A World Apart: As Told In Their Own Words

By Richard Lentz

It is September 1937, and the Great Depression lingers on. Wars are breaking out on two continents. Two young people fall in love, promise to be faithful to each other, then are separated for two- and one-half years. Can they remain faithful? What are their lives like? How do they view local and world events? This story is told by Herb and Louise in their own words, through their hundreds of love letters to each other. 
            Who are these two young people? Herb is a sailor in the U.S. Navy, stationed in southern California, and Louise is a beautiful, musically talented young lady who is quite involved in her little community on a remote stretch of the central California coast. Just before Herb leaves on a long-term deployment to Asiatic-Pacific waters, they see each other almost non-stop for three days, and they become engaged to be married. They promise to each other to be faithful until Herb returns from his tour of duty in Asia's waters, whereupon they would marry. This story chronicles their journey of love and devotion, as they face many challenges in their lives, and discover traits about themselves they hadn't confronted before.
            How does the story begin? Herb is stationed in San Pedro, California, near Long Beach. Having grown up in upstate New York, Herb had been in the U.S. Navy for just over two years. His ship, the USS Tennessee, plied the west coast waters from southern California to Bremerton, in Washington state. When in their home port of San Pedro, on a few occasions Herb would hitch-hike up Highway 101 to visit his brother, who had already found a home for himself in a little village called Halcyon, an "intentional community" on the central coast. And this is also where Louise lives, having moved there with her mother and brother from Massachusetts, just eight years ago. Herb's brother has been eager to introduce them to each other. He succeeds. They fall in love and become engaged to be married.
            Will their love remain strong? Herb must depart Louise's company to fulfill his obligation with the U.S. Navy. He is deployed to China and the Philippines for two- and one-half years. Will they remain faithful? This unique and fascinating story is told in their own words, through their love letters to each other, from September 1937 through February 1940.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Richard Lentz
• Release date: May 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9798218159948

Richard Lentz

Richard Lentz was born in San Luis Obispo, California, in 1949, and grew up in Halcyon. After graduating from high school in 1966, Richard attended the University of California, Berkeley. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1970, then continued at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo to earn a Teaching Credential in 1971. He moved to Fresno and earned a Master of Arts degree in Special Education from CSU Fresno in 1979. During the first 20 years of his career he was a teacher and administrator of Special Education, and a School Principal at the K-8 levels. For several years he was active with the California School Leadership Academy and provided training and coaching for school leaders. During the second half of his career Richard held leadership positions in two school districts in Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties.  From summer 2003 through summer 2005 Richard undertook graduate studies at the University of Washington, Seattle. Returning to California he provided consultation and support for school reform in San Mateo County. He earned his Doctor of Education Degree in December, 2007. He served as Assistant Superintendent for Eureka City Schools from 2009 to 2013, then moved to the Sacramento region in 2015 to be close to his three grown children and six grandchildren. Much of Richard’s creative energy and time during retirement has been devoted to writing about his family. The first product is Lentz-Stenquist Family History Part One: 1867-1937 Coming to Halcyon. In this work he chronicles the lives of his ancestors coming to America from Sweden and Germany. His next book, Lentz Family Camping in Pictures, was written for (and to) his grandchildren. It spans the years 1984 to 2000, when his three children were growing up. His latest book is a memoir of his backpacking experiences: Two Decades of Backpacking: 1969-1990. This book contains some of the best outdoor photos in his collection, with details of each hike’s routes, trails, and campsites. Finally, Richard completed writing and editing A World Apart, which was initiated during the first years of the pandemic. His work entailed reading hundreds of letters written by his mother and father to each other, from 1937-1940.

Book preview

Chapter One - Three Days in September

LATE AUGUST, 1937

Herb Lentz writes an entry into his ship’s log, at the front of one of his photo albums of his Navy adventures.

Hot dog, I made the China draft. Now for a week’s leave before I catch the transport USS Henderson in San Pedro. ... Guess I’ll go up to Halcyon on leave.

It was almost as an afterthought, that Herb plans to travel from San Pedro up to Halcyon to visit his brother just before shipping out for the Philippines and China for two and one-half years.

His brother Bernard, at 34, was much older than Herb and he had been living in Halcyon for about six years now. It was a small village nestled in a remote agricultural region of central California, located just a couple of miles from the expansive, fine-sand beaches.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Herb relaxes at the Long Beach YMCA, reading his mail.  He got a letter that morning from his brother Bernard, inviting him up to Halcyon, just a day’s journey north. Herb realizes that if he goes to visit Bernard, he would also get to see Louise again, having met her briefly on one of his previous visits to his brother. Only a half hour later Herb is hitch-hiking up the coast.

