Via Siberia
H.M.S. WIDGEON
c/o R.N.O. Shanghai.
China
20th Sept
Dearest Mother-
Just got a letter from you – dated 23rd Aug – marvellously quick – and especially in these times – where we seem to be surrounded by wars etc.
We are still down at Ichang – waiting to go up River again – but there are such a lot of complications etc. I really don’t know when we shall go.- This Bombardment business has created a lot of unpleasant feeling; naturally – and anything may happen-
The Red troops are very busy lower down the River & we are expecting them up here – but who knows-.
I am slowly recovering from my weariness – since the Admiral has arrived up here – a lot of all the work is naturally being done by him-
It was good to hear all your such recent news – So you’ve been down to Southsea – I think I told you – that I had never heard about Joan & Paddy’s operation – don’t know even now what it was – am presuming tonsils & adenoids & now poor wee kids with whooping cough – but Nance says they are wonderfully fit & cheery. Wonder if N has found a house yet.
Fancy old Wooldridge marrying again – he has’nt been long about it – most upsetting for the family, as no one likes him.
You do seem to be in the wars – what with wasps & other animals biting you – I am sorry – the mosquitoes out here – have a great flare for me – fresh blood I suppose.
I never realized Topher had been away for so long – 6½ years – a dreadfully long time to be away from home – and all by oneself out there too, hope he will manage to get home soon.
Thanks so much for those Tatlers – really most enjoyable – I often see one or two people I know – too.
I am still sending my letters for Nance to you – as she must be in some new house by now-
By the way my letters only want 1½ stamp on them-
My best love to you
Your ever loving son
Paul.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yichang
