TCNJ

5 FALL/WINTER 2026 PETER MURPHY MAY 3, 1970 University, Ala. Dear Bobby, For me to say "I love you" seems so redundant to me, but then I know (and remember) that you like for me to tell you. But can you really, honestly, doubt my love for you? I am in love with you! In fact, I don't even want you to know just how important to me you actually are, for you might be frightened or made conceited. But I think not. You would still be Bobby. You would still love me. I'm not making any sense. I am trying to say I love you this week more than ever; each day I now realize things about you which make me love you more. I hope to get something done on my paper tonight. Right now, I have a headache, for the library was noisy (60 cycle hum from the lights, which drives me batty). I think I shall lie down and let my eyes rest just a few minutes, but will write more later tonight. Later: I want us to form a partnership and build, together, two whole lives, which will be richer and more beautiful than 1 or 1/2 or 2 or 3! I have made up my mind that the who (i.e., Bobby) is more important (now and forever) than the what (i.e., philosopher-teacher). I need to leave Alabama. Don't feel guilty, and don't be conceited. I am not coming to N.C. just for you, Bobby, but yes, partly for Bobby, partly for Don, but mostly for "us." (I really don't think that deserves quotes anymore, do you?) I must sleep. Maybe a few more lines in the morning. I love you, Don MAY 16 My Darling, Please, Don, know now, I love you. You are the most beautiful, wonderful thing in my life. And that's no mean feat, for most of my life is beautiful and wonderful. Most of my experiences have been good, and out of all those "goods," there's Don, the very best happening of my life. You make every bad thing seem OK. Even the ugliness of the great big world is bearable. Don, you are gentleness and are beyond belief. I never hoped for half of what you are. The thought of being Barbara Gitenstein at her home in Manhattan. together for really long periods of time really thrills me beyond my love of even now. But the thought of a life together — that is so beautiful, I almost cannot bear the thought. Sleep well, darling. I adore you, Bobby Thank you for each moment that you missed me. JUNE 2 Durham, N.C. Dearest Bobby, In case you were wondering why I wrote you a letter when you are just a few blocks away — I'll just tell you frankly — did you really think that I would let you get the last word in? Thank you for each word you wrote to me this year. Thank you for each moment that you missed me. Thank you for each thing you learned to say, and, more than I know words for how to say thank you, thank you for not being able to say things, for running out of words, for needing new words or better words or just words. Have you considered just what not having the right words means? I consider it empirical evidence that we love one another. I love you, Don

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