THE NEW SHIP
NEW PEOPLE
Jan. 5, 1937
Dearest Ellen:
Here it is 1937 and the grand hope of seeing you this year rises in my heart…
Last evening the Sverdrups “waffled” here and early this morning D. and Dr. S. left for a days jaunt to Riverside where he is to speak…
We had terribly cold weather during the last two weeks, plus wind and rain. We had to live in the dining room and I had to push a table against the double doors or else the wind from the living room would blow them open. But I hear you, too, have been having unusual weather…
Jan. 11, 1937
We are still actively suffering from the cold, two of our guppies died from it and everyone goes about with a cowered attitude. We avoid the mud by trecking to the beach. As yet we have avoided the flu epidemic…
It is completely disgusting—my unholy delight in going to the Sverdrup's “At Home” in my new tout ensemble ie coat—hat—scarf. I flaunt it and simply can't and won't be nonchalant. I feel like a puppy with a “high” bone—I want to frisk it in and out under peoples' noses … From that angle the tea was an hilarious success. Gudrun had made pretzels and unearthed some Christmas goodies. Sunday last we discussed the affair. Mrs. Sumner, Mrs. McEwen, Mrs. Chambers were to pour tea and coffee and she wanted me to also—But I suggested Marian Moberg and was pleased to see her purring over a lovely teapot when I went in. Everyone in high good humor very much impressed with themselves and like a flock of canaries that ate a cat in its nine lives. Dr. S. talking to groups and individuals and bowing like a little chinese figurine, and Anne sauntering through the room with huge platters of goodies before her and two rows of very firm curls at the back of her neck, and Gudrun saying “Yes she made the cookies ohhh she enjoyed doing it” and beaming at her guests. The Sverdrups had such a good time that they are going to do it again, and the colony had such a thrill that it is still living on the astral plain.
Murdy seems to be recovering…
In some poem some one “went to his well earned rest”—was it the cattle? Anyway that's where I'm going if I can get there awake. Otherwise you will soon get the sad news of
Ever with love,
Alice
Dick to Ellen
Jan. 18, 1937
Tell Roger that Murdy is doing nicely and expected to pull through although he was given up for dead before Christmas.
(Also a page about lab assistant “Andy”; effects of his marital troubles on his usefulness as a scientist)
Jan. 30, 1937
Dearest Roger:
…We manage to survive this cold, wet weather, but there is much gritting of teeth and crowding against stoves; and the station generally is rather red of nose and water of eye. I'm taking Betsy for a walk twice each day. We bundle up; she in long leggings and her red cap and sweater and with Peter (the spaniel) in call, go for our solitary promenade. Everyone else is barricaded in—sometimes we see a face peering out of a hazy window at us, but for the most part we are “sole survivors”. Needless to say, it really is glorious outside—the wind is cruel, but it has driven the waves so hard that there are acres of breakers; making a white patch from the end of the pier to the cove. Out beyond that the ocean looks deep and vivid—and ready for Viking ships—or Trojans who “Sitting well in order smite the sounding furrows”
Down on the beach the birds walk briskly about, like a movie speeded up—and eddies of wind blow the sand ahead of us.
…This morning I worked in rhythm with the Inaugural ceremony [F.D.R.] broadcast—wondering the while if somewhere in Bergen two La Jollans were hearing the same program. One news commentator before the president's speech said “Listen for his stand on labor and war”. What he stressed was improving conditions for the really poor Americans. That thought has been snatched up and every radio program today and papers are chorusing it. No one mentions “war or labor”.
Apropos of the strikes we can buy only one sack of sugar at a time here!! Fish is scarce because of bad weather and many varieties of canned food are “used up”.
…The Sverdrups went up to Laguna Mts. on Sunday and thrilled themselves with several hours unadulterated skiing. They went again today. She raved about “miles and miles of going” and “no one else around.” He scraped the back of a hand while coming down and goes about the station flaunting the bruise in the face of an unsuspecting public which stares and says “Oh, Dr. S. how did you hurt your hand?” and he replies nonchalantly “Just a little scrape I got while skiing Sunday.”
The station has a new Ford sedan in place of the station car—may its soul rest in peace—you should see Bill or Carl Johnson driving it.
Barney's book is published and selling at $4.00 a copy, and both he and Mrs. Barnhart are walking on air. She says “Of course I'm thrilled—in just the tone she uses on patchwork quilts. And he says “I'm glad its really published but you know Mrs. Fleming everyone doesn't think its perfect Now
Gudrun has just finished Sigrid Unset's “Faithful Wife” “How did you enjoy it?” said I. “Oh S.U. is too heavy and hairy” said she.
