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These extracts are taken from letters that my father sent whilst in India

“Two more days nearer to coming home. Still no more news about this leave business but I’m still full of hope. At least they haven’t told me I can’t go so that’s good enough for the time being.�

“When I come home you shall have all the cosmetics and pretty clothes I can afford to buy you. Nothing would make me more happier than to indulge you in that way.�

“When we all go away together I’d like it to be somewhere like the South Coast. I’ve a fancy for Torquay myself.�

“This afternoon was spent killing time more or less, much to my annoyance. I spent the evening doing crossword puzzles as a change from my usual pursuits. I managed to get a couple of hours for my studies but this afternoon we were sent out to pick up paper and orange peel! That’s the 3rd in a fortnight. Today’s effort is on behalf of the Colonel who is going to inspect us in the morning.�

“Can you send me a sketch of the handbag you saw, with size, colour and as many details as possible so that I can keep on the look out for one.�

“Christmas Day 1945. Here it is mid afternoon but I expect you are just having breakfast and opening presents. Tomorrow we have to return to camp, so xmas is practically over.�

12th March 1946
“Just as I was going to bed I was called by a Sgt from the education centre with whom I’m pretty friendly. He told me they wanted a librarian in the education centre and asked me to if I’d like the job. Too true I would. A gift from the Gods. That was the start. Next morning started a weeks duty as swill fatigue man. 3 times a day we tour the camp with a lorry collecting the swill from the cookhouses. A lovely job I must say and one which no doubt justifies my country paying me as a 2nd class surveyor and keeping me in India.�

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