What might have been...
The thesis document contained two letters
NARRATOR: The following are two letters sent to Max from a widow, Gussie Davis, who was also a Marlen Gardens resident.
GUSSIE: Dear Max:
Just a few lines, I heard about your illness. Hope by this time you will be feeling much better. All men go through this ordeal.
I'm fine, weather is nice, [I] go to the pool every day and keep busy. I do hope by the time you receive this letter you will be on the mend.
By the way rumors in the Marlen – you are getting "married." Is it true? If so I wish you all the luck and happiness. But please be careful – before you leap. This is a big step in life – Remember, money does not bring happiness at this stage of the game – be well Max,
Sincerely,
Gussie Davis
If you have a chance please drop me a line
July 30, 1970
A second letter is undated. It may have preceded the letter of July 30, 1970, above.
GUSSIE: Dear Max:
This letter might come as a surprise to you.
Hope you are having a wonderful time with your children.
I'm fine and sort of miss you. Lately you have been on my mind, thinking of the first time we met. I found you to be a nice person, sincere and truthful, which I admired in you. There is one thing; you can't seem to find yourself – make up your mind. When we lose our dear spouse we try to make comparisons. But I now realize that there is no comparison. Each and every one of us are different.
I too am afraid to take a chance. I happened to find something in you that attracted me to you. I'm the type that will never make the first move, why, because I'm shy and will not express my feelings towards you.
I don't have to tell you about myself, you already know me well enough.
I happen to be a clean cut, fine respectable person and conduct myself accordingly. I was visiting my children. some live in NJ and my daughter lives in NY. I have two Sons, College Graduates, and one Daughter also College Graduate, five Grandchildren. They all received a good Education and I'm sure proud of my family. I also made a trip to Rochester NY where I have my cousins residing. All toll I spent two months away from Marlen Gardens. Believe me, it was nice getting back home-The only trouble is that I'm lonesome for love, affection and having someone special that I think I might care to spend the rest of my life. Please don't laugh Max. I gave this a thought. Maybe you and I would try to become good friends when you get home. That is up to you.
If you feel like writing, we can correspond to each other, maybe in this way we can become closer. Max don't get hysterical. I guess this letter will surprise you very much. Someone said in your building that you are very fond of me, but that I'm too independent. It's not so-I'm a plain, simple down to earth person, I just can't fall over anyone. They must make the first move. Just like in a chess game –
Hope you are well and enjoying your children. All my good friends should have children they are a Blessing Will close with good wishes. Be well, drop me a line and I'll reply.
As ever, Gussie Davis
Please destroy this letter and don't advertise to Marlen.
IMAGE: At Marlen Gardens
IMAGE: untitled (Max in red-checked jacket dancing with Pauline?)