Oh yes—I nearly forgot the latest tempest in the teapot. Jim Ross told D. the university architect was coming to look over the houses to see whether they would be worth 1. conditioning or 2. should be torn down or 3. should have all furniture removed and rent just as unfurnished houses. So—I thought I'd stay at hand in case he came to see my house!! I looked out the window in the middle of the morning to see Lillian and Helene (Chambers) walking up and down in front of their house. Jim had told her to be ready to see the man at 8:30—He did not appear that day or the next, and on the third day he beat a hasty retreat having been pulled hither and yon by all the people “who needed things done to their labs before they could do any work.” And the housewives have settled back to the belief that their roofs will be over their heads next week as this; and Gudrun mutters in my ear—“It makes me so mad” and swats a ball. I tell her we couldn't get a suitable place in town; clean(?); a glorious view, no near neighbors; a yard and near to work.
…over a week of battling the elements has gone. D. has gone into his new office (close to Dr. Sverdrup) and is still getting settled. What E. likes is the “swiffle” chair which she “Swiffles” with great abandon.
With love to all
Great and small
E. and R. and daughters two,
from You know who
Affectionately,
Alice
Dear Roger and Ellen,
February 2, 1937
The pictures are perfect. We are thrilled to have a glimpse of you at home in Norway. You all look well; and not a bit “foreign”. Though perhaps I catch a bit of an accent.
Ruth Anderson has left Andy again. This time for good … Ruth McKitrick is sporting a fine engagement ring—Arthur Hollan is the man. She is so happy there is a catch in her voice…
Betsy has been providing us with excitement by having a stab at the flu. Woe is me and lack a day!
Tell Anne the seals are here. Before Betsy was ill we used to go out on the pier after tennis and watch them playing about in the water. Always seem like such comfortably dispositioned creatures, despite their croupy bark.
D. says to tell you he believes you are getting Oxford Groupish. I think it would be interesting to import it to Scripps. What do you think?
Sunday, Feb. 14, 1937
Dear Ellen:
In the first place—“Will you be my valentine?”
It's a rainy, grey afternoon, with the road flowing with water and the hills silently oozing out into the roads; the trees tossing and the bay bleak and sober … What we should be doing is gardening. But God realized that we had been out late last evening and gave us a grand excuse for lazing in the house.
What a week! “The men” went up to San Pedro to look over the Bluefin; had a grand time on their little junket. Gudrun and I lunched together here and talked ourselves
One of the cakes was raffled off at 10¢ a raf, Dr. Sverdrup going around with the tickets, and Anne bearing huge white cake with two very red hearts. Betty Ross won it and giggling declared she simply couldn't take it cause she made it. Another card was drawn—Oh Calcium Cunningham drew the tickets out of the hat—and Mrs. Ross on it. She giggled and couldn't take it. So Calcium, giggling, drew another number. It was Dr. S's. Uproar. Gudren rushed up and shrieked “You keep that cake, Harald. Don't let it get any further.”
Then as a mixer, they got one or more baby pictures of the whole tribe, framed them in paper doily hearts, numbered them, and pinned them on the walls. Such passion as was shown by the penciled crowd scrutinizing the pictures and each other. And the heroic mistakes that were made, told to friends and cackled over! The prize one was Andy's baby picture looking just like me!!
Wednesday we dined with the Foxes at the Mobergs and all was very pleasant. Friday we dined with the Johnsons, Martin's assistant and Andy at the Sverdrups. Dr. S. has been terribly upset because he has had 3 appointments to come down here by Dr. Sproul broken. But Friday evening he was happier than I've ever seen him and less worried.
D. is going off on the Bluefin next month. He is to lecture in Oceanography here during the summer session which Dr. S. is endeavoring to “build up”. D. will get additional wages,
Am sending the views of the station from our scrapbook…
Ever with love,
Alice
THE NEW BOAT AND DR. SPROUL
Alice to Ellen
(undated-late Feb., 1937)
Thursday evening D. rushed through a partial ablution because he and Dr. S. “got talking boat”, and I in my new hat and coat rush off to take the ZoBells in our car to the U.C. Alumni dinner at the Grant Hotel because Dr. Sproul is the piece de resistance of the evening; and we have all been told to attend. The Mobergs asked the Sverdrups as their guests; and then when the latter were expected to sit at the speakers table there was general confusion … It ended by my sitting between Mo and Claude and D. between Marian and Margaret; eating a hotel dinner and hauling out conversation between courses. By the time dessert arrived in melted pools of brick ice cream all was going smoothly. Then we listened to the Men's Glee Club sing; saw football pictures, heard committee reports, listened to Bob Sibley, and a young football hero … and finally Dr. Sproul was worth it all. He is much older and harassed looking, loud as ever, and splendid. He and Dr. S. had lunched with Bob Scripps (who is just recovering from flu) and were impressed with his enthusiasm about a new boat for the station. On the strength of which D.
Dr. Sproul told Dr. S. that he had never seen Bob Scripps so enthusiastic.
