PROLOGUE
THE VAUGHAN ERA—1931-1936
(From letters of Dick and Alice Fleming to Peter Sargent in 1973-1975)
DICK
“When I first got to La Jolla (in 1931 as a research assistant, from the Marine Biological Laboratory, British Columbia), Scripps Institution was known to the “towners” of La Jolla as the “Biological” or the “Bug House”. They looked upon us as a pretty crumby outfit. The road leading up the hill from La Jolla shores to the vicinity of what is now the UCSD campus - was known as the “Biological Grade” and a service station at the intersection with the highway was still referred to as the “Biological Service Station”. I always thought those names had some interesting implications.
Percy Barnhart (the curator) lived off-campus in a little house on what is now (I think) part of Scripps Estates. He had bought a plot of land from the Scripps Family at a time when all the staff at S.I.O. had been offered the opportunity.
James Ross was the superintendent of S.I.O. and later lived for years in #24. Murdoch Ross was his brother.
Murdy (Murtey and various other spellings) was Murdoch Ross - the engineering captain on Scripps. When we went to sea he would serve as engineer and generally either Roger or I took over as captain. I had the distinction of putting her on the mudbank
Roger and I put together a series of papers (only abstracts were published) that represented the “state of the art” at SIO at the end of the Vaughan era.
ALICE
“I went as a bride to Scripps in July, 1933. Ellen and Roger met us at the station, the trolley car end at La Jolla. They took us out to the little house next door to theirs, and we were neighbors until they moved to town.
We had not been in cottage 23 for 15 minutes, when Lilian Chambers - white gloves and all-arrived to “call”. When I had lived at Scripps longer I realized this would give her something to talk about. At that stage, I thought it very bad timing!! So we were introduced and I remembered “Mrs. Chambers”. So Mrs. V. (God bless her) gave a tea for “Dick Fleming's bride.” Lilian came down the line and I was so pleased to say “Good afternoon, Mrs. Potts”! To Lilian, in all her British dignity, this was very, very unfunny.
That first little house (cottage 23) was a challenge. The wind blew through the crevices of the front door and windows, so we hung blankets over them on bad days. When the rainy season arrived, I went into the kitchen one morning and found the floor covered with mud. Dick got a hoe and scraped the stuff out. Then he made two deep trenches, one on each side of the house to divert the water and mud. He bathed and got clean, and went to the lab. I scrubbed the wooden floors, washed his clothes in the bathtub, and tried to dry them in front of the little red-hot tin stove in the living room. Looking back, I wonder why none of those houses went up in smoke…”
The Vaughans knew I was interested in Japanese prints. (Dr. Vaughan had recently visited Japan). So on our first dinner at the Vaughans, we arrived to find Japanese prints all around the living
So we looked and looked. I selected one of ducks and said “This one.”
He blew a gasket. “That is the best print here. How can you take that away from me?” Mrs. V. in the background was whispering “Stick to your guns.” So I said to Dr. Vaughan, “Give me what you want to give, but this is what I select.”
Of course, he gave it to us. We went in by bus to San Diego and had it framed, and had to go in by bus again to get it, when we had the money to pay for it. Dr. V. took afternoon walks with Ronin, his dog, and as he passed our cottage would say “Has the print come?”
Finally it did and I had a proper tea ready for him, and he came in and saw the framed print on our wall. He said “That's right!”
I had passed some kind of a test.
Mrs. Vaughan was a darling, quite appealing in her own way. She had been “companion” to Chief Justice Oliver W. Holmes' wife, who was not able to “cope”; so had lived in an interesting environment. She was small, alert, over-stimulated and very much concerned about “Wayland”.
We took her once, with a visiting friend, to the San Diego Fair. After supper we asked what they would like to do. The friend said, “I'd like to go to the Nudist Garden”. So we did - Mrs. V. quivering and saying “Supposing some one should see me here?”. But amused.
FLEMING-REVELLE LETTERS
—September 1936-September 1937
(Note: In late August, 1936, Dr. Roger Revelle, with his wife Ellen, and two little daughters, left La Jolla for a year of oceanographic study in Bergen, Norway. Dr. Revelle and retired Scripps Director Dr. Vaughan attended the meeting of the International Geophysical Union in Edinburgh, Scotland, before the Revelles went on to Norway.
Also in August, 1936, Dr. Sverdrup arrived in La Jolla, to assume his new position as Director of Scripps Institution of Oceanography. With him were his wife Gudrun and her daughter Anna.
These remarkable letters were written by Alice and Dick Fleming to their close friends Roger and Ellen. Both couples were in their twenties. The letters give an extraordinary glimpse of this crisis year in the history of the small Scripps “Station”.
Professor Richard Fleming and his wife now live in Seattle, where he is retired as Director of the Department of Oceanography, University of Washington.
Alice's keen but gentle wit, her exuberant spirit pervade her letters; and Dick's on-the-spot account of the fate of the old Scripps is unique.)
