Officers’ Mess
Bhurtpore Barracks
Tidworth
Dec 2nd 1914
My dear Mother
Many happy returns of your birthday. I am sorry this will reach you a day late; I ought to have thought to write last night, but was extremely sleepy and went to bed in good time.
On my return here at 2 am on Monday morning – my train being an hour and a half late – I discovered I had been lucky to get away. About an hour after my departure orders arrived that we were to fit out our company as a second “emergency” company. It meant a tremendous lot of work for all the officers left behind, and I should certainly not have got – or cared to take - leave had the order come earlier. On Monday night we had orders to pack up our valises by 7.45 am next morning, and parade with full equipment at 8.15. No information was given as to what was to happen, and we all thought it was probably only a very complete inspection, but had an idea it might turn out that we were to be shifted off to the East Coast or somewhere, so we did the thing thoroughly in case. However it turned out to be only the former. You can imagine how I enjoyed an extra unnecessary packing. We are now continuing training again in a normal manner, and had a long outing today of 13 or 14 miles largely over heavy ground.
I enjoyed my two days change immensely and am sure it did me good. I was very lucky to see Father and George, especially the latter which was very unexpected. I found it quite strange to be in a place where there were so many civilians; here are practically none here of course.
I took the opportunity on Saturday of getting some clothes fitted, doing a little useful shopping. Betty was very cheerful and we enjoyed our afternoon in spite of the weather which was terrible.
I see Captain Tanner has got his DSO. How pleased Ethelwyn must be. Of course you saw French’s compliment to the 2nd Worcesters; we had it quoted in yesterday’s orders. The heavy losses were evidently not thrown away in the regiment.
Best love to all at home from
Your affectionate son
Cyril E Sladden