…I went to town early Friday and blissfully trotted from store to store … Then I met D. and we lunched slowly and hilariously; and then started a treck to get me a dress with two birthday checks I'd received. You started it, my dear, with the brown net I inherited from you, and for the next ten years must enjoy with me my new brown lace dress. Good lines, good material, well fitted. I like it and shall be self confident in it…
Saturday Bob Gordon whose wife is away came in. He is so McEwen, and regaled us with the findings in statistical methods used on fish in Italy … until we got him onto music which is his religion and had a grand free for all about Wagnerian music.
The other evening Dr. Sverdrup was telling how they eat sandwiches together in Bergen. I said I dared him write notes to the staff members saying “Bring your lunch to work next Wednesday” and see what happened. Imagine our surprise when he did just that. D.'s account of the lunch period is amusing. They all sat around in Dr. S.'s office on a semicircle of chairs, and with their heads down consumed their sandwiches in guilty silence. D. made three attempts at conversation. They didn't even die awful deaths, they just expired. Finally D. got some old pictures of the station from the library, and they did start talking about those. Dr. S. said he is going to go on with the idea, once a week.
Did you know the state and the city of San Diego want to
We are so happy thinking of your Norwegian adventures. Have a glorious time.
Ever with love,
Alice
The New Ship
Ellen from Alice
March 12, 1937
This evening we are to dine with the Sverdrups at Gracie's[*]
[*] Editor's note: Ellen Revelle's mother, Mrs. Johansen and husband Captain Johansen.
Since Dr. S. spent yesterday in L.A. looking at boats we are assured one subject of conversation—the 104 ft. boat which is now his dream ship. D. says he is so thrilled about this boat he saw by accident that he stutters! If things go by plan today, they will buy this boat, have it for service this summer and save time and money. What pleases me is that we are to dine with the Johansens and have a pleasant evening before her fireplace.…Such a cozy dinner at Gracie's whom I tried conscientiously to call Mrs. Johansen. She and the Captain both looking so happy.
Yesterday afternoon D. and Dr. S. drove up to San Pedro. They are to make a trial trip on the Bluefin today—in gray rain and whitecapped sea.
Dear Ellen,
On board M.V. “Bluefin”
(California Fish and Game Commission) Port San Luis.
According to our plans we should be about half way through our cruise—but the old oceanographers devil has been at work; after four days we have occupied two stations … gales and downpours of rain. This morning the biggest swells I have ever seen in my life—but they were so long we rode them nicely until the wind came up and started blowing the tops off them—then we had to turn around and run.
We saw a lot of Velella (sp.?) or as the skipper calls them “Spanish—by-the-winders”. They are relatives of the Spanish Man O'War. It looks like a cookie with a sail on it—only the cookie part is a brilliant purplish blue. They float along on the surface with their sails sticking out—and sail by-the-wind.
Port San Luis is a funny little burg-first the end of the oil pipelines for the wells around San Luis Obispo. A couple of long wharves, a family of oil tanks and main street … Aside from the village it is really beautiful here, rolling hills—brilliant green just now with a liberal sprinkling of live oaks.
We landed on Santa Rosa Island the other day and explored and dug in the numerous old kitchen middens. Nak found a beautiful arrow head, and I unearthed several fragments of obvious human manufacture … Coming along the south side of the island the Capt. spotted a small fishing boat. It proved to be a lobsterman, and as the season closed a week ago—action! We boarded the tub—the “Barbara”.
Dr. Sverdrup was supposed to make this trip, but negotiations for our new boat were moving along so rapidly he decided to stay ashore—Nak came instead … It is an 104 foot schooner that has belonged to Lewis Stone—I was on board her about 10 days ago and she looked pretty fine to me. They were to haul her out this week and examine the hull and then if she is sound and passed that test, to sail her down to San Diego on a trial trip to see how she handles. I hope, and am sure, that she will be a lot better than this bath tub…
Tell that good for nothing husband of yours that when he finally writes me a letter I will break down and get a reply off to him…
R.F.
Alice
April 8, 1937
Well, my dears, Dick is back from the bounding main having lost weight and gained a mustache … When D. came home he was informed that the Serena is ours and Bob Scripps plans to spend $15,000 (I think that is where the comma goes) in putting her into condition!! So Monday evening we went down to the S.'s to celebrate—we consumed banana ice cream and a bottle of Champagne! and dreamed great dreams for this ship. Bob Scripps owns her. The yacht broker will be listed as her captain and all changes will be perfected before she is presented to the University, thus saving much red tape.
Friday Dick and Dr. S. go to San Pedro to have movies taken of their work!
The Francis Smiths are going to London for 3 months. Clarice is all set to take a trip to Switzerland with you!!!