After Herb finally arrives in Halcyon late Saturday afternoon, Bernard convinces him to join them for dinner at the Dower’s home, which was only a half mile west of Halcyon, in the town of Oceano. Louise prepared meals for Pearl Dower and her husband Dr. William Dower whose health had been declining for a number of years now.

Herb stayed for dinner, during which Pearl had said (revealed) a lot about Louise that caused her to feel embarrassed (Louise June 30, 1938). If you hadn’t come to supper that night, I would have been disappointed. I wanted to see you (Louise October 6, 1938). Herb wrote about that night It was as if you were someone I’d seen all my life (Herb November 5, 1938).

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

The next day was a busy day for Herb, being escorted around town with his brother, meeting people who were friends of Bernard’s. Herb wrote that when he was in Halcyon, he noticed how many people held Louise in high regard. In fact they had me in awe of you (May 22, 1938).

During the day Herb, Bernard and Louise went over to the Mallory’s home to play a game of monopoly.  Pat and Cethil Mallory were a generous and socially active young couple, having moved into Halcyon about the same time that Bernard arrived, and for the same reasons. They lived in a small cottage on Halcyon Road, just south of the Halcyon Store. Herb commented about how Bernard played the game He’d be too polite to strike a hard bargain with an opponent so he lost everything in no time (August 27, 1938).

Herb and Bernard plan to take Louise that evening to see a movie in Oceano.  Herb feels proud that he was taking such a swell girl to a movie (June 4, 1938).

I was glad when evening rolled around so that I could see more of a certain dear girl. It was nice being so close to you, at the show sweetheart; and you can bet that I’d have loved to hold your hand; but gee, I just didn’t dare; I didn’t know how you’d take it" (September 5, 1938).

In one letter he confessed that he didn’t want to appear bold, and that what he really wanted was to put his arm around her. (November 14, 1937)

I was sorry when the show was over, sorrier yet when I had to say good night to you that night. Because I was rapidly beginning to find a distinct happiness in your company (Herb, September 5, 1938).

Louise reminisced that Fred, her stepfather, gave them all a ride home from the show. Herb sat in the back with her (Louise, April 9, 1938). Herb’s account of that was Sure, I sat in back with you on purpose, and next to you on purpose. In fact you were like a magnet to me and I was irresistibly drawn close to you (June 4, 1938).

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

Herb wrote his version of the story One year ago today, a story of their last night together (September 6, 1938).

I woke up, to begin with, that morning, never dreaming that it was to be the most eventful day in my life; aside from the fact that it was to be my last day with all my friends in Halcyon. Bernard and I had a late breakfast in the Administration building.

And then Bernard said that he had to go over to Dower’s and that I could go visiting [in town] during the afternoon; and come over to Dower’s for supper. But for a definite reason I wanted to go over with him right away; and I did. The reason: I knew that I would see that more of a certain sweet somebody.

Sure enough. I was tickled that you were there already. Then we talked in the kitchen, and I said it would be nice if you liked to write letters and could drop me a line out in China once in a while. And I helped you grind some meat. And we washed the machine, or rather you did; and the parts I dried and put away you had a heck of a time finding.

And then you showed me some small pictures of yourself and I asked you if I couldn’t have one. I was happy that you did let me have one. Later on, I was to treasure it greatly.

Then we drove down to Oceano, and the beach; and got out for a walk. I got sand in my shoes too, pushing on that car that was stuck. Gee, it was nice walking along on the beach, talking to you. but all the time my heart was feeling leaden because I knew that after supper, I’d say goodnight to you and that would be all.

I didn’t dare tell you how much I loved you there; I didn’t see how that jig-saw puzzle could ever be fit together; then! The waves didn’t help me much either; they just reminded me of what lay before me. We talked, about the Navy, about Halcyon; you asked me if I drank much (uh-huh); and I asked you how you liked living in Halcyon with so few young companions.

Then we retraced our steps, and much to my regret, we were soon on our way back to Dower’s.

Again I was in the back seat hoping you wouldn’t run into a tree trying to drive, and turn around to talk to me at the same time. Oh; but one thing you had to say fairly thrilled me thru and thru. Would I like to go for a walk with you after we went home after supper? Would I?

Maybe that started me thinking, put a lump in my throat, and an ache in my heart. I guess the candy wasn’t wholly to blame for our not having much of an appetite; wasn’t it darling? I kept thinking of how pleasant a walk with you would be.  I told Bernard and expected some comment from him; but he surprised me by not being surprised.

Herb and Bernard joined Louise, Fred and her mother Ebba for dinner at the Dower’s that evening. While Herb is upstairs visiting with Pearl, Bernard, and Dr. Dower, Louise is in the kitchen when she hears on the radio the song The First Time I Saw You. As the song plays Herb is walking back down the stairs, and that is the moment Louise realizes that she was falling in love with him. (Louise September 2, 1938).