PART ONE
September 1-December 31, 1936
THE NORWEGIANS AND THE STATION FATE OF THE OLD SCRIPPS
Revelles leaving Director Vaughan leaving
Sept. 1, 1936
Dear Ellen:
It's like jumping off into a new kind of time - with you away; for things have usually been dated by what the Revelle-Flemings have just done; or what they are about to do … We left the station feeling very weak; and with each inch homeward felt more and more let down. It seems to me we bought some beer which we consumed upon reaching here-and then D. became genteely unconscious for several hours. Awakened to answer the phone - On the end was an enthusiast with a list of questions who started his conversation with “I've got a 70 pound octopus”. He wanted to know how to preserve it for exhibition purposes.
Alice
Mrs. Sverdrup is horrified
Sept. 22, 1936
Dear Travelers,
I take my pen in hand to say that I am more “pixilated” than usual and hope you are the same. It's all a result of D. and I having flung discretion to the winds and E. into Nitche's keeping and made a weekend of it. We drove up to Santa Monica to stay Saturday night with Myna and Lewis Browne. When we tried to phone to learn how to get to their house we discovered that they were not in the directory and “Information” didn't have their number. We wandered over the town knowing they were expecting us for dinner and wondering what kind fate would rescue us from our dilemma. At last we found a book store from which books had been delivered to Lewis Browne and discovered the address and phoned-so we did arrive bewildered and elated at their fascinating house. … [Author Lewis Browne wrote a murdery mystery about the Scripps aquarium, with much local color.]
The following is strictly confidential “Please burn” or words to that effect. Mrs. Sverdrup is shocked at the station living conditions. She says “There is only one house on the place-the director's. The rest are huts. How can the men do good scientific work when they live so sordidly; Dirty children, washing, untidy yards, unpleasant houses. Why little Norway's peasants live better than these people. They have no self respect.” She said my house was “palatial” (That's the very word). She also said she was going to do what she could “to change living conditions here”-but she longs for the end of his 3 years here. As yet the University has not provided furniture nor curtains for her, and “sheets” are
Hope Scotland is a perfect sojourn and you all come back with soft “burrs” among your other acqusitions.
Ever with love,
Alice
“Station” visit to Sumners desert ranch
Sept. 23, 1936
The Sumners are involved in an “at home” in the country with an invitation to all and a map tacked up on the bulletin board. We are to take our own sandwiches. Mrs. S. will provide spaghetti, coffee and fruit. Much fuss and chatter and the usual chorus “What are you going to wear?”
Sunday evening
Well here we are safely home, tubbed and eating grapes as D. prepares his lecture and I write to you. We had an exceptionally pleasant day in the country-driving up to the Sumner's in the Sverdrup's car for he was home. We arrived in the San Felipe Valley shortly before noon and disembarked into the dust and sunshine and the Sumner's welcome. Mrs. Sumner in a speckled house dress with her crowning glory bristling with hair pins which did no known good, and Dr. Sumner looking like an entomologist about to start off on an expedition. We were led under a great tree where we and our kind settled into the leaves and twigs and unpacked sandwiches and paper plates while the men got plates of spaghetti from the “kitchen” and people loaded their plates and then put them down with the admonition for no one to step on them while they unpacked another mystery parcel or went to collect a child.
The Andersons, Rosses, several pounds of bananas, a chocolate cake and peanut butter sandwiches sat in one mass. The three McEwens on a blanket sat ill at ease while Mrs. peeled tomatoes and dished out “helpings” and arranged piles of sandwiches. She in a green house dress with her hair waved and bobbie pinned under a hair net. The Zobells sat wide eyed and full mouthed on another blanket. And so on—the Foxes, Johnsons, Mobergs, Sverdrups and Flemings jumped over and crawled around each other passing cake, cookies, cold tongue, sandwiches, etc. in a community attempt at wholesale stoking. Dr. Sverdrup stalking calmly among the debris with canned beer oozing into various paper cups.
When we were all completely helpless with food we were herded into a group while Dr. Sumner climbed to the roof of the house to take a picture of us. You shall receive one—if and when they come out.
Dr. Sverdrup, D. and I hunted for Indian relics, and found them. I made the prize find—an amulet. About three the party started dwindling, and when all but the Youngs and ourselves had gone Dr. Y got his car stuck so D. and Dr. Sverdrup and Sumner had to haul and yell and gesticulate at each other through sheets of perspiration and dirt and when he finally was freed Dr. Young went driving off trailing the tow rope between the front wheels—
It was a grand party. No children crying—no complications, great comradery and 45 stationites in high fettle. Needless to say we wish you had been here.
Yesterday we received a card from Dr. V saying he had arrived in Edinburg and was expecting you “tomorrow”.
The new Mrs. Gordon arrived today. I have not seen her, though she is to dine here tomorrow and I left flowers for her
Nitche thinks the Sverdrups have a real love for each other. As she says “Something great none of this garden variety”. I quickly come to the defense of “the garden variety” by saying “Well—it makes the world go ‘round - but some love makes the world go forward—The Sverdrups may have that…”
Dr. Sverdrup on Bob Scripps Yacht
Oct. 4, 1936
…D. has just returned from a junket on Bob Scripps yacht with Dr. Sverdrup and Mo. They had a pleasant holiday, and so did their wives. Mrs. S. and I went to the playground Saturday morning to take tennis lessons and then spend a large part of the afternoon coaching each other and chasing the elusive ball.