April 15, 1937
Dearest Ellen:
We are both very “high” since our two days vacation. We drove to Palm Springs by the inland route—all so green and spring like—lush green meadows, pear orchards in bloom; orange trees bright with their fruit and occasionally white washed in batches to keep from sunburning—horses plowing; children waiting for school buses and yards full of Monday wash bannering the breeze. I might add that every woman from La Jolla to March Field chose that Monday for washing blankets.
When we came to a grand view of snowy mountains we consumed our lunch … The desert flowers were lovely, miles of the sand verbena and little yellow daisy-like blossoms. The desert itself with its pastel colors moving off in the haze to the base of the mountains. The ranges so gaunt, showing their ribs as they stretched threatening in the sun. Their ridges were so severe against the sky that one felt they were one dimensional—like the back drops of a huge stage. Utterly thrilling. Further down along the Salton Sea we saw miles of the yellow mesquite blooming—and in Borrego Valley the Ocatillo and many varieties of cactus.
The Coachella Valley with its windbreak tree hedges and huge date orchards is impressive—long arcades under the palms … But the strongest impressions were of the sordid, straggling lines of shacks, palms thrown over, or boxes nailed
We stayed Monday night at Desert Camp six miles from Mecca—very crude little cabins—about five of them, a kitchen and a men's toilet—I never did find the womans'. A huge pump dominated everything with its flub dup … until it suddenly ceased—and let in the flooding silence of the desert … After dark, “Ethel” carrying a coal lantern, came to our cabin and escorted us to a table set out under the stars and a bright new moon; and there with our neighbors for the night we dined companionably.
In the afternoon we had walked out on the plain and gathered minute seashells left from the days of water—and saw what is said to be the ancient shore line, a yellow streak along the mountain side…
Tuesday we drove along the Salton Sea, turned off into Borrego Valley and hence to Julian … a New England Spring—green meadows, sapling trees just budding, flowers edging streams … We passed a roadside stand where they were selling lilacs—D. bought me a huge bunch which I caressed all the way home. We dined in Ramona and from there on I was Hell bent for Elizabeth—who was of course safe and sound but so pleased to see us.
Anna was to have come to us this evening so that the Sverdrups could start east early tomorrow; but for a week she has been ill…
The men are completely boat conscious. Constantly delirious and always coherent in their praise of her though they may not hear a word wife or child says to them…
Our love to the daughters, and Roger, and your ski-ing self—
Alice
April 25, 1937
Dearest Ellen:
Today, after shopping we drove up to inspect Gracie's new house. It certainly is a site of sites with the bay blue and the cliffs white and the far rim of the horizon spread out below its windows … I took cuttings of two kinds of geraniums … I believe I've told you how brazen I am about taking “slips”. Petunias and geraniums, especially a variety I do not have—“something in me snaps” and I find myself stalking my prey, getting a healthy “twig”, and half proudly marching home with it. It's a habit which grows on one; like blondes or aspirins.
Anna (Sverdrup) is quite happily situated here—though I'm a little the worse for wear.
It is especially vivid here now. The ocean so deeply blue; and the cliffs near the cove elongated with purple shadows at their base; and inconsequential fishing boats at anchor near them. The aloes are still a glow, but the grass is pale now; and will soon have lost its greenness and be ready for cutting. Up on the hills the new bronze tips of the eucalyptus shine in the sun; and mustard like a yellow cloud on the hills.
Dr. and Mrs. Sproul are giving a tea for the new provost on May 2nd. There is some talk of a group driving up from the station. D. will go, since he starts off on the Bluefin the next day; but I shall doubtless stay here; for Margaret Zobell wants to go for 2 days; if I will take Dean and Karl—E. and Dean are devoted and Margaret kept E while I was away—sooooo—I'm quite eager to do it to satisfy my curiosity as to how well I can manage 3 children.
The Gold Book is here. Mo doesn't think much of it because it lists him as a graduate student.
Have I told you that the Shepards will be out here for 8 months starting next February.
By the way; did you know it is Strawberry season. Last week we had shortcake three times so Dick would have enough to make up for being two weeks at sea.
Much of Kellogs land between the station and the Beach Club; is being cultivated. We see the tractors plowing it up months starting next February?
They are all hoping that the station will be very busy this summer with the new system of summer classes. Gene LaFond is to be here for the summer, also Lyman and Hoeffler. The Jacobs expect to come down, too … Dr. S. was to see Fran Shepard and lecture in Urbana. He is to stay with the Vaughans in Washington.
We are eager to hear of Norwegian spring. How you will delight in it after having a real winter.
Alice to Revelles
undated (May, 1937)
…You will be amused to know that we read (your last letter) enroute to see a cowboy parade advertising the Lakeside Rodeo. We tore into San Diego with our two daughters (E. and Anne Sverdrup) and Peter (the cocker spaniel). I don't know who was the most thrilled. It was a fine show—cowboys in dazzling trappings. Fine horses with prima donna in them to shy and cavort—and nags. Indians bareback with rope reins and a dirty nonchalance. What delighted Elizabeth was the horse dragging two sticks across which hides were fastened to make a “trailer” and in it sat a
We dined the Mobergs last week; and Mo was pleasanter than I've ever seen him; so we are tremendously cheered.