After dinner Herb helps Louise with the dishes, while they hum a few songs together; one of them is On A Moonlight Bay. They are waiting for Bernard to finish talking with Dr. Dower, then Herb says goodbye to Dr. Dower. (Herb September 6, 1938).

Louise had earlier suggested that they take a walk after dinner, hoping you’d at least kiss me before you went.  I was wishing there was some way we could say goodbye without a whole lot of people around (Louise January 22, 1938).

Herb’s account of the evening continues.

Then we got in the car and dropped Bernard off, and drove up to your house. You were going in the house to get a coat, and we were going to leave a note for your mother; but we decided to go over to the temple instead. You showed me Vickie [her cat] and had him jump through your arms. And you were surprised when he did it for me too.

You looked so sweet standing under a certain light; I felt like grabbing you and kissing you then and there, but oh, on second thought it seemed shocking to me. I figured boy you’d get mad and slap my face; and probably not go out with me. No, I’d never have done that; it was just a passing idea, because you were so kissable looking.

So we went out, and it was dark and I couldn’t see, so you took my hand and showed me the way. When we got on the road you started to let go, but I kept holding your hand; and you didn’t seem to mind. That seemed a wonderful privilege to me at the time; and it was. So we walked over to the temple and caught Fred and your mother just as they came out.

So you told them we were going for a walk, and I asked if it would be all right; and I said I’d take good care of you. So back to the road we went, and arm in arm we happily started walking down the highway. But I was still puzzled darling and didn’t expect what was coming. I didn’t dare dream that you loved me. And I knew you weren’t a bad girl perhaps looking for a good time. I thought at first, that perhaps you had something to confide in me, or just wanted to walk and talk with me since we were to part for a long time so shortly.

Oh honey when we started out, I was in love with you, head over heels; but I wouldn’t have told you for the world. Oh it was eating my heart out; the circumstances and all that. No, I couldn’t ask that much of a girl; besides I was conceited to think that she might even love me.  Love; tomorrow; goodbye; China; two and one-half years; o-o-oh; it couldn’t be true; could fate be so ironic I kept telling myself. (September 6, 1938).

In a separate letter Herb referred to that one night when he fell madly in love with her.  She encouraged him to talk – he talked a lot – she gave him confidence and courage (September 17, 1937).

Herb reminisced about their last night together and how she sang a song to him: The First Time I Saw You. (Which originated from a 1937 film The Toast of New York.) Herb wrote I’ll never forget our theme song (June 12, 1938); the song you sang for me (December 26, 1937).

But your one word lead to another. I was breathlessly hoping something might be true. Did I believe in love at first sight; did I think two people could wait for each other so long? Was she trying to say; did she mean; oh Lord and she does care. That stopped us both in our tracks! Then that first wonderful kiss that was to forever bind two hearts and souls together. Sweet lips endeared me to them for eternity! (September 6, 1938).

Louise wrote that when he kissed her, it made her feel all shivery inside (June 30, 1938).

Herb later wrote I really should have made you give me at least one more kiss ... but that might have gone on all night. We had to stop some time (December 16, 1937).

In another letter Herb wrote that when she told him that night that she loved him he was shocked. He wrote he wanted to hear that, but hardly dared to hope for such a wonderful miracle (November 14, 1937).

Then more walking, and planning, and talking, and love! Gee but we were both in a daze then. We had to find a place to sit down and talk it over. And gee, we ended up in a dirt pile! We were so happy and yet so sad.

You said now you know how wives and sweethearts felt when their loves left for war. To be engaged had me spellbound at first. No formality, no ring; but we had one that had to suffice. (September 6, 1938).

That night Herb gives her is high school graduation ring.

That ring and I had been inseparable because I had vowed no girl would wear it until we were really in love. But you and I were in love, so you wore it. Time really flew then." We were in each other’s arms but short seconds when it was time for us to start back. Then we were wondering who to tell about us. It still seemed fantastic to me; being engaged; somehow I seemed to think that Bernard would regard it as scandalous; and I didn’t for anything want to cause him any embarrassment in Halcyon. (September 6, 1938).

And so we sat on the bench in front of the store while you were convincing me that I should go and tell Bernard at least; if not your mother and Fred. I was wondering what we could tell him, I guess I was stalling; so you half dragged me over to the Guest House. And there with my knees almost shaking we went up the stairs and knocked at his door. He was in bed but we barged right in and started spluttering and stuttering; half wondering, but proud and defiant come what might. (September 6, 1938).

