Matsonia, Tuesday, November 12, 1940

Tuesday afternoon—

And I am really counting the hours now till will be in Honolulu harbor.

Overslept this morning – didn’t wake up till 10:00 & so had to have breakfast in bed – and a hearty meal it was, too. Frosted raspberries, oatmeal, 7 sausages, sweet rolls and coffee.

The food is awfully rich on the boat -- just floating in butter and cream. We have different menus every meal – printed on one of the two presses here on the ship. I’ll send you a sample one in a later letter that isn’t quite so heavy.

It’s a beautiful day – sunny & warm – they’re having all sorts of contests out on deck now – I’m going to play ping pong with Mrs. Nelson later.

Have just finished packing my trunk. Joe (the Cuban room steward) had to help me place hat box and fiddle.

I’m wearing my blue net evening dress to dinner tonight – and the blue ______ & white jacket, white straw & white sandals off the boat tomorrow.

My face has gotten quite tan just since we’ve sailed – what will it be after several months in Honolulu?

Guess I’s better go out on deck & see whats happening – will write more later –

It’s a gorgeous night out – moonlight mild & very warm with a little win – I met Mrs. Nelson for dinner – and a gala affair it was – U.S flag & Matson banners for center pieces – balloons for everyone, grand dinner – royal Hawaiian fruit cup, consomme, deboned spring chicken, filled with dressing & green bean, avocado salad – and dessert was ice cream (custard) in the mold of the ship Matsonia with chocolate lettering “Matsonia” on side & chocolate smoke stacks & Mint , ___ dishes. My roommate is just telling me about her eventful dinner she had —Kay Francis shouting “God Bless You” as she sneezed twice__ pancakes fried in butter & brandy for dessert.

After dinner, the Russian, Mrs. Nelson & I chatted a while on deck & so to bed. M. Nelson, I have found out, is nurse (mental) for the Mrs. McCormick of McCormick Reapers or something.

Have to get up at 6:30 in the morning to finish packing – so gotta go to bed – Next note will be in Honolulu – won’t be long now.

Love,
Cecilia

Figure 21 - From Cecilia's Scrapbook