By the way; did you know it is Strawberry season. Last week we had shortcake three times so Dick would have enough to make up for being two weeks at sea.
Much of Kellogs land between the station and the Beach Club; is being cultivated. We see the tractors plowing it up and the horses pulling “things” through the fields; and new plants appearing … Marion and I went to the fields yesterday; and each bought a “flat” of strawberries to make jelly. The little Japanese woman in her huge sunbonnet with an apron under it drawn about her face like a nuns wimple, and blue cloth arm guards waited on us. Such a voluminous pair of riding trousers with a faded calico frock stuffed into them. Her face so calm and pleasant. Happy eyes, and a merry laugh for Danny and Elizabeth.
You will be amused to hear that the ZoBell-Fleming mass meeting was called off—Karl came down with chickenpox! We are now waiting to see what happens to Deane and Elizabeth…
Anyway, notice (enclosed) what resembles chinese hieroglyphics. It does not say “To our serene and charming Revelles with manifestations of affection”. It is the blossoms on one stalk of Iris…
Ever with love,
Alice
undated (About June 1, 1937)
Well, my dears … It is now definitely summer—with the
The fleet has returned from war games in the islands and is booming its heart out at San Clemente rattling our windows during the week and having another kind of rattling good time in San Diego during weekends. The practice squads of planes dive at my clothes horse and the little fishing boats contentedly gather in their nets full of fish. And the men of the station talk boat.
…Sunday we went to the MacKays and watched Lois and Mac lay bricks in their lath house—and when the Sverdrups dropped in we all sat Tom Collinsing and gossiping before the fire. They all had a grand trip east and back and are hilariously friendly, if you know what I mean. The Macs got a new car and drove it west.
Today we girls went to the fashion show at the Country Club. I don't know why this craze for fashion shows…
This spring the castle of the breasties on the right of the road as one drives into La Jolla was inhabited. We noticed fine cars parked in front of it and a generally improved air. Last week it was raided and the papers headlines were “La Jollas Turkish Temple Raided”. It was a gaming house, with all sorts of signals rigged up to tell when the police were coming.
The boat is progressing so well it may be ready for service by September. Bob Scripps has put up the running expenses for the first year.
Mrs. Sumner is bustling about getting up a shower for Ruth McKitrick … they can't be married because he is on PWA. They are going to try to get him regularly employed here. Then she will have to relinquish her job…
June 6, 1937
Year of our Terrace I
Here I sit on our terrace on a brilliant Monday morning, with the laundry flaunting itself against a warm blue sky and Deane and Elizabeth hard at work on crackers and milk.
Dick came home Saturday noon in a mood of incomparable triumph—“What do you think I have in the back of the car?” he said “Two dozen bricks” … we spent Memorial Day weekend making two new garden beds—how glorious it was…
The shower for Ruth was very successful—she was completely surprised, the gifts attractive and guests enthusiastic … As far as I was concerned the high light was when the Misses Rosenbury and Cupp were introduced into the roomful of garrulous females and there was an abysmal silence. Then Mrs. Palmer broke the quiet in her chummiest voice “Your kitty and my kitty are friendly, aren't they Miss Cupp?”
This last Friday Mrs. Sumner had a colony tea. We took the Whedons up with us. He has the office below Dicks—has just arrived. Is here for five years employed by the navy working under Sverdrup, Allan and ZoBell to find out what can be done to stop growth on boat bottoms…
The real new of the week is that Dick shaved off his mustache. I am relieved to see his smooth shaved face once more.
Elizabeth has been quite ill with her vaccination, but is better today, and we are in a “glad that is over” mood.
Alice to Ellen
Summer, 1937
(late June?)
It is a dark night on the La Jolla shore, the waves moan and the wind whispers; and the father of the family has gone into San Diego to a meeting. Peter (the Fleming spaniel) pretends to sleep at my feet; but every so often he rolls his eyes and whimpers, or stands stiff legged looking out the window growling insults at the darkness. Pelicia (the Revelle spaniel) arrived at the station today. So far Peter has a cut nose, a torn mouth and a tear on his back … Peter attacks any dog that looks at her—and she just laps it up, the vixen! This is the doggiest place—we have female dogs at Johnson's, McEwens, Jacobs, Rosses, Chambers and Whedons plus Peter, Joe, Skippy and Spooks (the Sverdrup shepherd, inherited from Dr. Vaughan).