Thursday we are to dine at the McKays with the Klaubers, Sverdrups and Cherrils—and Friday D. and I are going to celebrate in a BIG WAY. We are going to hear the Don Cossacks … I feel quite breathless—
Nitche thinks she will leave Wednesday. D. has persuaded her to stay this long and she is much rested.
There is a light fog outside and through it the surf and La Jolla lights gleam indistinctly. It feels as if it should be raining. I feel thrust-into-maturity with you away. As if the three years here shared with you were a period of growing up
Tillie Genter, Ruth Ragan and the woman who lives across the street from one of them, are taking a motor trip to the Grand Canyon!!
Alice Fleming
Oct. 13, 1936
Your letter of arriving in Bergen came today and we are so pleased to hear that you really are about to settle down in your Norwegian home … It's just like in a book!!
Mrs. Sverdrup was so impressed with Lois' dinner party that when she met her Mary in the employment agency she hired her outright. Lois is all adither because she made most of the meal on the strength of which Mrs. S. hired Mary!
Am reading a very dull book about a fascinating subject—the relics of Norway which have been unearthed. Ships 100 ft. long; carriages, weapons, clothing, jewels. Please make the trip to Oslo to see them in the museum there…
Oct. 18, 1936
Damned Domestic Well, my dears, another Sunday evening at home, with my beloved husband over the card table covered with charts and numbers; my dog industriously hunting mice in his sleep, the Ford Music hour dripping out a harp piece by Debussy. Outside the rain murmurs discreetly, and the surf occasionally rises above.
The rain came Thursday evening when the Sverdrups were
But this morning burst upon us in all the dazzling blue and white of an Easter Egg. The horizon so distinct you could see it curve and the La Jolla cliffs white and tall with the L.A. mountains in the background. We went walking along the beach, Dick sauntering along with his pipe, telling how much the erosion had done, E. and I running along to various magic spots where we would stop to dig … the kind of wind that touches you with its power and cleanness…
Stanley Chambers is the President of the High School Student Body. Paul McEwen has a job in Fresno. Ruth Anderson returns tomorrow. Mo is up and down. Miss Ragan is home from her vacation, 10 years younger. The La Jolla stores are playing musical chairs. Mel Stuart next to the new Piggly Wiggly. Quon Mane in Mel's old place. Watanabe next to the theatre. A new hat shop next to the bakery shop, etc. Today La Jolla celebrated Miss Ellen Scripps 100th birthday by planting a tree in her honor at the park near the cove…
Mrs. Sverdrup is just bubbling with news from home—all about Bergen and the round of entertaining that is going on: and how nice you are, and how much she wishes she were there now.
Tomorrow we are going to meet at Margaret ZoBell's
It looks as if Mo and Dosha were going on the trip. I am reconciled to D's staying home. I feel, that Dr. S. must be right. He is consolingly like God—always right—so I just relax and let things go. D. under S.'s stimulation is popping with ideas. There is such feeling of ease in the colony now.
Alice Fleming
Oct. 27, 1936
Halloween Party
Dear Ellen:
Stupidly I forgot to say how much we enjoyed the Edinburg Rock and Taffy from Scotland. Its arrival brought vows to take a tiny bit each evening; but it went quickly and gorgeously, leaving a wake of sticky fingers and lingering sweetness…
The station is in a whirl of preparations for a Halloween party at the Community house next Saturday. The gals are all on committees. The only complaint I've had was from Mrs. Mac E. who declared it could be done for 18¢ a person instead of 21 - but I managed to side track that up an alley marked “How is Dora Ellen finding school?” More later—
The dinner party at Mrs. Sverdrups was one of the pleasantest I've attended. Mobergs, Sumners, Guy Flemings and ourselves. Delicious food, and a long conversational evening in which books were brought out; ivories shown, and the discussion was flexible and gay. Mrs. S. is thorough in housekeeping and hostessing—everything goes smoothly and the guests are their better selves…
The Norwegian post cards are “man size” and the pictures
Nov. 2, 1936
Dearest Ellen and Nice Old Roger:
Here we are, nestling in our little home in the west, ears wagging at the radio returns and hearts sympathizing with poor Dickie who was de-toothed by Quintin Stephen-Hassard this afternoon! These election returns amaze me; the idea that each vote is a person appalls me!
The Halloween party? Oh yes: 10 gals of cider hard, sweet and mulled. Donuts and popcorn, eat your fill. The entire week spent in teaing, cutting out black paper witches, cats and bats (Bats by Helene Chambers) Crepe paper curtains for the windows; carving pumpkins, gathering corn stalks from a farm in Mission Valley; making huge dummy scarecrows. At 8:30 D. and I went over and lighted Jackolanterns, started the fireplace crackling. The guests shuddered past the ghost in slacks and sport frocks; all except Lilian who was regal in a black gown with pearl buttons and dignity. We danced and ate and were entertained by a political debate Sumner vs. Young … Lilian had agreed to do Lady MacBeth … Anne Sverdrup and Martin Johnson played harmonicas … Barny Barnhart did acrobatic stunts—splits and head standing and contortions … Dr. Sverdrup and I did a little dancing a la Russe. I didn't know I had it in me … Mrs. McEwen came in a yama yama costume and drew on false eyelashes, and finished the landscape off with black spots all over—to make it more historic she couldn't get the stuff off her face afterwards … All in all it was a grand party that will go down in the station's history.
