Jan 23rd 1919
My dearest Mela
I have twenty minutes to write a note provided I am not interfered with.
A leave party is actually proceeding this evening for England, the first from the brigade. (A brigade in Tiflis just recently despatched its 52nd party.) I have the doubtful honour of being detained at present as indispensable, or should have been on this party. However if the Colonel or Gibbon returns I shall be able to shake off the other job and then, unless leave has by that time been stopped, I ought to have some prospect of moving.
I think it is high time I got someday like you to look after me, as I seem unable to look after myself. Three days ago I had another fall, on the pavement in the street this time, and an X-ray photo this morning showed I have broken another bone, the radius this time, about an inch above the wrist, left hand. Luckily the right elbow is going on finely, so I have one fairly efficient though weak arm to carry on with. The position of the broken end in the left wrist is perfect (my usual luck in this particular) and so there is hardly any discomfort, and the movement of fingers is good. Of course it needs care so as not to move it, which would involve considerable trouble, and for a time I must keep it in a splint.
I wish the ordnance would produce some officers’ boots. Since we left here hastily in September I have had to exist on one pair of ammunition boots, heavily nailed. They have served me well but the nails in this town of polished cobbles are highly dangerous. This is the real cause of my accidents, not vodka!
I have been very busy all day and every day just lately, but have had time in the evenings to do two opera’s Pagliacci (followed by a short concert), and Romeo and Juliet. The former I very much enjoyed; the latter was good but I think the music is more difficult and wants knowing.
Still no letters and no sign of any. I have given up looking for them.
The mail has gone today, but an officer going on the leave party is taking this for me.
Very best love
Your own affectionate
Cyril E Sladden
