My dearest Emilia,

Today is the day!

We are going on an adventure, from New York to Chicago on an airplane, one of the new DC-3 aircraft. Actually, we’re leaving from New Jersey but that’s really just across the river.

My dear husband, Arthur, advised me to dress comfortably, to be prepared for both cold and hot conditions. I’m wearing my cream linen suit, with the brown piping and buttons. I decided to wear my more sensible brown boots just in case. I really don’t know what to expect. Of course, I got a new hat for the occasion, and beautiful cream leather gloves too.

It seems a bit obscene to be flying when so many people are still out of work and struggling. Arthur has always taken such good care of me, so I can’t fault him for wanting me to have this experience even if I’m a bit terrified by it. We’ll visit some of his relatives in Chicago, see the sights and attend the dinner party at the Wrigley’s.

It all seems so fantastical, to leave New York this morning and be having dinner in Chicago tonight. I’ve heard stories of people getting sick due to the bumpy ride. However, I am remaining hopeful that our experience will be much more civilized. I am not sure I want to look out of the window, though I am sure I will, because when will I have another chance to see the world from that view?

The car will take us to the airfield soon. Maria has packed the valises and my bag for the plane. I don’t know what I expected but we will be sitting in a proper seat, and they will be serving food and libations. And imagine, it will only take four hours to go from here to Chicago. The last time we went on the train, it took nearly a day. Thankfully, we had a sleeper berth, and a dining car. It is such a novelty to get there so quickly and without the indignities of train travel.

I am truly living in an amazing age. My parents would hardly have imagined such a thing when they were in their thirties. Time to go. They’re calling me. I will finish this in Chicago and post it from there.

Much love.

Your dear cousin, Evelyn