Meet Dickie, the instructor in public speaking for young
Alice
Nov. 9, 1936
“THE SLUMS”
Dearest Ellen:
Here am I nodding over the table while the fire in our plump stove roars at me. This evening we dined, very much in state, on a pheasant Mrs. Fleming sent down from Vernon. Leila and Martin were our guests eating the bird with great vigor and telling pheasant stories and tooth stories. Tooth stories because Betsy Stephen-Hassard's boy, Quintin has been playing with my Dick again this afternoon and when they get together D. always comes away minus a tooth!!
Oh yes—tomorrow Mrs. Sverdrup and I are to be Lois MacKay's guest at a morning musical and luncheon; and at 3:30 are going to a tea Mrs. Sumner is giving so that Mrs. Sverdrup can meet some La Jolla people…
Did I tell you that I am typing and editing a biography which Mrs. Sumner is writing about her father. She will present the first two chapters to her brother for Christmas. I am receiving so much per page. So far I realize that father is spelt with capitals as one should write GOD and it impresses me that in just hearing her mention him I see the little girl attitude. It is sweet; and pathetic—or maybe just sweet. He grew up in the town where P.T. Barnum was born and was, as a matter of fact a cousin of his; and his background and boyhood have many similarities to those of my beloved
Can you see these Flemings taking turns at reading Roger's letter and eating their sandwiches? We were shocked and delighted to receive it and hope for more like it.
There is talk (Sverdrup and Ross) I don't know how generally known it is, of changing the policy about the station houses. D. says they will have to be canny to manage it. Mrs. S. thinks the lower houses are “slums” and is horrified at the general disrepair about the place. They consider tearing down those houses. Renting those on the hill unfurnished and making them modern in their condition. Up on this hill they have put in sidewalks and a lawn at the ZoBell—Johnson yards so it is neater. We also have sidewalks of a variety and a general air of expectant ship-shapeness. They have cleared out the underbrush in front of the director's house to make a lawn or garden and cut down some of the sacred Torrey Pines in the rear to make a “more sunny” back yard. And all the changes occur so casually with no fuss what-so-ever.
Alice
La Jolla Nov. 13, 1936
(morning)
Dear Roger:
COME HOME, ALL IS FORGIVEN.
Bring out the fatted calf and let there be rejoicing in the land. As you have no doubt gathered by this time, I had practically given you up as a hopeless correspondent. In future I shall delete the word correspondent.
I had begun to worry a bit. But the impression that I have gathered from Sverdrup (which we really had before you left) is that our work was quite up to standard even if we had not pushed it quite as far as we might have. He wants to have
Dick
FATE OF THE OLD SCRIPPS
Friday evening 10 P.M. (Nov. 13)
Well my dears, I've been waiting since 7 o'clock for news from D. (Dick Fleming). He, Jim (Ross) and Mo (Dr. Moberg) went down to the yacht club to find out about the Scripps. A newspaper man had called Mo saying it had exploded. Just now Big Jim came to say D. was staying by the boat until the insurance men arrive. The boat exploded at her moorings. Blew the bottom clear out. Merty (Murdock) G. Ross, captain) and the cook (Henry Ball, W.P.A.) staggered out and fell overboard. Were picked up by the crew of Bob Scripps boat and rushed to the hospital. According to Jim the doctor says there was not a hair left on either man. They think Merty's eyes are out. Both are under morphine. Jim says he asked when they would come out from under the dose and the doctor said “I hope they don't.” Jim is driving to Escondido for Merty's wife. They don't know what caused the trouble. It is a wonder it did not occur at sea or when there were more aboard. Everything must now be done to make it easier for these men and their wives. Such a shocking accident. So quick to happen and so devastating. That is the second ship's explosion Mo has missed being in!
D. home, weary and full of stories about what he saw and hard. The men got off before the final blow. It shook the houses for blocks around. It is a wonder the surface of the water with all the oil did not catch on other boats. D. got 6 of the Nansen bottles by interesting the youngsters who collected on the scene. Mo says $1,500 of uninsured stuff! Dr. Sverdrup will return from a trip north tomorrow. The captain of the Scripps yacht and the engineer said everything seemed in good condition.
Alice
Dick to Roger, Nov. 17 Tuesday
Little did I know when writing you Friday the 13th that it was going to turn into a day of disaster. As I remember, Alice finished off her letter Friday night. They are raising the boat today, after a day of fruitless effort yesterday. Murdy and Henry are still alive but that is about all can be said for them, and little hope that they can pull through. The story pieced together is about as follows: Captain Kruse and the engineer on the Novia del Mar were on board about noon and looked over the engine room. Murdy started up the engines and everything was in good shape. About four-thirty, Murdy went into San Diego to the Rockgas Co. and picked up a new tank of Protane and said that he was in a hurry and wanted to get it to cook supper. After that we don't know anything until about five fifteen this terrible explosion which shook all the houses on Point Loma.
