A letter from the past

My dearest girl,

Received today a beautiful letter from you dated the 1st Dec. Very quick, eh!

So happy you are both well, as it leaves me, but of course still longing to be with my dear ones again, whom I love so much. So happy you got the lemons OK. Were they ripe? As they were green when sent. Should love to be home when our son starts school but can promise nothing, only live in hope. Was sorry to hear of Joan’s husband being wounded I trust it’s not too serious. Nothing more has been heard of my cousin who was also wounded.

The weather here has been lovely this last week, just like the weather we used to like to go for walks, especially Sundays when I used to take our son out while my girl prepared dinner and after dinner getting ready to go out, perhaps to the park, sneaking little kisses when we thought no one was looking.

You have made me so happy especially with such a dear son to crown all the other happy things. So pleased to hear the boy is in the pink, for the end could be in sight and it could soon be over.

It’s been a long time, dearest, but worth it to rid the world of such an evil race. Am having a few days’ rest now but not for long. It’s going to be hot while this little lot’s on but when finished will be the end of Hitler.

We are now looking forward to Christmas which under the conditions we try and make happy. There’s a Christmas tree for the local children. They have never had Christmas, not knowing what the word means. Of course they are very poor. People in England do not realise the real meaning of poverty.

Sorry I could not send you or our son a Christmas present they are much too expensive for me. I went into town last week and they wanted three pounds for two postcard sized photographs.

The old feet haven’t been too bad this year. Expect they are shrivelling up with old age or perhaps it’s the ‘tootsie’ powder you sent. Incidentally all the Regi knows about my tootsie powder, as I left an empty tin around with your handwriting on it.

Well, dearest, must close now. A very happy Christmas to you and our lovely boy. Remember me to all. Cheerio.

Yours for always my sweetheart

Your loving Bill

This letter sent by my Dad from the front line in Egypt during the Second World War. Dedicated to the millions who gave their lives so we could all be here to celebrate this Christmas. Happy Christmas, everyone.

Love Leapy

leapylee2002@gmail.com