Active Service France: 22nd November 1944 to 4th August 1945

Letters from posting to Epinay France until 4^th August 1945 when posted to Belgium

22/11/44

Dear Don,

We received your card this morning, and sincerely hope you are now comfortably settled.

Did you receive my letter of the 19^th?

I trust you will receive this in time for the 25^th, and to wish you all the best as you know our thoughts will be with you always.

I see according to the card 138 wing is not mentioned, is this correct? I should like to know, so as we can give the proper address, for the cigarettes to be sent.

We will be anxious to hear from you and hope the stay will be of short duration.

God bless you and keep you safe.

With all our love Mum & Dad.

30/11/44

Dear Don,

Have received yours of the 24^th and very pleased we are to know things are going well with you.

Mum has been unable to procure a new pair of gloves, so she has sent the enclosed, which I hope will suit your purpose.

We are glad to hear about the pleasant evenings and trust they will continue.

We hope the washing day was a success, perhaps you will soon find some kind friend to do it for you.

I expect by now you have received my other letters.

We have had one or two bangs at a distance, and I am hoping they are getting near the end.

Jean came last evening, and she sends her regards, to you.

Also we saw Walter on Monday and told him.

I trust you will continue to find things cheap, and I can trust you to see you get value for money.

Excuse short note this time, as I want to get it posted early, so as you will receive gloves quickly.

With all our best wishes & love from Mum & Dad

3/12/44

Dear Don,

Received letter No3. And very pleased to hear from you again.

I hope by now you have received my other letters papers & Gloves.

Don’t think I have forgotten the phrase book. I am hoping to get it in a day or two, in the meantime I have copied out of an old book one or two things that may be useful.

We are more than pleased to know you are having a good time with the band and trust you will continue to be happy and comfortable.

I will send some more papers tomorrow.

We saw Walter during the weekend, he told us he had heard from you. Doris & Beryl are still in Wales.

I hope the food business and arrangements are more to your liking.

Well Don, look after yourself keep fit and well & remember our thoughts are with you always.

With all our love from Mum & Dad.

6/12/44

Dear Don,

Letter No 4 to hand and right glad to hear from you again.

Enclosed cutting from S.Ex. (Stratford Express)

How did the socks turn out, I hope they were comfortable to the feet.

I am pleased to know you are getting plenty of practice with the band, and that it will keep you in trim.

I saw Bert this evening he is getting the music together and will be sending it on. He told me he had written a short? letter to you.

I hope you will soon be getting your mail more frequent.

After my second letter Dated 27^th you should have the papers from the same date. No3 letter containing Gloves. No 4 Dec 3^rd & papers same post.

I hope you get these in order. I shall continue to number my letters the same as you do.

I think the account in the RAF P.O. is a good idea.

The last delivery of music

Sun – A fellow on a furlong

The Tally song

I hope the Cigs will turn up eventually in spite of having 6305 SE.

Ern received your letter yesterday Dec 5^th.

I am sorry to hear about the rate of exchange, I should only get the things that are absolutely necessary.

It is nice to know you heard the football news. There was a very large crowd at West Ham, it’s a pity they could not do better.

I hope the food position has improved. At least we have got the phrase book after I made enquiries and sent to several places, mum was able to get it at Stratford. I shall be sending a different one a little later and hope they will be of great value to you.

The one I am sending now came from Smiths, it was one she got for a client, but a mistake was made, and should have been a German phrase book.

Mrs Perry made enquiries about you and hopes all will go well with you.

I think this is all this time. So will conclude with Love from Mum & Dad.

NB small newspaper clipping attached regarding the E.L.C.C.A.S. which includes a list of “Forces visitors to the club this week include C and F Brewer T Byatt L pringle A Steadman D Redhead and J Hunt.

13/12/44

Dear Don,

As we have not had a letter from you for the past week I felt I had to write. Your last letter was No4. Received Dec 6^th.

How are you keeping, fit & well I hope.

Well Don, it is getting near the 25^th and both Mum and I hope you will have a happy a time as circumstances will permit. You know our thoughts will be with you it cannot be the same at 27 without you.

I do not think I mentioned your pal Ernie in my letters quite an omission on my part – please convey our best wished to him.

Mum saw Miss Elson a few days ago, and she wishes to be kindly remembered to you.

I saw Bert on Monday evening he told me to tell you he will be getting the music off at the earliest he has been running around for various parts.

There is no further deliveries of music to report this time.

By the way how are you sleeping now, I hope you have not had any tumbles.

No 3 lot of papers were dispatched Tuesday Dec 12. You will find the other French phrase book enclosed.

Now a surprise, we had a card from Fred Wells, I thought you would like his address 14646619 Du/o.p. Wells F. 315/105 A/TK Regt R.A. C.M.F.

I shall be writing to him and shall let him have your address.

I have just received your letter No5. Dated 8/12/44

I am sorry about your mail and I hope by now you have received papers etc.

I expect you are now able to make yourself understood I don’t think it will take you long to pick up a bit of the language.

How about the food problem it grieves me & mum to hear how you are being treated, and I do hope things will soon be altered. Is there no one you can complain to or have you got to go sick.

It is very regrettable that we are not allowed to send eatables to you.

I hope the laundry has turned up. It is very miserable not to be able to have a regular change, and trust things will soon get more settled.

Well Don, I see you have been playing with the band, and I hope you will soon get the music & fix up a band in the airfield.

I am pleased to know you had some English beer it came as a nice change, I shall be glad when we are able to get a decent drop here.

Well Don, I think this is all this time, so will conclude with a list of letters etc so as you can check up.

Nov 22 1^st letter to BLA

Nov 27^th 2^nd

Nov 27 Papers

Nov 29 3^rd letter enclosing Gloves

Dec 3 4^th letter

Dec 4 papers

Dec 6 5^th letter

Dec 12 papers enclosing French phrase book.

13 6^th letter

The following is your list

No 1 dated Nov 19 received Nov 27

No 2 dated Nov 24 received Nov 29

No 3 “ Nov 28 “ Dec 2

No 4 “ Dec 1^st “ Dec 6^th

No 5 “ Dec 8^th “ Today

With all our love & best wishes and I hope everything will soon be as you would like it.

Cheerio Mum & Dad

17/12/44

Dear Don,

I have received letter No6 dated 11^th arrived 16^th and was very pleased to hear from you again. Also many thanks for cards which came the same time.

I am glad you have received gloves and papers and I hope you will get your mail more quickly, no doubt the Christmas rush has put things behind.

I see you had a joy ride on your half day it is a pity it was so cold but I expect you made the best of it, I suppose you are getting well advanced with your French. It is nice to get in with these various people, so as to make the time go more pleasantly and I hope these musical evening will continue.

I can imagine the home of the grandparents it reminds me of the time when I was a boy.

Well Don, have the food arrangements improved. I sincerely hope so, that’s the part that worries me. In whatever way you can supplement this, do so, whatever the cost. Walter was here last Thursday, he says he would like to send some cash if it was possible and suggested he and I could reimburse any expense you are put to, so please do your best to look after the inner man.

Have you recovered from the effects of the football, I am glad you were not on the losing but winning side, and trust you had a good game in spite of the rain and that you did not get cold.

We were going to Laindon today for a spot of fresh air, but were prevented by the weather, wet and very windy.

This time next week, Christmas will be upon us. What a different there will be, just sitting with our thoughts, which you can guess will be entirely with you.

We both hope you will have a pleasant a time as possible and hope to look forward very early in the New Year, to see this terrible business finished, and you will be back in the fold once more.

Jean wishes to be remembered to you. When she comes her first words are “Have you heard from Donald, how is he, remember me to him when you write”.

Doris & Beryl are still in Wales and Walter has gone down to see them this weekend.

Mum is having a dolls house made for Beryl, and hopes to have it ready when they return, it will be a pleasant surprise for her.

We have all seen the one Mr Reddin had made for Betty and we all agree it is a wonderful piece of work.

Mum has made a couple of small puddings and is going to save one for you, so please hurry up home.

I have had a very busy and worrying time at the shop, owing to the shortage of staff, so shall be glad of a few days rest.

I don’t think there is anything else, to report this time, so will say Cheerio and all the best and trust “Good Luck” will be with you on all occasions.

All our love Mum & Dad.

18/12/44

Dear Don,

Your letter No 7 to hand. 14 Dec received 18^th am pleased to know your mail is catching up and hope the papers etc will soon reach you.

We are glad to know the book will be useful and I am sure with a little able help from Angus you will soon be able to master the language. Anyway sufficient to find your way about and to obtain the things your require.

I hope the band will soon be organised to your satisfaction and it is nice to know you had a good laugh at the pictures.

Well Don, how about the trade test we both hope & pray you will be lucky enough to get your L.A.C. and look forward to receiving that letter, which will advise us of your success.

In the meantime keep cheerful and happy.

With all our love and best wishes.

From Mum & Dad

19/12/44

Dear Don,

I hope you receive this in time, but of course times like this, these may be some delay.

However you know our thoughts will be with you all the time.

We have had a letter from Doris and she asks for your address. We are replying tonight.

They are keeping well but I expect Walter will tell us more when we see him.

Wishing you all the best

Cheerio and love from Mum & Dad.

24/12/44

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive your letter No 8 dated 18^th this morning Sunday Dec 24^th.

You can rest assured the things you require will be sent at the earliest.

I see you are making a job of the washing. Haven’t you been able to get somebody to do it for you? I hope you will soon be able to find some kind friend .

Am glad to know the band is giving you a certain amount of pleasure, I must try and see Bert and see when he sent the music off.

Let us hope you will soon get rid of the touch of indigestion.

I hope you are getting your mail up to date. No doubt the pressure at this time of the year is giving a lot of extra work.

Well Don, I hope you will make the best of it to keep yourself cheerful and happy, you know how we feel at home. This is a Christmas of No’s, no Don, no piano, no festivities. Only memories of happier times, and hopes for the near future, when we can look forward to make up for lost time.

I went to see Walter this morning but he was out, but I hope to see him tomorrow (Christmas) morning so as to ask him to have dinner with us.

While I am writing this Walter has just called in, so we have made him promise to call back for something to eat.

He will be very busy over the holidays.

Mum saw Mrs Donovan who tells her, Len has gone abroad, and she has not heard from him for over a fortnight, since she got the Buff Card.

Len finished his leave and returned just at the time his brother willie came home, after 4 ¼ years, although they telegraphed weren’t able to see each other.

Jean has just arrived and will be staying a couple of days.

Christmas Day.

Well Don to continue my letter we were pleased to receive ours of the 21^st no9 this morning. Am sorry to hear about the mail but trust this will soon be put right.

Glad to hear you have had a certain amount of amusement, it is a pity there was not more of it.

I trust you feel fit after your game of football.

Mum is anxiously awaiting Wednesday so as she will be able to get the things your require.

Walter was here in time to have dinner with us and will try to come back later in the day.

The weather has been very nice & fine the last couple of days, very cold and frosty, but this afternoon it is inclined to be foggy. There is no underground running today.

I trust the weather is kind to you, and that you are making the best of it.

I think this is all at present, and hope you soon receive all yours letters etc.

With all our love and kind thoughts.

Mum & Dad

Ern will be writing tomorrow.

28/12/44

Dear Don,

I have or rather mum has dispatched your parcel this morning, and our only hope is that it will reach you safely and in good time.

As regards the cocoa, sugar & milk have been added which I hope will simplify matters.

How have you been over the Christmas? I hope you have had a decent a time as possible. It has been very cold here for the past week, and I hope it will soon turn a bit warmer.

How is the band going? I trust you are getting plenty of enjoyment out of it.

You remember Ken who came to Laindon with Audrey, he was conscripted for the mines after a few months he got in the army, royal Engineers he is now on embarkation, and expects to go to France.

Well Don, I have now settled down to work after the few days’ rest. I do not feel much like it but stocktaking has to be done.

How is the mail going? I hope you have received all my letters etc. the papers this week are packed in the parcel.

Let us know if there is anything you require and we hope you are able to satisfy the inner man.

We wish you all the best and look forward to seeing you early in the New Year.

Cheerio, and all our love Mum & Dad.

Friday morning 29^th Dec.

Dear Don, I have just had a glance at the Stratford express and see your name in ELCCAS news re Christmas greetings.

All our love Cheerio Mum.

1/1/45

Dear Don,

I must start off with the best of good wishes for 1945 and luck for the trade board test.

I have received today, your letters 10 & 11 and very glad we are to hear from you.

Thank you for greetings from France. And no doubt Mum will be seeing Miss Elson to give her your regards.

I am glad you are getting all the letters etc, although some are late if I do not get a letter for a few days I like to get another one off. I feel I cannot wait to get one to reply to. My thought are always with you and I must write every few days.

I hope you soon hear from Freddie it is certainly strange that you should have sent a card to his home.

I trust you will continue to have some enjoyable times, and that the band instruments will soon arrive.

Another thing that pleases mum & myself is the food situation, hope it continues to improve.

We would have liked to have had a look at you xmas eve but was glad you had a good time.

I am glad you had “Silent Night” I was thinking and talking about you when Bing Crosby sang it Xmas eve.

Dear Don, I hope it won’t be long before you -can enjoy your pudding.

It is very nice reading about the trade board, I can trust you to hold our own, and I sincerely hope you will be pleased with the result. I shall be very anxious to know.

You were certainly up early xmas morning, I think the last time you got up so early was when Father Christmas left something in your stocking.

I should certainly like to see the weather turn warmer, for all our sakes it has got me down, as a matter of fact I am spending today in bed that’s why I am writing this in pencil but I hope to be back in a day or two, I can assure you there is nothing to worry about.

Cheerio & God bless you

Love from Mum & Dad

5/1/45

Dear Don,

We were very pleased to receive our letter no 12 yesterday 4^th , and glad to know you have received cigarettes. The next lot should go about next Monday the 8^th, these perhaps will not take so long now the xmas rush is over, as soon as I hear you receive them, another lot will be sent.

I am more than pleased to hear about the band, Bert came in last night, and we arranged the music, and I hope to see him tonight, to get the other parts you want, and you can rest assured they will be sent off first thing in the morning.

I hope by now you have got the envelopes, and other things, which were sent off Dec 28^th.