The men from the Novia del Mar rushed over and found Murdy and Henry climbing out of the after hatch with hair and clothes ablaze and terribly burned around the face and arms. They helped them ashore, they were taken to the Naval
Meanwhile at the boat the flames had burst out almost everywhere. The explosion apparently blew right up through the lab and was enough to lift the deck away from the hull. I cannot imagine how the men survived at all. Apparently she had started to founder immediately and she went to the bottom soon after the fire brigade arrived…
Now for the story from the other end. Soon after six Mo called me, the Union had called him about the explosion. Shortly after, Bob Scripps called him that he had heard from Captain Kruse about it. I rounded up Jim (Ross) and Mo. We went down to the yacht club and all that could be seen of her was the tops of her masts. It still seemed unreal, even now I cannot really believe the old Scripps is gone.
Jim went off to the hospital, Mo went to talk to the various witnesses and left me to watch what was left of the boat. My chief concern was for the Nansen Bottles and thermometers. However after I talked to some people around I decided that the bottles must have been burned up. About an hour or so later some kids came along, and said there was a box floating around in the bay. I imagined it was a box of citrate bottles and couldn't work up much enthusiasm. They came back a few minutes later and said they had pulled it in to the fish dock. There, believe it or not, they had the Nansen Bottles laid out in a row and apparently in as good a shape as ever they were. The whole instrument box apparently drifted off when she sank and although the outside of the box was burnt the weight of the instruments acted as ballast and kept it upright. It was certainly a lucky break … We took the kids names with the recommendation that they receive a reward.
Yesterday they sent a barge and tug over to raise her but their equipment was either too ancient or too light and they ended by breaking up most of their gear, with the wreck in worse shape than when they started. Today they brought another barge over and Nak just came in and told me they had her forward deck out of water, but once again were in difficulty. We may never know exactly what happened, but when they finally get the boat up we may be able to tell more definitely. Most of the people around here feel pretty much upset and up in the air. Mo particularly of course. As you probably know, Mo was assigned the job of making the Honolulu trip with his new assistant. Of course the Scripps accident has complicated his plans. Mo has been backing and filling about going all along but Dr. Sverdrup has decided that if it is at all possible Mo is to make the trip.
Dick
Friday, Nov. 20, 1936
Here it is a week since I started this letter to you. It doesn't seem possible so much could have happened in such a short time. Today's report is that Murdy and Ball are progressing as well as can be expected. They are still not out of danger. The boat was raised Tuesday night, towed over to the Marine Construction and put on the ways directly. Just at present the University and the Insurance Company are dickering over the disposal of the boat … In any event, the hydrographic winch belongs to us and has been taken off and will be looked after by Marine Construction. The rest of the mess is still sitting on the Marine ways. I will try to send you some pictures. I have crawled, waded, climbed and wallowed through the ruins from stem to stern. I think that the engine, auxilliary, anchor and winches can be salvaged but that the hull is a total loss…
Saturday, Nov. 21, 1936
The University and the Insurance Co. are still unable to reach a decision. Sverdrup, I agree with him entirely, is opposed to taking over the hull at all as the equipment that we will or could salvage would always be a liability to us. Alice and I had supper en famille with the Sverdrups last night and Sv and I had a long pow wow about our new boat. He is firmly convinced, and again I am in complete accord, that we should try and build our own boat.
Thursday, Nov. 26, 1936
Today being Thanksgiving day I have sneaked down so I can get this finished off. The University and the Insurance Co. finally reached agreement, they gave us the full value of the policy (ten thousand) and the winch and other equipment directly connected with our work, such as accumulators, sheaves, meter wheel, etc. The rest of the stuff was sold to the Marine Construction by the Insurance Co. I went into the hospital Monday to see the men. Ball was unconscious and all I could see was the tip of his nose sticking out of a mask and helmet of bandages. Murdy was kind of half conscious and didn't know I was there. All I could see of him was part of his face but that was enough to make me feel sick for the rest of the day.
Sverdrup gave a swell lecture on Monday night about his experiences with the natives in northern Siberia. Tuesday at 6:30 I left with him for a trip to L.A. We went first to San Pedro and saw a marine architect and discussed the boat situation, and then looked at various boats that were on the market. I was on board two yachts about 90 feet long. Sverdrup was on a sailing schooner the same length. Now there is a committee of three, Sv., Martin Johnson and
I received the bundle of reprints from you for which many thanks. We are going to Thanksgiving dinner with the Sverdrups tonight. I certainly wish we could get together in a bowl of giblet gravy. Today has been beautifully warm and clear, part of a Santa Anna condition. It is dry as a bone, and a bad fire today over on Muirlands. We drove up to the Lookout on Soledad and could look right down on the fire, it looked pretty fierce and was getting close to some of the fancy houses up there. The smoke has died down now, and I imagine the firefighters have it under control.
As ever,
R.F.
