37 9/11/1944 Robert A Carlson to Helen Carlson

Robert A Carlson APO 34, NY Monday, September 11, 1944

Helen Carlson Box 1310, Knoxville, Tennessee

- In Italy - Dear Elmer and Helen, Got your letter a while back and it's about time I answered. Haven't written any letters for a long time except once in a while to home. Yes, we're hoping the war is soon over. Us that have been over so long will probably get a furlough, if nothing else. Had a 5 day pass in Rome and saw all the sights. I think it ranks with New York City or above it for pretty girls. There sure are a lot of em. Saw the coliseum, the monument to Victor Emanuel, Vatican City, etc. We went all through St. Peter's Cathedral - the largest church in the world. I've never seen any building that compares with it. Everything is marble or bronze. All over the walls are paintings by Michael Angelo. There are huge things that look like paintings, but when you get up close you see that it's mosaic, tiny natural colored stones. I was gonna buy some souvenirs but everything is ten times what they're worth. We've had some good shows lately. Last night we saw Frank Sinatra in "Higher and Higher." One of the fellows swooned when he sang. Not really though. Yes, I hope Pop is getting along O.K. Another guy and I were over to a Professor's house and drank some wine last night. He teaches in the University of Florence and he has all kinds of letters from all over the world, including the president of Stanford University. He's a member of some International Friendship Club - you know, where students from one country correspond with students of another. My work is more interesting now. Among other things I rewrite recommendations for awards, for Silver Stars, etc. and then they're typed up for the General's signature. Was sure glad to hear about your new little girl. Say hello for me. Till next time - Love, Bob