You will notice there are several Pl’s which came today & yesterday. I have kept them separate with the others since you left.

Walter called yesterday and he told us you had written to him.

I am pleased to know you have made Epinoy happy, and we all wish you every success with the band, and we look forward to hear how you are going along, and also the result of the Trade Board.

The parcel will be sent as per address

MUSICAL PARCEL

To be collected by B8 Wing

To C/o S.F.C.O.

Flying Control

RAF Station

HARTFORD BRIDGE

CAMBERLEY, SURREY

Rose came to see mum today, she tells us Arnold is home for 14 days. He was home about ½ an hour when he was greeted by a bang that frightened the life out of him. We had several yesterday so mum asked Rose how Arnold liked his salute, he said he would rather be back in the Army, it has been a bit quiet today.

Jack Reddin went back yesterday. Since my last letter I am pleased to tell you, I am going along alright and as I told you, there is nothing to worry about.

I should certainly like it to turn a bit warmer, for all our sakes.

I hope soon to hear you have got the music alright and I shall send the darning wool etc in a day or two.

Dear Don, Bert has just been in. Sweet & Lovely is out of print at present, he will be writing you, he can explain better than I can.

With all kind thoughts and best wishes etc from Jean & Rose.

And all our love Mum & Dad.

7/1/45

Dear Don,

I have received our letters 13 &14 dated 2^nd & 3^rd. They came on Saturday afternoon the 6^th about the quickest of any received.

We are more than sorry to hear you are in Sick quarters, and trust by now you are completely recovered.

We will be glad to hear from you again to let us know you are out again, and back to normal.

Now I will tell you about myself. Mum had to send for the doctor on Jan 1^st who told me I had got bronchitis and to stop in bed for a few days. I am pleased to say I am going along alright now and hope to be back at business in a few days.

I see you have got letter 10 & 12. What about no 11. This was posted on the 28^th same day as parcel, which I hope by now you have received.

Mum has told Burt you have received the music, and he was very pleased and said he would write to you straight away.

We are pleased to know you have got pals to look after you.

I had another dig at Ern about not writing, but I think his tomorrow will soon be here. You know what he is as regards letter writing.

I don’t know how Ken managed it but I know he is far happier in the Army.

I hope you have been able to go to your friends in Town today and that you were able to have a good time.

We have had some snow and thunder this morning, but it has changed for the better this afternoon, with a little sunshine.

Walter came and had some dinner with us, and has just left 4 o/c.

As I told you in my last letter the music was dispatched to HB. Yesterday morning, and I hope you will find all your require.

I am enclosing envelopes and darning wool, and hope to have a pair of gloves made for you as soon as the wool comes in.

Mum has been to several shops to try and get the wool.

I should like to tell you Ern has got your watch going, but I will leave it to him to tell you all about it. No doubt this can be sent to you in your next parcel.

Well Don, I think this is all this time, except my thoughts & wishes.

Success to all your undertakings, Good health, and happiness in mind & Spirit.

Cheerio, Regards from Jean etc. & love from Mum & Dad

11/11/45

Dear Don,

It was nice to receive your letter No15 to hear you are ok again, and I trust you will continue to do so.

I hope by now you have received music, and making progress with the band, and that you have caught up with the two meetings, that you missed.

We must have started this year bad what with you being in sick bay, myself bronchitis Mum poisoned finger, quite enough to get on with.

We must be thankful that everything is alright now. I hope to be starting again on Saturday Jan 13^th.

We have been very thankful to Jean, for her useful & kindly help over the weekend. When she came last evening she wished to be remembered to you.

Mum is still waiting for the wool to come in for your gloves. But you can rest assured no time will be wasted in getting them made & sent to you.

I hope soon to hear that you have received your parcel etc.

I think that is all this time so will conclude with love & kindest thoughts from Mum & Dad

15/1/45

Dear Don,

Received letter No 17 today. The last one received No 15 dated Jan 6 and received 10^th. What’s happened to 16?

I am pleased to say I have started work again, and am feeling fairly fit, and I sincerely hope you have got over your attack, and that you are quite well again.

Mums finger seems to be going along alright now.

We will certainly be glad when we hear you have received your parcel (dispatched Dec 28^th) also the parcel of music that was sent as per instructions on Jan 6^th.

As regards papers I usually pick these up on Monday evenings and mum posts them on Tuesday morning.

As regards the Cigarettes, I do not know how long these take, they were supposed to go off last Monday 8^th that is why I like to know directly you receive them, so as we can make another lot.

No 14 letter contained darning wool and envelopes. Let us hope you received all these, and that I shall soon hear to say they have all turned up. Both Mum & I will be relieved.

Burt has been queer with the flu the last few days but I am pleased to say his mother says he is much better now.

I have receive from Feldman – Bye Bye So Long For Now

Hello Mom

The following received since my last list to you, have been enclosed in the parcel.

Noel Gay – Sing a Song of Tomorrow Today

Bonnie Babies

Victoria – The Happiest New Year of all

No One Else Will Do

Texas Polka

Chappell – Come Out Come Out wherever you are

As long as there’s music.

How’s the band going?

Everything according to plan what?

How is Ernie shaping in his capacity of dancing instructor etc. give him our regards,

There has been a slight change in the weather the snow has cleared away, and it is not quite so cold, but cold enough for me, I hope the change has been extended to your part of the world.

Well cheerio and all the best, and here’s hoping I shall soon learn you have got, parcels, letters, & papers all up to date.

Love from Mum & Dad.

16/1/45

Dear Don,

Have received letter No16 today and am losing no time to let you know.

Mum & I are still waiting anxiously to know if you have received parcel, also music from H B.

We are both glad to know you are feeling ok and sincerely trust you will continue to do so.

It pleases us to know you are making progress with the band.

Mum says she wishes it had been possible to relieve you of that job of darning.

You will be pleased to know I am feeling much better, and after two days at work am beginning to pull up arrears, which make me happier in mind, also the better news we are cheerful, and I hope we can look forward to the end, in the not too distant future.

Another thing to please us, is that the Windows have been put in today, perhaps now we will be able to keep the place warm.

Mr Reddin is getting well away with the Dolls House and we hope it will be ready by the time Doris & Beryl come home, how we wish you could be with us at the unveiling, just to watch the expression on Beryl’s face, but I am afraid that will be left to your imagination.

Mr Reddin has heard from Jack, that he is on the move.

Well Don, I think that is all this time so will conclude, with love and best wishes from Mum & Dad.

Dear Don Jan 17^th

Your registered letter has just arrived as Dad was going to work.

As I had our letter ready to post, I thought I would slip this in.

I know Ern will do his best for you as regards what you want.

I do hope by now you have got your parcel, also your music.

All my love

Cheerio Mum

18/1/45

Dear Don,

Have received all letters up to date, including 19.

We were both pleased to know you have received parcel, in fact as please as you were to receive it.

How’s the Navy practise going?

I shall be very glad when I hear you have received the music I sent to HB.

Ern has got your letter and will attend to it. I hope to let you know something, when I write to you again.

The notes have been paid in to-day, and the P.O. cannot accept the books till March as they are so very busy. I will not forget it when the time comes.

It is nice to know you are making progress with the band and we wish you every success.

I see you spent an amusing afternoon with the snow that pleasure was denied me, so poor old mum came in for that job. I wish I had been well enough to have done it.

Well, let us hope we have finished with the snow, and that the weather does not get too cold.

Well don I think this is all at present so will conclude it wishing you all the best

Cheerio and all our love

Mum and Dad

Ps Jean came last night – she told us Freddie is home on leave from Belgium.

That will be the time when you get yours.

27/11/44

Dear Don,

We were more than pleased to receive your letter, it was indeed a tonic for mum.

I don’t know if you have received my last 2 letters. One Nov 19^th to HB, and the other on the 22^nd the day we received the buff card. Anyway, the reply to yours is more important.

To keep you up to date with the music I wrote to tell you, I had received an acknowledgement from Feldman’s also from F Dak }The Sweetheart Waltz

} and then you Kissed me

Since then, I have received from Chappells

}where the Blue Begins

} My Wish

Cinephonic }Lovely Day

} if you ever go to Ireland

Lawrence Wright }My Favourite Dream

} The Cockney Rhyming Song

I shall certainly watch the M.M. and look forward to see something interesting. These will all be saved for you.

I shall post the reading matter to you, and also see if I can get an Anglo French phrase book.

One thing I must tell you Mr Marsden came and tuned the piano on your birthday.

Mum has given the order in for cigarettes and I trust you will receive them in due course.

Let me know when you get them so as I can tell how long they take.

Ern got a number of books from the library and has been studying over the weekend. I hope in course of time, it will be worth the time taken. I know you will join me in wishing him luck.

I hope you have succeeded in keeping in bed, I do not like to suggest a safety strap, but perhaps you could swop this with the other chap.

Well Don, I hope you have got used to your surroundings, and that you are happy and comfortable.

I have no doubt you will soon know sufficient of the language to be useful.

We hope you enjoy your food, and that you get it regular, as regards the beer, if it is no better than what we get over here I can’t suggest a name for it.

The rate of exchange seems to be in our favour and let’s hope you have got sufficient for your wants.

We are glad you had a pleasant afternoon, with your chess & Billiards, and also to learn you were able to have a bath, it would have certainly been nice to see you again but perhaps it was not worth the rush.

We can only look forward to seeing you again in the near future, but the greatest relief was to hear from you, and to know you are o.k.. Our only hope is that you are able to keep well and happy, and that our thoughts will be with you always.

I will give your message to Bert when I see him and will keep you updated with all the news. I hope the weather will be kind to you, we had a very wet week last week.

It has opened out a bit better today.

I think this is all at the present so will conclude with all our love & kindest thoughts.

From Mum & Dad

21.1.45

Dear Don,

Have received letters 20 & 21 & was very pleased to hear from you and to know you got the wool in time.

While I am writing this I should like to tell you the knitting class is in full swing, and we hope to let you have socks & gloves in the near future.

We are very pleased to know you are getting your washing done, it will save you a lot of worry and trouble.

I must be more careful in numbering my letters, I see you are well in advance of me. We will keep your watch till you come home, and if you get one over there, I hope you will get good value.

Mum & I will have to look out for “This Happy Breed” and try and see it. It is quite a long time since we went to the pictures.

We were hoping that the change in the weather was going to be more suitable to our requirements but yesterday & during the night we have had a very heavy fall of snow. However I hope you are free of this after what you have had.

Hope you are now keeping fit & well.

Cheerio love from Mum & Dad.

24/1/45

Dear Don,

I have received letters 22 & 23 and the remarkable fact is No 23 is the quickest one I have received. I think it beats your record of my No 16.

I hope you have now got the instruments, and that the dancing classes are well under way.

We were both glad to know the food business has improved and trust it will continue to be up to the standard you require, and hope everything not above board will be stamped out.

We are sorry about that long & ghastly walk, but hope the visit to the town, and the pictures compensated you. We remembered how you liked the walk from the station to the bungalow but that would be preferable now. What say you? Visions of happier days, and of better times to come.

I have remembered you to Jean, who by the way has been helping mum with the gloves etc. these will be dispatched at the earliest.

No further deliveries of music to report.

It is nice to know the weather has improved for you, but it is not too good here the snow is still hanging about.

We hope you had a good time at the pianist’s house, it must be nice for them to have some fresh numbers to play, after so long a period, playing the old stuff.

Well Don, we are preparing a parcel for you, and hope to get it off in a day or two.

Rose came to see mum, and to tell her that Arnold is going abroad.

Well Don I think that is about all this time, and when I get the parcel off, I will let you know.

In the meantime keep smiling.

Regards to Ernie.

& love from Mum & Dad.

27/1/45

Dear Don,

Hope this finds you in the best of health, and that the weather is better than we are having.

It has been very cold and I really don’t like it perhaps it is because I am getting old, and I hope it soon changes.

I am pleased to say our parcel was dispatched on Thursday morning Jan 25^th and we both hope you will receive it soon.

You will find a pair of socks which have been worn, they are a bit large but no doubt they will do you a turn.

The other socks and gloves which are being made, we hope to have ready in a day or two. These I will send by letter post so as you get them quicker than by parcel post.

I have received from Lawrence Wright

} when We’re altogether Again

} Dreaming

This is all I have received since I sent the last list.

I hope the band is in full swing now, and that you have got the music and the instruments you require.

As regards Chappells, 6/- 6 months the last I sent them was 7/7/44. I have received 5 numbers up to 5/1/45. Should I send them another subscription, or do they let me know when they require it. I might mention I had 6 numbers for the last sub.

Have you heard from Fred Wills?

Dear Don, as time is getting on for Dad to get to work, he asked me to finish this letter for him and post in the usual way (9.30 collection)

Ern has seen Len & others about your letter to him, but they are difficult to get now, hence the delay. However he will do his best to get them as soon as possible.

We had a letter from Doris in the week and she said she had written to you, so I expect you have received it by now.

Wishing you all the best, I will close with all our love and say Cheerio for now,

From Mum and Dad.

29/1/45

Dear Don,

Today I have received 2 letters 24 & 25 and it is nice to know you have received music and also you have put the darning out, and better still, to know you are having a change each week, and trust things will continue on these lines.

I hope this cold spell will soon pass it is certainly the worst we have experienced. We think of you all the time and we know how you feel.

I trust by the time you receive this, you have had the cigarettes.

I am sending a pair of shorts by letter post, so as you will receive them quicker than parcel post. I shall send another pair in a day or two.

I have tried to get you some new ones, but what I brought home mum knew they would not suit you.

The Socks are nearly finished as you know these have had to be made as you are unable to get other than utility, and they would be no use to you.

I know you will appreciate the delay, but I will send them the quickest way.

Friday morning 8 0/c –

Dear Don,

the Gloves are finished so am sending herewith. I hope you will get them quickly.

That’s all for now so cheerio & all our loveMum and dad.

31/1/45

Dear Don,

Am sending socks & shorts and trust they will reach you in good time and I hope you have received the gloves & shorts sent a couple of days ago.

I sincerely hope the change in the weather has come to stay and that we shall not experience for some time to come, the bitter weather we have had.

We hope you are keeping fit & well and that you are getting well away with the band.

With all our thoughts and love.

From Mum & Dad.