Dear Ellen,
Nov. 23, 1936
Time draws on, doesn't it? Because of the generally good business year and the shipping strike which may tie up the usual Christmas importations the stores are already Yule Tidish and so is the public. The weather here is that gloriously bright kind when people are contagiously happy and poinsettias are flaunting their color hither and yon—and the bay is full of cavorting seals and diving birds and the fat little fishing boats are busy jaunting out beyond the kelp beds…
Tuesday, Nov. 24, 1936
The (Francis) Smiths and Flemings dined on pheasant and then went forth to hear Dr. Sverdrup lecture about life in the Arctic. We arrived to find all but 2 seats taken; the library filled to the limit with chairs and men standing in back. Super collosal. I've never seen the like at Scripps…
Mo is “off” (on the Louisville). His last week here was hectic to say the least. He attended to the Scripps disaster splendidly; but got into a terrible fight with Mrs. McEwen and the Palmers who have to answer the station phone after hours. There were letters written to the powers-that-be and Mo seems to have been completely in the wrong. Then he stayed away from work most of the last week…
The other day D. had to go in to see the men at Mercy Hospital. He came out a sadder and a wiser man. They are a sight to behold. Still unconscious and babbling. Murdy has been rational once or twice but Ball is completely out.
…For Thanksgiving we are combining with the Sverdrups. Anne is to make pies, I the cranberry jelly, and the duck from Frank (Gilloon's). We are going to invite the (Eaton) MacKay's. Mrs. S. is dying for fun and laughter, she is very lively and entertaining. I wish I could find a companion for her who had more leisure than I have. Then she would be settled for a safe if not sane 3 years in the U.S.A. …
Since his “operation” (tooth out to you). D. has been very very well. He is busy as a frog in a cranberry bog and it agrees with him. He is very happy in the relationship to Dr. S.
Alice to Ellen
Dec. 1, 1936
Well children, your Christmas box is on its way and I sit
Saturday noon in great glee Anne, Mrs. Sverdrup, E., D., and I loaded into our chariot and sped away to Frank Gilloon's ranch and luncheon. The Norwegian delegation were aglow with enthusiasm. Frank was especially happy and animated because of Mary. Oh yes there is a girl at last and he is completely spell bound. Just now I don't know how she feels, but I approve and since he blatantly said “Please help me get her, Alice” I am deep in the game of getting Mary. If he wins, he gets the prize but I'll feel very happy and get a duck for Christmas. He is serious about both Mary and the duck!
After luncheon we drove about Rancho Santa Fe and visited some beautiful estates. One was a Garden of Eden and Noah's Ark combined—beautiful flowers and all sorts of beauties and birds. We all went “ohing” from place to place like orphans in the zoo…
Have read Douglas Lloyd's new book “White Banners”. I was interested in the theme. That if you have a quiet courage all your own, and faith, you will find that things work out for you. What is the case I suppose is that you stop struggling and when relaxed get a new perspective of the situation and so act in accordance with that … I often wonder about national mind or period mind or whatever one would call it. People of our period and place seem to have certain thought patterns—either the cause or effect of the depression; and now advancing out of that the “mind” seems to have renewed vigor. Would you say the Norwegians had a “quality of mind” that was typical. I frequently feel as if Mrs. Sverdrup were a man from Mars because her opinions are so direct. She sees the situation without its accessories—often in the most amusing way.
AFTERMATH-SCRIPPS EXPLOSION
Dick to Roger
Dec. 4, 1936
Dear Roger:
Another letter off to you today should reach you for Christmas. Alice received your letter and has been so abashed by your glorious compliments concerning her abilities as a letter writer she has not yet sufficient courage to write you herself.
First, the developments about the accident on the SCRIPPS. Henry Ball died last Friday as the result of his injuries, after lingering on for two weeks. Murdy is recovering slowly, but is still not out of danger. I went to see him yesterday and he was very pleased to hear about your travels. He is still a terrible sight, but there is hope he will pull through. The worst feature at present is his mental condition, as he has more or less lost interest in life, and is quite convinced he is not going to recover. The Institution made up a purse for Mrs. Ball, and I contributed $10.00 for you and got a check from Sibley. As I understand the Insurance company sold the hull and its contents to the Marine Construction Company who plan to rebuild her as a fishing boat or a tug boat.
Dr. Sverdrup and I have been working on plans for our new boat, although we have no idea where the money is going to come from. We have been planning on a boat 100 feet long with a 23 ft. beam and about 11 ft. draft, a modification of the type of boat used for trawling in the North Atlantic. It is lots of fun and I only wish you were here to join in…
One of the things I have to do right away is work on a paper I plan to present at the W.S.N. (Western Society of
The plan for the instructional program which I outlined to you has been approved and will go into effect next summer … Beginning about June 25, a four unit course on General Introductory Oceanography will be given in six weeks … Arrangements have been made so that the various biologists, as well as others who may not desire to take their degree in oceanography, may take joint degrees in which the Institution and one or more of the departments at U.C.L.A. or Berkeley will participate. Within the next year or so we will undoubtedly be transferred to the Southern Senate and all administrative work will be handled at U.C.L.A. …
Dec. 8, 1936
Somehow I didn't finish off your letter … I am enclosing the pictures of the SCRIPPS. They show how she looked at low tide and during the salvage operations, and the final series when they had her up on the marine ways. You can see the mess the fire made of the deckhouse, but except for the view of the galley stove it was impossible to get any shots below-decks. But as I told you the whole forepart of the galley and forecastle were completely gutted. We have all our gear off and Carl (Johnson) and Teter are working on the winch and other equipment and reconditioning it.
