9 The Manor House
Marylebone Road, NW
13.8.14
My dearest Mother
I must write before I start for Chatham today, though I hope here will be opportunities of keeping in touch with you all during my absence. We have good hopes of letting the flat for at least two months, and shall know definitely today. I hardly thought it would be possible to do so just now, but the agents were hopeful, and it will be a great advantage if we can let. Cyril is in town again and is expecting to get a commission in Kitchener’s second army and to go into a training camp soon. We have no news of George, but assume he has left London. Mela comes today and will no doubt help Mary in many ways. If these people arrange to take the flat, there will be some packing to do.
In any case, I hope Mary will start for Port Talbot on Monday. She is quite well and once I have gone, by far the best thing is for her to get away for a change. I am so glad you all like Newport, in happier circumstances you would have a very good holiday there and even as things are, it should do you all much good.
How splendidly the French and Belgians are working together, their spirit of determined bravery and the righteousness of their cause must I feel lead to ultimate success, however great the cost.
I cannot say much of today’s packing, but as the days go on I hope Mary will be more inclined to see the many good friends who will be sympathising with here. Later on I’m sure she would like to spend a little time at Badsey.
I have managed to get all my equipment now, although that for field use may never be wanted, still I thought it wise to get it now, and if the war ends soon and I’ve spent more than necessary, I’ll feel it was a good insurance scheme.
Give my love to all and try all to keep cheerful, our prospects are very good and our cause just.
I shall know you are thinking much of all your sons and of Mary and Mela and that will help us a great deal.
With very much love from your son
Arthur