I’ll never forget how reticent I was to go up to Bernard’s room with you that night to tell him about us. ... You see I couldn’t think of Bernard accepting calmly what we’d done. Or anyone else. I thought that they mightn’t even think the whole matter an innocent one and if there is one thing in the world I wouldn’t have done in Halcyon, it is to have jeopardized Bernard’s good reputation and standing in Halcyon. Little did I know that was the last thing that I should have worried about. And Bernard’s happiness about our engagement was enough to floor me. (June 7, 1938)

When I saw a look of happiness come over him and after he congratulated us and told us he was glad; what a relieving let down it was. Yep, with my sweetheart in my arms; we told him how happy, how proud, and sure of ourselves we were. (September 6, 1938).

But then it was getting late so we went out and walked up to your house. Since everyone was asleep or out, we decided not to tell them. It was brave of you to want to tell them alone. And then it was that one last kiss – then goodbye! That was hard; sad; cruel; but inevitable. As I walked back down to the Guest House, I fairly held my head trying to figure it all out and how it could all have happened to me, so quickly! (September 6, 1938).

Then Bernard and I talked for a couple of hours. He told me how wonderful he thought it was; and had dreamed of such a possibility occurring; but hadn’t even dared to mention the thought to anyone. I don’t know when I ever got to sleep; if I did. I was thinking, tossing; wondering; dreaming; hoping; and praying all at once. I thought of you in your house, in your bed, probably doing what I was doing; I knew you needed me and I needed you but we were already parted; to stay parted for many months. (September 6, 1938).

Herb reminisced I’ll always love you for the clear thinking that you did that night, and it was the only thing that saved us (April 8, 1938).

In a separate letter, writing about sexual relations between couples, he referred to their last night together. How easily we might have satisfied our emotions to the limit. However, it was nice to know that we possessed the sense and will power not to do what most lovers would have done. And for that, I couldn’t help but love and respect you all the more (April 14, 1938).

Darling you know I love you for all that you said and suggested that Monday. It had to be the way it was. I couldn’t ask a girl to wait for me before I was sure that she loved me, in those circumstances. I knew how much I loved you then; but I couldn’t open my mouth until I knew for sure that you felt that way. I was afraid that if I told you how much I loved you first; if you didn’t like me much you would have thought that it was just another line that a typical sailor was handing out. Oh, how I waited and hoped for things to occur as they did. I knew emotions that night darling, that I never sensed before. (February 19, 1938).

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Just before Herb leaves at 4:30 in the morning, he writes a note for Louise. 

Darling, How did you feel this morning? Isn’t it wonderful! How I hate to leave you, and yet you have made me the happiest guy in the whole Navy and two years will seem like nothing, won’t it. I can hardly imagine such a wonderful thing happening to me; you are a dream come true indeed. Your faith in me is something I can hardly realize, yet I have the same faith in you and never in thought, word, or action will I ever let you down.

It’s all like a dream, isn’t it? Only this is one dream that doesn’t just fade away and it is going to have a perfect ending too.

I haven’t only a minute now so I can’t write the pages I’d like to, Louise dearest. You will be cheerful and brave I know, also my brother is for us too; in fact who won’t be when they hear about it. Always think of the happy things to come and don’t ever worry or be unhappy on account of me.

I hope it wasn’t too sudden for your mother and father. I’m sure they’ll understand. I would have preferred telling them with you but it didn’t work out that way, did it honey.

My sincerest best wishes and love to your mother and Fred. Words can hardly convey my feelings to the dearest girl in the whole world. Goodbye darling, all my love, today and forever,

Always, Your Herb xxx

That morning Herb has breakfast early. He can hardly eat; he is so elated. Duncan, one of Bernard’s friends, offered to give him a ride part way down to Los Angeles. After Duncan drops him off near Oxnard, Herb then gets a ride all the way into Hollywood. A year later (June 7, 1938) he wrote about telling Duncan the good news.

Then on the way down the highway after a long period of silence, I said to Duncan ‘It sure does feel good to be engaged.’ And he said ‘Oh are you, really. I suppose to some girl out here in Cal.’ ‘Oh yes’ I said. ‘In fact to some girl right here in Halcyon.’ ‘No’ he exclaimed. ‘Who is she.’

And then when I said Louise, he was really flabbergasted, and the proud grin that spread all over my face was really something you should have seen. And so that is how our secret didn’t remain untold.

Herb gets to the YMCA in Long Beach by 1:00 p.m., and he writes another letter to Louise.

Gee honey, I’m in such a daze I never noticed the miles and hours going by. Except that I knew that each mile was another one away from you. Oh, everyone in Halcyon is so swell, I couldn’t imagine such a happy viewpoint as they seem to take of our engagement.