4/2/45

Dear Don,

Congratulations from Mum and Myself on obtaining your L.A.C.

After not hearing from you for nearly a week, we received letters 26,27 & 28 all by one post yesterday (Saturday 3^rd Feb)

Now mum is worrying over a mistake by the P.O. people.

We sent your gloves etc by letter post so as you would get them quickly.

The first parcel they charged 4d the second 10 ½ , both about the same weight, but I know you will understand it is no fault of mums and we trust you have received them both safely, even if you have to pay the surcharge, at the P.O. they think they will go through alright.

You can bet mum will be anxious to know how you got on.

The notes will be attended to as before, and I shall deal with the other when I receive it.

It seems a long time before you get your 48 hrs but I hope you make the best of it, when it comes.

We did not know about Doris’s cousin. Probably Walter forgot to tell us. He did tell us that Beryl was a bit scared when she saw the snow was higher than herself, also they had to dig their way to the car he says it was a good job he was not there otherwise they may have been an accident and he is passed the age for doing childish things.

I bet the ink incident was more than funny, but it was nice to know that nobody received any cuts.

Well Don the better weather is helping things and I should like to convince myself that it is all over, bar the shouting.

I suppose you are now getting on with the rehearsals and by this time I expect you have received the instruments and that you are going well with the band.

I am glad the fatigue was up to your liking.

We would have liked to have been at the concert for your celebrations and am glad to learn you had a good time, especially with the prices for the liquid refreshments, but take a tip from the old man, don’t get too fond of it, I know you will appreciate what I mean.

Please give or best wishes to Ernie etc.

Walter & Jean have been here today and they both are pleased to hear you are LAC and send their best wishes.

I have given Ern your message, he is still trying but I expect he will explain everything to you.

Mum has nearly finished another pair of socks. These are the same yarn as the pair enclosed in your parcel, I know these are not so nice as the all wool, but I expect you will find them useful.

I shall be sending them in a day or two by letter post and we will see there is no mistake this time.

Well Don, I think this is all this time so will conclude in wishing you all the best.

Cheerio and all our love

From Mum & Dad.

6/2/45

Dear Don,

We received letter 29. And was pleased to hear from you.

Herewith I send socks which I spoke about in my last letter.

Rose called to see mum yesterday and told her Arnold has gone to Belgium.

I am glad the snow did not hang about too long it must have been similar to what we had and I join you in hoping that spring will not be a little late this year.

I hope you had a nice time with the Ensa show, and I trust the dance went off alright in spite of being without some of the instruments.

I have had another dig at Ern, but I think according to what he heard from Jean, he has been waiting to let you know all about it.

Well Don I must get this packed up before I go to work so will say Cheerio.

All our love from Mum & Dad

P.S. Rose told mum Ray has gone further afield.

8/2/45

Dear Don,

In reply to letters 30 & 31 they are certainly coming in smart time now and I should like to know that you are receiving mine as quick.

Our weather is certainly a bit warmer but we are now having quite enough rain

I will keep my eye on the MM as regards Chappells.

The latest music received –

J D&H }Shine on Harvest Moon

} Some other time.

We were pleased to hear about the band but I think you are too modest as regards not being up to standard. No doubt you will all feel much better after another one or two dances.

You must have had a long evening getting back so late but I hope you did not feel too tired in the morning.

It is nice to know you have got a cycle, and I hope it will save you’re a great deal of walking.

I bet you was in a fine state after touring the side roads, trying to remind yourself of Laindon on a wet day. It will certainly make you think twice before you go again.

Mr Reddin has nearly finished the Dolls house (of course you know this is a secret till Beryl comes home) it will probably have to be delayed a day or two as Mr Reddin’s mother is ill and it has meant a lot of running about for him. It will be nice if you get a doll, and if you are able to, I hope it will get here safely.

How we all wish for the time when it is all over, I should like to hear the good news any day now, the quicker the better. So we must keep hoping.

Mr Redding has heard from Jack, he is somewhere afloat.

We were talking about the numbers yours being 53. Jacks is sixty something, perhaps it may not be so startling after all we must wait & see and hope for the best.

Well Don I hope to hear soon that you have got the cigarettes, parcel, gloves & socks.

Jean wishes to be remembered to you.

I think that is about all this time so will conclude in time to catch the 4.30. this being Thursday afternoon.

With all kind thoughts & love from Mum & Dad.

11/2/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive letter No 32 and glad to learn you have received parcel.

We are pleased you like the gloves, Jean knitted them for you, while mum got on with the socks.

I hope the band will go well tonight and shall be glad when you get all the instruments you require.

We are very sorry about the cigarettes we will get another lot dispatched and hope for letter back.

It is with regret I have to let you know of the death of my brother (Uncle Harry) who passed away on the 5^th he had a stroke on the 2^nd and did not regain consciousness, he is being buried on Tuesday 13^th.

We have heard from Albert Ovens, he hopes you are keeping safe & well. He tells us he has changed his job, because he did not have enough to do. Also he hopes it will soon pack up so as he has a speedy return, he has been away two years the 20^th of this month.

I received the Draft yesterday and shall see that keeps the other notes company.

The weather has not been too good here, plenty of rain, I should like to see some nice bright weather now, as I feel sure it would greatly help matters.

Well now conclude with our usual kind thoughts and Love.

From Mum & Dad.

13/2/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive letters 33 & 34 and also to know you have received socks & cigarettes.

We hope the next lot will not take so long to reach you.

As regards tax, what with the post war credit I expect you will get a big percentage back.

We hope you did not catch cold after your soaking.

Mum & I attended Uncle Harrys’ funeral today. Aunt Alice kept up very well considering her age. She is just on 77.

Your aunts Lily & Jess were there, it is over 20 years since we saw them, so you can guess there was some old times to talk about.

Walter came this evening, he told me to mention to you, he has been so busy and has not had the time to write to you.

I expect by now you have received the other pairs of socks.

Well Don, you must excuse short letter, I felt I must write before I went to bed. It is getting late in fact, past my bedtime.

Wishing you the best of luck in all your ventures and hoping you will keep fit & Well.

Cheerio and all our love.

Mum & Dad.

15/2/45

Dear Don,

Have received letters 35 &36. Mum is happy to know you got the socks and that there was no trouble as regards surcharge.

We have not heard from Rose how Arnold is getting on yet, I expect she will soon be calling in.

I think Ray has gone out East somewhere.

Mum was talking to Mrs Sewell this afternoon, she told her she had heard from Stan who says he doesn’t like the mud out there.

He missed the snow, as he did not go till Feb 5. (about).

I hope your weather is keeping good. It has turned foggy here this afternoon, and I don’t like it and I hope we can soon look forward to some real spring weather and to the end of this bad business.

I hope you will get the band up to your liking and that you will soon have everything perfect.

Well Don, my opinion of the gratuities scheme is about the same as yours. It’s a question of take it with one hand and giving part of it back with the other. But I suppose they have got to do some funny things, so as to distract attention from other matters after the war.

Whatever amount you get, it cannot make up for what you have lost, and I sincerely hope you will be able to make up for lost time etc when you return to Civil life.

We had a letter from Doris this morning. She tells us she has sent you a small parcel and we both hope you will receive it alright.

Things have been a bit lively the last few weeks, I expect you can gather what they are like by the reports in the “Stratford”.

There is no music to report. On the wireless yesterday the words came through L.A.C. Donald, Mum nearly had a fit, she thought it was you had picked out a record to be played, who knows perhaps we shall hear your band on one of these days.

How is Ernie these days? Give him our regards.

I will have a talk with Ern if I am up when he comes home. I have spoken to him on several occasions but I hope everything will turn our alright and I expect he will explain all to you.

I am pleased to say mum & I are keeping fairly fit, in spite of old age creeping on and we both hope you are keeping free from colds etc in spite of getting wet.

Well Don I will say cheerio and all the best.

All our thoughts & love from Mum & Dad.

18/2/45

Dear Don,

It is Sunday evening but I feel I cannot let it pass without dropping you a line.

We hope the band is progressing well, and that everything is going along to your satisfaction.

Mum has been busy this evening getting ready for your next parcel.

A further supply of cigarettes was ordered yesterday.

I have written to Albert and replied to his enquiries about you.

Also mum is going to reply to Doris’s letter. I think I told you she has sent a parcel to you, and also she has changed her address which is

c/o Mrs Hobbs, 32 John St, Cadoxton, Barry, S.Wales.

Have you written or heard from Fred Wills?

It looks as if things are getting near the end according to the news.

How I hope so and that it will not be long, so as you can be with us once again.

Hoping you are keeping fit & well.

Cheerio and all our love

From Mum & Dad

Dear Don

I have received letter 37 today.

I am pleased to know you received Doris’s parcel it’s funny I should have mentioned it in my last letter, also about Fred Wells.

It is nice to know you got through the amount of writing you had to do, and I expect you slept well after.

Ern has got some batteries for you and they will be in your next parcel.

I hope in the capacity of band librarian you will be able to get all the music you require. I have only got a few new ones, they seem to be very slow coming along.

It will be nice if your band pal can get sufficient tickets for the jazz gala and I hope you get permission for the liberty wagon.

I am sorry to hear about the missed breakfasts, and I hope you will mend your ways so as to be in time.

On the other hand, I suppose there is a certain amount of compensation for the late nights, especially if they are enjoyable ones.

Well Don, I am glad to know you are getting your mail alright and I trust you will continue to do so.

My next job after this is to get the papers done up, that is my usual Monday night job.

Mum would like to know if you still have to take the digestive tablets, she is hoping the indigestion is much better.

However we are enclosing some in your parcel also some health salts which we think you may like, now that spring does not seem to be late this year.

Don’t be afraid to let us know anything that you would like, you know we will send if at all possible.

Well I think I will conclude with our usual kind thoughts and love

From Mum & Dad.

21/2/45

Dear Don,

Letters 38 39 & 40 arrived today by one post.

It is most remarkable that I should speak about Freddy and that you should write to him, and then get an airmail the day after. We hope he is well.

I am pleased to know the jazz gala has plenty of names. I hope you get the transport and that things will turn out well.

We were with you on shrove Tuesday, no pancakes, but we hope the time is not far distant when we can have the things we want.

We hope you and Ernie had a good time at the Ensa concert.

In reply to 39 I hope the post has got normal for you again.

I hope the band gave you satisfaction on Sunday and I am pleased to learn you are getting a super library.

With reference to Albert and his job if you remember he was a writer but he found there was not enough work to do. I do not know what he is now doing.

Let’s hope the weather continues as you like it.

The French cinema was a bit of a change and it’s a good job there is no smoking.

Well Don your parcel has been posted to you this morning and we do hope you receive it safe and in good time and that the contents are what you require.

I have received from Feldman’s Let the rest of the World Go By and When Irish Eyes are Smiling.

There are evidently two of the old ones.

The music has been very slow coming along, I think I mentioned it before but I suppose I shall get several together.

I think this is about all this time so will conclude wishing you success with the band and sincerely trust you are keeping fit & well.

All our love from Mum & Dad

25/2/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive letter 41 and hope things are going well with you.

It is funny you should mention about the post war credit, after what I said in one of my letters to you.

It will be very nice if you do get it all back.

We are glad to learn of the success of the dance and trust everything will come up to your expectations.

After only being able to expect one delivery of music this month I have now received another two,

viz:- Lawrence Wright – The Basic Language of Love

I’m gonna love that way

Suu The boy Next Door.

This finishes the Sub so I am sending another subscription.

I am glad you understood about Walter, he is full of business these days getting a large fleet together, he told us the days are not long enough for him but perhaps the day will come when he will be satisfied and then he will take it easy. We tell him all about you when he comes. He usually has dinner etc with us on Sundays.

It looks as if things are moving and I often feel the cessation of hostilities on the Continent is not far distant, what a grand day that will be. The fears of the rockets gone, the anticipation of your homecoming, the repairs to the house done, or better still a new one and the visions of better times to come.

We are pleased to tell you the Dolls house is finished and what a picture. Now our only hope is that the war will not delay the homecoming of Doris & Beryl very much longer.

Rose has seen it, and she thinks it is wonderful.

Well Don now I am hoping to get Mr Reddin busy on something I know that will be of interest to you but I cannot say anything about it just yet.

We hope you are keeping fit, and happy, give our regards to Ernie.

By the way how is the dancing instruction progressing..?

I will now say cheerio and conclude with love and kind thought from Mum & Dad.

27/2/45

Dear Don,

I have received letters 42 & 43 and what I can see of it, there has been some speeding up with the post.

We hope the weather is keeping all right for you and hope it will continue so and that the end will be quicker than what we think.

I expect there will be a lot of arguments about the Gratuity System and there may be some alterations.

I suggest there should be one for the old chaps like me carrying on under difficulties and waiting for the boys to come home so as we can have a rest but joking aside I suppose I mustn’t grumble I should feel alright if I had another chest.

Well as regards Ern, I spoke to him last night, and asked him to drop a few lines, and I would enclose it in this letter, or if he would tell me what to say I would write myself, he told me he had started a letter, so I can’t say if you have received it before this.

I am sorry the Jazz gala was not up to your expectations anyway it made a change for you but it would have been nice if you had had an interpreter there.

Now I suppose you have caught up with your reading. I suppose the news in the papers are a bit stale when you get it, but Everybody’s and TitBits I guess are always welcome, when you read the Stratford I expect you can guess how things are.

With reference to the cigarettes the third lot is now on order, as you have had two lots, I am pleased to say none have gone astray.

Directly we hear you have got them, mum orders another lot so I thought you would be able to judge the time in coming.

We are pleased to know you haven’t had to use the digestive tables, and as long as you are not short of them you will not need them.

How’s the Elastoplast? It would be nice to know you are not using much of that, not that we don’t want to send any, what I mean is that you are not clipping yourself about.

We are very pleased about the band, and we hope the leader will get all you require.

Jean is here tonight and of course, she send her usual kind regards.

I think this about all this time so will conclude with love and best wishes from Mum & Dad.

1/3/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to get your letter 44 and am glad to see these is not much delay in the post.

It is a pleasure to know you have nearly got all the music you require, also the instruments and trust you soon get the tenor Saxophone and the trombone, I guess you enjoyed yourself having a good blast out.

According to my reckoning you should receive parcel about March 4^th or 5^th judging by the time the other took.