We went in to Clarice (Smith's) tea this afternoon. I took Mrs. Summer. She phoned to know if her lavender figured with a white coat and black hat would be “all right to wear”. I said I was wearing a short dress—and when I hung up the phone prayed devoutly that she would do likewise; for she is ill at ease anyway; and if dressed unlike the others would be wretched. She looked very nice and neat, but rather flour sackish and was very nervous, poor darling. She feels what I now call the “we and the they” of all social gatherings except those at her house. I have decided that the more people one includes under the word “we” and the fewer under “they” the easier life is. And Mrs. Sumner felt she was facing “they” and Clarice's house was a hot bed of “theys” today. But we survived very well. I got as many of the we like theys to talk with her as possible and had a grand time myself…
The latest station Drama—the other night Helene's
I've been shuddering ever since I sent that darn curry powder. I fear the hand of the law. Hope it got through to you safely.
Anne's picture in Val Adams window again.
Dick completely balmy about the boat—Goes down several times a week to see her and comes back starry eyed…
Denis, Dr. McEwen (and family), Dr. Sverdrup are going to the convention. Mo leaves for two weeks on the Bluefin with Bobbie Gordon. He has been very busy since the engineer on the Serena who drank was either “warned” or fired. Miss Genter is home and gaining now. Mr. Allen is recovering from an appendectomy and Mrs. Allen who does not like to stay alone out here is at the hotel.
Days later
Adding rather a sad P.S. Andy is in the Psychopathic Ward in San Diego for 10 days observation. He has been working quite well for D. but acting badly “after hours”. Threatening death to several people and suicide; getting in
(July, 1937)
Dearest Ellen:
Another sandwich day for the staff. Mo is out on the Bluefin with Gilbert and Robert Gordon; but the rest of the staff is at hand, Sverdrup, Denis, Martin having just returned from Denver. Dick says it is always amusing to see the various luncheons come out of the containers. Dr. Sumner's consists of myriads of dabs of this and that—as opposed to Dr. Sverdrups Cheese and Bread.
Dick's lecturing began on Monday. Claude had said there would be quite a number—there are five so far … We had hoped for more so that his part of the money would be larger; but will have to put this year down as experience…
…The University Architects visit in January (?) he condemned the houses on plumbing, wiring and foundations and would have nothing to do with “fixin' up”. Now that the First of July is upon us and the new working year, we are wondering if any definite change of policy will be announced.
GLORIOUS FOURTH
Alice to Ellen
July 6, 1937
The glorious fourth has come and gone with much festivity. The fourth was Sunday and so we had the fifth as a holiday in which to recuperate and get down to earth again. The station picnic started when Marion and I joined forces on Friday; and resulted in quite a gathering of the clan down on the beach on Sunday noon. We had several beach umbrellas, many blankets spread out, boxes and buckets of food;
Andy was released last week. He was warned that any more disturbing on his part would result in police, not psychological attention … Dr. S. is letting him make up time this week; and then will have him shifted to the Zoo project … I hate to write unpleasant news; but feel that with Roger's interest in Andy you should know the general situation…
The Del Mar Race Track had its gala opening on Saturday. Bing Crosby seems to be the figurehead and they are said to have quite a string of fine racing horses. All the movie colony migrated to the scene; and even La Jolla was crawling with people in swanky cars for the holidays. This seems to be a very “good season” for La Jolla; rents up, new houses, new stores, no parking places on the dear old street and a generally festive spirit…
The Foxes felt the “boom” in a different fashion. Their rent was raised. They tried to get a house out here but all are filled and have waiting lists. They frantically scoured the town—and then decided they were very well off where they were even if the rent had advanced.
Can you smell my nice chicken stock?
A trifle before hand I send my affectionate good wishes for your birthday—wish we could celebrate the occasion; but I know Gracie and Roger can manage it beautifully.
July 21, 1937
Dearest Ellen:
We are comfortably recovering from an hilarious anniversary celebration in San Diego yesterday … When you return we must have lobster dinner at the “Golden Lion” as of yore. We Flemings are firmly resolved that all your other friends will be anxious to trot around with you—and shall try not to take too much of your time—but won't it be fun to have you within hailing distance!
Did I tell you of Florence Sumner's announcement party and how we all tried not to look surprised when we all were completely. Lillian and Marian gave a shower for her; very nice and Mrs. Sumner was beside herself with satisfaction. This is her summer. Elizabeth and her husband also here; and Herbert a life guard at the Casa Beach. Elizabeth very sylphlike, very chic, and happy looking. Florence beaming and nervously twisting her engagement ring, and answering questions about the “young man”. I've seen his picture and he looks like salt of the earth, good and dependable…
Last week I dove into the social maelstrom. A luncheon for twelve stationites. Three tables decorated with gardenias … enormous fruit salads … home-made rolls, and the new marvel, introduced for the first time to the breathless females of the campus—Pecan Pie—and whipped cream—what is a womans luncheon without whipped cream? I must add the gardenias were an act of God via Frank Gilloon who came floating in with a full dozen the night before!