I can hardly write now; my hand is almost shaking. Why? Because it doesn’t seem possibly to me that a girl as sweet and nice as you, would promise to be mine, would wait so long for me, and would make life seem so wonderful for me. (Tuesday, September 7)

After Herb’s visit to Halcyon, he reflects upon his decision a month ago to sign up for duty in the far east.  Back onboard his ship, while in San Francisco, Herb writes that he was such a young kid, he let the glamour and excitement of traveling to China appeal to him; (September 14, 1937) and that going to China was an opportunity to see things one would never get to see normally. (September 16, 1937).

THE FIRST TIME I SAW You by Gracie Fields

The first time I saw you

I knew at a glance

I was meant to be yours, yours alone.

When I look in your eyes

I am thrilled to the skies

And I feel like a queen on a throne.

The first time I saw you

I knew at a glance

I was meant to be yours, yours alone.

My heart was fancy free

One love meant nothing to me.

Until one grand and glorious night

You chanced to come my way.

You turned that night into day.

It must have been love at first sight.

The first time I saw you

I knew at a glance

I was meant to be yours, yours alone.

As I stood before you

My heart seemed to dance

And I prayed you would call, call me your own

The first time I saw you

I knew at a glance

I was meant to be yours, yours alone.

Chapter Two - Halcyon: September, 1937

Mary Louise Stenquist was emotionally very high in the days and weeks following those three magical days in early September that brought about her engagement to be married to a sailor.

She is writing her first letter to Herb while sitting in Halcyon’s Hiawatha Lodge (social hall), where her mother, Ebba, a gifted pianist who played for silent movies, was giving piano lessons. Louise writes that she is practicing singing with two others: her good friend Jean Tedford, six years younger than Louise and daughter of a Halcyon resident and Temple member, and a mutual friend Bob Crozier, a boy of 17 (September 8).  One of the songs this vocal trio practiced that evening was Harbor Lights. She tells Herb that Jean and Bob teased her about it, because the lyrics were especially fitting for Louise’s situation.

HARBOR LIGHTS BY FRANCES Langford (1937)

I saw the harbor lights;

They only told me we were parting

The same old harbor lights,

That once brought you to me.

I watched the harbor lights;

How could I help it? Tears were starting.

Good-bye to golden nights;

Beside the silvery seas.

I long to hold you dear,

And kiss you just once more.

But you were on the ship,

And I was on the shore.

Now I know lonely nights;

For all the while my heart keeps praying.

That someday harbor lights,

Will bring you back to me.

The reaction among the Halcyon residents to the news of Louise’s engagement was generally positive. Louise’s mother liked the special message Herb left for her, which accompanied his note to Louise just before he departed early Tuesday morning. Oh gee Herb, but I love you so much it hurts (September 8).

She tells Herb that Halcyon people are happy for their engagement, except for Herman, who had a crush on her for years, and that some gave her gifts for her hope chest on hearing the news. (September 11).  She also writes that Dr. Dower wondered if Herb knew about her health (September 8). 

Herb’s high school ring, now on Louise’s finger, helped her to feel connected to him.  She writes If it hadn’t been for your ring it would have all seemed like a dream. It still does. I have somewhat calmed down today, but I still think of you every second. Louise and Flamore, Louise’s mother Ebba, and Lottie, a friend of the family, had driven up to San Luis Obispo, to a jewelry store. There she had the ring resized and the setting fixed. She had to have it repaired, because (as Herb told her this story) it broke when he punched another fellow during a youthful fracas. After their visit to the jeweler, they went to get ice cream sodas. (September 11).

A few days later another significant person in her life would leave her. Her brother Bob was going away to attend college in San Jose. On Bob’s last night in town there was a supper at the Lodge, and afterward Bob took Louise and her friend Patty Altamirano, a pretty, young adolescent, to a show in Santa Maria. Louise tells Herb that her brother Bob was happy about their news as well. Bob actually kissed me goodbye last night! Can you believe that? (September 13).

Louise writes about how lonely she is now, because both her boyfriend and her brother had gone away. She complains that she doesn’t have enough to do; that she just sits and thinks of Herb when she’s not visiting or working at the Dowers’ (September 13). 

Everybody is calming down now about us. And I’m beginning to want to keep things more to myself now too. I think our love belongs only to ourselves, don’t you?

Every once in a while, Bernard tells me interesting things about you. You see, I have to learn about you by proxy instead of directly from you.

We didn’t have time to find out much did we? Pearl asks me quite often if you like this or that and all I can say is I don’t know (September 13).

But it wasn’t long before she got his first letters, including a few pictures. Well – what a wonderful day today! I received two letters! And gee honey I was so glad to get those pictures. It sure was nice to see you again (September 14).

In this letter she writes a few phrases from the song she sang to him their last night together. That melody darling is ‘The First Time I Met You.’ Every time I hear that I think of you (September 14).