Sorry to hear about the film, did you get your money back? And was someone able to explain it all to you.

Now about the pipe, I should sent it home if Ern was able to mend it last time I expect he can do it again or get it down.

Further music to expect : There goes that Song Again

We’ll be Walking together

I think that is all at present, so will say cheerio.

All our love Mum & Dad

4/3/45

Dear Don,

Replying to letter 45 we were more than pleased to hear your received parcel in double quick time.

I expect you had an enjoyable time going over the music you had sent, but it is a pity some of the numbers you required were out of stock.

I think it a good idea to send the music home, that you do not require, as you say it will be better than lugging it around.

When you receive the cigarettes, which I hope will be soon, there will be another lot, and you should receive these about a fortnight after. This will stop you going without too long.

We both hope you are keeping fit & happy, we think that the war cannot last much longer, how we are looking forward, and praying for that day.

Jean & Walter have been here today and wish to be remembered to you.

Well Don I think that is all this time.

With kind thoughts & love from Mum & Dad.

6/2/45

Dear Don,

No 46 received and we were pleased to hear from you again.

I suppose you have done your job of sorting out and numbering and no doubt jobs of that description take much longer than you would think.

Am sorry to hear the dancing classes have fallen through owing to lack of accommodation.

I trust everything went off alright on Saturday and Sunday and you got satisfaction for the time and work you have put into the band.

I suppose you are looking forward to your 48 hrs that won’t be long now. But I must tell you we are looking forward to your 7 days, it seems such a long time since we have seen you, and you know a nice long chat is much better than letters, and we sincerely hope the time will not be long when you are home for good.

Our thoughts & wishes are always with you and will conclude with all our love. From Mum & Dad

9/3/45

Dear Don,

I have received today letter no 48 also the £5.10.00 order.

What’s happened to 47 as I have not received this yet.

I was very sorry to hear about Ernie, and I expect I will be a long time before he makes another slip up.

I suppose you thought of the old man’s old fashioned view, but still it is likely to happen at times like these, and it is a bit of experience.

However, I trust it all ended well and that it won’t be necessary to remind him of what he said.

I have spoken to Ern this evening.

As regards the air activity it has not been too good, plenty of blast in the vicinity. Ern was at the shops all night with Arthur helping to clear up, last Thursday week, March 1st. this was opposite Herbert’s. Last Tuesday another a few streets away behind Herbert’s, it has caused a lot of work and at the same time it has put me behind with the orders about 2 weeks – but I feel since this can’t go on much longer, and here’s hoping the end will be quicker than what we think.

It is nice to know you have got all the music sorted out, also the smoking concert went off well and I hope you don’t get too tired putting all them hours in and the travelling about.

It is a pity you have the transport difficulties.

I will see Bert about the piece of music, I hope he will be able to get it for you.

I have looked through the book, but I cannot find one with the title ‘”My Heart tells me” I wondered if this was part of the song. I will explain this to Bert, so it may turn out alright.

As regards anything being deleted, on one occasion there was a piece cut out, but I took it for HB probably you did not abbreviate it.

The weather has been good the last few days and it is nice to see the progress that can be made.

I shall remember you to Jean when she comes again.

While mum was shopping she saw the nurse who looked after you, and she wished to be remembered to you.

This I think is all for the time being.

Cheerio and all our love from Mum & Dad.

11/3/45

Dear Don,

I received letter no 49 yesterday afternoon.

I still have not received 47. Do you think you have slipped up as a number.

When you send your pipe back I will endeavour to get it repaired, and keep it till you come home.

Sorry to hear about the rain, but I trust it has not interfered with you too much.

I trust through staying in a couple of night the rest has done you good.

The news continues to be good, so hurry up the end.

I am pleased to report the arrival of the following music

Cinephonic } Rosanna

} I’ll Try

Chappell }Any Moment Now

} More & More

}Who said Dreams Don’t come True

}You’re so Sweet to Remember

I expect this will finish Chappell’s so I will get another Sub away during the week.

The doings was pleased to your credit yesterday, and I hope to get your book away this week to be made up.

Bert has been over this afternoon and has made a note of “My Heart Tells Me” and says he will endeavour to get it for you.

Walter was here today and he tells us he hopes to go to Wales tomorrow to see Doris & Beryl.

Mum is hoping to get a parcel ready for dispatch during next week.

We have heard from Doris she tells us she is sending you a parcel this weekend.

Jean paid a visit to Bennett the dentist yesterday she had one tooth out and mum is going with her on Tuesday to have another one stopped.

Ern is sorry he has not written to you but has asked me to let you know he has been unable to get what you wanted.

He has tried several places.

Mum has got you a comb & toothbrush, to put in your parcel, I expect these sort of things come in handy. If there is anything you can think of that you require let us know.

I hope Ernie is keeping his good resolution. Give him our kind regards,

I think this is all this time and will close with kind thought and Love from Mum & Dad.

14/3/45

Dear Don.

Letter 50 to hand. It is quite interesting to know how you have arranged for the two bands: it will certainly give you the chance of having an evening to yourselves.

We are more than sorry to hear about Ernie and sincerely trust it is nothing serious, and that he will soon be quite well again.

What do you think it is? A cold or something eaten that did not agree with you.

We hope you will soon get your glasses fixed up, especially if it tires your eyes being without them any length of time.

I shall be anxious to know how you all are.

I have seen Bert and he has fixed up about the song which by the way is Chappels’ and they are going to send it on to you direct.

I will reimburse Bert when I see him again for the expenses incurred.

I am pleased you have paid visits to other places it certainly made a change for you and trust you will get the opportunity of spending a little time there in future occasions.

Are you able to get up to date music there.

I trust you were not too tired after your stand up lorry journey, but I expect when you finished the day with the band you soon forgot about tiredness.

Mum has seen Mrs Donovan and I am pleased to tell you she has heard from Ron after 3 months, he is in India and thinks he will be there for about three years.

It was hard luck he was unable to see his brother, Mrs Donovan says by that time it will be about 9 years.

It was correct about Chappells they have advised me another Sub is due so I will get it away tomorrow.

We are now busy getting your parcel ready and we hope everything will be to your liking and we hope you will get it in the same time as the last one.

I have seen Walter since he returned from Wales, he tells us Doris & Beryl are quite well, and that Beryl is talking quite broad, he told her nan and grandad have got a surprise for her, when she comes home.

I think this is about all this time, so will now get busy packing the parcel which will be posted in the morning.

Trusting to hear in the near future that you are all well again.

Love and best wishes from Mum & Dad

15/3/45

Dear Don,

In answer to 51 I am pleased to hear Ernie is feeling a lot better, and trust he will soon have completely recovered, also we hope you are keeping fit & well.

It is a pity you can’t get your own glasses repaired and I hope you will soon get used to the RAF pair.

It is a great pleasure to us to learn your leave is on the way. It is quite a tonic to both Mum & myself to look forward to seeing you again. It seems ages since you went away how we can look forward for the letter that will tell us the good news.

I suppose you enjoyed listening to Pierre trying out the solo’s and the pleasure of him playing them so perfectly.

I trust my optimism will be justified and that the end is in sight, the sooner the better for all.

Walter was telling me the other day how Beryl is always dashing to the ice cream parlour. I should certainly have like to have known what she thought of it, the first time she had any.

As regards your book as a matter of fact it is being sent by the same post as this letter and I shall certainly let you know the result at the earliest.

I shall be pleased to get, as arranged for Bert to get, the music you require.

As I told you in my last letter your parcel has been dispatched, I expect we have been unable to get any Ovaltine tablets they inform us they have gone to the canteens so I don’t know if you can get any over there.

Mum has been anxious to know if the top of the parcel was in good condition but I told her I don’t think there is anything to worry about, after the way it is packed. I expect the reason why some go astray is through not being packed properly.

Mum & Jean have been down to the bungalow today to have a clean-up. The had a very nice day for it and they came back tired out. I was too busy to get the morning off this week and if I had caught the train after 1o/c there would not have been much time to do anything, however I hope to be lucky next week.

Jean wished me to remember her to you, both Mum & I thanked her for her kind and able help and hoped she would sleep well.

Well Don I think this is all to let you know this time and will close wishing you all the best.

Kindest thoughts and love from Mum & Dad

18/3/45

Dear Don,

In reply to 52 I note your remarks about the pipe, and I hope we shall have it ready when you come home.

As regards the income tax I do not think there are any other claims. I don’t think there is anything to worry about, I should say the amount you will have to pay will come back in time? by the way of P.W.C. anyway let us hope so.

I expect by now you have been able to make out the list of music you require.

I received no 53 yesterday afternoon, so you are catching up on me, I am glad to know there is no need to worry over No 47, I would not like to think any of your letters went astray.

With reference to “My Heart tells Me” I have looked it up in the index and I find you are quite right, and I trust you have received the copy which is being sent direct from Chappells.

I have seen Bert who told me he arranged for it to be sent last Wednesday March 14^th.

We hope the weather is continuing spring like it is very nice here today..

I think this is all this time hoping you are quite fit, also Ernie. Cheerio all our love mum & Dad.

20/3/45

Dear Don

As you will see there appears to be some little misunderstanding as regards the piece of music. Chappells sent this direct to Bert, instead of you as arranged so he brought it over to me, I was going to enclose it with the papers but I thought you would get it quicker by letter.

Bert has got a lot to tell you, but it will probably be a couple of days before he could get his letter away he asked me to tell you this.

Here is reply to No 54. I will get Cycle repair outfit and will forward at the earliest.

We are glad to learn you had an enjoyable time at the impromptu dance. It’s a good job you got away before the waggon left. I expect it would have meant a long walk.

We hope the St Patricks duty went off alright, and that you had a very pleasant time.

We hope by now you have received cigarettes and that the parcel will soon be in your hands. There is no music to send this time.

Jean has got over her first visit to the Dentist and is now looking forward to going again, she has got to have 9 stopped, so Bennett told her, cleaning etc, so this will mean a fair number of visits.

I will tell her she has your sympathy, the next time she comes.

Perhaps this will make Ern think about having his teeth seen to.

Well Don the weather seems to have changed for the better and I suppose we can look forward to getting out a bit, but what we long for most is the end of this rotten business, and the pleasure of looking forward to the better times that are to come.

If things continue going as they are, according to the news, I do not think it can last much longer.

I will now say cheerio and conclude with all our love from Mum & Dad

21/3/45

Dear Don,

Parcel received for Ern this morning containing pipe.

Herewith cycle repair outfit which I trust is just the thing you require.

I have received this afternoon letter no 55.

It is nice to learn the band is going well, and trust it will continue to do so, for your own satisfaction.

You will see apart from the outfit, there are extras viz:- valve tubing patches and solution but have packed them as you will see for safety’s’ sake.

I hope you get them in good time.

I think that is all.

Best wishes & Love from Mum & Dad

25/3/45

Dear Don,

In answer to 56 we were pleased to learn you received parcel in quick time.

We should like to know you have got cigarettes, there are two lots on the way.

I trust you will soon get used to the glasses RAF style. It is very nice to know your eyes have improved.

Mum & I went to Laindon on Thursday, it was a lovely day, but the time went so quick, there being so much to do. Ern & Jean have gone down today. It is very dull here but it might be alright there. If Ern does the lawn it will be a great help.

We were both tired and stiff when we came back on Thursday, but I feel sure it does you good.

We hope to have a couple of days during the Easter holidays.

Bert told mum yesterday that he is still writing your letter, I should imagine it will be like a book from the library.

I have received the following music

J D& H }No one makes love like you

}The Little Things that Mean So Much

Victoria }Accentuate the positive

}let’s Take the long Way Home

What do you think of the latest news, pretty good eh: Roll on the end.

We hope you are keeping fit & well also Ernie.

When Jean left last night she told me to remember her to you when I wrote.

The old shop looks a bit more presentable now although it will have its scars for a long time.

Herbert’s is going again. We are very much behind with the work, owing to lack of labour. At least 2 months for a suit. This seems very strange to us, after the way we used to turn them out but I am afraid we are all in the same boat but still we must look forward to better times.

I will now conclude with love & best wishes from Mum & Dad.

26/3/45

Dear Don,

I am in receipt of 57 & 58 both received today.

We are both pleased to know you have got your parcels in good condition.

It would be very nice if you were able to be with us going to Laindon but perhaps it will not be long before you are able to do so.

We are very pleased with your stroke of luck and we hope you had a good time and enjoyed yourself. It made a nice change for you.

I expect by now you have received the piece of music I sent from Chappels.

Rose has been here this evening, she tells us Arnold is in Hospital with tonsillitis, she made enquiries about you, and send her best wishes.

It is very nice to enjoy yourself in the sun and I hope you will derive great benefits from it especially after the rough winter you have been through.

I hope they will spread your tax out as it won’t be very nice to be short on pay day. I often wonder who I am working for when it comes to pay day to see the amount stopped but still I suppose I have got to put up with it and be thankful for small mercies.

We heard from Doris today, she tells us she has sent a parcel off and we hope you receive it in good condition and in good time.

Also Beryl is as fit as ever, and concluded her letter with, I am just going to bath her you can imagine how clean she looks, she has been very busy digging in the garden.

How we are looking forward for the war to be over when she returns and sees her present and what will give as most pleasure if you get your leave at the same time.

We still wish you good luck and may it always attend you.

The usual papers are being dispatched by the same post.

Cheerio, and all our love Mum & Dad

29/3/45

Dear Don,

I was pleased to receive no 59 today and we hope the tiredness did not prevent you getting up early enough for your trip to Brussels.

Save the photos for us to have a look perhaps they are not so bad after all.

We are pleased to know you had a good time with Angus and your friends, and that you got away early enough for the waggon.

Ern saw Len Wren the other evening who wishes to be remembered to you, also the usual greetings from Jean.

I suppose the Easter holidays don’t make any difference to you, you have to work just the same.

It is a bit dull and windy today, but we are looking forward to go to Laindon tomorrow (Friday) let us hope it keeps fine.

Everyone you came in contact with now, has one topic, when is the end coming, it certainly looks near. Anyway the sooner the better for everybody.

I received your book back after a fortnight 1.7.2.interest for 1944.

