Seward House
Badsey
Evesham
Aug 28th /14
My own darling Boy
No letters have come for you today but I send you a line in case you should be prevented coming down on Saturday night.
I enclose a very characteristic letter from Peggie for you to read, it will amuse you but at the same time you’ll see she is sorry I have left the nest!
I slept soundly from 3 to 5 this afternoon – but had awful dreams all the time about the war – every man and woman and child seemed to be fighting.
I realized yesterday more fully than before what your life will be from now onwards. Besides the actual service there will be many more difficulties and perhaps temptations. What I was going to say last night was, “Remember that I place absolute confidence in you and I know I can trust you to stick by the Right and to do what is right.” I stopped saying it because it flashed across my mind that you would know this without my telling you. What I want for you more than military glory is for you to come back to me, as you go away from me, strong in character and determination to have no dealings with anything which may make you think less of yourself, or which would make me think less of you.
You may think I am preaching now, but I have a pretty good knowledge of life lived among soldiers and know how difficult it is, but you will remember what I say later on, life in barracks or camp or at home will be harder perhaps for you than actual active service, the battles for the Right fought by word of mouth or in silence are a great deal harder.
I am sure, dear, I can trust you however hard temptations come your way, and it will be the happiest day of my life when you come back to me stronger even than you went.
Must close to catch the post. Goodnight Beloved.
Ever your own little
Mela