Louise expresses concern for Herb being in Asian waters, due to Japan’s aggression toward China, and the possibility of United States involvement.

The only way I worry about you is this. Supposing Japan should, very accidentally, step on Uncle Sam’s big toe? He would immediately get his pride all up in arms, and you, in the Navy, would all be the first ones to have to fight. It just makes me so mad. And as for my preference in the matter of your staying in the Navy. I don’t really know yet. Except for the fact of war. Oh, how I hate the thought of your ever having to go. (September 14)

Louise writes about taking a driving test to get her driver’s license.

A funny thing happened today. I went up to San Luis to get a driver’s license and the examiner happened to be a nice-looking young man. When I was out driving with him, I forgot to put my hand out for a left turn at a boulevard stop. So consequently, I have to go up in a couple of weeks to drive with him again to put my hand out. Also, he said he’d teach me how to park between two cars (which I can’t do) and as he works until 5, it would have to be after 5, and then he said that my mother wouldn’t have to wait, he’d take me home. ‘Aint’ that sumpin?’ I got my license anyway. (September 15).

In the same letter she writes about one of the pictures she has of him.

I have one of your pictures – the full-length view – tacked up on the wall right beside my bed. And the other one – the torn one – why did you tear it? – is in a swell frame that I used to keep one of those little pictures of myself. (September 15).

In another letter she responds to his many flattering messages about how wonderful she is and how much he loves her.

Here’s something for you to remember. Please don’t put me on a pedestal darling because you might be disappointed when you get back. You know I really have some faults and if you don’t understand that, I’m afraid I’ll have a hard fall – if I ever fall from it in your opinion. Oh, darling I’m trying so hard to be as good as you think I am; its something to accomplish in these two years. (September 18).

Louise writes about her family, and reveals something that had a major impact on her life. In fact, changed it forever.

My father after 12 years of married life ran off with another girl. You won’t do that, will you? I don’t know where he is now, or if he’s living or what. I was about ten when he left, and I really loved him. (September 18).

On Sunday night, she went to the show with her mother, Fred, Jean and Flamore. They saw The Singing Marine. She writes Now all I can sing is ‘It may be Shanghai, farewell and goodbye.’ – And that’s all I can remember. Remember when we went to the show and you bought some popcorn? And you wouldn’t even hold my hand? (September 20).

Very early in their correspondence Louise and Herb began to define their relationship, including setting some important social boundaries.

Do you realize dear that we’ve never danced together? I guess you won’t have much opportunity for dancing out there, will you? You know, I don’t care if you do go out, only – be sure and think of me whenever you go. It really is awfully sweet of you to tell me to go out if someone asks me to, but I won’t. (September 20).

Along with her letter of September 22 she sent two recently taken photos. She writes In the one of me alone the smile was exclusively for you. And that dress is green – a very pretty green, too. (September 22).

In the second photo (at end of chapter), in addition to Louise in her new dress, we see Flamore, who was born with a severe mental disability, from Dr. Dower’s previous marriage; and Jean, one of Louise’s good friends, who is the daughter of a Halcyon resident and Temple member.

In this letter Louise reaffirmed her love for Herb rather indirectly, by revealing other potential suitors. She begins with a cute story. Did I ever tell you what Mary Anne, Herb Holman’s little girl said? Herb and Virginia Holman were a young couple who lived not far from Louise and her family, and for whom Louise often provided babysitting services when they went out to a movie.  She’s only five. Sometime last week she asked me if I was a woman. I said yes. So she asked me why I didn’t get married. I told her I was going to. Then she asked me why I didn’t marry Tom. (He is a young man of about 25 and a good friend of theirs.) I told her I was going to marry you, but she said she liked Tom better. Louise continues:

I only met him last week sometime. And I didn’t think much of him. Herb and Virginia have tried twice to make a match between me and another man. Sometime last summer, they had me over to dinner to meet a man named Gil. Well – I was very bored with him, and I don’t doubt he was bored with me. Another time they had another man down – I’ve forgotten his name even. And then you came, and in a minute I fell in love with you" (September 22).

Louise writes more about her life in Halcyon.  Halcyon is a nice place darling, but you have to have a good sense of humor to live in it. You can’t even think of doing something without somebody coming up and saying ‘I hear you’re going to do this or that.’ But just the same I love it (September 24).

Last night, Bernard and I went over to Otto’s and played Five Hundred. And what do you think? I won! Which is remarkable, I scarcely ever win at cards. Anyway, Bernard doesn’t know much about cards, and I think Otto let me win. I’m not sure. We played about five hands when Otto got tired and went to bed, and Bernard lay down on the couch so I played solitaire. And never won. My mother came after us about 9:15. (September 24).

