At this point, Nate and I spent much of our communication on the logistics of relocating me to Champaign, clearing the way to marry during the school year.

Details were being discussed without the benefit of input from parents, and our planned changes were beginning to stockpile. So Nate and I talked often about how best to win their approval without opposition to our timing.

May 16, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I love you. Your idea of an organized outline to your folks at your apartment during dinner is very good. After finals I can also talk with them in detail re: engagement, wedding, Army, law, and finances. I like your idea of me getting a summer job in Chicago, but with 6 weeks of Army camp, I wouldn’t be able to start until too late. I do realize that if you teach in Champaign in the fall, this summer will be your last time living near home. Such thoughts are very considerate of your parents and very much like you, sweet Meg.

May 16, 1969 – Dear Nate. Do you remember little JoAnn, one of my kindergarteners? For show and tell today, she brought her “plastic church beads.” She explained well to the class: “Here’s how they work,” she said. “You count them like this, 1… 2… 3… 4… You count them in the back row at church, but you have to whisper or you’ll mix up all the other people on their numbers.” Aren’t kids wonderful?

May 16, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I pray for us every day and feel sure the Lord is guiding both of us in honest love. As our relationship is maturing, I feel certain Christ is at the center of our two lives.

After Nate’s day-long visit to Chicago/Wilmette:

May 18, 1969 – Dearest Meg. My day with you yesterday was the greatest yet! Your wholesomeness and purity and faith in Christ stir me to act and think in the highest ways to be worthy of you. We have become committed to each other, and the practical matters are working out for themselves. All things are possible, because of our faith.

May 18, 1969 – Dear Nate. Our day together was really lots of fun. Wow! Life with you will be joyful! And my parents were glad to see us. I’m worrying about Dad coming around to our new plans. I don’t think there will be any friction, because he’s sensible and will ask any questions he has. But I hope to talk with him this week. I’ll put the pressure on for him or both of them to stop at my apartment soon.

May 18, 1969 – Dearest Meg. You know, I always feel at ease when I’m with your parents. I like them very much and respect them for the life they lead. I really admire your father for living in Christian responsibility with strength and courage in this business world. In one of my prayers I’m asking God for that kind of strength and sensitivity. It’s easy to see how your parents raised such a fine daughter as Meg. I love you!

May 18, 1969 – Dear Nate. I’m still loving the memory of our day together. It was cool that we got to enjoy the zoo and conservatory without the noise and rush of crowds. It was quiet peace to be with each other. And then at the picnic, we got to chat with 2 pastors and several of my friends as they met you. And they approved! I was so proud. And then we got to have that meaningful prayer time together, renewing our commitment to Christ. I felt so open and honest with the Lord as we both talked to Him.

“Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace.” (Psalm 37:37)