No. 7925934. Sgt. Greenwood.
‘C’ Sqdn, 9th Battn RTR,
B.L.A.
22.8.45
Wednesday
Jessie Mine: I haven’t had much time to worry about leave today:- It has been one of those crazy days in which an orderly sergeant’s life is something akin to that of the ‘Barber of Seville’… except that the orderly sergeant’s language would hardly make an operatic aria! But I had a two hour respite during the afternoon: I was commandeered by the unit education officer to give a lecture on electricity… and so once again I had a “class”. It was rather surprising to find so much interest in the ‘electron theory’. I suppose the reason is due to atomic bombs – everyone seems to be atom conscious these days.
You would never guess the nature of my first job in the morning: I have to supervise a gargle parade!! There has been a lot of gingivitis in the squadron, and the M.O. has ordered a daily gargle for everyone before breakfast. And to make sure that everyone does his gargling, the orderly sergeant has to supervise the job, and allow no breakfasts to enter un-gargled throats!! Unfortunately, this means getting up at least an hour earlier than I am used to of late… and I don’t like this at all. The things we do for England!!
Jess – I forgot to tell you something: it concerns a book. Whilst I was in Antwerp last week, I noticed a copy of Upton Sinclair’s “Presidential Agent” in a shop window… and I simply had to buy it… And now I have finished reading it – and wish I hadn’t. It is just as fascinating as the other Lanny Budd books. This one finished at the “Munich” period – and now I want to read the next book in the series: I hope it will be out soon.
And that seems to be all I can tell you tonight. I must go to bed now, dear…
Not much longer to wait – this time next week I will be only three or four days from my love.
Jess – I love you so much.
Always
Your Trevy.