The music to expect from

Sun }Someone to Love

} Gonna Build a Big Fence Round Texas

Friday Morn. (Good)

Dear Don

I was too tired to finish this letter last night, so I had a bath and went to bed.

I am very pleased to say it has turned out very nice this morning. So we are just going off to Laindon. We both wish you were with us .

Let’s hope this pleasure is not long deferred. Our thoughts will be with you.

Well Don, Cheerio and all the best. All our love Mum and Dad

31/3/45

Dear Don,

Today I have received 60 &61, we both think the photo very nice, in spite of what you say and we were very pleased to receive it, but shall be more pleased to see you in the flesh

Roll on that day.

Your description of your trip to Brussels and the football match was very interesting, although I am as you know no football fan. I can imagine how you enjoyed yourself and I have no doubt it was similar to Wembley on cup tie day.

I am glad you have received the practice outfit & the music. I am sorry about the cigarettes and I hope they will soon turn up I trust you have been able to get sufficient for your requirements. I should not like to think you have gone without.

I expect Jean will soon start with Bennetts it is a question of waiting for the dental form to come from the insurance people whose offices are in Caernarvonshire.

As regards Ern, I do not know when he is going to make a start, I think he will be different when this war is finished, I sincerely hope so for his own sake.

I am very pleased to learn you were up in good time on the morning for your trip.

I remember when I was a lad I could not sleep the night before I was going to a Sunday School excursion.

You have certainly seen more than Mum or I shall ever see, and I hope the best of them will keep in your memory and that the worst of them, will soon be forgotten.

You made both our mouths water when you spoke about the ice cream. They have started selling it here, but we have not sampled it yet.

I will have to see what I can get in the way of Dark Glasses is it not possible to obtain a bit of mica to clip on.

I will have a talk with Ern and will see what can be done.

Noel Gay has woke up again with }Scuse my Little Trumpet

}Till all our Prayers are Answered

I think the next turn up will be the last.

This is no 11, so no.12 will equal the 24 no’s which started in April 1943.

We hope to go to Laindon tomorrow Sunday and stop till Monday and we are both hoping the weather will be more kind to us than it has been today. Cold, windy, & showers.

Ern & Jean will be coming with us.

We were pleased to hear you received a parcel from Doris, and we hope to get another one together shortly. We only wish it were possible to send them more frequent.

I think this is about all this time except to wish you all the best, and will conclude with all our love

Mum & Dad

4/4/45

Dear Don,

Thanks for letter no 62 and thanks in advance for parcels which I hope we receive in due course in safe condition.

It is a pleasure to look forward to.

I will send what you require in a few days, Ern is now cleaning it up.

We hope you made the best of your time over the Easter holidays.

We had a fair time although Sunday was cold and dull it meant a rest in the sitting room warm by the fire.

We were up rather early on the Monday morning although we lost an hour, and we were able to do some work on the ground, it turned out very fine, we left Laindon soon after five, and after a struggle we arrived home about 7.30. We had to let one train go we could not possibly get in it, I think everybody went to Southend.

The news is still very good and it has been very nice to be able to sleep at night, without being woke up by the rockets. Let us hope it will continue. I think we have had a good share.

Now both mum & I would like to get the place done up by the time you have your leave. It will not be for the want of trying but if we could get another place it would be much better.

I suppose the band is still going well, anyway I hope it is to your satisfaction.

Have you made up the list of music your require?

Mr Reddin came in to see us last night after his return from Stoke, he says Mrs Reddin is looking forward to coming home, he tells us Pat has started work, he had very rough weather the few days he was there and I think he would have stopped the rest of the week had the weather been good.

Jean has paid another visit to Bennet this afternoon, and as I am writing this she wishes me to convey her kindest regards to you.

Well Don, we hope you are keeping fit also Ernie etc, and we are still hoping to see you soon.

I think this is about all this time so will conclude with our kind thoughts and love from Mum & Dad.

5/4/45

Dear Don,

I write to thank you for the parcel received this morning and am looking forward to receive the other one.

I must thank you on behalf of all, the shades we will leave to the ladies to sort out.

Ern is trying to fix up something in the way of dark glasses for you and I hope to get the things you require away in a few days.

I am pleased to say it has been nice and quiet for the past week and am hoping it will continue so.

We have had enough muck & mess to clear up but I think we can look forward to better times.

Will conclude with best thanks & love from Mum & Dad.

6/4/45

Dear Don,

I have received today the second registered parcel, and I send the thanks of us all.

Mum is delighted with the L.W. and will see that Doris & Jean have the others.

I thank you very much for my present, and also thank you on behalf of Walter & Ern.

Bert was out this evening, but no doubt I shall see him tomorrow to give him the pipe.

Excuse short note but I felt I had to let you know at the earliest of the safe arrival of the parcels.

Cheerio and all kind thoughts & Love

From Mum & Dad.

8/4/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive no 63.

Mum saw Bert yesterday and gave him the pipe, she tells me he was very delighted with it.

Jean was more than pleased with hers and thanks you very much. We are keeping Doris’s till she comes home which I expect will be soon now.

The continuation of the lull and the good news, seems to put a different aspect on things. It is rather dull, and a chilly weekend, so we are leaving Laindon till about Thursday, instead. We are busy today getting your parcel ready for posting tomorrow morning.

We have not heard from Rose yet, if Arnold is out of hospital, but I expect she will soon let us know, we will remember you to Len when he comes round.

You will find a shade for the sun etc in the parcel, the other will be fixed up in a few days, and will be posted separately.

We have just finished packing the parcel and hope you get it safe and in good time.

Mum has spoken about your cigarettes, it is now 7 & 5 weeks since these were ordered, perhaps there has been a hold up somewhere and you may get them both together, I hope so.

Lil at the corner shop is going to mention it the next time she goes with some more orders.

Will now conclude with love and best wishes. From Mum & Dad.

10/4/45

Dear Don,

In answer to no 64. I am sending herewith the book of music you require.

I thought it would be safer like this, than sending it with the papers, these I am sending as usual.

I will see what I can do about the Practical Wireless, shall I send these by letter post or with the papers?

The weather has been fair the last few days but not too warm. I don’t think we have got used to this extra hour business.

We hope everything is going well with you, and you are keeping fit.

Ern is on the job fixing up the doings for your glasses and you can rest assured I shall get them away at the earliest.

Cheerio, and all our love. Mum & Dad

11/4/45

Dear Don,

I have received letter no 65 today, your last few letters have averaged 5 days. 65 has taken 3 days so they are treating me the same as you, but it is nice to hear from you.

It is nice to know you had an enjoyable time last Thursday with Angus etc, and it pleases us to know you have these pleasant times, we did not anticipate times like these, when you first started the piano.

Your description of the pianola is very interesting and the incident of the last war, says a lot for the Huns intelligence, and remarkable forethought of the old lady.

I hope you are getting well away with your French, anyway sufficient to be useful.

I should have liked to see you tossing the pancakes I hope they were as nice as mum makes.

Do you think you will be able to get the musicians badge for the little boy I expect it will please him.

I expect your band will soon be up to your standard after a few more rehearsals and I hope No 2 will follow suit.

While I am writing this I expect you are busy in the band room, getting the list of music ready.

I trust you are enjoying good weather, it seems to have improved here.

There is no music to report this time.

As you will see Ern has fixed things up and enclosed a note explaining things.

Cheerio love from Mum & Dad

13/4/45

Dear Don,

I am receipt of 66 containing list of music required. I have seen Bert and told him of your requirements, so I hope to get these for you with as little delay as possible.

As regards Practical Wireless I have seen Mrs Parry of Plaistow Book stall who tells me they are very difficult to get, she has made enquiries and has been put on the waiting list, however that was not good enough for me, so I have spoken to Bert, who thinks he will be able to get it for you.

By the way, I had a chap in the shop on Wednesday the name of W Clarke, he said he was at Cake Rd with you, he made enquiries at to your welfare and wishes to be kindly remembered to you.

You seem to be having a busy time with the band or should say bands, and the 5 hour show was pretty good going. I expect you get a lot of fun out of it, no doubt you see the funny side of it, with the temperament of the different people.

I had a joke with Bert about the drums, and he told me he had played the piano at the Public Hall.

I told him it is very nice to adapt yourself to do these things, it must be helpful at times.

I hope by this time you have received parcel and the packet with the Sunglasses. I can’t understand the delay with the cigarettes but I trust they will eventually turn up, have you been able to get any over there?

Let us hope the time will soon come, when you are home for good, perhaps quicker than what you think.

It looks as if it is getting near the end.

Jean is with us this evening, and sends her usual kind regards,

I think this is about all so will conclude with wishing you all the best.

Cheerio & love from Mum & Dad

14/4/45

Dear Don

No 67 to hand and further list of music.

You will find the assessment form, is to find out the allowances you are entitled to, so as they can give you a code number. As you say they will let you know soon enough what you have to pay which no doubt will come back to you in course of time via P.W. Credit. Editors note some further info here https://www.taxation.co.uk/articles/2007-11-08-210231-post-war-credits

So I will leave it to you not to worry about it.

I am pleased that the weather agrees with you and trust it will continue a bit longer.

We are hoping to go to Laindon tomorrow (Sunday) so we can do with it being fine so as we can continue the good work.

I put the potatoes in on Thursday and done a bit more of the lawn.

We will bear in mind the 333’s when ordering next time but I still hope you will get the other two lots.

I make the list of music 34 altogether.

I hope Bert will be able to get them all for you and I will send them at the earliest.

I will now say Cheerio and conclude with love from Mum & Dad

16/4/45

Dear Don,

I have today received no 68 and note the music that you require which shall be sent as you wish.

I have received from

Feldman }Too ra loora loo

}lets sing a song

I notice this is one that you want.

I wondered why you wanted me to get the music you already had but can understand now, anyway it is nothing serious if you do have two copies.

When I explained to Bert what you wanted I left it to him to get what he thought you required as you did not say if they were to be P.C’s or Sheet music.

I shall be seeing him presently and we will go through the matter together.

We all went to Laindon yesterday to continue the good work. It was a lovely day and very warm.

Mum had a letter from Doris this morning to say she is coming home on Thursday. She mentioned that she has written to you.

I think you have had an amusing time with the practices but am glad you were able to fix things up and I suppose by now you would like to give practices a rest.

I hope to be soon hearing from you to say you have got the camera etc.

Well Don Bert has just been and we had had a chat about the music and I hope to get as much as you require away at the earliest possible moment.

He says he will be writing you, and he will explain things in his way.

Now I am going to get your papers packed, so as they can go off as usual.

Excuse my finishing letter in pencil as pen has run out.

We both hope you are keeping fit & well. Cheerio, and all our Love, Mum & Dad.

18/4/45

Dear Don,

I am sending all the music that Bert is able to get up to the present, I hope to get the remainder to you as soon as possible.

Bert is writing to you to explain the position.

Hope you get them safe and in good time.

Cheerio. Kindest thoughts & Love from Mum & Dad.

19/4/45

Dear Don,

Replying to 69 I am pleased to learn you have got the glasses etc and have given your letter to Ern.

We were sorry to learn about your cold but hope you have quite recovered. It is a pity about the iced drinks but perhaps a couple of the old time cones would have been welcomed. That will be something to look forward to. I have not forgotten the Practical Wireless, I hope we can get this for you soon. I am sending the latest M.M. try and look after it. I have all the others in apple pie order.

I hope you and your pals can have a good dig at the blatherer, and I shall look forward to seeing a copy of your combined efforts in the M.M.

I posted off your music yesterday morning. I paid the extra to have it sent by letter post, I think this is much safer and quicker and I trust you have received it by the time you get this.

I thought it best to send all we got, and I hope to send the other along, as soon as Bert gets it.

No doubt by now he has written to you, explaining all about it.

He evidently missed you as a guide when he was dodging about getting it.

Jean was here last night she has paid another visit to Bennetts and has had a few drillings, she sends her usual kind regards.

The weather is still glorious, and I suppose it suits you. It is very nice after the rough winter we have had.

It is now 3 weeks since we have had any rockets, it is certainly like living in a different place after the hectic times we have been through and I should not be surprised any day now that we will hear that it is all over, then you can ask for your cards.

Roll on the time when you will be home for good.

I think that is about all.

Cheerio, and all the best, love from Mum & Dad

22/4/45

Dear Don,

As we have not heard from you the last few days, I could not let the weekend pass without dropping you a line.

I sincerely hope you are keeping well, and that you have got rid of the cold you had.

I still have not been able to get Practical Wireless but I have not given up hope.

I shall be glad when I hear you have received parcel, also the music.

I have received from

Chappells } What are you doing the Rest of Your Life

} Don’t Fence me in.

Lawrence Wright }Just a Little While

Mum would like to know how are your socks going.

Rose sends her regards to you, also Jean.

It was a bit dull yesterday but has opened out a bit better this morning.

We are just off to Laindon.

Cheerio & all the best love from Mum & Dad

23/4/45

Dear Don,

I received No 70 today, evidently this had been delayed, but we were glad to know you received Cigarettes & parcel and trust things were alright.

I like your summing up of Clark, these are things that are always remembered.

I do not know if he is in any of the services but will try and find out when I see him again then I can have a good leg pull.

We were sorry to hear about your indisposition and trust by now you have quite recovered.

As I told you in my last letter, I am still hoping to get Practical Wireless.

I look forward to the interesting things you will be able to do after the clearing process of the old school prize.

I think that is all for the present so will now pack your papers.

Cheerio, keep well & happy. Love from Mum & Dad

24/4/45

Dear Don,

Have received 71 today. 70 left the base censor on the 21^st, 71 the 22^nd, so I expect that is the reason for the delay. It worried mum not hearing for a few days, it made her think your cold was worse than you made out but we are pleased to know that was not the case.

I note the music you require and will get it away as soon as Bert gets it.

We will see if we can get you some hair cream, but in the meantime I will pass on a tip Walter gave me. It is Liquid Paraffin, which is very economical, a little goes a long way and it answers the purpose. A small bottle lasts him six months.

I suppose it is nice to get some new clothes, how you are filling out and Mum would have liked to have saved you the trouble of sewing the badges on. I hope you felt refreshed after the Ensa show and that you finished your sewing in double quick time in the morning.

