Seward House
Badsey
March 13th 1916
My dearest Cyril
I am back once more at Badsey and as I have not been to bed since 2 pm yesterday this is now 6 pm today, I am very sleepy. I am not going to bed just yet so will write you a short letter as I have not been able to write much the last fortnight. I left my patient fairly on the way to recovery, and I must confess was glad to get away. The household are all so kind to me but I was not over fond of my patient, and the circumstances attending the case thoroughly sickened me.
I think you will not misunderstand me when I tell you that it has made me go back months and months in my mental attitude towards life. The last year I have cared so much for you that all my old shrinkings as regards marriage experience has not altered my love for you one little scrap, but it has made me feel I don’t mind how long we go on just being engaged. Don’t feel hurt, old boy – this is doubtless only a temporary phase and by the time this reaches you I shall have recovered my normal attitude of mind. I tell you this because we always do tell each other everything, although I feel sore still about what you said about not telling me things any more in one of your recent letters.
Your mother is up and about again now and seems a good deal better; as soon as the fine weather comes she will be able to get out more, which is what stopping her now. Ethel has gone to help to look after Norah Sladden who is very ill, gradually sinking. She has some gastric complaint, miserable and no food she takes nourishes her. I have agreed to go and look after her later on for a bit but I don’t know yet if my offer will be accepted. I feel so sorry about it, it is so sad for her mother.
I shall be sending away your presents to Judy, Rosie and Mary in a day or two. They will be so pleased at your remembering them. I will write again soon. With best love, hoping all goes well with you. God bless you.
Ever your affectionate
Mela