Otto lived in the Sanatorium, and telling Herb about playing cards there reminded Louise of another time she visited Otto there. It was located only a half block from the Dower’s personal residence, in Oceano, where Louise often worked for Pearl.

(The Halcyon Hotel and Sanatorium, which opened in 1904, was housed in a Victorian mansion built around 1885. When the organization, The Temple of the People, relocated from Syracuse, New York to Halcyon, California, the Temple purchased the mansion, a barn, several outbuildings, a windmill, a 10,000-gallon water tank, and 30 acres of land, which included a soft water spring.  The mansion had 20 rooms and had running water, which was uncommon in the area at that time. At the time of our story the mansion was no longer used for its original purposes, because Dr. Dower had long ago retired from his medical practice there. Now the building was used to house individuals who were members of the Temple and in need of housing. They still called it the sanatorium.)

I went up to Otto’s tonight to take a newspaper up. Have you ever been in the Sanatorium? I’m telling you it’s the spookiest place at night. I had to go up the back stairs all alone in the dark and hoping and praying that no rats or owls would jump at me and also that no boards in the floor would suddenly give way. Anyway, I got two glasses of cider for my trouble. Otto says I have to help him drink it so it won’t turn to vinegar. In case you don’t know Otto, he is about 75 or something like that. (September 24)

On Saturday, Louise, her mother and Flamore went to visit Yoshiko, Louise’s good friend from high school, and who was now living in Santa Maria, about a half hour drive south of Halcyon. She explained in her letter how she and Yoshiko went to Los Angeles to work, after graduating from high school in 1936. That summer they did housework and babysitting, trying to save money to attend business college. She writes that Yoshiko, at 18 years of age, was in trouble. She worked at a Japanese store there, and she had fallen in love with an older man, a Filipino. Yoshiko was afraid to tell her mother, because he was ten years older than she, and they fight, because he has a temper. (September 25).

A few days later Louise writes about what her doctor prescribed to improve her health, but she didn’t reveal why, or what the problem was.

I went to see Dr. King today and he grinned when I told him I was engaged. He’s young, about 32, and has been married about five years. But he’s very annoying. He says I have to go to bed at nine o’clock every night in the week except two, and then I have to go to bed at ten. Also to lie down every afternoon for an hour and a half. I hate to lie down and I don’t like to go to bed so early. I’m alright though, and I’m getting along fine, and I don’t have to see him until the first part of December. (September 27)

Above: Bernard Lentz, 1936

Above: Louise (20), Flamore (18) and Jean (14)

Above: Pearl Dower with a neighbor’s child

During a school field trip.

Louise is third from left; her friend Yoshiko is second from left.

Fred and Ebba at their cottage.

Chapter Three - San Francisco to China, Sept-Oct 1937

THE TRIP TO CHINA WAS on the U.S.S. Henderson, a transport ship. Prior to leaving California waters, the ship spent a few days in San Francisco Bay, at Mare Island.

While Herb’s ship was still in California waters, one evening he found a quiet spot up on deck where he could sit down and write one of his first letters to Louise. He reminded her of how much she meant to him. Take a look in the nearest mirror to you and there you will see an image of all that is dear and holy to me; all that there is in life for me; my everything (September 13).

In closing, he wrote How peaceful the hills look across the channel. And it’s warm too, so I’ll sling my hammock on topside. So, with the stars above me and the cool night breezes around me I’ll fall asleep thinking of a peaceful little village where the sweetest angel who ever graced the earth is thinking of me too, I hope (September 13, 1937). 

Herb reminisced about their last night together and how she sang a song to him: The First Time I Saw You and how he fell madly in love with her.  He recalled how she encouraged him to talk a lot, because she gave him confidence and courage (September 17).

Herb’s life was quite the contrast to Louise’s. In his early letters he explains why he made the decision to request the assignment to go to China. He wrote I was such a young kid, I let the glamour and excitement of traveling to China appeal to me (September 14).  He also explained that going to China was an opportunity to see things one would never get to see normally (September 16).  He reassured Louise that now, because of their engagement, he wanted to work hard, stay aboard ship, and get advancement (in rank/pay).

HERB’S NAVY LIFE AND Activities

Herb often wrote to Louise about his activities and life in the Navy. While at sea, he tells her about how they rigged their hammocks, leading to a story of a playful incident. 

We usually sling our hammocks in the same place, on deck and talk for a while before we fall asleep. Boy, do you have to sling your hammock high on this ship. The overhead is about 8 feet off the deck. You sling your hammock on hooks on the beams of the overhead, about ten feet apart. Then you unleash your hammock, smooth it out and haul it up as tight as you can. When you are ready to turn in you take a flying jump for the overhead and catch hold of a beam and swing yourself into your hammock. Then you are about 7 feet up in the air.