We all put in another good day at Laindon on Sunday. It was a nice day, but Monday turned out chilly. We hope they have not taken the blankets away too quickly.

Doris is still away, and I do not know when she is coming home. I hope that Beryl recognising you so easily in the photo, has convinced you it is good. It has been nicely framed and holds a prominent position.

We are more than pleased to learn your throat is better and trust you will continue to keep fit and well.

I have received from Noel Ray “Downtown East of Broadway”.

This I think completes this issue but I will watch the M.M.

Jean is here now, she had another visit to Bennetts this afternoon. I have given her your message & thanks. She sends her best wishes to you. We both send our regards to Ernie, how is he? Have you heard from Fred Wells?

Mrs Reddin and family returned home from Stoke, last Saturday.

We would like to get the place done up now things are quieter, although Mum & I have seen into things, I don’t think they will do as much as we would like, but we must hope for the best.

I think this concludes all the news. So will close with our usual kind thoughts & love from Mum & Dad

26/4/45

Dear Don,

Received 72 this morning. 73 this afternoon.

It is a relief to hear you have received the music and at the opportune moment.

I notice that “My Dreams are getting better all the time” is one of Campbells Connolly’s. They are the people, if you remember would not take any further subs, anyway I expect it was a surprise to you to see it in the packet of music sent to you.

I am pleased to say Practical Wireless is on order so I hope it will not be long before you get it.

I hope everything turned out alright Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at the R&Fs Regimental Concert, and that it gave you satisfaction.

We hope you are keeping fit & well and colds and sore throats are a thing of the past.

With all kind thoughts and love from Mum & Dad

29/4/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive No 74 yesterday and trust the concerts went off ok.

Mum ordered the 333’s yesterday, and we hope you do not have to wait so long as last time.

The change in the weather is not very nice after the nice spell we have had, this morning it is cold, but I hope it will improve as the day moves on. We are catching the 10.15 to Laindon.

Doris & Beryl came home on Thursday, she rang me up yesterday, made enquiries about you and said she would be seeing us on Tuesday.

We both hope you are still keeping well and that news will hasten your return home.

Kindest of thoughts & love from Mum & Dad.

30/4/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive 75 and to learn all about the concerts. We are pleased to know they went off well, and trust you will receive the satisfaction for the amount of work you have put in.

Also I should like you to be successful in getting the comedians & singers for our show.

We went to Laindon yesterday but it was very cold, we managed to do a bit, and at this time of the year every little bit counts. We hope it is not too cold for you, and that you are warm enough at the night, it is really too bad after the spell of nice weather we’ve had.

I have given your letter to Bert and also told him about the tune you require “Together”.

He hopes to let me know about “Practical Wireless” tomorrow. He tells me they will close down for a couple of days when V.E. is announced.

I feel I should like to wait till it is all settled, so as to know it will not be long before you are home, then we can celebrate and have something to be thankful for.

I hope your assumption of the San Francisco Conference* will come to pass, that should hurry things along.

I am sending your papers as usual by the same post.

Walter came today, and we let him into the secret by showing him the Dolls House.

He thought it was smashing, and he thinks Beryl should be a little older, to take care of it.

We are hoping to see her tomorrow and we are looking forward to watch her when she sees it.

How we wish you were to be with us, but still that pleasure, I sincerely hope will not be long delayed.

We were having a chat with one of the RAF fellows in the train and it cheered Mum when he said he didn’t think it would be long before you came home on leave.

Our thoughts are always with you.

I will now say cheerio keep well. All the love from Mum & Dad.

*United Nations Conference on International Organization

From Wikipedia,

The United Nations Conference on International Organization (UNCIO), commonly known as the San Francisco Conference, was a convention of delegates from 50 Allied nations that took place from 25 April 1945 to 26 June 1945 in San Francisco, California, United States of America. At this convention, the delegates reviewed and rewrote the Dumbarton Oaks agreements of the previous year. The convention resulted in the creation of the United Nations Charter, which was opened for signature on 26 June, the last day of the conference. The conference was held at various locations, primarily the War Memorial Opera House, with the Charter being signed on 26 June at the Herbst Theatre in Civic Centre. A square adjacent to the city’s Civic Centre, called “UN Plaza,” commemorates the conference.

3/5/45

Dear Don,

Received No 76 and I shall be very pleased when I see you sitting listing the pile of music you have received.

I notice you are all fixed up for socks, otherwise mum would have been pleased to have made some more.

We hope the weather was good for your day off and trust you did not catch cold through getting wet.

When you pay a return visit for the game of ludo I hope the results will be in your favour.

Doris was here with Beryl on Tuesday and the unveiling ceremony of the Dolls house was very interesting. When Beryl first saw it, it evidently surprised her when we asked her to knock at the door, Ern was ready to switch the lights on this pleased her immensely.

When she saw the inside and the furniture both she & Doris were thrilled. Walter will be calling for it, but Beryl insisted in taking a piece home, and you can guess how anxious she is looking forward to having it in her own house.

Have you any idea when you will be having your leave? How we are looking forward to that time.

The news is getting better every day and I don’t think VE day will be long delayed, we will close down immediately it is announced, and have the following day off.

I suppose you will have some kind of a celebration out there, but the best will be when we can all celebrate together.

Mum hopes to get another parcel ready for you, but she was wondering how long it will be before you get leave.

Doris was very pleased with the scent & powder.

Must now conclude as it is time to get off to work.

Kindest thoughts & love from Mum & Dad.

4/5/45

Dear Don,

In answer to No 77 which I was pleased to receive.

I am pleased to hear Ernie is ok but am wondering why you have not heard from Freddie, perhaps he has gone further, let’s hope you hear from him before long.

There are plenty of people returning now, and there are plenty who would like to return but cannot.

Mum had a letter from Uncle Albert, he knows the difficulty in getting a place, I am afraid it will be a long time before there are houses for all.

We are still waiting for the place to be done, after Mum went to the Town Hall, we had a man call & have a look around. He told her the kitchen ceiling was dangerous and that’s as far as they go.

I went over there yesterday but did not get much satisfaction so shall be phoning them today. We do so want to get ship shape by the time you come home.

Sorry to hear about your weather, it has not been too good this week, and it was not worth going to Laindon yesterday, it opened out cold & dull then finished up with rain from teatime onwards.

We are glad you had a good time at the Waaf Gang Show and we hope you will get sufficient support for your show, but I expect the chief topics are leaves and demobilisation.

I will try and see Bert tonight to see how he has got on with the music etc.

I hope he has been lucky with Practical Wireless. It must seem long to you from the time you first wrote.

There is no music to report this time. I expect this is one of the usual lulls.

The enclosed book has just been dropped through the box, so have lost no time in posting it to you.

All the best Cheerio & love from Mum & Dad.

6/5/45

Dear Don,

Today is rather a sunny day, I fully expected to hear this morning that this would be VE day, as did a great many more.

However, this must be a deferred pleasure.

We had a rough day yesterday, plenty of rain etc and it does not look too hopeful for today.

I expect you are experiencing the suspense out there.

Friday night news gave everyone the impression that things would not long be delayed.

I hope you have received Practical Wireless, and that things are going well with band etc.

We thought we would leave it a bit later in the day to go to Laindon, but the weather is not good enough it is rather a pity as there were one or two things to be done, but perhaps we will be lucky during the week.

I saw Bert this afternoon he told me he sent a long epistle to you yesterday. You will no doubt remember Charlie Lash, Vi’s brother who was taken prisoner at Dunkirk, I saw her yesterday, and she had a telegram to say he is coming home.

Only one PC to report

Chappells }love is my Reason

}We’ll gather Lilacs

I expect this weeks “Stratford Express” will be interesting to you, you will see the near misses we have had.

We have got a lot to be thankful for.

We both hope you are keeping fit & well in spite of the changeable weather.

Well now conclude with love and kind thoughts from Mum & Dad

7/5/45

Dear Don,

I have received 78 today and I should imagine you have had a very interesting time with the Box C. you have certainly seen something and I am glad to know I was somewhere else in 1917.

Everybody is keyed up today waiting for the moment VE is announced, should it be tonight or in the morning Mum & myself Jean & Ern will be off to Laindon for a couple of days away from the excitement. How I wish it was all finished so as we could look forward to you coming home for good. My only wish is that the other job will not take too long.

Bert got the music for me, if you remember Chappell Connelly wrote about a year ago, saying that owing to the shortage of paper they were compelled to discontinue their orchestral club, and returned the subscription.

As regards the “Practical Wireless” Bert got that from the City. I explained in one of my letters Smiths said they were difficult to get and that they would be put on the mailing list.

Both Mum & I hope you will not wait too long for the 333’s and trust you receive them by the date you mention.

I trust the weather will soon be a bit more settled, it has turned much warmer today and it will be nice if it keeps like it.

Beryl is four years old today and Walter called for the Dolls House, he did not know what to get her so he told mum he would take her to the toy shop and let her pick out something.

It is nice to hear about the band, and I have no doubt the four of you enjoyed the applause, perhaps there will be less worry with a four or five piece. Anyway it will keep you in good trim for later on.

My next job is to get your papers done up and post them tonight.

I think this is all this time. So will say cheerio and conclude with love from Mum & Dad.

10/5/45

Dear Don,

I have received today two letters 79 & 80. There has been a two day break in the post, so my last letter dated 6^th May will probably be delayed.

We got the right kind of news on Monday night the first step to the end and I hope the Jap business will be finished soon.

We closed for the two days and spent them at Laindon. It was a bit quieter there than at Plaistow, they were still keeping it up with bonfires, music & dancing when we got home last night.

I have made a note of the things you require and will see about them but I was wondering if you thought it wise to send them in view of your leave which might be quicker than you think, now VE day has been announced.

What are your hopes of getting posted back to England the same as your pal.

I hope it will not be too awkward for you now you have lost your interpreter.

Wishing you all the best.

Love from Mum & Dad

12/5/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive no 81 and would have been more pleased had you been home at this time.

I am more than glad to know you were not at the Canteen celebration, I know you will appreciate it better when you can celebrate in London.

I think we did wise in going to Laindon, it done us more good than staying in Plaistow, I cannot see eye to eye with this business, perhaps I am a bit old fashioned, I know mum & I will feel better when we can get a decent place to live in, and the waste of time lining up for this & that is finished with.

I know only too well how you feel about things but keep cheerful and I sincerely hope that it will not be long before everything is right again.

I will try and get Practical Wireless for you every month.

I shall be going to Fleet St and if necessary to Clapton next Thursday to get the things you require. I suppose these things will have to be declared.

Walter has been here this evening, and he told us that he took Beryl to the toy shop on her birthday and she picked out a nice lot of stuff. So you can bet she has got plenty to amuse herself with.

I hope the weather suits you, it has been very warm today and it looks as if we shall have a fine day tomorrow (Sunday) for our trip to Laindon.

How we wish you had come back with Angus, I expect you miss him a great deal.

We trust you had a good time at the dance in the square.

Well cheerio & keep smiling.

All our love & thoughts from Mum & Dad

15/5/45

Dear Don,

I have received no 82 and I expect you have received my letters to let you know how we spent VE day etc.

You evidently had a fine time, a three day continuous performance, we both hope you had a good time.

I am glad your efforts were appreciated, with the band you got together and I bet your enjoyed your days rest.

I hope to be lucky enough to get what you require on Thursday when I go in the City etc.

I spoke to Ern about the zip fasteners and he would like 2 10” (two 10 inch) one for Jeans handbag and one for himself.

I sent the papers off as usual last night and this week’s Stratford Express should be very interesting to you.

The weather has improved after a boisterous time.

Sunday as usual we went to Laindon, it was very nice till about 2 o/c when it turned very windy, so windy that one of the Poplar trees broke off and fell on the lawn but I am thankful there were no mishaps.

It turned very chilly but the time we left and that is the first time I have been without my raincoat so I shan’t risk that again, although it made me sweat the previous occasion.

There has been 2 local prisoners home, Albert Hughes last Sunday and Harvey Burrows of Tweedmouth Rd today.

I saw Walter last night and he showed me his sports car. It is a batty affair and will have petrol when he can dodge about instead of using his other cars.

He made us smile when he told us he took Beryl out in it and the wind blew her clothes up. Her remark was “ain’t it good”, that was a standing joke on Sunday when the wind was blowing while mum & Jean were working in the garden.

Will now conclude with love and best wishes and hopes for a speedy return home.

Cheerio Mum & Dad

19/5/45

Dear Don,

I have received no 83 and am sorry to learn of the holdup of the mail and I trust by now things have righted themselves.

I have got the wireless parts for you and am getting a parcel ready and will dispatch at the earliest, mum was busy yesterday doing the usual.

I have still been unable to get the hair doings, I have been promised some, and I hope you have been able to manage. Did you try the tip I sent you?

Both mum & I think it very nice of your friends in expressing their appreciation in the way they did, to Angus and yourself and we hope it reaches Angus safely.

You will be pleased to know Practical Wireless is on order for you.

Also I have sent a subscription to Noel Gay today for a further supply of P.C’s.

I am sorry to learn you had all that trouble with the amplifies, it is a great pity that people can’t leave things alone that they do not understand. Also I see the old bike is giving you trouble, I suppose tyres are difficult to get, it is not much fun having to walk with a cycle.

Well Don, I hope you get the wireless stuff ok I shall see that it is well packed, as you say it is a weighty piece of goods for a small article.

We are looking forward to going to Laindon tomorrow, till Monday evening and we hope the weather will continue fine. We have been having dull mornings, and cool evenings but hot during the day.

We are still living in hopes of getting the place done up and we hope it will be done before you come home on leave. It won’t be for the want of trying, both mum & I have been over to Stratford and I am hoping to get in touch with somebody next week.

Hoping you are keeping fit & well, and with all kind thoughts & love from Mum & Dad

22/5/45

Dear Don,

In reply to 84 I was pleased to know you have received my letters although I am sorry to learn you had to wait so long.

I hope you will soon be getting the 333’s.

I will see about getting the patches you require and will post them without delay.

When Mum posts this this morning, she will be posting your parcel, which I hope you will receive safely and in good time. I trust you will find all your require.

I have sent the papers in the parcel perhaps you will get these quicker than the usual way.

What sort of a time did you have over the weekend? You sere always I our thoughts while we were at Laindon, the weather was not too good but we managed to get a good bit of work in, on the ground.

