "Kingdom of Youth" and as the poet says:- "What is
greater in this life than the kingdom of youth." No matter who you might
be, dear reader, I trust that you have found some amusement in these pages. If
you have, I am glad that I took the time to write in this book every day. And if
these pages have caused you to stop and look back upon the time when you too
were young, I am also glad. - And you, my dear friends, whose names I have
mentioned in these pages, I trust that this past year has been just as wonderful
for you as it has been for me. And if at times I have written anything that
offends you, please forgive me. But it is written and shall stay written. 1918
is gone but the memories of 1918 are contained in these pages. Every word
written on these pages is the truth and nothing else but the truth. - And you my
dearest friend of them all; you to whom I dedicate this book, if there is
anything in these pages that offends you, I ask you too to please remember that
these pages contain nothing but the expression of my thoughts. But if they
should offend you, I ask you to please forgive me. But just the same I have
always tried to keep to the truth. But it is the truth that sometimes offends.
However, the past is past and the present is here for us to use. And my dear
friends, I trust that our friendship shall continue throughout this next year,
and the next, and the next and on and on, until the time comes when our book of
life is closed and sealed.
- And now, dear diary, I have stolen enough time from nineteen nineteen and must therefore bid you good bye. Oh! How I wish it could be but Au Revoir but we shall never meet again. In the years to come I may glance over your pages but I can never live these days over again. They are gone forever, never to return. So, dear diary, it cannot be Au Revoir but it must be goodbye. You must move on nineteen hundred and eighteen, you have been a wonderful year, and some of the greatest events in history have occurred during your time, but this does not stop you from moving on. Time waits for nobody and you must make room for nineteen hundred and nineteen. So goodbye dear diar