Last night we were in a frolicsome mood and started trying to dump each other out. Hal and Vernon ended up on deck in a pile of blankets, pillows, mattresses and hammocks. Then they were about to get me when someone on watch yelled at us to keep quiet, it was time we were asleep, so I was saved. Boy they were mad! (September 16)

One evening as Herb’s ship was nearing the Hawaiian Islands, he wrote extensively about the beauty that surrounded him, and about his desire for their reunion.

The skies are so pretty out here Louise; I hope someday you can see them. Especially at sunrise and sunset. All the colors are so soft. White fleecy clouds are always around to frame the most beautiful pictures imaginable. The sparkling waves are starting to glimmer and shine with a bright blue hue and pretty silver flying fish dart from wave to wave, and swoop and glide a few feet off the water. It’s almost sunset now. A golden aurora fills the western horizon. It reflects off the clouds, back into the sea and makes it look like a golden ocean. And the clouds are golden! In a few hours the moon will create new wonders. Shimmering in between clouds, its silvery rays bounce along the darkened sea and – it’s beautiful.

Every night when movies are over, between nine-thirty and ten o’clock; I lean on the life-line for a few minutes before turning in and I think of you. I wonder if you are looking at that same old moon. And the heaven above is so quiet and peaceful; I pray that a merciful God will watch over you and protect you and someday find it fit to unite us with our undying love, to live forever after in joy and happiness.  It’s so much to ask for; but never have I so badly wanted to deserve something. And I will work to deserve you sweetheart! (September 22)

CROSSING THE 180TH Meridian, Pacific Ocean

There is a ritual practiced by sailors in the U.S. Navy: Whenever a ship crosses the 180th Meridian, first timers on board are put through an elaborate initiation.  Herb enjoys writing to Louise with all the details of this ritual.

Yesterday morning instead of blowing revile on a bugle to awaken us as they usually do, a brass band paraded around the ship and woke everyone up. Then at 8 A.M. the Golden Dragon and his court came aboard (hypothetically speaking), and conducted the initiations which lasted all morning. There were a whole band of dragon backs who initiated us dressed as pirates, dragons and what not. You see once we cross the 180th meridian we are in Asiatic waters or in the realm of the golden dragon and we must be duly initiated into the royal order of dragonbacks. It is all taken quite seriously and everyone must go thru with it.

The officers who were initiated really had some funny things to do. One had to stand up in the crows-nest with a sheepskin coat on and yell every ten minutes ‘Oh, Friday; where art thou?’ You see we lost Friday when we crossed the line [International Date Line]. Another had to wear a hula skirt and do a dance. A couple had to cart big telescopes up the mast on the rigging and keep a sharp lookout for ‘the line’ and the golden dragon. Another was dressed in a mandarin robe, had a Stetson hat on, a rifle and bayonet over his shoulder; and every ten minutes he had to shout ‘Oh golden dragon please forgive me, this poppycock is not against Navy regulations.’ Others were dressed funny and had different crazy jobs to do.

When they came to all us fellows, they had to initiate us quickly as there were almost a thousand of us, ‘Neophytes,’ as they call men who have never been across the line. We were marched in single file up on a platform where the golden dragon interviewed us.

Some of us had to sit in the electric chair, others had pie or spaghetti smeared on them by the Barber. The Dentist sprayed some awful stuff down your throat. Then you had to kneel down and kiss small idol of Buddha whereupon you were soundly whacked with canvas clubs. Then we had to jump into a big dragon’s mouth when we landed on a pile of mattresses; and last, had to get up and run a gauntlet of dragonbacks armed with canvas clubs. I guess some of the fellows didn’t sit down at the movies last night. But it sure was lots of fun! (October 3)

WHAT HERB THINKS OF Halcyon

Herb’s and Louise’s perceptions of the town of Halcyon and specifically the Temple as a religious entity, would naturally differ. When they met, Louise had been living there since January 1, 1929. For Herb, it was a totally new experience. He writes that Halcyon is a most interesting place with its background and its characters. He confesses that he believes in it all but cannot quite grasp it all yet and he writes it was wonderful how Temple members work together in such harmony, and so uniformly grasp the truths that are offered (September 12). Later he tells Louise about his belief in God, and how it is consistent with the Teachings of The Temple.  He writes that of what he had learned so far, he very much liked the general philosophies in the teachings. However, he also writes that he never could devote himself to it the way some of the members did. I mean the way they so completely sacrifice everything for its cause (October 3).

ISLAND OF GUAM

We pulled in here early yesterday morning at sunrise and it really was a pretty sight. You might call this the emerald island of the Pacific with its bright green jungle and vegetation all over the place. And a lot of the shores are actually sandy beaches with palm and coconut trees