Notes

Feb 17, 1921

Abram,

I am so glad to hear that you won the war! By the time I received your letter, the war was already over! Soon, when you return, we can finally meet together. I am looking forward to attending a show. I am also very glad to hear the disease of the trenches did not approach you; a sick singer is not a singer.

Additionally, to answer your question, I believe the women here in the U.S. are doing very well without men. They have assumed larger roles in society, like factory workers. In fact, they now have the ability to vote! Your wife and kids have passed the message on to me to let you know that they are very proud of you.

Now, I must rant about the hectic post-war politics. The Treaty of Versailles is not an efficient treaty, in my opinion; it demands too much of Germany. Perhaps this is my native Austrian speaking, but our fellow Germans will not take this lightly. I believe resentment only builds over time.

To add off that, I also do not think that President Wilson's Fourteen Points are feasible either. I agree with most of what he claims, however, it is idealistic. One can draw from Europe's treatment of Germany that true peace is not attainable. Revenge is what fuels their actions, not the desire for peace.

Lastly, I think that his fourteenth point - the League of Nations - is quite ironic, considering the Americans' true wish: peace. Forcing international communication is a dangerous affair; isn't that what contributed to the beginning of the war in the first place?

Anyway, I am looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Fritz

Nov 2, 1918

Was when I was in the U.S. Fellow soldiers have informed me of the chaos taking place there. Apparently, money is being extensively reallocated toward the war effort. Have you purchased a liberty bond? It sounds like an interesting idea, though I am not sure where the country will regain its wealth. Additionally, I have heard that food is being conserved to the pound. It is a good thing we are small men with small families.

I am glad you have contacted me. Right now, I am positioned in the Argonne Forest of France, notably, Verdun. We are presently fighting the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, and it looks like we are succeeding. This has been a very taxing battle thus far, and it looks as we have yet to go.

The conditions here are abhorrent. You served a year in the war, but nothing to this degree. We are stationed in trenches to provide protection, though it seems they cause more damage than good. Many soldiers acquired trench foot; I am lucky to have not gotten it, as I need my feet to dance in the opera.

It is very tough out here, but I have befriended a young black gentleman who has kept me company. He is of lower rank (I do not understand why though, as he is equally qualified), but we met in the trenches. I have not met many women here; how are they doing in America without the men around?

Regardless, I hope to survive and I expect to endure. I wish you luck in your violin tour in the U.S.

Abram




September 1918