1.7.15
My dear Mother
You’ll be interested to hear of my plans for the immediate future. The War Office have circularized those who mobilized last August as to whether they wish to contract for another year’s service in the RAMC on the same terms. I have replied that I cannot carry on directly from August 13th, but probably be prepared to come in again later in September. That will give me time to see Mary through her trouble and also to find out how best I can “do my bit” in the coming year. It is by no means obvious to me that being out there is necessarily the best way for me at any rate, on the other hand on general principles it seems best to enrol in the RAMC and leave the rest to them.
I am shortly to be transferred to No 12 General Hospital here, as pathologist, but the change may be delayed some time, and in view of my arrangements for August, may not come off. The post carries a small addition of pay, but probably involves doing laboratory work all day – I’ve much appreciated doing clinical work during my time here, and most of the pathology I’ve done has been in connection with my own patients.
I’m sorry to hear of your domestic troubles, it must make you all busy, an indirect form of war-work, isn’t it? Mary has just heard my news, and writes very happily. I told her in a previous letter that I understood that Father had sent her some roses, but evidently I made a mistake or else they never reached her.
So Cyril has sailed, I hope he will be able to send through news pretty often – news from that region is good today.
I expect you are all very interested in War Loan, and perhaps finding a few pounds for vouchers. The “Oak-sealing” perhaps will be able to find a little! I can’t buy just now, but I hope to before the end of the year. It’s a great opportunity for England to show some thriftiness, indeed there is no excuse for not shewing it on those terms.
We’ve had close thundery weather lately, but today was brighter. I got a nice ride in this evening – the next three days I shall be in on duty. I keep pretty busy, with local sick mainly – there’s a good deal of influenza about, most unseasonable.
Until I write definitely of a move to No 12 continue to address letters here.
Please give my love to Aunt Lottie – perhaps by the time you get this you’ll be down in Kent.
How is Mela getting on down in Bournbrook – I hope she is not so overworked there.
I have other letters to write now, so must close.
With much love to you all.
From your son
Arthur