Fran Shepard and his assistant arrived Monday noon. Dined here in the evening. E will come the first of August and the boys who are with grandparents in Marblehead will come later. You see the housing situation is utterly utterly! and they want to wait until the summer hoards rush for home and
I am trying so hard to be calm about the news of that boat Roger mentioned. I try to put it on the outskirts of my mind; only to find that I'm mentally like Los Angeles—all outskirts.
…A few words about the 1938 edition of little Fleming. It is amazing for us to consider another I suppose; but all things are possible. We want two children and they may as well be of an age to grow up together … I haven't dared write Nitche about it; nor shared the secret elsewhere as yet…
Nearly forgot to felicitate you on Pelicia's litter of six. Four fine black pups and two ink spotted white ones. The LaFonds selected a black and white male for theirs…
Just to give Roger a mild case of apoplexy I must add that Anne Sverdrup said to me the other day “Dr. Revelle is going to be the director when my father goes, isn't he?” I tried not to sound too approving and changed the subject by saying if she could get him to stay in this country long enough she could go to Stanford. Her weakest point at present!!
Love and nonsense from,
Alice
Alice to Roger
July 31, 1937
Here's a lush evening—windows all open, crickets achirp—The luminescence of the breakers has never been so definite—green white waves moving shoreward in a
We were delighted with the Sverdrup's recent guests, Richard and Anne Simmers. They are from New Zealand. A meterologist—he was on Sir Douglas Mawson's expedition to the Antartic … One day while Gudrun was busy I took her guest for a ride out to the “Spanish Light” at Fort Ross. It is charmingly white-washed and the environs fairly bristling with newly planted shrubs surrounded with chicken wire and foot paths. The view of the Pacific, the Harbor and mountains beyond makes San Diego a fascinating city. On the way back we stopped at the Begonia Gardens where we lost our breath at one glimpse of those flowers. The man was “going over them” and discarding lovely blossoms just as I leave hairpins in my wake. Can you see us kneeling to pick up the flowers and bring them home to Gudrun with “Here are decorations for your tea.”
As for your grand letter—it was—unfortunately—so perfect that it filled the long gap since last you wrote—and made me feel that despite the distance in time and space, “Roger is Roger”. I believe I am the least sensible of the four of us; for I so cherish our friendships—all and sundry—sometimes wonder if four new people will be reunited. You both have had so many new experiences; and we too, have filled this year with many adventures in understanding.
By the way—if you are considering an appropriate remembrance from Norway for the Sverdrups may I suggest a box of air-dried codfish with which to make “Tac a low” one of their favorite dishes. He brought 14 boxes to last 3
A wave of enthusiasm in the shape of Fran Shepard has struck the station. He is all agog about the boat, and everything in general. Grant was made head of the Geology Dept. at UCLA and Fran seems to have fingers in the pie up there. He is in your lab for the time being. Andy is still living here while John Lyman is in the community house waiting for Andy to go so John can send for his wife and move into Andy's. Ruth McKitrick has a job at Scripps clinic, and the chem department is adjusting to a new regime. Miss Genter returns to work Monday. Will have the library only. Miss Ragan will have business end in Dr. S.'s office. Murdy is out of the hospital; quite lucid and happy. Herb and Ruth Graham have a two weeks old Anne of their own…
Have I shared my latest favorite couplet. Alas too true—but then I know it; so that changes all seriousness to a smile—
“Oh would some power to others gie
To see myself as I see me.”
Cheers for Ellen's Swedish trip. Expecting you home soon,
Alice
Good luck—letter now being written
R.F.
Alice Fleming
August, 1937
(stamped Aug. 6)
Dearest Ellen:
…Do you remember that last year we said we'd never be
They gave a pleasant station tea on Thursday—mountains of dainty sandwiches and fine cakes, and a hoard of all-consuming station bachelors to enjoy them. I met Mrs. Dent; the blondbraided rosy faced wife of Dick's Captain Dent; the dutchman who is taking the Oceanography course. It seems that Dutch ships do quite a bit of hydrographic work regularly and this chap wanted to be intelligent about it.
Did I write about the Guy Fleming's barbecue? They invited the Sverdrups, Flemings and Dickinsons one Saturday evening. Guy dug the meat out of the fire place, unwrapped it and carved off slice after slice … The only just way of describing our attack on that “roast” is to say “We fell to”. After the feast we sat around the fire and sang … and the full moon rose over Torrey Pines…
August 4
Last evening, Fran Shepard and his student, D. and I and Dr. Sverdrup and Anne packed a steak dinner down Sumner's Canyon to the beach, built a fire on the rocks and while Anne and I did very close harmony D. cooked steak and Dr. S. went through his coffee-making ritual. After the feast we curled up in awkward positions to chat and sing. A “short time” after dark Dr. S. looked at his watch and it was past ten; so we crawled back up the canyon to civilization.