I am afraid there will not be many plums as the frost has got at them and there does not appear many apples at present.

We had a fairly comfortable journey both ways, Jean & Ern were with us.

Jean is getting quite an expert in weeding and trimming the edges.

She told me to remember her to you when I wrote.

Well Don, I am running it pretty close, it is time to get off to work so will conclude with kind thoughts & Love from Mum & Dad.

23/5/45

Dear Don,

I have today received no 85.

Your parcel was dispatched yesterday morning and I hope you get it alright.

Plaistow P.O. would not take it because it was too heavy, so it was sent from Stratford. Although it has always been 22lb limit to B.L.A. they say they must not be more than 15lb. however, I shall be anxious till I hear you have received it.

I hope I have not kept you waiting too long, but Thursday was my only time to get things for you. I thought it would save time and trouble if I got them myself, instead of through the post.

It’s nice to know you can write more freely of your whereabouts, and also I am pleased to know you have more time for other things.

This E.V.T. business may prove to be a boon to you and I wish you success in anything you may undertake. You are wise to make enquiries from the Education Officer, it would certainly be nice if you can make up the time you have lost, and later obtain a position to your liking.

NB Educational and Vocational Training.

I see you had a nice storm, and I am pleased to know you were able to dodge it, and not get wet.

At last some music to report

FD&H }I think of You

}It was Swell While it Lasted

Cinephonic }Joe Rush Illusion

}Lonesome

I think this is all this time so will conclude with love from Mum & Dad

25/5/45

Dear Don,

I have received no 86 today and have told Ern you will try and get the zip fasteners for him.

You evidently are having the same kind of weather as we are, we have just had a thunderstorm, while we were having tea.

Well Don, you have certainly written a very interesting letter, and I have carefully read it.

I am glad you have seen the education officer to have a talk over matters, but in my opinion time is too early for anyone to say what is going to happen, and there is not many who can discuss things with any degree of accuracy, at the present time.

I have no doubt a lot of these things will go altogether different, as time goes on.

Anyway pick up all you can in the way of learning, to your own interests, it will be that brains will count, whether you are an officer or rank & file.

I will leave it to you to go in for what you think best, and I feel sure the confidence I have in you, things will turn out alright.

I think if the Pacific job finishes fairly quick, it will alter the whole aspect of things, and I sincerely hope you will get out much quicker than what you think.

Anyway don’t get too depressed by what you hear, things are not always as black as they are painted, and I hope the time will soon come when you will get a clearer vision of the future.

I have no doubt there is a great number who feel about things, the same as you do, and there will possibly be questions raised in Parliament.

I shall certainly find out what I can, and anything to your advantage I will let you know.

I hope you will be wrong in your calculations of doing another two years, so be optimistic and keep cheerful remember my optimism, as regards the terrible times we were supposed to have, also gas, before the end.

As regards the expatriates, they do not say much, but no doubt, they have suffered.

It was a nice experience for you to go to the service and I should imagine you all had a good time at the party. Evidently, as one night was sufficient for you.

I expect by now you have received parcel, and I trust you will find the wireless parts in good condition.

Also the Cycle repair stuff which I sent per letter post.

I am pleased to tell you I have been lucky in getting a bottle of Brylcreem and will send it in your next parcel.

I have heard from Noel Gay, I have had to send a further 6/4 as the 24 numbers now cost 12/6.

Rose came to see mum yesterday, I was at home, she told us Arnold was in Germany, near the notorious camps at Belson, she is much happier now hostilities have ceased, and says she does not mind how long he is out there, rather than be sent elsewhere.

Stan Sewell has asked Ivy to send him your address as he thinks he is somewhere near you. He has been to Belgium and is now back in France.

I think this is the first letter you have not mentioned the band. I trust everything is going well.

How are you getting on with your French, I expect you know sufficient to be able to get about alright.

Have you heard from Angus since his return to England, and by the way have you heard from Freddie Wells.

What do you think of the election, let us hope whoever are returned, they will get on with something, but I suppose there will be plenty of talk, but what we want is action. Something that will be in the people’s interest, but we must wait & see.

I shall certainly be glad when I can get some of my chaps back, we are so shorthanded, I cannot promise a suit under three months, so you can realise the state we are in.

Well I think this is all at present, but there is one thing I would like to say. Mum & I are still looking forward to receiving the letter saying you are coming home on leave.

Kindest thoughts and love from Mum & Dad.

29/5/45

Dear Don,

I was pleased to receive No 87 together with the enclosure for the Premier Radio Co.

I will go personally on Thursday and hope to get all the things you require.

Don’t worry about the cash, all these things can be settled when you come home. We must wait and see what reaction there will be when the people realize the extent of the cost in the Rations and I think myself there will be an outcry, which will bring some sort of compromise. It seems hard after the years of going without various things and looking forward to a change when the war finished, that the English should suffer and to a certain extent, be the last to be liberated.

We are getting fed up with the place still nothing has been done, so don’t be surprised to get a change of address if we are lucky enough to get another place.

The weather has not been too good, but it was not a bad day on Sunday, when we were at Laindon.

You will no doubt be surprised and sorry to hear of the death of Mrs Crockett’s baby, who died last Friday.

She had grown to quite a nice child of 8 months loved by all it is a great blow to the whole family.

She will be buried next Thursday at the City of London Cemetery and mum hopes to go there to pay her respects.

One piece of music to report

Chappells }He’s the Image of You

}Down our Way

Jean send her usual regards, and we all hope you are keeping well.

Papers have been sent as usual this week, and I hope you found all the others in the parcel for last week.

Cheerio, and all our love from Mum & Dad

31/5/45

Dear Don,

I have received letter 88 and am pleased to hear you have got parcel and the puncture outfit.

The parcel must have had a lot of bashing about after the way I packed and padded it, but mum hopes you got the sundry Comforts alright, especially the things we have waited so long to get.

We hope you will soon get the 333’ and it is nice to know you have received the 200 from Bert, it will be something to go on with.

I have given your regards to Jean, you will be pleased to know the drilling operations with Bennett have now finished.

Your last 5 letters have not been much delayed, here are the dates:

84 May 15 Received May 21

85 “ 18 “ “ 22

86 “ 21 “ “ 25

87 “ 23 “ “ 28

88 “ 26 “ “ 30

We are pleased to hear you had a good day for your trip it must have been interesting to see what was left of the ancient castle, and to remember your school day’s history lessons.

It was a pity it rained so as to spoil the view, I expect you will get some interesting snaps, which in cause of time, you will be able to look back upon.

Aunt Lilie came to see mum yesterday and of cause there was plenty to discuss as we have not seen her since last November.

She says all her folk are well and she is looking forward to Albert coming home.

Leslie has finished his maps and after another leave he will be taking up transport planes.

Harold is in N Africa. How about the wireless business. I have been to the Premier today, and all I could get was the Six Coils together with their respective padders & trimmers.

They have not got the other things at either of their places and advised me to try elsewhere, so I shall see what can be done tomorrow and hope to get all you want.

Also they cannot give me any details for slow motion drives etc but this I will try and find out.

You can rest assured I will not lose any time in getting them away.

Cheerio and all the best, Love from Mum & Dad

3/6/45

Dear Don,

I have received letter no 89 and am pleased to learn you have put in some good work on the Radio and wish you success on your undertakings.

I think I have got all you want thanks to Mum & Ern. After my visit to Fleet St on Thursday, I did not anticipate the running about there would be but I can assure you, none of us mind, so long as you can get everything fixed up.

I have enclosed full explanations which Ern has written out.

The parcel will be dispatched tomorrow (Monday) morning, and I hope you receive it in a better condition than the last one, we will all be anxious to know.

I see you are going to keep the Stratford Express as a souvenir. I am keeping for you, the Daily Express for VE day.

Music to hand –

Victoria }You Moved Right in

} Every day of My Life

Sun }Meet me in St Louis, Louis

}Across the Bridge of Gold

}Candy

}I didn’t know About You

I have put the Stratford Express in the Parcel for packing out and also you will find a comb tucked in the side of the main box, I mention this in case it is overlooked.

We have been able to get a tin of tomato soup Mum thinks you will like this it is very nice. You can add a little water if it is too thick.

We hope you are having better weather than we are it is like April. What with the heavy showers and the cold winds.

We hope you are keeping well and free from colds.

I will now say Cheerio and conclude with love from Mum & Dad

5/6/45

Dear Don,

I have received 90 & 91 about the demobilisation scheme, I have read & also listened on the wireless, but sometimes I think different, when they get the thing going, they will probably speed things up. I hope so, especially when they realise the dissatisfaction there is at present.

I am pleased to know No2 Band is going alright and I trust you will be successful in making it up to a six piece.

It is a pity Angus had such a rough crossing, and I hope when your time comes it will be by different means, and thus keeps things to yourself.

As regards the election, that is a problem, but whoever gets in, I can’t see it being of long duration, it will be a big job to put everything right what with the housing, food problems, treating the service men right and the work for all business.

The weather is about the same as you have had, showers when you least expect them, it was not a bad day at Laindon on Sunday and we did not get very wet getting back to the station.

Now for answering No 91. I am glad to know the rehearsal was a great success and trust your part in the dance on Sunday went well.

I will fix up your music as soon as possible and will see Bert and ask him to get the other numbers you require, and not what you say about the “Special Arrangement”.

Your parcel was dispatched yesterday morning, and I trust with Ern’s note of explanation everything will be alright.

Walter came yesterday and brought Beryl with him, who was very pleased with the flowers mum gave her.

He has got a wireless fitted in the sports car and is now known at the garage as the Musical Box.

The post has just brought No92 mum is pleased to know you have got the Cigs.

I think this letter answers the other part of yours except that I hope the Radio you have made works perfectly.

I must close now as it is getting near my time to be off.

Cheerio & all the best. Love from Mum & Dad

6/6/45

Dear Don,

Am sending the music or I should say some of the music you require.

Bert has sorted them out and has procured 3 numbers, which is all he can get.

He will be writing you to explain about the others and I told him he could explain better than I could.

Mum is glad you have got the cigarettes, and she was wondering if they were 333’s

We are sorry to know your journey to Douai took such a long time but I hope you made the best of it.

I suppose you notice the change of temperament in the people but let us hope it is not for much longer.

Stan Sewell is back in England now, he has had trouble with his ears and after an operation over there he is in hospital at Yatesbury, Wilts.

We are glad to know you can get a lay in on Sunday morning I suppose you imagine it is like old times.

I got your letter no 93 very quickly, and I hope you get your parcel of music at the same speed.

I am posting this separate so as you will know it is on the way.

Jean sends her kind regards, I will now say Cheerio, love from Mum & Dad

9/6/45

Dear Don,

In reply to No 94 Mum & I are glad to know the contents of your parcel were ok.

When I spoke in my last letter about the cigarettes it is strange that you received players, as mum ordered the 333’s and she wondered if you got what she ordered.

Now about the Wireless, which by now I hope you have got. I trust my other letters have explained things and that you have got all you require.

We are more than pleased to know how your playing was appreciated, and that you will be successful in your attempt to oust the one who has hindered your attempts to get started and that your supporters will multiply.

Here’s our best wishes for the R & I dance on Sunday.

I expect by now you have received the music I sent off on Thursday and no doubt you have heard from Bert about the other numbers your wanted. Now for some new music to expect.

Feldman }Sweet Dreams Sweetheart

} How Little We Know.

Noel Gay }We’ve Got Something to Sing About Now

}The Wedding Waltz

Bert brought Practical Wireless over last night for me to dispatch to you. He was off to the other end of Prince Regent Lane and he did not relish carrying the drums, how he wished you were with him to give a hand.

We had a lovely downpour while he was speaking to mum & I, but it turned quite nice for him just as he was going which we were pleased about.

We have not received that welcome letter announcing your leave which we are all looking forward to surely it won’t be much longer delayed.

Ern has asked me to thank you for getting the Zips.

I think this is all this time so will conclude with our kind thoughts and sincerely hope you are keeping well.

Cheerio Love from Mum & Dad.

10/6/45

Dear Don,

In reply to No 95 I thank you for your kind thoughts & wishes, it would have been nice for you to have been home, but no doubt, that pleasure will not long be deferred.

I must have anticipated that, as you will notice in my last letter, and both Mum & I look forward to seeing you again shortly.

I hope you celebrated the anniversary of the invasion by having a lay in, how different from the day that is the day when you returned from your leave.

I am glad you were able to get your bike fixed up and to save you from walking too much.

We hope you enjoyed the Abbott & Costello film, it made it more pleasant not to have seen it before, although it was one of their old ones.

We hope you were not too much distressed being financially embarrassed for a few days, till you get your new money. It is evidently a fine move to check up, there is no doubt there will be plenty who will find they are not so well off as they thought they were.

Mum was sorry about the 333’s She has mentioned the matter to Lil at the sweet shop.

I think this is all at present so will say Cheerio.

Love from Mum & Dad

12/6/45

Dear Don,

Have received No 97. What’s happened to 96. I expect you have skipped a number.

Mum thanks you for your wishes for the 11^th.

We are glad you got the parcel in good condition. And time and more than pleased to know you got all the things that your required.

Go easy with the Brylcreem these are very hard to get but I am hoping to get another one in the near future.

We are hoping to get the place ready by the time you get home, I have had a go at the authorities today and they have promised to do something but I expect I shall still have to go after them till we get some satisfaction.

The weather is still upside down, we went to Laindon on Sunday it was very dull and we were not able to do much.

We want to go on Thursday if the weather is good enough.

I suppose by now you have received the music.

I think this is all at present, so will say Cheerio and the best of luck.

Love from Mum & Dad

15/6/45

Dear Don,

I have today received parcel containing Zips & No96 also no 98. The photos are really good. We are very pleased with them.

We sincerely hope the injury to your finger is not serious and that it will soon be well again.

Mum was sure there was something wrong, not hearing from you for a few days, your letters are a tonic.

When Ern comes home I will speak to him about the slow motion dial, and I am sure he will be pleased with the Zips.

Your wireless now you have got it all complete, is a great source of satisfaction, and worth the trouble taken to get the parts.

As regards the band, I am sure you must derive great pleasure seeing how things have turned out.

