Stalag Luft 3,
4-12-42
Dear Mum – Big excitement this week; my first batch of mail arrived. It was from N.Z. House in London, summaries on the regulation one sheet of all the letters that were on the way when I came down. There seems to be only one of yours missing, and four of Joan’s, which may turn up soon. There was a note from Auntie Ella and one from Auntie Han included, so please thank them from me for writing. The most recent letter was from August 17, and there was a cable from Joan sent on the 18th. They also sent on the photo of the grave, and one which Joan had posted, both of which I was very pleased to get. Was pleased to hear you have been having a nice trip. There was a note from Brenda, too, so I really had a big batch. We had a big show on here a couple of nights ago; don’t think I’ve mentioned before that we have a first-class dance-band in the camp, and plenty of talent, so every once in a while there is a variety show. This latest one was particularly good. A week or so ago we saw a play –“French Without Tears” – remember the film a few years ago? Earlier still we were able to visit the sergeants’ compound next door to see a play they were staging, so we do very well for entertainment. The chaps work miracles under the inevitable handicaps, and you would get a great laugh out of some of our very personable “girls”. Give my greetings to all the folks, Hazel and the kids. Hope camp is agreeing with George as well as it is with me. Look after yourself, mother mine. Love from Arnold G.