QMAAC
Bulford Camp
Sept 17th 1918
My own dear Cyril
I am on my way back to Bulford after a week end spent gadding about.
The object of my journey to Town was to attend the Memorial Service, to Mrs Long, Chief Controller, QMAAC who was drowned at sea, when the “Warilda” was sunk by Germans. She was returning from duty in connection with making arrangements with the American Army, who are employing Wacks.
It was a most impressive service, held at St Martin’s-in-the-Fields. Every branch of women’s work was represented, and 2 rows of very big staff officers, including Sir Francis Lloyd. The band of the Life Guards played the Last Post, Chopin’s Funeral March and the National Anthem most wonderfully.
Just before the service began I involuntarily glanced up at the Gallery, to see the gaze of Forewoman Barbara Brown Constable fixed upon me! I had seen her the day before but she had not expected to get to the service. She looks very well and happy and is at present stationed at Connaught Club. She was called up on Sept 2nd 1918 and I was called up on Sept 3rd 1917.
My deputy, Mrs Bryant came up with me. After the service we went on to Marlow to catch a glimpse of Mother. We spent most of yesterday on the river trying to catch fish but with no success.
Two letters from you were forwarded to me, the 2nd one telling of the change in your address. Where on earth have you got to now?!
I had a pc from your Father to say the sale at Muritai had gone off well, and that some things were secured for you and me. I expect details will come along later.
It was most unfortunate when I was at Marlow. Once more a letter from Father was forwarded to me. Mother was very upset - and it was rather trying. He writes to acknowledge money from Wilfred sent through me but poor old Mother gets very upset. I expect she thinks we keep up a regular correspondence but we don’t.
Lots of love, dear man o’ mine.
From Your ever devoted
Mela