The Dog House Party is to be held in the community house
Murdy Ross came out to the station the other day. He is quite contented and D. says though his face still shows the grafted skin; it is well healed. He says the pink new skin and lack of eyebrows makes Murdy resemble a baby. He plans to drive his car and putter about so does not feel the weight of inactivity.
D. enjoys the students so much. On Friday the students are having a picnic for Dr. S., Martin and Dick. Yesterday D. and Dr. S. went to tea at Captain Dents; his boat is 586 feet long; one of the biggest freighters going…
With love to all,
Alice
Dear Ellen,
August 16, 1937
Just a note to enclose the measurements you requested. The reason we have been late in getting them off—we were
Alice and I parked Elizabeth with the Myers last week. They moved into our house—and we went up to L.A. We slept in the Myers house at Compton and visited around. “Did” the shops and the town and spent a day out at Pasadena—went to the Huntington Galleries—our first visit. We were thrilled at the things in the Library but I'm afraid most of the art left us cold.
The boat is coming along slowly. We are held up now waiting for electrical equipment, but by the end of the month the other work should be well under control. She looks better and better.
Watched the start of the rough water swim yesterday—only it wasn't very rough. Usual number of chunky lasses in ill-fitting though revealing bathing suits. We are having a rather miserable spell of fog and haze—I find it very bad for my temper.
The Station is more active than I have ever known it to be. More people around, more rushing around, more hair-nets torn, etc. John Lyman brought his wife down last week—haven't seen her yet.
Alice is over her “misery” now and feeling very spry—her appetite is really appalling. In fact she burst into tears one day when we were north because her breakfast was slow in arriving.
Andy has left the campus and moved into San Diego. Apparently has a W.P.A. job in town. I haven't seen him for 10 days or so.
Best regards to you all.
As ever, your
R.H.F.
(Trust the measurements are what you wanted.)
Sept. 12, 1937
Dearest Ellen:
This note will be running up and down the dock waving a huge hankie, calling “ho, ho” and wearing red roses so you will recognize me when you land in our country.” Hope the journey was easy and that you will skip a warm spell in Washington, and have a grand time there … Please give my love to Mrs. Vaughan…
You will be eager to hear of Anne (Revelle—who had returned with the Johansens). She burst into our little world with a phone call. A precise little voice said “May I speak to Betsy” and I realized it was the first contingent of Revelle. E. was beside herself at Anne's return; so excited she was almost sick. We went to tea at Gracie's on Wednesday and E. was sleepwalking in bliss … Friday Anne came over here to play during the morning. E. seemed calmer and adjusted and played very nicely. I tried to be “background” and not supervise the play at all—and I did purr at Anne's being here. She reminds me so of Ellen; her voice and gestures and many little expressions.
Now that I'm up and about, I'm going to be lazy and have someone to do most of the housework—so I shall take my two blondes to the beach as often as I can. Tomorrow we are going over to see Pelly. I have an enormous bone in the icebox which Anne will take as a “return home present to my dog”. Oh—yes—while waiting for D.—Anne saw Dr. Sverdrup who spoke Norski to her. She didn't chatter back at him; but smiled poetically and said she hadn't been in swimming.
Editor's note: Alice has lost the pregnancy.
On the 21st I am going to have my first dinner party of “our” new regime, one might call it. The Shepards and Sverdrups to celebrate D.'s birthday. He is, in his own fashion, slowly collecting old maps and current charts of this coast. On our famous L.A. trip we got two copies of charts in the Huntington Museum—He has also had photographs made of those in Boynton's Rim of Christendowm”. I am wondering in my amateur way, if I can get a good Maury chart to add to his embryonic collection. So that's the birthday you would share were you here.
Fond love to you both and joyous anticipation of seeing you soon,
Alice
Sept. 17, 1937
Dearest Ellen: Not having mailed my last note to you, I shall add this in the way of a wandering P.S.
Took Mrs. Lyman to call on Marian (Moberg) today. I like her very much. Quite a collegiate vocabulary and air; frank and happy and nice looking. Resembles John in a much tidier edition both as to physiognamy and habit—and I think, a pleasant edition to the colony.
Mrs. Redwine—another bride—is a luscious blonde picturesque person. I am so eager to help them make their houses attractive … The men are so wrapped up in their work, and the change from college life to station life is a change…
Next Friday Elizabeth (Shepard) and I are going to Mexico for lunch. Mrs. Lyman will be my guest and Mrs. R.—Elizabeths. Tomorrow evening Joan (Gordon) and Katherine LaFond are giving a station picnic. I spent a large part of the
Please send a card, letting me know if we can “have” an afternoon near to your return date for a little tea for you. You-name-the day. Also: may we meet the train, please. Gracie with her two cars could do the transporting, I know; but we'd like to help.
Ever with love,
Alice