I received the three budget allotments this morning and they are all approved as submitted. For the Sediments Lab $150 has been alloted for the coming half of the year, this will
The Inspectors for the Steamboat Inspection Service were down yesterday concerning the accident on the SCRIPPS. They intended to see Moe but we were able to turn over all the various and sundry reports and the pictures and blueprints and they were completely satisfied. There may have to be another investigation later on when Mo gets back as the fact that Henry died places the investigation in the hands of another board. The men here yesterday were completely charming fellows and we all got very pally. Their interest was primarily in determining the cause of the fire with an eye to future legislation. They told me the whole legal set-up of the Service and all their rules and regulations are to be brought up to date in the near future.
I hope you will have the merriest of Christmases and so forth. I am sorry we cannot be together this year, but we will drink lots of toasts to our wandering Revelles.
As ever,
R.F.
Dear Ellen,
Dec. 8, 1936
…I am very busy these days—running Roger's Department and Mo's Department as well as trying to do some of my own work—but all in all seem to be accomplishing
With Dr. Sverdrup at the helm the tempo of our life seems to have speeded up somewhat—with him as an example we should all be on the jump. He is a phenomenal individual and the amount of work he can accomplish is simply astounding.
We have had wonderful weather this fall but it is beginning to cool off now … everything is now dry again … maybe you could send some of your wetness over this way for awhile.
So may all your stockings be fat ones this Christmas.
R.F.
ALICE
Dec. 11, 1936
My dears:
We do hope this reaches you on or near Christmas day … We sent two parcels on December first, but have just received word they are only in New York and waiting for more stamps—or something, so I fear they will not reach you 'till July 4th…
Tomorrow, after the evening public speaking class the members and their wives come here for cocoa and cookies. Goody, goody. They are all very pleasant young people, but aside from Sidney, no zip. The Shears are completely self
…I find myself an ardent tree stealer. I size up a neat little myoporum growing gently and unsuspectingly where nature set it. I saunter forth with the shovel and return with a smug expression and a tree. I'm collecting geraniums (I should say gerania) also. As many kinds as possible. Right now, Dr. Sumner is trying to convert me to succulents. I'll listen hour on end to his campaign speeches just to see the flash in his eyes when he says “succulents”. Its just not decent; brings out the satyr in him and what can “one say to a saytr”. That's my first transoceanic pun. The other day D. said Norway's chief exports were fish and oceanographers.
Love,
Alice
Dec. 15, 1936
Dear Roger:
If these pages are sticky, it is with the remnants of a days activity with Christmas candy and cookies—morsels which you would be able to snitch on your way through the kitchen. Joan Gordon and I teamed up—taffy, green and red lollipops, candied orange peel, peanut brittle and gingersnaps…
Outside there is the complete darkness; and tender noises of calmly raining night; occasionally the thud of an extra large breaker. In my gardner's mind I can see the plants perking up at the touch of a continuous patter from the right source. I frequently wonder if everyone has this feeling of wanting to share with “nature” the changes of weather; to
I don't have the inclination to tell you what has happened; and so many amusing, tragic and interesting events have been crowded into these few months. Rather, I wonder what you would think of this; or how you would see that—We go through periods of sharpened sensibilities, I believe; and this seems to be one for me. It may be a renaissance. It may be the weather—Knowing of all the new worlds to conquer you are discovering I've looked upon my own microcosm and watched it show new features; and so I too, am wandering in different places and enjoying the familiar.
…Your parcels are down at the lab. Do you think I can have them lugged up here? I should say not. They are guarded religiously … I retaliate by saying “Well you promised not to have Dr. S. read what the Norwegian declarations on them say” … I want them up here where I can shake and poke. What is Christmas without a shake and poke?
I am so pleased with the effect Dr. S. has on the station in general and Dick in particular. Drastic changes are made so calmly. No fanfare about them. The man uses his brains more than his charm and he has both. Except when being detoothed D. acts as if he had been injected with the bacillus “hard-work ii” early and late and so naturally and enthusiastically.
Alice
(also in Dec. 11 letter?)
or Dec. 1??
Dr. S. wants D. to move over to the two upstairs corner rooms in his building—I hope it can be done without upsetting Mo, and expect D. shall wait his return before so doing. I hope the trip will give Mo a new lease on Oceanography and life and that the wind won't be taken out of his sails upon his return—that he can retain his feeling of power—if he acquires it. It is repetition to say we judge ourselves by our aspirations—others by their acts.
(A week before Xmas, 1936)
Dearest Ellen:
There is a brand new moon and a solitary star casting silver across the bay, and the La Jolla lights twinkle gayly. Complete quiet. That lovely feeling that time doesn't exist and that for an exquisite period everything stands still.
I was delighted to receive a note from your mother in answer to mine. She seems very comfortable and interested in her weaving—and what pleased me, happy in your trip.