I thought you would come out on top. Here’s wishing you the best of luck for the progress of the band.

I suppose Ernie was looking forward to his leave, but how nice it will be when your turn comes.

Our weather is now trying to improve, I had a fair day at Laindon yesterday and we are looking forward to Sunday. I expect Walter will come down. All we want is a fine day.

I have remembered you to Jean as a matter of fact she is here now. She sends you her kindest regards.

I don’t know if you get the time to listen to the election specials each evening. When you listen to how they pull one another to pieces you wonder where you are, and what to think.

I shall be glad when it is all over, and they get settled down to action, we have had enough talk etc.

I think this brings me to a finish and will conclude with our usual king thoughts.

Keep well and happy and get that finger right.

Cheerio. Love from Mum & Dad.

17/6/45

Dear Don,

Replying to No 99 I am glad to learn you have received the music, you will have to blame Bert about Moonglow. I will have to see if I can find the pieces you require.

I will have a joke with Bert when I see him.

What I can see of it you will not get very far with this training business, especially with the class of instructors you have. No doubt there will be a lot of alterations when the thing gets underway.

I only hope everything will turn out to your own satisfaction. You won’t get very far if the subjects are those you are not interested in.

We trust the finger has got alright.

We both hope the band is still going strong and trust the pleasure you get out of it compensates for the time and trouble you have put into it despite all the obstacles that you have encountered.

Do you want me to send you the dial that Ern is getting?

The weather has opened out very nice this morning and we are looking forward to a nice day at Laindon. So will now finish as time is getting on.

All the best, Cheerio & love from Mum & Dad

19/6/45

Dear Don,

Letter no 100 to hand. Although we are sorry to hear about No2 band. We hope you have taken the right decision. I feel sure you have, and that things will turn out as you want them to in course of time.

I know how you feel at the present, and it is nice to express your views, now the war is over, and the services are getting back on a peace time basis. But it is not at all nice to have to suffer for your convictions, so please for our sakes do not show any resentment, which might land you in an unfortunate position.

There must be a great number of you who would like to have a straight talk to try and alter things, least you all seem to be in the same boat, bad as things are now, better times are on the way. No doubt.

To my way of thinking, the heads are alive to the fact of the discontent, so this is just a sample of the firm hand at the beginning to save the discontent spreading.

I only hope I am right in my theory and that you see it the way I do.

Anyway, keep your spirits up and try and look forward to happier times, by still keeping your sense of humour, this as you know will help you and your pals.

Now for some cheerful news when are we going to get the letter telling us you are coming home? You cannot imagine how we are waiting for it.

At the present time we are up to our neck in dust and dirt as the men have started trying to get the place right, this has not been done without dozens of interviews, letters & phone calls but I can tell you better when I see you, all mum hopes is that she is able to get the place comfortable for you so as you can forget for the time being all your little troubles.

Neither of us will be upset if you can obtain your cards.

We had a good day at Laindon on Sunday we went in comfort as Walter having a day off took us all down.

The weather was real good and I can tell you we enjoyed the trip etc. Only one lot of music to repost

Chappells }Saturday Night

}Robin Hood

I think the enclosed cutting from the Express will interest you.

Well Don, I think I must come to a finish, as time is getting on so will conclude wishing you all the best. Cheerio and God bless you. All our Love Mum & Dad.

A close up of text on a white background

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20/6/45

Dear Don,

Today I have received letter no 101

As regards the remittance your wishes will be carried out.

It certainly looks as if you will soon be home.

I am writing this under difficulties the house is at present like a builder’s yard.

We are getting the kitchen ready to be done tomorrow, and we are doing our best to make the place look respectable for your homecoming.

We hope things are going well with you, and you are able to keep your sense of humour do not on any account show your disapproval of anything that might be said or done.

A colleague of mine told me the same thing happened when the last war finished, they get idea from headquarters which have to be enforced. God help anyone that shows resentment, his life is then a misery to him as they take an unholy delight in chasing him but when you get a group of understanding blokes, it cools down after a time.

So cheer up my lad “Bless Em all”.

I am very pleased to know “Practical Wireless” was interesting to you. I have not seen Bert lately so I cannot tell you when he wrote but I expect you have got a letter before this.

I suppose Ernie is back from his leave. I hope he had an enjoyable time.

How’s the band going? No 2 I should certainly like to hear you have come into your own and that you have received official recognition.

Well Don I suppose I must finish this to give a little hand to the work going on. Mum is properly enjoying herself, but she says it will be worth it, to have a clean house again.

Jean sends her regards to you.

Cheerio & all the best Love from Mum & Dad

22/6/45

Dear Don,

102 to hand. We have not heard the Waaf Gang Show yet but we will watch for it. The wireless is disconnected for a couple of days while the work is in progress.

I am writing this at the shop to save time, the place being packed up.

As I said before we must get the place ready for your homecoming. And I feel sure it will not be delayed much longer after your month of Sundays.

Laindon is looking very nice now, Ern & Jean were down there on Thursday.

We hope to get down next week some time but we will have to wait for the opportunity, I should not like to leave the lawn too bad however anxious you are to do it.

I trust the drills were not too bad and you must keep our eyes skimmed for the ice cream merchants and by the way did you get your hair cut?

Well Don joking apart we are all getting anxious to see you after all this long time and you cannot imagine how mum is looking forward to the letter to say you are on the way.

Will now say cheerio and conclude with all our Love and kind thoughts.

Mum & Dad

24/6/44

Dear Don,

In answer to no 103 we are glad to know your finger has got alright and let’s hope the time is not far distant when you can get your hands back into condition you like them and be used for more congenial work.

We have not been able to go to Laindon today owing to the condition the house is in. Mum thought that by yesterday the work would be more forward but there has been one or two stoppages which has put things behind had the work come up to expectations, mum could at least have got one room ready but as you know she cannot sit idle so she is going to do the usual Monday inside work today. Her most particular worry is that she can get things all clear by the time you get home.

The weather is still very warm and as you say work is very trying. I find it so what with being so short staffed and being so busy then to cap the lot stock taking starts next week, but we must take a cheerful attitude and look forever to better times.

We both sincerely hope you will keep clear of the SP’s so as there is no more rifle slinging etc. to be done. Let’s hope this tomfoolery will soon quieten down.

I am pleased to know you had a decent Sargent in the final a little understanding goes a long way.

I hope you enjoyed your evenings recuperation and with the aid of a book forgot your little worries.

You put your views on the election very nicely and I hope there will be a good Government returned who will see that the service men get a good deal and that the housing question will be started very soon.

Dear Don, we do not want you to think you have been neglected be we have been wondering if we could get another parcel ready or perhaps it would be better if we are able to get any little things together by the time you came home.

Terry Stalker is home on leave he did not come alone, he brought his Belgium wife with him, I am not telling you this, so as you can copy him. I know you too well for that.

How is the feelings between the two bands going? Is no 2 going well and has the outlook brightened for you.

There is no further music to expect.

Jean was here yesterday, she came with the intention of giving mum a hand but things were not advanced sufficient to be enable her to do so.

Will now conclude with our love and best wishes.

From Mum & Dad

27/6/45

Dear Don,

Just a short note in reply to 104 and I hope you get enclosed dial safe.

105 arrived this morning. Progress is being made with the house, but we are still in a great mess.

We are both looking forward to your coming home and I have told the place will be finished in time.

I know you will appreciate this short epistle but I will write you again at the earliest opportunity.

Best wishes and all our love

From Mum & Dad

28/06/45

Dear Don,

Have received no 106 and we both hope you enjoyed your trip to Paris and saw all you wanted to. It will be a nice experience for you, and at your time of life your will have seen more of the world than I have, or ever hope to.

It is a fortnight since the men started in the house and we can expect them for another day or two.

I don’t want to worry you about the mess and trouble, but Mum & I have spared nothing to make the place a bit decent to live in, as it is impossible to get a place anywhere else, and the fabulous prices do not permit us buying.

We hope to have your room ready by the weekend this has been mums’ greatest worry and I feel sure everything will be ready by the time you get home.

Now we can breathe more freely you can guess how we are looking forward to seeing you and to have a talk about all your experiences. Have you had time to keep your diary up to date?

It is nice to know Ernie had a good time and I expect he feels the same as you will when your leave expires. How nice it would be if you could stay in England and be able to look forward in the near future to return to Civy St.

I hope you have received the dial in good condition, this was posted to you on Wednesday morning.

I must now close as time is getting on, so will say cheerio.

Kindest thoughts and love from Mum & Dad.

2/7/45

Dear Don,

I have received 107 and we are glad we shall soon be seeing you, by the time you get this I expect your trip to Paris will be just a dream.

We hope you had a good time sightseeing etc and that the weather was in your favour. It has not been too good here, we had plenty of rain yesterday.

Still having plenty of work to do mum & I were not able to go to Laindon yesterday, I am pleased to say your room is finished and now there is a bit more to do downstairs I expect by the end of this week, they will be finished and I can assure you both Mum & I will be glad to see the men out of the home.

After being tired out night after night for nearly three weeks we will be glad of a rest and then we will start again polishing up etc but we are truly thankful we will have a decent place for you to come home to. All we are now looking forward to is the date.

I am sorry to know the storm prevented you seeing all the film.

I am pleased to report the arrival of the following.

Laurence }The Last Waltz of the evening

Wright } What Could be Sweeter than Dancing Sweeter than Dancing

JD&H }Dreamer Dreamer

}I’m Confessin

} Rum and Le Ho Na Da

} There’s a Tree on a Farm

How do you feel after your trip, not much like work I bet, but I hope the change has done you good, and that you are keeping well.

Jean is here this evening, she sends her usual kind regards, and is looking forward to seeing you in the near future.

My next job is your papers and as the time is getting on, I will conclude with our usual kind thoughts and love.

From Mum & Dad

3/7/45

Dear Don,

We are very pleased to receive your interesting letter No 108 and glad to know you had a wonderful time.

I have no doubt that the time went too quickly but still you will have a lot to remember.

The enclosed letter came today.

I saw Bert today, he said he had not heard from you lately, he is on his holidays, evidently he misjudged the time of your leave.

I see you are having a rest from the band, it is a nice change for you to listen to others, is the feeling any different as regards No 1.

You must excuse short letter, mum & I have got another busy evening but I thought I would write straight away so as not to delay the enclosed letter.

Cheerio, all the best Love from Mum & Dad

Received card same post as the letter.

Dad

5/7/45

Dear Don,

I have received no 109, also Warrant for Cash from the Base Accountant officer which I will keep till you get home. I got the money today, when we went to vote.

I am pleased to know you got the slow motion dial alright and that it was what you wanted.

I hope you feel refreshed after your restful day and that you have made up the amount of sleep you lost whilst travelling to and from Paris.

We are sorry to know the food situation, it’s not too good and sincerely hope there will soon be a change here. You can’t wonder at the going slow and strikes and I should not be surprised if the Government are not forced to make a difference soon in the matter of rationing, we have just about had enough the last few years to put up with.

Well Don I am pleased to say the workmen have nearly finished and I expect them to be out of the house by the weekend, there will still be plenty of odd jobs to do, before mum gets back to her old routine way of working.

It was certainly very nice to get back upstairs to sleep also you will be able to make a fuss of the old feather bed, it will be a welcome change after the top bunk.

We want to try and go to Laindon on Sunday, it will be a change from the dust and dirt, so let’s hope it keeps fine and it gives us a chance to get the lawn done.

It has turned much warmer today, a change after the dull & wet damp of the past week.

I think this is about all this time, so will conclude, wishing you all the best.

Love from Mum & Dad.

7/7/45

Dear Don,

I have received two letters 110 & 111 and I am pleased to say the men finished up this morning, now we can get on and we can say it is now a much better place to be welcomed home to, our minds have been relieved that the trouble and experience has been worth it.

I don’t suppose you relished work after your holiday and I am glad you did not have too much to do.

I hope they soon got the light going.

We are glad to hear of the new canteen and I hope all your requirements are met, so as to save you the trouble of going to the village. You evidently had a good time playing from 7.30 to 10.30 you seem to be kept quite busy one way and another and it is nice to know you had good weather for the sports meeting.

We are looking forward to a day at Laindon tomorrow (Sunday), it will be a change to get into the fresh air after the muck & mess mum & I have been in.

By the same post I am sending a subscription to F D & H.

You will have some indexing to do when you come home, and I hope you will find everything in order.

I think that is all so I will now prepare for a bath.

Kindest thoughts & love from Mum & Dad

10/7/45

Dear Don,

Was pleased to receive no 112 and to learn we will soon be seeing you.

Also it is nice to know about the canteen and that you are able to do your writing and the saving of long walks.

I hope you will not suffer too much from the inoculation, and that it will not cause you any inconvenience.

As I told you in my last letter the men left the house last Saturday, we are now nearly straight there are plenty of odd jobs for mum & I to do but it will certainly be worth it.

You cannot imagine how disappointed we would have been had the place not have been ready to receive you.

We had a nice day at Laindon on Sunday although there was plenty to be done.

Travelling was not too bad, but I can tell you it was much more comfortable when Walter came with us in the car.

Bert came over with the enclosed P.W. so I am losing no time in sending it to you.

It is getting rather late so will say cheerio and all the best.

Love from Mum & Dad

We have remembered you to Jean, and she hopes we will soon know the date of your homecoming.

11/7/45

Dear Don,

It was good to receive no 113 to learn you will soon be home, that is the best news so far, and what we have been waiting for.

I am sure Beryl will be very pleased with the doll you have got for her, and the hot and dusty journey was no doubt worth it.

It is very strange that Angus had a letter returned, I expect he wondered what had happened to you, it is nice to know he is having quite a good time in England. Is there any chance of you doing the same.

We have been anxious to know if you had heard from Freddie as we have not met any of the people who could have let us know, so I suppose it will mean waiting till you are able to meet his people at Laindon, let us hope things are well with him.

I hope you get your papers etc and also the practical Wireless which have been sent before you leave for home.

Now we must look forward to your next letter confirming the date of your leave.

We hope you have got over the effects of your inoculation.

Will now say cheerio.

Love & best wishes from Mum & Dad.

Leave from 16.07.45 to 31.7.45. On return to France found 305 Squadron had left posted to Melsbroek outside Brussels 140 Wing

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