Sunday we went up to the [Revelle] house. We had thought it was rented but found it wasn't occupied. We went over it thoroughly … and everything was fresh and clean. The patio looked very well, indeed. The tree at the left was in bloom—great balls of pink flowers clustered together—larger than tennis balls—Remember, we once made hats for Anne from the leaves of that tree…
We had a note inviting us to dine with Leo Bachman on the Bushnell … Had a grand time. Two other officers were pleasant and Leo his apt self. How I enjoy his conversation and his quiet voice … They are to dine with us and meet the Sverdrups the first week in January. He worked near the Nautilus just before she sailed for Europe: so will have double interest in Dr. S.
Alice Fleming
(After Xmas 1936 Dec. 29,-P.)
Dear Ellen and Roger:
This yellow scratchpad paper is not a quaint California custom. It is due to our having been weather bound by rain and wind; and Dick being away in the great city … talking.
Our Christmas season was dramatic in its downpour and wind; so that it almost seemed as if we were wintering in a lurching houseboat. But that only heightened our comfort when we were warm. We sat smugly in our shuddering home and glowed at our little Christmas tree proud in its red balls and new lights and the mountains of gifts on the table beneath its boughs; and the parcels hidden away from each other and Betsy. On the day before Christmas I received a delightful shock; the stove from cottage 7 (?) was installed in my kitchen. Imagine me with a 4 burner, broiler, top oven, white stove flaunting its cream and white beauty at my white ice box and newly painted sink. Just to complicate matters I had added the perfume of fresh paint to that of cookie cooking in a moment of housewifely virtue. So … As Ed Wynn might say—we dined leisurely on broiled steak and banbury tarts. We had decided to be very wise and economical and give each other “Life” for a family present. Nothing else. So we spent a large part of the evening with our backs to each other tying up various gifts we had bought each other. How it happened I don't know. Then we sipped port while Dick read the Pickwick Christmas descriptions and made us feel very “God rest you merry gentlemen ish”.
We were wakened by a terrific wind and rain storm and my first words were … “I can't wait another minute for the
Betsy is very proud of her little doll. She loves its braids “Just like mommies”; and speaks to it in a little high voice finding that suitable to its size, I suppose … Our Bergen book makes us more eager than ever to go there. It certainly is inviting…
On the evening of the 26th we dined at the Sverdrups. His brother and sister in law and their son are their holiday guests. The (Francis) Smiths, MacKays and Lois' mother, and ourselves attended the party. Everyone was in holiday spirits; the ladies looking very glamorous and the gentlemen handsome and appreciative of the food and wine. The table very festive with red and white decorations; a bit of red and white homespun in the center; and at each place irresistible gnomes in red suits and caps, cherry cheeked and white bearded like the fascinating creatures on your Christmas parcels.
At the completion of the dinner Dr. S. arose and recited (E. is working the shift key) a little poem, the gist was that their nicest Cal. friends were gathered at their board; and thus really were in Norway; so he proposed a health to all and Skol. It was very gracious.
He is working terribly hard; and doing socially whatever he can to aid the station; luncheon club, lectures etc. He joined the golf club and goes up for a game whenever he can; but has not as yet found any especially interesting men. Has not yet found a rip roaring calculation bridge player and seems to be losing hopes. She says that in Bergen the academic staff “know people other than those with whom they work”; and that they have a grand “lively” crowd. I don't think she finds the station dinner parties and womens teas especially stimulating. Comes and whispers “when can we leave”. They enjoy the MacKays very much; and I think Lois is her pleasantest friend; and he enjoys Mac; and appreciates Lois' intelligence, charm and spontaneity. You can just see him relax as at the 26th party. At other places he has a good time, too; but you sometimes feel an effort. Except in his own family he is always calm; swift and easy thinking and to the point; every one adores him. They like her but don't know her so well. She does pretty much as she jolly well pleases; is very loveable and amusing. Doesn't see any reason for giving a tea without a maid and just now has had none; so there has been no station tea. Has given two dinner parties for the station; One included the ZoBells (who couldn't go) the Foxes, Johnsons, MacEwens and Allans. The other we attended with the Sumners and other Flemings; and Mobergs. Dick and I have gone in for various Norwegian specials and put Elizabeth upstairs to sleep; and they have come up here too. We like them so very much; and would do anything to make them happy or more comfortable.
Dick has gone to the conference in Los Angeles!! And I was to “think about him” at 4 o'clock Tuesday…
Ever with love,
Alice
Murdy is alternately on the brink of death and then recovering.
The Zobells have 2 railroads in their living room and a new fish pond in their front yard.
The Sverdrups have removed the stepping stone walk to their house and put in plain cement which makes one's stride more graceful. Also a front lawn, a back lawn, and a floored basement.
Byron (Johnson) has a bike.
We are counting the months till your return.
At tea at Sverdrup's, Dr. S. kept telling me that D. had bought something for me in L.A. and teased me about what it might be.
He came home with 5 volumes of Dampier's Voyages printed in 1711. Fascinatingly illustrated and in good condition.
PART TWO
January-Sept. 1937
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